Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe

Camping near Half Moon Bay

·

A short drive south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is popular among surfers, owing largely to Mavericks, a big-wave surf area off the coast of nearby Pillar Point that gets waves measuring upwards of 60 feet. Even if you aren't into surfing, you'll find something to enjoy here, be it exploring downtown or wandering along the golden sands at Half Moon Bay State Beach. Nearby points of interest include the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, home to all sorts of water birds, as well as Año Nuevo State Park, best known for its resident seals.

96% (5.9K) 2,183 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Half Moon Bay

Stunning Treehouse & Cabin

1. Stunning Treehouse & Cabin

100%
(13)
2.4mi from Half Moon Bay · 1 site
A soulful and energetic paradise, beautiful, private, peaceful and wild surroundings complimented with modern luxuries and comfort. A stunning, unique and unrivalled experience sure to impact you deeply. Soak in the outdoor tub while you plan your next adventure. Just minutes from the beach, amazing hiking, views and biking. Outfitted with organic latex mattresses, down comforters, top of the line appliances, smoking fast internet and a spectacular wifi sound system with world class acoustics.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
Moon Crest Valley Ranch

2. Moon Crest Valley Ranch

100%
(21)
3.9mi from Half Moon Bay · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Join us to host your next getaway at the beautiful Moon Crest Valley Ranch. A perfect spot for intimate get togethers that immerse you in nature and offer breathtaking views and countless activities on over 45 acres. This is a magical spot for our family and we can’t wait to share it with yours. You will be the exclusive campers on the property after booking and the owners will reside in their house. Potential activities on site include Private Hiking Trails, Breathtaking Ocean Views, Bocce Ball, Wiffle Ball, Golf Chipping, Soccer, and more... Guests are responsible for bringing their own camping gear. Of note, the main campsite is 1/2 mile hike from parking and has a portable camping toilet setup. One of our favorite spaces is the barn area which has a fire pit, multiple seating areas with views, an oversized picnic table, bocce ball, a grill and even a TV. This is a must hangout spot during the evenings for many guests before they hike back up to the campsite to retire for the night. There is also a portable toilet at the barn for guest convenience. Moon Crest Valley Ranch is located less than 10 minutes from the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay and 15 minutes from scenic Main Street Half Moon Bay. We are also only 1/2 mile away from the Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve Trailhead that has an additional 30+ miles of gorgeous trails to explore. Bring your hiking shoes or bike!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

3. Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

100%
(132)
5.5mi from Half Moon Bay · 4 sites
Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on Kings Mountain, California hillside. Our generously sized Safari-style tents offer a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Each tent has beds, down comforters, crisp cotton linens, lights, and more. Outdoor and indoor furniture and little touches that will make your stay unique. The property is located 30min from SFO, 40min from San Francisco, 30min from Palo Alto, 20 min from Half Moon Bay. Each tent is perched on a sturdy wooden platform and features a fully furnished deck, providing a cozy space to relax and soak in the breathtaking ocean (Half Moon Bay views) and forest views (Kings Mountain). All tents include a mini fridge and a stove, ideal for light cooking, intimate fireside storytelling, and warmth during cool days. We suggest you bring easy-to-prep food, drinks, warm clothes, hiking shoes, and a beanie, as it can get chilly without notice. Your designated parking space is a 6-minute walk from the campsite (downhill on arrival, then back uphill (steep) in the forest), so we recommend traveling light. Our campsite is nestled within the same property as our charming little farm. Our goats roam the land all day and may visit you for pets and nuzzles. They are gentle, but please do not feed or let them inside the tent. Recharge from the day with a hot shower. Grab your fresh towels from your tent and go to your outdoor allocated bathhouses, where you’ll find an indoor shower and well-appointed restrooms. They are nicely lit and stocked with bath products. A sink area is available for dish clean-up, a bbq/picnic area, fire pit & cedar wood hot tub (to be booked separately). KM is famous for its hiking and biking trails nestled amongst the redwoods. The closest is a 15-minute walk from our campsite, and others are within a 15-minute car ride. Tent 01 (180sqft) accommodates 3 people in a queen-size bed and a daybed. Tent 02 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a bunk bed and an outdoor suspended net Tent 03 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a twin bed + daybed and an outdoor propane stove, hangout deck Recently added: an apartment w a hot tub Kids under the age of 8 are not allowed. An adult must accompany minors under 21 YO.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Half Moon Bay State Beach

