Best Camping Near San Francisco, CA

Explore the Best Camping Spots in San Francisco: KOA Campgrounds, Outdoor Adventures, and Scenic Views Await!

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Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

4.7

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near San Francisco, California

3 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
San Francisco, California

  • Golden Gate Bridge - An iconic symbol of San Francisco, this suspension bridge offers stunning views and is perfect for walking or biking.

  • Muir Woods National Monument - Located about 12 miles north of San Francisco, this park features towering old-growth redwoods and serene hiking trails.

  • Alcatraz Island - Just 1.25 miles offshore from San Francisco, this historic island was once a federal prison and now offers tours that delve into its fascinating past.

  • Point Reyes National Seashore - Approximately 30 miles northwest of San Francisco, this coastal preserve boasts rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife habitats.

  • Mount Tamalpais State Park - About 20 miles north of the city, this park provides panoramic views of the Bay Area along with numerous hiking and biking trails.

  • Sausalito Waterfront - A charming town just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. Enjoy waterfront dining, art galleries, and scenic views of the bay.

  • Half Moon Bay State Beach - Located around 28 miles south of San Francisco, it’s a great spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and enjoying coastal scenery.

  • Angel Island State Park - Accessible by ferry from Tiburon or Pier 41 in San Francisco. This island offers hiking trails with spectacular views as well as historical sites to explore.

Ways to camp near San Francisco, California

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Armstrong Redwoods offers trails within the giant Sequoia redwoods, with trees around 2,000 years old.

You can visit the Art Galleries in the Historic Downtown area for amazing works of art.

The Pacific Coast Air Museum showcases over fifty years of aviation history with aircraft and artifacts on display.

The Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park offers a fun-filled day for families with various attractions and rides.

The Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park has been restored to its 1840s state, featuring animals, picnic areas, and historical displays.

The Charles Schultz Museum is home to exhibits about Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and their creator's legacy.

Plan a trip to San Francisco, California

Plan a trip to San Francisco, California

Planning a camping trip to San Francisco, CA, and its surrounding areas is an adventure waiting to happen! With three fantastic KOA campgrounds nearby—San Francisco North / Petaluma KOA Resort, Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA, and Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday—you'll have the perfect base for exploring this vibrant region.

Best Time of Year to Visit

San Francisco is a year-round destination with each season offering unique experiences. Spring and fall are particularly delightful with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer brings warmer weather ideal for outdoor activities but can be foggy in the city itself. Winter is cooler but still enjoyable with plenty of indoor attractions.

Weather Expectations by Season

  • Spring: Mild temperatures with blooming flowers make it perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
  • Summer: Warm days are great for beach outings; however, pack layers as evenings can be cool.
  • Fall: Crisp air and clear skies offer excellent conditions for exploring vineyards or taking scenic drives.
  • Winter: Cooler weather calls for cozying up by the campfire after a day of museum visits or shopping.

What to Pack

Packing smart ensures you’re prepared:

  • Layers: The weather can change quickly from warm afternoons to chilly evenings.
  • Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for city tours or nature hikes.
  • Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves even on foggy days.
  • Camping gear: Depending on your stay type (tent/RV/cabin), bring appropriate sleeping bags, cooking supplies, etc.

Important Considerations

  1. Reservations: Popular times fill up fast at these KOAs; book early!
  2. Transportation: Public transit in San Francisco is excellent; consider using it to avoid parking hassles in the city.
  3. Local Attractions:
    • Explore iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge or Alcatraz Island.
    • Enjoy wine tasting tours in Napa Valley or Sonoma County near Petaluma KOA Resort.
    • Discover coastal beauty along Highway 1 from Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA.

Whether you're soaking up culture in San Francisco or enjoying nature's splendor along California’s coastlines, staying at a nearby KOA campground ensures comfort and convenience throughout your adventure!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near San Francisco, California with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near San Francisco, California, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.