Ranch glamping near San Mateo

San Mateo has coastal mountains, Pacific beaches, and redwood forests right in its backyard.

90% (867 reviews)

United States
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California
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San Mateo

90% (867 reviews)

Popular camping styles for San Mateo

8 top ranch glamping sites near San Mateo

Blackberry Farm

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Bolinas, CA

Blackberry Farm sits on the western side of Mount Tamalpais, tucked in the Gospel Flat area of Bolinas. The family farm and residence were established during the late 1970s on the site of the historic Peter’s Dairy Ranch. The original farmhouse dates back to the late 19th century and survived the great 1906 earthquake. Today, the 7-acre farm is being restored to sustainably support fruit orchards, cottage flower and kitchen gardens, honey bees, a boisterous flock of chickens, and naughty shetland sheep. Our self-serve farmstand attached to our barn has seasonal flowers, organic eggs, heirloom fruit, and local goods from the farm. Our property is the perfect rustic getaway for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll be surrounded by farm/ranch life: chickens clucking, roosters crowing, bees buzzing, and sheep bleating. We also have active nighttime wildlife: coyotes howling, raccoons foraging, owls hooting, etc. Bring earplugs if nature sounds are too much for you. We offer 4 walk-in tent sites that allow you to immerse yourself in nature. We welcome well-behaved pets ON LEASH that won’t harass the chickens, cats, sheep, other campers, or residents. Unruly pets and their campers will be asked to leave. No refund. Limit: 1 dog per site. Pitch your tent in a meadow shared by: Campsite 1 - left side of the meadow, closest to the common area and hot tub. Campsite 2 - middle of the meadow, closest to our fenced apiary and bee garden. Campsite 3 - right side of the meadow, near the orchard. (sites 1 and 3 are next to each other) Campsite 4 - front of the pasture, closest to the parking area (best for car/van campers wanting space to lounge near their parked vehicle.) Multiple sites may be booked for group camping. Sites 1 and 3 are next to each other under the Cypress Trees. Add site 2 if you would like the entire back half of the campground. Add site 4 if you'd like to have a maximum number of 16 total campers and 2 tents/per site. The common area has an outdoor shower, hot tub, covered bbq/cook area, tented (weather-protected) hangout space, and a place to stash your surfboard. The pizza oven is not available for campground use. Redwood Grove hangout areas have seating and tree swings. Please pack out your trash. We offer a recycling bin for glass bottles, cans, and clean paper. Parking is 100 yds or less from the campsites. We have a large wheelbarrow to help you cart your camping gear across the pasture to your campsite. No driving onto or parking in the meadow. Due to the narrow driveway and parking area (lack of turnaround), the site cannot accommodate RVs, trailers, or oversize vehicles beyond 16ft in length, 7ft in width, or 10 ft in height. 1 car per campsite, please. 15-minute walk to the beach and downtown.

Hidden Spring Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Santa Cruz, CA

Magical 6 acre permaculture ranch just a few minutes to town, beaches and restaurants. Take a bath under a clear night sky, enjoy the morning birdsong and take a stroll on or off the property. We have free ranging chickens, a hidden spring surrounded by two creeks and wild plums. Happy Valley is a secret little gem of Santa Cruz. Plenty of space for relaxing, and amazing location for both convenience and adventures. (2 of the 3 sites have the tubs please read individual descriptions to find out if the one you chose has one)

Venture Retreat Center

12 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Pescadero, CA

Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of winding Eden West Road, along the edge of Little Butano Creek, Venture is a NorCal hidden gem. Our roots are in the 1960s counterculture movement and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Cruz, our special spot is the most serene escape when you're seeking respite, relaxation, or reconnection with nature. The campus offers a mix of dispersed charming cabins, a serene yurt, camping sites, and glamping tents. You can immerse yourself in the lush forest that surrounds us, soak up the sun, and explore creek-side beauty. Gather around the warmth of an evening fire or drum circle and enjoy the dusk and starshine coming on. Just down the street is Pescadero proper. A sweet little spot (nine hundred strong) and California coast perfection. You'll find gorgeous scenery, local food and drink, neat landmarks, beautiful places to hike and explore, fun galleries, and really, really good people. Ask us for our favorite spots, we’re more than happy to share!

