San Mateo is south of San Francisco in Silicon Valley, and it hosts a major natural history museum and wildlife center called CuriOdyssey. Whether you're wanting to visit the museum or check out some of the other area's sites and attractions, we've got you covered. Planning a trip to San Mateo and need the perfect RV campground? Look no further! We’ve done the homework and put together the ultimate list of top-rated RV campgrounds, parks, and resorts in the area. From family-friendly spots to luxurious RV retreats, you'll find the best San Mateo, CA RV rentals here.
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Coyote Point Recreation Area’s RV park is run by the County of San Mateo Parks Department. Situated on a rock outcropping that overlooks the San Francisco Bay, this park caters to children with its on-site CuriOdyssey natural history museum and wildlife park. This campground near San Mateo, CA also has an extraordinary playground.
This is one of the best San Mateo campsites to stay at with children; in addition to its science museum and playground, the site has recreational trails that pass through marshes where there are hundreds of shorebirds. It’s also located in one of the top places for windsurfing in the state.
“A beautiful park with a science center, rifle range, tons of picnic areas, a beach, and a huge children’s play area. …you can watch planes flying into San Francisco Airport from the north bank.” – Jan, Google Review
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Half Moon Bay-Francis Beach Campground is a California State Beach campground near San Mateo. It does not have water and sewer hookup, but there is a water filling station there. The park has four beaches with a coastal trail that runs 3 miles along the eastern boundary of the beaches.
It’s possible to get an RV site that’s right on the beach. The state beach has biking and hiking trails as well as horseback riding trails and a marina. You can swim, fish, and view nature and wildlife. It’s also a great place for windsurfing and general surfing. Dogs on a 6-foot leash are allowed on the coastal trail but not horses.
“This is a great campground right on the coastal trail that'll take you North and South. The sites are clean, well-maintained showers, and access to the beach. There are no dogs allowed on the beach. Each site has a table and a fire ring. It's hard to get into the front row overlooking the coast, but if you are tenacious and keep at it, it's so worth it. There is tent camping and bike camping. There are showers and restrooms.” – Sue Scott, Google Review
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Located next to a Ritz Carlton and the Half Moon Bay Golf Course, this RV park near San Mateo offers one of the most beautiful settings in the country. It’s on the west side of Highway 1, and most sites have extraordinary views of the ocean. The beach is just a short walk away.
Pelican Point RV Park is a 45-minute drive from San Francisco. It’s within a 5-mile radius of some of the top restaurants in the locality that serve farm-to-table cuisine. If you love to surf, this is a great spot; Half Moon Bay is famous for its waves.
“We stayed one night on short notice and it was a great experience. The office staff was extremely friendly. The park was very clean, the rules were reasonable. Guests were also friendly. Would stay again for sure.” – Josh, Google Review
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Located on the beach of Half Moon Bay, this is one of the San Mateo campgrounds that does not take reservations. If it is full when you arrive, you can get on a waiting list that usually moves every day. The park is near several protected redwood forests.
Pillar Point Harbor RV Park is located on the Pacific Ocean beach. What it is lacking in amenities, it more than makes up for in location. Half Moon Bay is one of the top surfing destinations in the world, and it is a good place for whale watching during the season. You may also get free passes to some of the local activities on Saturdays.
“Absolutely fantastic place. The hosts were awesome! Super friendly people. Reservations are not taken, however, if you arrive and there are no spaces you can have your name put on a waiting list. Sites open and close every day.” – Renaissanceman, Google Review
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Treasure Island RV Park is a long-term RV park near San Mateo, CA that also offers daily rates. It’s located 9 miles north of San Mateo, and it’s easy to get to San Francisco from there.
Treasure Island RV Park is located close to AT&T Park, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Sausalito Art district, and downtown San Francisco. It’s also just 10 miles away from the technology companies in Silicon Valley. It’s also close to grocery stores.
“Treasure Island is a great place to stay when you're visiting San Francisco! The location is great. It's a five-minute walk to the local BART station and it's only a 15-minute drive on the never crowded 280 into the city! The facilities and park are clean and well-cared for. There are a lot of long-term residents there and the park caters to those people a bit easier than the short-timers. The residents are very friendly and the staff has always treated us kind and fair. We wouldn't stay anywhere else!” – Shannon Medina, Google Review
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San Francisco RV Resort has a beautiful location on the shore of the Pacific Ocean just over 10 miles north of San Mateo. The staff will help you arrange your sightseeing to make it easier to visit all the places you want to see. This resort is a perfect place for relaxing and watching the sunset.
The location is the top feature of this San Mateo campground option. It provides gorgeous views of the ocean and access to the beach as well as easy access to San Francisco and Silicon Valley. It also has enough resort features for a pleasant time when you stay on-site at the campground.
