The best dog-friendly RV sites near San Mateo, California

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.

95% (2.8K) • 161 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near San Mateo

Lobitos Creek

1. Lobitos Creek

95%

(131)

12mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Tent, RV

Beautiful view from the quiet camping spot. Picnic table and porta potty. Dog friendly. There is only one big camp spot. Quiet and private. Four miles to hwy. 1 and the beaches. Close to Open Space trails. 20 Minutes to historic little town of Half Moon Bay. 30 Minutes to the harbor. Fresh fish, fresh local vegetables for sale. Moderate temperatures at 700 feet, sunny skies cooled by the marine layer below. 15 minutes from the campsite to an eclectic British Pub that is dog friendly. The beach south of the harbor and surfer's beach is a flat beach where all dogs go off leash. It is near the Miramar Restaurant where they have a dog friendly patio with firepits.

Toilets

Picnic table

from

$100

/ night

Bear Gulch Hide Out

2. Bear Gulch Hide Out

100%

(82)

16mi from San Mateo · 5 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 level. 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. There are three 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.

Toilets

Picnic table

from

$45

/ night

Redwood Retreat

3. Redwood Retreat

93%

(15)

27mi from San Mateo · 2 sites

Tucked away in the Santa Cruz mountains you will find yourself among towering old redwood trees. There is a seasonal creek that runs down the property in the winter in which you can hear the tranquil sounds of water flowing as you sleep. Paved access to our property can accommodate up to 25 foot rv's and trailers. Wildlife such as turkey's, birds, deer, fox's, and bobcats can be seen on the property at times. Hiking trails are within hiking distance. Also the SLV river is a great spot to cool off in the Summer.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$25

/ night

Half Moon Bay State Beach

4. Half Moon Bay State Beach

91%

(50)

State park 9.8mi from San Mateo · 51 sites

You can feel the serenity calming your soul—Or walk north to the biggest waves this side of Hawaii.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Portola Redwoods State Park

5. Portola Redwoods State Park

97%

(72)

State park 21mi from San Mateo · 59 sites

Explore the otherworldly beauty of old-growth redwoods—a tranquil sanctuary and ideal getaway.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Camp Jaron

6. Camp Jaron

99%

(41)

30mi from San Mateo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Completely private 19 acres to explore while only being 10 min from downtown Los Gatos (FYI has great cell reception). Plenty of flat empty land to pitch tents. There is a compost toilet and an outdoor shower with cold water. There is plenty of room to explore, half of the property is pretty dense wilderness but the main half has hammocks, slack line, fire pit, bbq, tables, etc. *FYI due to the steep driveway (see pic) the property is only accessible by AWD or 4-wheel drive SUV or truck; cars, vans, or RVs will not be able to make it (if you are not sure please ask before booking).

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

$68

/ night

Beautiful Sunrise & Sunset RV

7. Beautiful Sunrise & Sunset RV

97%

(18)

33mi from San Mateo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

All about Amy’s  place Have the urge to get away glamp without the hassles and long drive? Escape to an isolated, breathtaking ridge-top in Morgan Territory Regional Preserve where panoramic four seasons views reveal Mount Diablo to the west, Mount St. Helena to the north and the snow-covered Sierra to the east. Lowland valleys cradle the sparkle. Everyday beautiful sunrise and sunset viewing. At night the beautiful city light surrounding you!

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Showers

from

$116

/ night

Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

8. Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

93%

(92)