Hilltop Vineyard Dome Glamping

6 sites · Lodging, RVs32 acres · Felton, CA

Welcome to Hill Top Vineyard, nestled in the mountains of Santa Cruz; this breathtaking 30+ acre retreat is the ideal getaway. We offer 3 RV/tent sites and 2 glamping domes. The glamping domes share a full bathroom equipped with a hot water shower and flushing toilet. There is no toilet available for the RV/tent sites so campers are required to bring their own. Featuring four acres of vineyard, two acres of seasonal pond, winding trails, and sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains. Just imagine waking up slowly with a cup of coffee from one of the local coffee shops while you watch the wildlife come to life. Evenings are best spent enjoying the stunning sunsets in front of the 2 acre pond. Located just 15 miles from the world-famous beaches of Santa Cruz that have some of the most sought-after surf breaks, and if beaches aren't your thing, Henry Cowell State park is less than ten miles away and has some of the gorgeous hikes in all of Santa Cruz County. Big Basin State Park is a few towns over and is one of the few places in the world where you can see coastal redwoods. The location also offers easy access to silicon valley and the greater bay area if you're interested in a day trip to the city. Amenities include RV/oversized vehicle parking, private trails, and more! Book your stay today at Hill Top Vineyard to experience the ultimate getaway, where you'll find peace in nature's embrace.

Delta Respite

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Sherman Island, CA

The perfect solo escape! Treat yourself to a quiet getaway for one at this cozy, clean and comfortable cabin on our rural farm, between two rivers, on Sherman Island. Located in the eastern San Francisco Bay Area at the confluence of the San Joaquin River, Sacramento River, and the eastern terminus of San Francisco Bay, Sherman Island is known for its wildlife, sunrises, and sunsets, and its dark sky for stargazing opportunities. The property is surrounded by alfalfa fields, grazing cattle, sheep, and a wildland habitat populated with migratory and native birds, animals, and plants. The one-room cabin has a bed and clawfoot bathtub with hot water offering a peaceful escape on our 5-acre tree-lined farm. Here you can listen to birdsong instead of the sounds of the city. This is an ideal cabin for birdwatchers, writers, plein air painters, nature photographers, stargazing, windsurfers/kiteboarders, meditation, or some stress-free, peaceful reset time. The private cottage has a refrigerator, microwave, compostable dinnerware, drinking water, and a coffeemaker with coffee. It is air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter. Pets are welcome and free to enjoy being off-leash in the cabin's fenced yard. The hosts raise free-range chickens and bees on their farm and also conduct a nonprofit rescue and hospice for senior pets. The property is in the Pacific Migratory Flyway, surrounded by a 1000-acre State habitat/preserve populated by wildlife and seasonal birds. Downtown San Francisco and Sacramento are each about 50 miles away in opposite directions. Mount Diablo, viewed from the property, is about 15 miles south and offers hiking trails with stunning views and abundant wildlife. Friday bookings are for a minimum of 2 nights.

Swallowtail Historic Art Studio

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Petaluma, CA

Antique Indonesian teakwood cottage, private deck with hot tub and very special, large, artistic bathroom/sitting room, private for cottage guests only.. Beautifully rural, yet just 6 minutes from historic downtown Petaluma and fine restaurants and shops. A short trip to the Pacific coast and the fabulous Pt. Reyes National Seashore, Tomales and Bodega Bays and towns, excellent vineyards and breweries, and San Francisco! WE FOLLOW THE CLEANING AND DISINFECTING GUIDELINES ISSUED BY AIRBNB.The spaceThe antique Indonesian cottage is made of beautifully hand carved and hand colored teak wood, and is quiet, cozy and romantic with lovely views. It abuts a large private deck and hot tub. Just a few steps across the deck is the very large, luxurious, art filled, centrally heated private bathroom and sitting area. The cottage itself is unheated although there is a premium electric mattress pad with separate controls on the California King bed. That and the hot tub make for cozy sleeping on chilly winter nightsGuest accessAside from the private deck, hot tub and bathroom/sitting room (with 6' tub and shower), guests can access 2.5 peaceful acres, woods and fields and Helen Putnam Regional Park one mile down the road for spectacular hiking.Other things to noteIn the 1970's this property was Swallowtail Studios, a famous glass blowers cooperative. The Grateful Dead played in the barn and hung out here...their manager lived just down the road. The barn is redwood, quite large and beautiful, with stained glass windows."

Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

3 sites · Lodging6 acres · Gilroy, CA

Nestled in the serene redwood forests of Gilroy, our 6-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Wake up to the soothing sounds of our rooster’s call and start your day with a sense of peace and excitement. Our ranch is packed with fun-filled activities for all ages. Fly through the trees on our zipline, bounce away your stress on the trampoline, or challenge yourself with archery, axe throwing, and BB gun shooting. Wander along our scenic hiking trails, follow the bubbling creek, and soak in breathtaking views from the mountaintop. Animal lovers will be in heaven at our charming petting zoo, home to our friendly goat, sheep, kunekune pigs, chickens, ducks, and bunnies. Get up close and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures. As the day winds down, fire up the BBQ grill for a delicious outdoor meal, then gather around the campfire for a night of s’mores and stories under the stars. Our ranch offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear skies that often reveal the awe-inspiring Milky Way. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this unique experience will help you reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and leave with unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and unlock your wild side on our one-of-a-kind ranch!

Moon Crest Valley Ranch

2 sites · Lodging, Tents45 acres · Half Moon Bay, CA

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! For additional information, please visit www.mooncrestvalleyranch.com

Available this weekend

Blackberry Farm

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Bolinas, CA

Blackberry Farm sits on the western side of Mount Tamalpais, tucked in the Gospel Flat area of Bolinas. The family farm and residence were established during the late 1970s on the site of the historic Peter’s Dairy Ranch. The original farmhouse dates back to the late 19th century and survived the great 1906 earthquake. Today, the 7-acre farm is being restored to sustainably support fruit orchards, cottage flower and kitchen gardens, honey bees, a boisterous flock of chickens, and naughty shetland sheep. Our self-serve farmstand attached to our barn has seasonal flowers, organic eggs, heirloom fruit, and local goods from the farm. Our property is the perfect rustic getaway for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll be surrounded by farm/ranch life: chickens clucking, roosters crowing, bees buzzing, and sheep bleating. We also have active nighttime wildlife: coyotes howling, raccoons foraging, owls hooting, etc. Bring earplugs if nature sounds are too much for you. We offer 4 walk-in tent sites that allow you to immerse yourself in nature. We welcome well-behaved pets ON LEASH that won’t harass the chickens, cats, sheep, other campers, or residents. Unruly pets and their campers will be asked to leave. No refund. Limit: 1 dog per site. Pitch your tent in a meadow shared by: Campsite 1 - left side of the meadow, closest to the common area and hot tub. Campsite 2 - middle of the meadow, closest to our fenced apiary and bee garden. Campsite 3 - right side of the meadow, near the orchard. (sites 1 and 3 are next to each other) Campsite 4 - front of the pasture, closest to the parking area (best for car/van campers wanting space to lounge near their parked vehicle.) Multiple sites may be booked for group camping. Sites 1 and 3 are next to each other under the Cypress Trees. Add site 2 if you would like the entire back half of the campground. Add site 4 if you'd like to have a maximum number of 16 total campers and 2 tents/per site. The common area has an outdoor shower, hot tub, covered bbq/cook area, tented (weather-protected) hangout space, and a place to stash your surfboard. The pizza oven is not available for campground use. Redwood Grove hangout areas have seating and tree swings. Please pack out your trash. We offer a recycling bin for glass bottles, cans, and clean paper. Parking is 100 yds or less from the campsites. We have a large wheelbarrow to help you cart your camping gear across the pasture to your campsite. No driving onto or parking in the meadow. Due to the narrow driveway and parking area (lack of turnaround), the site cannot accommodate RVs, trailers, or oversize vehicles beyond 16ft in length, 7ft in width, or 10 ft in height. 1 car per campsite, please. 15-minute walk to the beach and downtown.

Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

3 sites · Lodging6 acres · Gilroy, CA

Nestled in the serene redwood forests of Gilroy, our 6-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Wake up to the soothing sounds of our rooster’s call and start your day with a sense of peace and excitement. Our ranch is packed with fun-filled activities for all ages. Fly through the trees on our zipline, bounce away your stress on the trampoline, or challenge yourself with archery, axe throwing, and BB gun shooting. Wander along our scenic hiking trails, follow the bubbling creek, and soak in breathtaking views from the mountaintop. Animal lovers will be in heaven at our charming petting zoo, home to our friendly goat, sheep, kunekune pigs, chickens, ducks, and bunnies. Get up close and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures. As the day winds down, fire up the BBQ grill for a delicious outdoor meal, then gather around the campfire for a night of s’mores and stories under the stars. Our ranch offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear skies that often reveal the awe-inspiring Milky Way. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this unique experience will help you reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and leave with unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and unlock your wild side on our one-of-a-kind ranch!

Hidden Spring Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Santa Cruz, CA

Magical 6 acre permaculture ranch just a few minutes to town, beaches and restaurants. Take a bath under a clear night sky, enjoy the morning birdsong and take a stroll on or off the property. We have free ranging chickens, a hidden spring surrounded by two creeks and wild plums. Happy Valley is a secret little gem of Santa Cruz. Plenty of space for relaxing, and amazing location for both convenience and adventures. (2 of the 3 sites have the tubs please read individual descriptions to find out if the one you chose has one)

Moon Crest Valley Ranch

2 sites · Lodging, Tents45 acres · Half Moon Bay, CA

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! For additional information, please visit www.mooncrestvalleyranch.com

Hilltop Vineyard Dome Glamping

6 sites · Lodging, RVs32 acres · Felton, CA

Welcome to Hill Top Vineyard, nestled in the mountains of Santa Cruz; this breathtaking 30+ acre retreat is the ideal getaway. We offer 3 RV/tent sites and 2 glamping domes. The glamping domes share a full bathroom equipped with a hot water shower and flushing toilet. There is no toilet available for the RV/tent sites so campers are required to bring their own. Featuring four acres of vineyard, two acres of seasonal pond, winding trails, and sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains. Just imagine waking up slowly with a cup of coffee from one of the local coffee shops while you watch the wildlife come to life. Evenings are best spent enjoying the stunning sunsets in front of the 2 acre pond. Located just 15 miles from the world-famous beaches of Santa Cruz that have some of the most sought-after surf breaks, and if beaches aren't your thing, Henry Cowell State park is less than ten miles away and has some of the gorgeous hikes in all of Santa Cruz County. Big Basin State Park is a few towns over and is one of the few places in the world where you can see coastal redwoods. The location also offers easy access to silicon valley and the greater bay area if you're interested in a day trip to the city. Amenities include RV/oversized vehicle parking, private trails, and more! Book your stay today at Hill Top Vineyard to experience the ultimate getaway, where you'll find peace in nature's embrace.

Dog-friendly getaways

Moon Crest Valley Ranch

2 sites · Lodging, Tents45 acres · Half Moon Bay, CA

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! For additional information, please visit www.mooncrestvalleyranch.com

Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

3 sites · Lodging6 acres · Gilroy, CA

Nestled in the serene redwood forests of Gilroy, our 6-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Wake up to the soothing sounds of our rooster’s call and start your day with a sense of peace and excitement. Our ranch is packed with fun-filled activities for all ages. Fly through the trees on our zipline, bounce away your stress on the trampoline, or challenge yourself with archery, axe throwing, and BB gun shooting. Wander along our scenic hiking trails, follow the bubbling creek, and soak in breathtaking views from the mountaintop. Animal lovers will be in heaven at our charming petting zoo, home to our friendly goat, sheep, kunekune pigs, chickens, ducks, and bunnies. Get up close and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures. As the day winds down, fire up the BBQ grill for a delicious outdoor meal, then gather around the campfire for a night of s’mores and stories under the stars. Our ranch offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear skies that often reveal the awe-inspiring Milky Way. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this unique experience will help you reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and leave with unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and unlock your wild side on our one-of-a-kind ranch!