“Beautiful place. Excellent service, clean toilets, heated pool, game room. A bit pricey…but it is understandable since you have a beautiful sight to the Pacific. The only thing that I would definitely improve is the Wi-Fi connection.” – Martin, Google Review
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Sequoia Trailer Park is centrally located in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. It’s close to Silicon Valley, San Mateo, and the many entertainment options of Redwood City. It’s also within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
Sequoia Trailer Park is 20 miles south of San Francisco. It’s in a great location for visiting Stanford Hospital, Stanford University, and the many galleries and shopping centers in the locality. You can easily take a day trip from here to the Napa Valley Wine Country, which is about 50 miles away. It’s just 13 miles from Half Moon Bay.
“Stopped here for a night before heading for the Computer History Museum and NASA AMES Research Labs. The manager was very friendly and helpful. The Wi-Fi was brilliant…right next to the office. The place is nothing flash, but was great for us.” – Benbodhi, Google Review
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Trailer Villa RV Park is one of the more expensive RV parks near Oakland, but it offers easy access to the city and other places around the Bay Area. The freeway is nearby, and there is bus service at the entrance of the park. It is close to Silicon Valley.
Trailer Villa RV Park is centrally located for those who want to visit San Francisco or San Jose. It is within 30 minutes of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. It is a good location for visiting tech companies in Silicon Valley.
“We stayed here several months. For the Bay Area, it was definitely one of the nicest places we have stayed. However, it is also the most expensive place we have ever stayed and we have stayed in RV parks across the country.” – Chelle, Google review
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Candlestick RV Park is situated on the site of an old stadium. It is within walking distance of Candlestick Point State Recreation Area, and Bayview Park is also nearby. Plus, Highway 101 is only a few minutes away.
Candlestick RV Park is one of the only RV parks within the city of San Francisco. As such, it is close to the BART subway system, and there are plenty of amenities nearby. There are trees and picnic tables throughout the park.
“Great place to use as a base for visiting San Francisco. Like most city RV parks, the spaces were close. The staff was very friendly, and the place was immaculate. There is a little county park a couple of hundred yards away that is nice for walking and jogging. There is even a fishing pier there. We camped at Candlestick RV Park in a travel trailer.” – PBR, RV Park Review
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The 3,314-acre Anthony Chabot Regional Park near Oakland has a year-round public campground and 70 miles of hiking and riding trails. The campground belongs to a network of public parks managed by East Bay Regional Park District. Clean, quiet, and surrounded by nature and wildlife, it’s a favorite destination among locals.
Spacious, quiet sites and wildlife like turkeys, deer, owls, and raccoons make this campground a hidden gem. Peaceful Lake Chabot beckons campers for a canoe ride or a stroll along her shore among eucalyptus groves. Park naturalists lead old-fashioned campfire programs at the campground amphitheater on Saturday evenings all summer.
“My husband, dog, and I have been full-time RVing for about a year across the country, and this has definitely been one of our all-time favorite campgrounds. Trails everywhere, great for walking the dog and running. Very peaceful and quiet even over the 4th of July holiday. Turkeys and deer came right up to our campsite!! I would definitely stay here again! ” – Allyssa, Google Review
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s very first state park, founded way back in 1902. Located deep in the magnificent redwoods of northern California, amidst of some of the tallest trees in the country, there is plenty of nature to be had right at your doorstep. You can follow countless trails both long and short from the campgrounds.
This is one of the country’s most astounding natural sights. The park contains trees taller than the Statue of Liberty, predating the Roman Empire. The Big Basin Redwoods State Park Campgrounds give you the chance to sleep surrounded by these giants.
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When Fremont area RV parks offer monthly rates, you can rest assured that they accept long-term tenants. Saratoga Springs Campground welcomes you to stay for a significant period of time. Although this facility is a great place for parking small travel vehicles, its main function is to host outdoor events and weddings.
In spite of its lack of full hookups, this RV campground near Fremont, California will serve you well. A “honey wagon” comes around to the sites twice each week and offers pump-outs. During your visit, you can enjoy the use of the laundry room and the on-site swimming pool.
“Saratoga Springs is a special events facility but has a few gorgeous RV sites. My site was located by a large babbling spring that sounded so beautiful with the windows open. It’s Christmas and the town of Saratoga (1.2 miles away) is lit up each evening with lights. There are lots of restaurants in the town and we had breakfast at Bell Tower Cafe…I would highly recommend staying here.” – Bonnie, Campendium Review
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Santa Cruz North/Costanoa KOA is in a remote area. On one side of this RV park, the waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing to shore at all hours of the day and night. On the other side, the coastal forests of Central California stretch out into the distance
Even though Santa Cruz North/Costanoa KOA may seem like it’s hours away from civilization, Santa Cruz is only about 30 minutes away. The area surrounding this campground is filled with nature trails, and the beach is right across the highway. Plus, Santa Cruz North/Costanoa KOA has a snack bar that can cover the eating needs of an entire family.