34mi from San Mateo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Patchen Farm is a 6 acre, choose and cut Christmas tree farm. Since the farm is only open during the holiday season, in the off season you'll find a working farm (work being done, cars coming and going, etc.). Patchen is located only 10 mins from downtown Los Gatos in one direction and the Santa Cruz beach in the other direction. Perched at the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Patchen offers the scenic beauty of lush redwood forests and views of the surrounding area. There are several wonderful wineries within 5 miles and great hiking and biking trails. The one and only store in the mountains is the Summit Store and just 3 miles down Summit Road. They have plenty of the essentials plus an excellent deli, wine collection and coffee bar. NO CHECK IN OR CHECK OUT NECESSARY NO RESTROOM ON SITE NO ATTENDANT ON SITE WATER and POWER are marked with signs (EACH SERVICE IS $20 PER NIGHT) NO TRASH SHOULD BE LEFT AT THE PROPERTY Payment envelopes at red barn door or Venmo 408-605-1522 Zelle 408-605-1522 Water can be found near the giant wreath just inside entrance and on either end of the red barn. Power is 15 amp and can be found near the giant wreath just inside the entrance, mid-way up the parking lot on the in the wood chips and at the tiny red shack.

Potable water

Picnic table

from

$30

/ night

Winery Camping

9. Winery Camping

92%

(155)

35mi from San Mateo · 12 sites

Set up and camp with us at Leisure Street Winery. Where you can taste some wine and purchase a bottle or so to sit out on the patio and watch the sunset go down.  Ride your bike into town grab some lunch at one of our mom and pop restaurants.  Golf at the golf course 5 minutes away.  We have horse shoes, corn hole and other fun stuff to do.  Some weekends we have live music!Our property is located in Livermore Wine Country.  The property is located 5 minutes from Downtown Livermore and 8 minutes away from Lake Del Valle. Livermore is California's oldest wine region, framed by award-winning wineries, farm lands, and ranches that mirror the valley's western heritage. The property is located on 5 acres and home of Leisure Street Winery.  Any questions please contact us.  Thanks. Rick & Kelly Volpatti

from

$55

/ night

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

10. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

98%

(362)

State park 26mi from San Mateo · 274 sites

Soak up the shade of old growth redwood trees & take some selfies with banana slugs!

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Mount Tamalpais State Park

11. Mount Tamalpais State Park

96%

(208)

State park 28mi from San Mateo · 50 sites

See redwoods, trail run, and climb the Bay Area’s second tallest peak.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

Mount Diablo State Park

12. Mount Diablo State Park

86%

(43)

State park 31mi from San Mateo · 111 sites

Discover Mount Diablo State Park's scenic vistas and diverse trails.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Samuel P. Taylor State Park

13. Samuel P. Taylor State Park

94%

(167)

State park 39mi from San Mateo · 68 sites

Romp in an untouched wilderness where ancient trees guide your explorations.

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The Ranch at Cross Road

14. The Ranch at Cross Road

96%

(668)

35mi from San Mateo · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 10 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us! We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars. Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."

Toilets

Campfires

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from

$50

/ night

BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

15. BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

97%

(212)

35mi from San Mateo · 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.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$125

/ night

Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

16. Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

97%

(97)

37mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Tent, RV

A unique experience awaits you. Spend a night sleeping 20 feet up in the air suspended between towering Redwood trees. A custom woven "treenet" by West Marin artist Andrew Castle, provides a firm surface to hang out and sleep up to 5 people on. It's like floating in space. Bring your sleeping bag, this is open air camping at its best - No roof, no floor! Wake up to the sun filtering through your temple made of trees! Rain is nearly non-existent in the Summer and early Fall in beautiful San Geronimo Valley, making this the perfect place and time to sleep out in the glory of the redwoods. Swainson's Thrush will sing at dusk, followed by the owls and coyote's yipping and howling in the middle of the night (don't let it spook you!) There is amazing hiking all around, potable water on site and a public toilet not far away. There's parking for your camper directly next to the site, keeping your amenities close by.

Potable water

from

$90

/ night

Felton Open Space Camp Sites

17. Felton Open Space Camp Sites

94%

(561)

38mi from San Mateo · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Next to Historic Winery in the heart of Santa Cruz Mountains in the quaint town of Felton. Located between two state parks, Henry Cowell and Fall Creek. Just 6 miles, up in the mountains, from the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay. Half a mile from the famous Roaring Camp Railway. Wine & Cider tasting next door at Hallcrest Vineyards; Dine in Felton, hiking, biking and local shops to explore. Please note when booking that each of the sites are limited to 4 adults only. Children are welcome.