Delta Respite

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Sherman Island, CA

The perfect solo escape! Treat yourself to a quiet getaway for one at this cozy, clean and comfortable cabin on our rural farm, between two rivers, on Sherman Island. Located in the eastern San Francisco Bay Area at the confluence of the San Joaquin River, Sacramento River, and the eastern terminus of San Francisco Bay, Sherman Island is known for its wildlife, sunrises, and sunsets, and its dark sky for stargazing opportunities. The property is surrounded by alfalfa fields, grazing cattle, sheep, and a wildland habitat populated with migratory and native birds, animals, and plants. The one-room cabin has a bed and clawfoot bathtub with hot water offering a peaceful escape on our 5-acre tree-lined farm. Here you can listen to birdsong instead of the sounds of the city. This is an ideal cabin for birdwatchers, writers, plein air painters, nature photographers, stargazing, windsurfers/kiteboarders, meditation, or some stress-free, peaceful reset time. The private cottage has a refrigerator, microwave, compostable dinnerware, drinking water, and a coffeemaker with coffee. It is air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter. Pets are welcome and free to enjoy being off-leash in the cabin's fenced yard. The hosts raise free-range chickens and bees on their farm and also conduct a nonprofit rescue and hospice for senior pets. The property is in the Pacific Migratory Flyway, surrounded by a 1000-acre State habitat/preserve populated by wildlife and seasonal birds. Downtown San Francisco and Sacramento are each about 50 miles away in opposite directions. Mount Diablo, viewed from the property, is about 15 miles south and offers hiking trails with stunning views and abundant wildlife. Friday bookings are for a minimum of 2 nights.

Venture Retreat Center

12 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Pescadero, CA

Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of winding Eden West Road, along the edge of Little Butano Creek, Venture is a NorCal hidden gem. Our roots are in the 1960s counterculture movement and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Cruz, our special spot is the most serene escape when you're seeking respite, relaxation, or reconnection with nature. The campus offers a mix of dispersed charming cabins, a serene yurt, camping sites, and glamping tents. You can immerse yourself in the lush forest that surrounds us, soak up the sun, and explore creek-side beauty. Gather around the warmth of an evening fire or drum circle and enjoy the dusk and starshine coming on. Just down the street is Pescadero proper. A sweet little spot (nine hundred strong) and California coast perfection. You'll find gorgeous scenery, local food and drink, neat landmarks, beautiful places to hike and explore, fun galleries, and really, really good people. Ask us for our favorite spots, we’re more than happy to share!

Value Prop

Value Prop

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Ranch glamping near San Mateo guide

Overview

On the bay side of the San Francisco Peninsula just 30 minutes south of San Francisco, San Mateo is just 30 minutes from Half Moon Bay and an hour to multiple deep forest preserves in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The mountains around San Mateo have sprawling trail systems for hiking and mountain biking, plus serene campgrounds nestled among giant trees. On the coast, some of NorCal’s best surfing is close to San Mateo at Pacifica and Santa Cruz. There are also otherworldly tide pools to explore, and the chance to spot seals and whales.

Where to go

San Mateo Surrounds

For Bay Area nature excursions, check out Seal Point Park of Bair Island State Marine Park, renowned for kayaking and birdwatching. The closest mountain parks outside of San Mateo are the Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve and Huddart Park in Woodside, both of which offer miles of forested hiking and mountain biking trails. RV campers can find RV parks with full hookups around San Mateo, as well as in nearby Redwood City and San Jose.

Half Moon Bay

Just 30 minutes from San Mateo, Half Moon Bay State Beach has four miles of coastline. This beach is popular with surfers, swimmers, beachcombers, and tide-poolers, many of whom stay at the tent and RV sites in the park’s Francis Beach area campground. Another solid beach camping site is the Sunset State Beach campground in Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz Mountains

The Santa Cruz Mountains, to the east and southeast of San Mateo, are home to ancient redwoods and miles of peaceful forest trails with ferns, moss, and towering trees. Both Portola Redwoods State Park and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park have redwood groves to explore, while Memorial County Park and Butano State Park have campgrounds. Castle Rock State Park is another popular spot for hikers and rock climbers with its hike-in campsites.

When to go

Camping near San Mateo is possible year-round. Winter campers should prepare for rain and mildly cold temperatures, but this can also be a magical time to have parts of the beach or forest all to yourself. Summer is the busy season, so reserve well in advance. Spring visitors may be treated to powerful waterfalls and wildflowers in the area.

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Top parks near San Mateo

Salt Point State Park

Castle Rock State Park

Half Moon Bay State Beach

Dos Rios State Park

Tahoe National Forest

Emerald Bay State Park

Yosemite National Park

Point Reyes National Seashore

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