“Lovely campground. Great clean sites and lovely amenities. The staff is super friendly. Restaurant and general store are quaint and adorable.” – Neal, Google Review
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Located just off Highway 101 north of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Mobile and RV Park offer easy access to all the entertainment and recreation options of the San Francisco Bay Area. If you’re looking for laid-back trailer parks near Daly City, California you’ll like it here. It is near the Larkspur Ferry, which can take you to the Ferry Building Marketplace that offers transportation to other nearby areas.
The location is great, and this campground near Daly City, California also has a friendly management team. The staff will help you find tours, transportation and other essentials for your Bay Area trip. It is close to Mount Tamalpais State Park, which is great if you want to spend some time in the woods and get a spectacular view of the city skyline.
“…the staff makes sure you have everything you need to enjoy the Bay Area. This isn’t the biggest, best park we’ve ever stayed at but it’s certainly more than you can ask for in the region. Wine country and the Pacific Coast Highway are nearby.” – Josh, Google review
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If your RV is small, then you may be able to reach Sanborn County Park in Saratoga. The road that leads to it is quite curvy and rrow; at some points, it becomes a one lane road. Once you arrive at this 3,453-acre park in the Santa Cruz Mountains, you’ll be glad that you went through the trouble to get there.
In the summertime, you can watch plays by the Silicon Valley Shakespeare performers right in the park. The hiking trails at Sanborn County Park stretch a total of 22 miles and display acres of trees and shrubs. The wildlife that you’ll encounter will greatly enhance your camping trip.
“Beautiful park nestled in the Saratoga hills…lovely trails for ture hikes through the redwoods, RV and tent camping, as well as an outdoor theater for evening plays throughout the Summer. Family from out of town bring their trailer and love being here, yet are only minutes from downtown Saratoga for shopping and dining.” – Garth, Trip Advisor Review ,
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Located in the heart of Marin County just north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin RV Park is one of the top RV parks in the Oakland, California area. It is close to Muir Woods, Golden Sunset cruises, and the Napa Valley Wine Train. It has all the amenities you need for a relaxing vacation in the Bay Area.
This Good Sam RV park near Oakland, California is just a five-minute drive to two shopping centers at the Village at Corte Madera and Town Center Corte Madera where you will find interesting shops and excellent restaurants. The park is also near Mount Tamalpais State Park for hiking, biking, and other outdoor recreation. If wine tasting is your aim, this is an inexpensive base from which to venture into Napa Valley and Sonoma wine country.
“I have always had great service from all the staff at Marin RV Park in Greenbrae. They have helped me with my motorhome and provided assistance above and beyond. I will always stay there when I am in the area.” – David, Google review
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Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park benefits from one of the best locations in the Newark area. It is right next door to the Alameda County Fairgrounds, and this Newark, California campground is situated in a beautiful region with grass-covered rolling hills and valleys. This RV park is relatively large, and it is right off Interstate 680.
Out of all the RV campgrounds in Newark, California, Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park has some of the best amenities. There’s a large clubhouse on site, and Wi-Fi signals are strong throughout the park. Best of all, the town of Pleasanton is within walking distance from there.
“We arrived at the SF Area late at night with no RV park reservation. Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park was the only place who could accommodate us on a short-notice request. They found a place for us to park our RV with no water or electricity connections, but, at least, we could park and sleep in a safe protected compound.” – Michael, Google Review
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The Alameda County Fairgrounds, which is in Fremont’s neighboring town of Pleasanton, reserves a section of the property for RV camping. The best route into the campground is Valley Avenue to Gate 12. Although this park offers the basic amenities with no extras, it’s a good stop for Bay Area travelers.
Since this campground near Fremont, California is gated, it makes visitors feel safe. You’ll be at ease while you’re golfing or watching the horse races by satellite. The fairgrounds have a nine-hole golf course plus an off-track betting facility right on the premises.
“…Though not fancy and without a bunch of amenities, we were pleased to stay here for a week as the prices were reasoble and the drive into Oakland to visit family was not bad. We’d consider staying here again…” – Sandy, Trip Advisor Review
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The Alameda County Fairgrounds are located in Tri-Valley Wine Country. The Oakland campgrounds are convenient for visiting all the attractions in the Bay Area as well as the many events at the fairgrounds. It is near brand-name outlet stores, excellent restaurants, and historic downtown Pleasanton.
The fairgrounds have more than 300 events per year, including car and trade shows, festivals, expositions, and marathons. If you plan to visit any of the events, this is the place to park. It is also close to Oakland and San Francisco.