4. Half Moon Bay State Beach

91%
(51)
State park 0.3mi from Half Moon Bay · 51 sites
You can feel the serenity calming your soul—Or walk north to the biggest waves this side of Hawaii.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Candlestick Point State Recreation Area

5. Candlestick Point State Recreation Area

100%
(1)
State park 17mi from Half Moon Bay · 1 site
From Candlestick Point State Recreation, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the East Bay Hills,San Bruno Mountain as well as relax in the peaceful scenery of the park itself. Its location on the western shoreline of the San Francisco Bay provides a variety of recreational opportunities from windsurfing, fishing, bird watching and walking to simply relaxing. The trails, group picnic sites and fishing piers at this urban park offer a get-away of open space and outdoor activities.  Candlestick Point SRA was the first California State Park unit developed to bring state park values into the urban setting. From historic wetlands to landfill to landscaped park, Candlestick Point demonstrates major land use changes of the San Francisco Bay. Its name is derived from 19th century locals who thought the burning of nearby abandoned sailing ships and their flaming masts in the bay resembled lighted candlesticks. 
Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

6. Tunitas Beach Overlook - Airstream

99%
(90)
7.6mi from Half Moon Bay · 4 sites
On 9 private acres overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking cliff top view. Stunning sunrises and sunset greet you in this fully equipped new 2023 Airstream. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, outside BBQ, outside griddle, A/C and fully stocked kitchen. Comes will full bathroom with shower. Truly a rare experience and located within 10 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

7. Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

97%
(121)
8.2mi from Half Moon Bay · 4 sites
This is private 30 acres property overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking ocean cliff view. Stunning sunrise and sunset greet you in these fully equipped Airstreams. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, BBQ, Pizza oven, A/C, Heater, full kitchen with all necessary cookware and serving dishes to cook inside the airstream or on the BBQ or Pizza oven outside. Comes will full bathroom with hot shower. Truly a rare and memorable experience, located within 9 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Bear Gulch Hide Out

8. Bear Gulch Hide Out

100%
(150)
11mi from Half Moon Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This 60 acre property is located approximately 3 miles east of San Gregorio Beach in the San Gregorio area. There is no home here, only a travel trailer on the Upper Meadow. It is very peaceful, quiet and beautiful throughout the seasons. We are 5 minutes away from the San Gregorio General Store and cafe and 20 minutes from Alice's Restaurant. We have great cell coverage for Verizon, AT&T and Visible. Experience shows that T-Mobile does not work here and I don't know about the other internet providers. There are four campsites, each with easy 4WD access. Two of the sites offer total isolation with amazing views while the third site, while in a nice setting, is more useful for a quick overnight stay with no views of the ocean or canyon. Please note that five easy-going cows (no bulls) reside on this property. ** Dear winter and spring campers, please consider using "Sensible Weather" for your trip protection in the event of heavy rain or even high temperatures in the summer and fall. I have not used this insurance feature but the description on Google makes it look worth considering: https://www.sensibleweather.com/
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

9. Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

99%
(170)
15mi from Half Moon Bay · 1 site
Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all. Situated on top of a ridge with expansive redwood forest and coastal views, the Audrey Edna Cabin provides a completely private gathering place and destination for visitors with reservations. The cabin has spectacular views of forest, sky, ocean and the Butano ridgeline. It's a short hike to 8000+ acres of county parkland where you can hike, bike and ride horses (though please note, there are no facilities for horse boarding at the cabin.) The cabin is located at Alpine Ranch, a property adjacent to Sam McDonald County Park that was protected by Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).  Whether you are looking for an active experience or just want to relax in a peaceful, remote setting, there's something here for everyone. This is a rustic hike-in cabin designed for a introductory pack-in experience. Bedding is not provided. It is about a 1.7-mile hike on a rolling dirt road from the Sam McDonald County Park parking lot, with about 650 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers can reach the cabin in an hour or less. Guests should plan to arrive at least 2 hours before sunset, and pack water and flashlights or headlamps. Guests with limited mobility, please contact us for information regarding accommodations that will allow you to access this shared resource. *A note about reservation availability: On the weekends, POST offers priority reservations for the cabin to our partners at the San Mateo County Health Department and Park Rx to provide patients with equitable access to the benefits of nature. Occasionally, we have last-minute public weekend reservation availability due to cancellations. The cabin is reservable up to 3 months in advance, on a rolling basis. Love the idea of a hike-in cabin, but unable to visit us Sunday-Thursday? Check out the nearby Sierra Club Hiker's Hut in Sam McDonald County Park.  Property History: At one time, the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains was a thriving center for trade between tribes of the coast and the bay, which we still find evidence of today in cultural sites and artifacts throughout the region. Native people have cared for this land since time immemorial, including the local Muwekma and Ramaytush Ohlone who are still active in the area today. This property specifically is host to a tributary to one of just a handful of waterways that support salmonids in this region, which are a species of tremendous importance to native people. Over 1000 acres here were eventually purchased by entrepreneur Ridgeway Rowley, who built a home on the ranch in the 1880s as part of an unsuccessful wedding proposal to Fannie Page, daughter of a local mill owner (ever heard of Page Mill Road?) After being rejected by Fannie, Rowley operated the ranch for a decade in conjunction with his work as District Attorney and publisher of the Palo Alto Weekly, before eventually returning to his hometown of Cortland, NY, where he lived as a bachelor until his death. Over the course of the 20th century, the ranch was divided, some parts of which became Pescadero Creek County Park. POST purchased the 350 acre home property, now called Alpine Ranch, in 2012 through our Heart of the Redwoods campaign, an initiative to protect 20,000 acres of Redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Alpine Ranch borders Pescadero Creek County Park and Sam McDonald County Park, adding to the area’s protected open space and containing more than a mile of tributaries to Pescadero Creek, which flows year-round and is a major spawning stream for steelhead trout. The Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch is situated at one of the property's most scenic overlooks. The cabin was built in the early 1900's, and completely reconstructed up to modern building codes by POST in 2018 so that all could enjoy this special place.
Toilets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
Butano State Park

10. Butano State Park

State park 19mi from Half Moon Bay · 2 sites
Discover Butano State Park's redwoods, hiking trails, and serene campgrounds.
Portola Redwoods State Park

11. Portola Redwoods State Park

97%
(73)
State park 19mi from Half Moon Bay · 59 sites
Explore the otherworldly beauty of old-growth redwoods—a tranquil sanctuary and ideal getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Big Basin Redwoods State Park

12. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

98%
(362)
State park 23mi from Half Moon Bay · 274 sites
Soak up the shade of old growth redwood trees & take some selfies with banana slugs!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Golden Gate National Recreation Area

13. Golden Gate National Recreation Area

97%
(78)
National park 26mi from Half Moon Bay · 17 sites
Hike in Muir Woods or rattle the bars at Alcatraz with a visit to the City by the Bay.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
May's Luxury Farmstays

14. May's Luxury Farmstays

96%
(130)
23mi from Half Moon Bay · 5 sites
Relax and recharge at our retreat in Los Gatos. Whether you’re here to reconnect with nature, hike the trails, camp under the stars, or explore the Bay Area, Harlan’s Retreat, has everything for a worry-free stay! With nature trails on-site and the Saratoga Gap down the road, you won’t have to go far, For fun drive into the city. Come home and admire the amazing views from your secluded glamp-site with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Silicon Valley 2,800 feet below. This very private site offers breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the south bay. The views at night are transcendent. The Apple building and Moffet field are clearly visible. you look down from above the clouds to the valley floor 2,800 feet below.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
Blooming Echo private redwood oasis

15. Blooming Echo private redwood oasis

99%
(50)
28mi from Half Moon Bay · 1 site
Blooming Echo is a very private, beautifully wooded and wild land. She has huge trees and a big sunny meadow where we grow our corn. We have a fully stocked a outdoor kitchen, two compost toilets, a big swing, and a slack line. Lots of land to walk and explore, many many wild and native medicinal herbs. This property is totally off grid. You can track wild boar, deer, wild turkeys and mountain lions, and listen to hermit thrush sing in the morning, hawks call during the day and owls hoot at night.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Double Bear