Toilets

from

$41

/ night

The Olive Farm

18. The Olive Farm

99%

(373)

40mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Excellent Group Site! We only host one group at a time so you can be with your family and friends in a large, flat and private space. Choose between the campground, the cabin, or both! You can add the cabin to your campground stay under "extras'! The land was originally purchased in the 1980's. Since then, it has been used by four generations of the family as a place to gather, relax, camp and even celebrate. I had my wedding on the property in 2010. For a few years we held an annual music festival with the very inventive name of Samapalooza. Up to 400 people would attend the day filled with live music, food and drinks. You will still find the stage and bar we built as an outdoor kitchen and dining area. Around 2008, my father and I planted our first olive trees. Many have been planted since which has gifted the land the timeless sense of purpose it deserves. My father dedicated his last years to tending the young trees and now I have taken the mantle to carry the farm forward. 'The Property', as it is known amongst family and friends has always been a place to camp. I have sat around the same fire ring for decades, rain or shine. I hope that fellow hipcampers can find the joy that my family and I have experienced here. This is a very private camp on a small olive farm. Geographically close to highways and the town of Novato, Sonoma and Napa wine country, this camp feels remote and secluded. Only one camp on the property to keep it private and special. You basically have your run of the land. We have just updated the land and made some nice improvements. Located on ten acres, you will drive past a small olive grove before reaching the spacious and open campground. Just up the hill from the camp is a private pond where you can fish, take out a small boat or just sit and watch the birds. It can be great swimming on hot summer days. This spot has been used by the family for decades and is now open to share with fellow nature lovers. Just a note: While the majority of the time you can expect complete privacy, this is a working olive farm. From time to time you may run into me (Sam) or someone else associated with the land. We will always do our best to respect your space.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

$126

/ night

Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

19. Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

94%

(292)

44mi from San Mateo · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

We created this space for everyone to enjoy.

Toilets

Water hookup

Picnic table

from

$60

/ night

Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat

20. Santa Cruz Bayview Retreat

94%

(293)

45mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

State park 21mi from San Mateo · 59 sites

Explore the otherworldly beauty of old-growth redwoods—a tranquil sanctuary and ideal getaway.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Camp Jaron

6. Camp Jaron

99%

(41)

30mi from San Mateo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Completely private 19 acres to explore while only being 10 min from downtown Los Gatos (FYI has great cell reception). Plenty of flat empty land to pitch tents. There is a compost toilet and an outdoor shower with cold water. There is plenty of room to explore, half of the property is pretty dense wilderness but the main half has hammocks, slack line, fire pit, bbq, tables, etc. *FYI due to the steep driveway (see pic) the property is only accessible by AWD or 4-wheel drive SUV or truck; cars, vans, or RVs will not be able to make it (if you are not sure please ask before booking).

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

from

$68

/ night

Beautiful Sunrise & Sunset RV

7. Beautiful Sunrise & Sunset RV

97%

(18)

33mi from San Mateo · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

All about Amy’s  place Have the urge to get away glamp without the hassles and long drive? Escape to an isolated, breathtaking ridge-top in Morgan Territory Regional Preserve where panoramic four seasons views reveal Mount Diablo to the west, Mount St. Helena to the north and the snow-covered Sierra to the east. Lowland valleys cradle the sparkle. Everyday beautiful sunrise and sunset viewing. At night the beautiful city light surrounding you!