“Staff is very nice. Campgrounds are slightly close to each other. Campground has free hot showers. Coin laundry is also available. Nor much trees but we don’t care. Will come back again. Wi-Fi is good.” – Rudy, Google review
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The Fairpark RV campground is located at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, CA. As a large park, it can accommodate big rigs. It’s close to Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), which makes it a great starting point for all of your Bay Area adventures.
RV Fairpark is a secure, gated park that’s still close to Concord. It has excellent accommodations for rigs over 40 Feet long, an RV store with everything you may need for your stay, a newly renovated laundry facility, and covered picnic areas. It has two on-site restaurants, off-track betting, and is close to the Pleasanton Golf Center and horse racing track.
“It was a great place to base from and visit so many wonderful places in the area. The staff was wonderful. There’s a nice big shower and bathroom area along with a great laundry room. Internet connection was excellent, best on our trip. And, we had plenty of room to put out our awning and chairs. There was a huge grassy area to walk to the dog. They needed to be on a leash, but it was a couple of football fields long I think. We will definitely be staying here again. We had a pull through lot, and we could fit our car and our son & daughter-in-law’s vehicles on the space too. Awesome!” – SLC53, TripAdvisor Review
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Although this San Jose campground is situated beside a recycling plant, it’s a clean, well-maintained facility in the heart of the city. Residents and guests are happy to get a spot in the Bay Area, where RV parking is sparse. Garden City RV Park is one of the few trailer parks in the immediate area that accepts short-term campers.
Each site at Garden City RV Park has a shed in which you can store some of your large articles during your stay. If you drive a big rig, the magers will be glad to help you vigate it into your space. The park is conveniently located close to both Highway 101 and Interstate 880.
“This park was nice and had a decent amount to offer for the cost. Although the park is in an industrial area, it is quite attractive as it has a lot of design to it. There are sculpted cypress trees, flower beds, and everything is so well maintained. The staff was competent, friendly, and very proud of the work they put into the park.” – Riley, RoverPass Review
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Trailer Tel RV Park is located in San Jose. It is close to both Highway 101 and Interstate 880, and the San Jose Flea Market is within walking distance. It is larger than most other RV parks in the Hayward, California, area, and it is close to Watson Park.
Trailer Tel RV Park has a lot of amenities that aren’t commonly found at RV parks. In addition to the requisite pool and fitness room, it also offers car-washing services and storage sheds. Since Trailer Tel RV Park is mostly populated by long-term residents, you’ll have plenty of time to get to know your neighbors.
“One of the best parks I have ever been in. I stayed long term and was very satisfied with the cleanliness and price. Very quiet park with minimal amount of children when I stayed there. Mager was a very fair guy and a straight shooter in his dealing with residents.” – Maurice, Google Review
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In 1896, this park was established as a “rest resort,” and it soon became the center of attention in Boulder Creek. The RV park replaced the old cabins in 1970, and the property now welcomes guests from all over the country. The current owners, Dan and Joe, work to keep Redwood Resort up to date for the residents and traveling campers.
Short-term camping is permitted at Redwood Resort each year from May through September. The warm months are appropriate for sitting in the shade of the redwoods and walking around the RV park’s four beautiful acres. When you’re not swimming in the pool or playing ping-pong, you can pay a visit to Big Basin State Park or perhaps the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
“You wanna party all night? Not your place. You wanna be camping alone in the remote wilderness? Not your spot. You want a clean, organized, family-friendly place to camp, then go to this RV (and tent) park. Campers were a mix of families with young kids and teenagers, couples, and a few groups of friends. Very dog-friendly.” – Michele, Facebook Review
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Sunny Acres Mobile Home & RV Park is home to both permanent residents and overnight guests. This RV park is a few miles to the east of Richmond, and it is one of many Richmond campgrounds that are close to a Costco. Reservations are required to stay at Sunny Acres Mobile Home & RV Park.
Sunny Acres Mobile Home & RV Park is situated in a hip neighborhood that has plenty of amenities. This RV park is close to Interstate 680, but it is sufficiently distant from the freeway to enjoy some peace and quiet.
“Have had a nice time in the park. Nice people. Make sure to call before you enter the park. Check the reception. Overall, they might be not that professional in managing. But the people who live in the park are very friendly.” – Rainier, Google Review
You've explored the best RV parks around, and now it's time to make your pick! With fantastic amenities, breathtaking views, and a friendly atmosphere, you can't go wrong with any of these choices. Be sure to book early to secure your dates and enjoy a smooth, stress-free vacation. For more advice and inspiration to elevate your RV journey, check out our blog on picking the perfect RV or browse for travel ideas. Ready to hit the road? Find San Mateo, CA RV rentals here!
The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.
Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.
Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.
Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.