16. Double Bear

100%
(11)
28mi from Half Moon Bay · 4 sites
Double Bear is a rugged three yurt glamping escape in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a secluded setting on a 1.5 mile mountain dirt road among towering redwoods with sweeping views, just 30 minutes from Silicon Valley. It is designed for those who appreciate quiet beauty, a touch of adventure, and the feeling of being truly off the map without being far from it. Our camp features three sleeping yurts, a spacious shared kitchen yurt, and a bathhouse, all thoughtfully placed to let the landscape take center stage. The yurts, up to 30 feet in diameter, offer a unique sense of space and comfort in a natural setting. Soak in the hot tub beneath the trees, enjoy dinner on the pavilion terrace, gather around the fire, or wander the woods at your own pace. Privacy Up the hill sits a separate art house that is occasionally rented, while the owner lives about 10 minutes down the road and is available if needed. You also have the option to book the entire camp, three yurts with 16 plus beds, along with the kitchen yurt and bathhouse, for your group. Hiking / Biking The land is steep, rugged, and spans 83 acres of private forest. You are free to explore and discover hidden corners of the property. You may come across some remarkable surprises along the way. Getting around takes effort, and that is part of the experience. Surrounding area • Two highly rated wineries within a 10 minute drive • Groceries, breakfast, lunch, and dinner options about 15 minutes away • Castle Rock State Park and Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve approximately 20 minutes away Getting here is part of the adventure Double Bear is about a 30 minute drive from Los Gatos. The final stretch is a 1.2 mile drive up a steep dirt road, crossing Bear Creek and winding through the mountains. The road is suitable for 2WD vehicles, just be comfortable driving on dirt roads. Wi Fi Once you arrive, you will have access to reliable, low latency satellite Wi Fi around camp. Cell service can be limited, so we recommend downloading maps in advance. Our approach Double Bear is not built as a for profit venture, but as a place to share the land and its experience. We are just getting started, and your feedback is truly appreciated as we continue shaping it.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Slide Ranch

17. Slide Ranch

95%
(253)
29mi from Half Moon Bay · 16 sites
Slide Ranch is a nonprofit organization established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Coast Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development. Slide Ranch camping fees directly fund scholarships for youth programs throughout the year. Slide Ranch is an unpaved ranch environment. Our trails and garden paths all consist of uneven, sloping terrain, often muddy or soft ground during the winter season, and may be challenging to access for visitors with significant mobility restrictions. Minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed; service animals are permitted. We do not have showering facilities or flush toilets. Water in all Slide Ranch taps is potable for refilling water bottles/jugs. Soap is provided for hand washing. Slide Ranch does not have any concessions on site. Camping is not supported by the on-site staff. Per current GGNRA regulations, campfires and open flames of any kind are not allowed.
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic table
Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

18. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

96%
(66)
30mi from Half Moon Bay · 4 sites
For over 40 years, Sacred Earth has been cherished by many as an example of sustainable off-grid living immersed in nature. While it is just 12 minutes drive from the village of Ben Lomond, 30 from Santa Cruz beaches, and 90 minutes to Berkeley, this valley feels as though you are deep in the wilds, complete with old growth Redwoods you can stand inside and far- reaching majestic Madrones. The land is home to the headwaters of Love Creek, with springs to be found in fern gullies and gentle babbling brooks. The breathtaking ridgetop has expansive views down the San Lorenzo Valley southeast and westerly views to Ben Lomond Mountain, the final hill between this place and the Pacific. Don’t miss the sunrise with meandering mist rising off the valley. Large sites allow for family and group gatherings/activities, while small tucked in tent sites provide hidden nooks. Hiking trails (open in dry season only) encircle the land and allow for moderate walks throughout its mostly vertical terrain. What is truly dynamic about Sacred Earth is the sheer diversity of plant and animal species combined with its proximity to world-class surfing, sailing, scuba, mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching, etc. Make your stay in Santa Cruz Mountains at SER.
Toilets
Picnic table
BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

19. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

97%
(228)
32mi from Half Moon Bay · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Purchased from the original owner in 1998. Doug has been clearing and improving the ranch for over 20 years. After surviving the CZU Fire in the summer of 2020, the clearing is continuing and the green growth is thriving all over the ranch. Come revive and energize your soul as you experience the the magic of this private redwood forest. Feel the soothing sound and atmosphere of the pristine creek and its' endless flow as it meanders through the ranch. The seclusion and calmness of this place is addicting! PITCH YOUR TENT UNDER THE MAJESTIC REDWOODS ON THE OLDTIMERS SKID LANDING AND ENJOY THE PRIVACY, SERENITY AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE ALL AROUND YOU. EASY WALKING ON OUR PRIVATE LOGGING ROADS. SEE THE RESULTS OF THE CZU FIRE AS YOUR HIKE DOWN TO THE PRISTINE AND BEAUTIFUL YEAR ROUND CREEK THAT RUNS THOUGH THE RANCH.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Quail Ridge Farm