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Showers

from

$116

/ night

Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

8. Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

93%

(92)

34mi from San Mateo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Patchen Farm is a 6 acre, choose and cut Christmas tree farm. Since the farm is only open during the holiday season, in the off season you'll find a working farm (work being done, cars coming and going, etc.). Patchen is located only 10 mins from downtown Los Gatos in one direction and the Santa Cruz beach in the other direction. Perched at the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Patchen offers the scenic beauty of lush redwood forests and views of the surrounding area. There are several wonderful wineries within 5 miles and great hiking and biking trails. The one and only store in the mountains is the Summit Store and just 3 miles down Summit Road. They have plenty of the essentials plus an excellent deli, wine collection and coffee bar. NO CHECK IN OR CHECK OUT NECESSARY NO RESTROOM ON SITE NO ATTENDANT ON SITE WATER and POWER are marked with signs (EACH SERVICE IS $20 PER NIGHT) NO TRASH SHOULD BE LEFT AT THE PROPERTY Payment envelopes at red barn door or Venmo 408-605-1522 Zelle 408-605-1522 Water can be found near the giant wreath just inside entrance and on either end of the red barn. Power is 15 amp and can be found near the giant wreath just inside the entrance, mid-way up the parking lot on the in the wood chips and at the tiny red shack.

Potable water

Picnic table

from

$30

/ night

Winery Camping

9. Winery Camping

92%

(155)

35mi from San Mateo · 12 sites

Set up and camp with us at Leisure Street Winery. Where you can taste some wine and purchase a bottle or so to sit out on the patio and watch the sunset go down.  Ride your bike into town grab some lunch at one of our mom and pop restaurants.  Golf at the golf course 5 minutes away.  We have horse shoes, corn hole and other fun stuff to do.  Some weekends we have live music!Our property is located in Livermore Wine Country.  The property is located 5 minutes from Downtown Livermore and 8 minutes away from Lake Del Valle. Livermore is California's oldest wine region, framed by award-winning wineries, farm lands, and ranches that mirror the valley's western heritage. The property is located on 5 acres and home of Leisure Street Winery.  Any questions please contact us.  Thanks. Rick & Kelly Volpatti

from

$55

/ night

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

10. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

98%

(362)

State park 26mi from San Mateo · 274 sites

Soak up the shade of old growth redwood trees & take some selfies with banana slugs!

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Mount Tamalpais State Park

11. Mount Tamalpais State Park

96%

(208)

State park 28mi from San Mateo · 50 sites

See redwoods, trail run, and climb the Bay Area’s second tallest peak.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

Mount Diablo State Park

12. Mount Diablo State Park

86%

(43)

State park 31mi from San Mateo · 111 sites

Discover Mount Diablo State Park's scenic vistas and diverse trails.

Toilets

Campfires

97%

(97)

37mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Tent, RV

A unique experience awaits you. Spend a night sleeping 20 feet up in the air suspended between towering Redwood trees. A custom woven "treenet" by West Marin artist Andrew Castle, provides a firm surface to hang out and sleep up to 5 people on. It's like floating in space. Bring your sleeping bag, this is open air camping at its best - No roof, no floor! Wake up to the sun filtering through your temple made of trees! Rain is nearly non-existent in the Summer and early Fall in beautiful San Geronimo Valley, making this the perfect place and time to sleep out in the glory of the redwoods. Swainson's Thrush will sing at dusk, followed by the owls and coyote's yipping and howling in the middle of the night (don't let it spook you!) There is amazing hiking all around, potable water on site and a public toilet not far away. There's parking for your camper directly next to the site, keeping your amenities close by.

Potable water

from

$90

/ night

94%

(293)

45mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Experience everything the Bay Area has to offer from this mountain top site. Roughly 50 minutes to any city in the Bay Area, this site is ideal for any person looking for an adventurous getaway retreat.   The Serenity and privacy make this an uncommon, yet ideal romantic place to stay. This site is sheltered by the manzanitas and pines of this chaparral community. Adventure seekers will find paradise here!  Mount Madonna Park with miles of trails is 20 minutes down the road. You can dump your septic there as well!  Horseback riding rentals are located near the park as well as an archery range.  Demonstration forest is 15 minutes down the road, with miles of mountain biking. Spend a day at one of the beaches in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Aptos, Rio Del Mar, Davenport, Half Moon Bay, Monterey, or Carmel and return to your private oasis. Or Explore Silicon Valley from this centrally located parcel. Kim Son Meditation Center and Mount Madonna Center are approximately 15 minutes away. There are also wonderful wineries throughout the mountains here. The trip to the site will begin with a three mile drive on a private dirt road.  Being on the very top of a mountain brings more seasonality than the surrounding cities.   Please be prepared for any kind of extreme weather. Summer: Shade is highly recommended it can get into triple digits. *Spring/fall: Temperatures are generally mild but high winds are possible. *Winter: Typically cold and windy. *During rainy/muddy conditions 4x4/AWD is highly recommended.  It is possible for it to get windy, foggy, rainy, hot and sunny, and even sometimes snowy. Please note: the nearest grocer is 30 minutes from this site. Emergency supplies are available for delivery to your campsite. Cell phone reception is good on most carriers.  Pets are allowed.  Enjoy your time howling at the moon, star gazing, bird watching/wildlife viewing, or relaxing with your favorite libation. Don't forget your camera! Since this is our first year renting our land we have found that August is a high wasp season time in the mountains. We are doing everything humanly possible to hunt down each and every Wasp for your enjoyment. With this in mind we ask you use the provided bug repellent, keep the lid to the trash closed, and do not pour grease anywhere you do not want wasps.

Toilets

Picnic table

from

$75

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

j

jtkimmie04

2 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

This is definitely an unique experience for those that love whimsical places. It's high enough to feel a bit thrilling and the string lights surrounded by giant red wood trees makes it feel a bit magical. You do have to be okay sleeping in the open. But it truly is an amazing experience. Beautiful morning light shining through the ring for trees is a sight to be seen.

M

Maggie

2 days ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Olive Farm

What a great spot! We had a campout for my 10 year old son and his friends and we all loved the site! Will be back!

R

RavnFyre

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to BANKS RANCH IN THE REDWOODS

Banks Ranch is beautiful, rejuvenating and amazing. Be sure to scan property from drive in/entrance for high spots to place tent if its going to rain. Also, if it has recently rained or rain is forecasted, move fire pit to right side of lone redwood ( as looking in from driveway) the left side is where water pools. We are seasoned campers, so we were able to plan 4 and navigate 3 days of rain. The bucket toilet was easy 2 use and hosts supplied the bags. You must pack it out but were used 2 that. Hosts are super responsive (b4 the trip) and nice. We didnt get cell service at the property so didnt receive their messages during stay. They require u buy their firewood ( which is like most places) but their wood is denser and smells amazing! Bring a hatchet 2 split 4 easier fire access.

G

Gerald

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

The place is amazing. The host was friendly and a great presence. There was even live music.

Rick

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Rewilding

Beautiful, quiet, and everything we wanted. Just a quick getaway for Valentine's Day and it was fantastic. Fire pit was so nice! The road in is not for amateurs, and rain made it exciting, but once we got to the gate, it was everything and more. Very cozy. Thank you.

I

Isabella

2 weeks ago

20 ft Class B

With pets

5 nights at The Ranch at Cross Road

I loved the view and the common area, the ranch is truly special. The best shower ever, washing yourself and being able to see the sky above your head is an unforgettable experience. I'll be back soon!

After your hike, have a drink at the vineyard.

C

Camille

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Felton Open Space Camp Sites

Hosts John and Lorraine really pour on the love! This tiny campground is hosted by Hallcrest Vineyards (which incidentally has the best wine and cider). The campground is tucked under some shady trees and is very quiet. I had maybe two other campers nearby And I don't think there's but 8 or 10 spots. There's a sweet little altar/deck a short walk away if you're into yoga or meditation. Less than a half mile from the property is the entrance to Henry Cowell Redwoods Fall Creek unit in one direction and the little town of Felton in the other direction. Felton has a really good grill, bar, and bakery. How can such a small town attract such quality? Meanwhile, Santa Cruz is just 20 miles away. I would absolutely camp here again.