20. Quail Ridge Farm

100%
(12)
32mi from Half Moon Bay · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping & RV Parking on a Working Farm Near Santa Cruz Come camp on our peaceful working farm with easy access to incredible bike trails, beaches, and hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We offer 3 spacious campsites where you can park your RV or camper van, or set up a tent. The sites are spread out with plenty of room for groups and families. For a more comfortable stay, you can also rent our solar-powered Airstream Base Camp. The property is a working farm with animals and a Christmas tree farm, and we’re currently planting olive trees and lavender fields. Guests are welcome to enjoy hikes directly on the property, including redwood forest trails and scenic views. Interested in hosting a gathering? Ask us about renting the entire property for private events like birthday parties or group lunches, with the option to camp overnight. Camp Details: 3 sites for RVs (various sizes) or tents No hookups Potable drinking water available for fill-ups No electricity at campsites Quiet, natural setting—perfect for unplugging A great spot for campers looking for nature, space, and a relaxed farm atmosphere close to Santa Cruz.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Half Moon Bay camping guide

Where to go

San Francisco Peninsula

Stretching from San Francisco down to the southern reaches of San Mateo County, the peninsula offers miles of forests and marshlands, not to mention plenty of sandy beaches. Although it’s close to the city, this region offers plenty of opportunities to get out in nature, from surfing at Montara State Beach to camping among the redwoods at Butano State Park.

Big Sur

One of the prettiest stretches of the California coastline, Big Sur features a mix of dramatic cliffs, old-growth forests, and ample hiking and camping options, with a mix of public and private campgrounds, a few right along the coast.

Sonoma and Napa Wine Country

On the other side of San Francisco sit the twin counties of Napa and Sonoma, where much of California’s best wine is produced. The area is also rife with hot springs, including Boyes Hot SpringsCalistoga, and Agua Caliente.

The Mendocino Coast

North of Sonoma County, the Mendocino Coast features a mix of forest and open cliffs along with a mix of cute towns and protected state beaches and parks. It's also home to Glass Beach, which owes its name to its massive amount of colorful glass, tumbled into pebbles by the ocean’s waves.

When to go

Half Moon Bay is best visited on weekdays, as weekends can get crowded with Bay Area visitors. The weather here is pleasant year-round, with highs in the 60s most months and lows in the upper 40s, though winters can be rainy. Summers are the driest and warmest, and weather remains pleasant well into October, when the annual Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival, one of the oldest festivals in the state, takes place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Camping costs at Half Moon Bay can vary depending on the campsite and amenities. For example, at Half Moon Bay State Beach, the fees for a standard campsite start at around $35 per night. Rates may be higher for RV camping or sites with additional amenities. You can explore various Half Moon Bay camping options on Hipcamp to find a campsite that fits your budget and preferences.

To reserve camping in Half Moon Bay, you can book a campsite at Half Moon Bay State Beach through the California State Parks reservation system or explore private camping options on Hipcamp. Here are the steps for each option:

California State Parks Reservation System:

  1. Visit the ReserveCalifornia website.
  2. Enter "Half Moon Bay State Beach" in the search bar and select it from the results.
  3. Select your desired arrival and departure dates, as well as the type of site you're looking for (tent, RV, etc.).
  4. Choose an available campsite from the list and follow the prompts to complete your reservation.

Hipcamp:

  1. Visit the Half Moon Bay camping page on Hipcamp.
  2. Enter your desired dates and filter the results by accommodation type, amenities, and more.
  3. Select a campsite or glamping option that suits your needs and follow the prompts to book your reservation.

Keep in mind that for public parks and campgrounds, you cannot make reservations directly on Hipcamp, but you can learn about them and then book through the appropriate reservation system.

Unfortunately, bonfires are not allowed at Half Moon Bay State Beach. It is important to follow the park's rules and regulations to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Keep in mind that policies can change due to seasonal restrictions or local regulations, so it's always a good idea to check with the park before your visit. You can find more information about Half Moon Bay State Beach on Hipcamp.

Dogs are not allowed on the beach at Half Moon Bay State Beach. However, they are permitted in the campground and on the Coastal Trail, provided they are on a leash no longer than six feet. For dog-friendly beach camping options nearby, you can consider Hipcamp listings in Half Moon Bay and Moss Beach, where some private campsites may allow pets.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Half Moon Bay, CA trips