Crystal

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Santa Cruz Mountains with ocean 👁

Good communication with host, bumpy road, great view! Worth it

Lauren

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Bear Gulch Hide Out

This campsite is completely secluded with breathtaking views. My dog had a blast as well. Be prepared to hike a bit to the site if you don’t have 4WD. The host is a great communicator and was very descriptive about expectations. An issue came up which he immediately remediated and then some. Truly great experience, I hope to come back again and would absolutely recommend to others!

C

Cristina

2 weeks ago

23 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Pharo Pharms Organic Farm-

Peaceful setting and beautiful views. There is a $10 dump station at a Shell gas station about 11 minutes away where you can empty and clean out your RV grey/black tanks after your stay. I would definitely recommend.

Elle

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Bear Gulch Hide Out

Upon booking, Art was immediately helpful and recommended The Ridge for the best view and moat privacy. His directions to his farm were clear, and he was quick to reply every time. He met me at the gate to escort me up to the top. I felt safe with him and on his property as a single female camper. He was extra generous with offering me anything that I may need. I really appreciate how comfortable he made me feel. Truly a sweetheart and genuine human. I'm glad I switched my booking to The Ridge. It's a long strip of land overlooking a valley on both sides and an ocean view. I personally enjoyed the farmland view a little bit more;) I could see cows all around in different pastures. It's a great spot to soak in nature, which I did. I headed a bit down the ridge from where I set up camp, found a sunny patch with a great view, and took a nap. You can find all sort of special spots along the ridge which you have to yourself!

charles

3 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Patchen Christmas Tree Farm

I made a last minute stop here over the weekend, and it was a perfect spot to get away from the busy town and get some peace and quiet. The directions were easy to follow, and i was able to find my spot and setup in the dark with no issues

Y

Yadira

3 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Secret Gardens by the Bay

The Secret Gardens was everything I never thought I needed. My husband and I felt so welcomed and taken care of. It’s a beautiful property with so many amenities. The property owners do a really good job of creating a tranquil space. We are 100% going back and telling our friends about it.

M

Monty

3 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Felton Open Space Camp Sites

Sites were good. Not hard to find. Though a little close. Good for van camping.

L

Leslie

3 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Felton Open Space Camp Sites

Beautiful, quiet space and close to Santa Cruz. We saw several deer when we were there.

J

Josh

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bear Gulch Hide Out

Great open spot with beautiful view of the hills and very nice host to welcome you and show you around. Will hopefully be back to see the other Ridge spot on the property.

M

Margaret

3 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lobitos Creek

Getting there means driving on a very narrow and winding road for about 5km. It is however well worth it. It feels very private and secluded even though there are houses sprinkled through the valley. Lots of room to set up and enjoy 360’ views from sunrise to sunset. My two dogs enjoyed the freedom of running around without having to stay tethered to my camper. Clean porta potty. I didn’t see any potable water but I’m sure I could get some from the host if I needed it. Given a chance in the future, I would return.

Sven

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

1 night at Bear Gulch Hide Out

Great property. Quiet and dark. Walk to porta potty is down a steep gravel road and if you’re not sure footed you might slip. Art is very accommodating.

H

Hugh

3 weeks ago

27 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Camp Jaron

Michael was great at helping me navigate my adventure. The stay was great and relaxing. The nearby reservoir was an easy drive for a morning of fishing and the property was quiet and relaxing. The steep entry was no joke, but was no issue in a 2025 Subaru Outback wilderness. I would not recommend in a RWD/FWD coupe

T

Timothy

3 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

2 nights at The Secret Gardens by the Bay

Very special. Unforgettable. The workmanship and pure raw talent exhibited in the endless visually exhilarating structural genius is nothing short of a wide opened mouth that never shuts moment. I want this man, his hands and his abstract deep imbedded mind at my side in times of dire need and guiding me so that my hands and my meager mind can magically rise to the occasion he lives. I believe their cloud 9 come to life is what we just visited the last couple days. Most inspiring and impressive. Tim and Brandy.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly RV sites near San Mateo guide

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.