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79 campgrounds and RV Parks near Palo Alto, CA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
79 campgrounds
7073 campsites
229 RVs available for delivery
From $15/night
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Best campgrounds near Palo Alto, CA
Trailer Villa RV Park
Redwood City, CA (4 miles away)
$$$$$
(106 sites)
+3
Main - Portola Redwoods State Park
La Honda, CA (14 miles away)
$$$$$
(55 sites)
+4
Half Moon Bay RV Park
Half Moon Bay, CA (16 miles away)
$$$$$
+7
Pelican Point RV Park
Half Moon Bay, CA (16 miles away)
$$$$$
(76 sites)
+4
Francis Beach and Campground - Half Moon Bay State Beach
Half Moon Bay, CA (17 miles away)
$$$$$
(52 sites)
+6
Pillar Point RV Park
Half Moon Bay, CA (18 miles away)
$$$$$
(48 sites)
Huckleberry - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Boulder Creek, CA (19 miles away)
$$$$$
(32 sites)
Butano State Park
Pescadero, CA (19 miles away)
$$$$$
(47 sites)
Sempervirens - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Boulder Creek, CA (19 miles away)
$$$$$
(31 sites)
Little Basin Cabins and Campground - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Boulder Creek, CA (20 miles away)
$$$$$
(38 sites)
Redwood Resort RV Park and Campground
Boulder Creek, CA (22 miles away)
$$$$$
(20 sites)
+3
Costanoa Lodge and Camp
Pescadero, CA (23 miles away)
+3
Most common amenities
Pet friendly Showers Tables Toilets Internet Laundry Dump station Grills General store Cable TV
Campgrounds near Palo Alto
Palo Alto sits on the San Francisco Peninsula between the bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains, which puts RV travelers within roughly an hour of redwood state parks, coastal beach camping, and full-hookup RV parks. Options close to the city are limited, but the surrounding region opens up quickly once travelers head south on US-101 or west over Highway 84 or 92.
For full hookups closest to town, Trailer Villa RV Park in Redwood Shores is the standard pick for travelers who want to stay near Silicon Valley. For redwood camping, Main - Portola Redwoods State Park sits in a shaded valley in the Santa Cruz Mountains and is one of the nearest old-growth options. Huckleberry - Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Sempervirens - Big Basin Redwoods State Park are tied to the historic core of California's oldest state park, though all main Big Basin campgrounds remain closed during ongoing recovery from the CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Half Moon Bay RV Park provides a coastal base about 40 minutes west of Palo Alto over Highway 92.
Things to do near Palo Alto
Day trips from a Palo Alto basecamp cover a wide mix of terrain. In town, the Stanford University campus, Baylands Nature Preserve, and the shops on University Avenue are easy stops. West of the city, Highway 35 climbs into the Santa Cruz Mountains and reaches trailheads at Russian Ridge, Windy Hill, and Castle Rock open space preserves. About eighteen miles of trails at Portola Redwoods follow meandering creeks past coast redwoods, ferns, and huckleberries, with waterfalls on Fall and Pescadero creeks. Big Basin is currently open for limited day use only, with reserved parking at the main day-use area. Over the coast range, Half Moon Bay State Beach, Pescadero, and Año Nuevo State Park add tide pools, elephant seal viewing, and bluff trails.
Camping spots and RV parks near Palo Alto, CA
When to visit Palo Alto
- spring
March - May
66° / 50°F 30 mmMild; creeks running and wildflowers in the foothills
- summer
June - August
77° / 55°F 2 mmPeak bookings; reserve six months out at 8 a.m. PT
- fall
September - November
72° / 52°F 25 mmDry trails; lighter weekend demand after Labor Day
- winter
December - February
57° / 45°F 75 mmWet season; mountain roads can close during storms
Palo Alto itself is a year-round destination with mild weather, but the campgrounds around it follow distinct seasonal patterns. Summer is peak season for the redwood parks and coastal campgrounds, with warm inland days, cool nights under the canopy, and persistent coastal fog along the Half Moon Bay shoreline. Sites at Portola Redwoods and other California State Parks routinely sell out on weekends, so reserving well in advance is essential.
Spring brings creek flow, wildflowers in the foothill preserves, and fewer crowds, though some backcountry camps stay closed into late spring. Slate Creek Trail Camp at Portola Redwoods, for example, is open April 1 through November 30. The main Portola Redwoods campground itself is seasonal, generally closed November through March. Fall is one of the most comfortable windows for RV travel, with dry trails and lighter weekend demand after Labor Day. Winter is the wet season; storms can close mountain roads, drop trees across access routes, and trigger temporary park closures.
Top Hosts near Palo Alto, CA
Ismael51 trips - Joined Nov 2021
Excellent van and communication! Pick up and drop off were a breeze. Highly recommend renting from Izzy!
John F. - Mar 2025
Great experience
Hayden W. - Sep 2024
Farzan25 trips - Joined Feb 2024 - Superhost
They are excellent especially Farzan is very prompt and patiently answering all questions.
Neelima V. - Nov 2025
BEST VACATION WE HAD IN YEARS! THE RV HAS ALL YOU NEED, RIGHT SIZE AND ALL THE EQUIPMENT TO MAKE THINGS EASY ON THE ROAD, VERY CLEAN AND WORKS PERFECTLY, FARZAN WAS JUST GREAT EXPLAINING HOW THE RV WORK AND ANSWERING ALL OUR QUESTIONS AT ANY TIME. DEFINITELY WE RECOMEND THIS RV
JOSE L. - Aug 2025
How to book
Reservation rules vary by operator. California State Parks campgrounds, including Portola Redwoods, are booked through ReserveCalifornia. The online system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and reservations open on a rolling window up to six months in advance of the arrival date. New inventory becomes available each day at 8 a.m. Pacific. Phone reservations are handled at 1-800-444-7275, with the call center open seven days a week. Summer weekends fill the moment the booking window opens, so plan to log in at the release time exactly six months out from the arrival date. For Big Basin, camping reservations are not available; all main campgrounds remain closed during ongoing recovery from the CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Private parks such as Trailer Villa RV Park and Half Moon Bay RV Park are booked directly with the operator.
What to expect
Expect a split experience: full-hookup convenience close to the city, and rustic, hookup-free camping in the mountains. Portola Redwoods has no cell reception within the park, the access road dead-ends in the park, and most Bay Area drives take 1.5 to 2 hours over steep, winding roads where low gear is useful. There is no gasoline or store at or near the park. RV length matters: motorhomes up to 24 feet and trailers up to 21 feet are allowed in select sites, with no hookups and no dump station. Coastal sites at Half Moon Bay see steady wind and summer fog, so bring layers. Bear-aware food storage applies in the redwood parks, and dogs are restricted to paved areas and developed campsites in most California State Parks.
Own an RV? Earn up to $31,284/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Palo Alto, CA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Palo Alto?
RV rental in Palo Alto fits a range of budgets. Travel trailers and campervans typically start around $100 to $175 per night, while larger Class A and Class C motorhomes generally range from $200 to $350 per night. Prices tend to rise during summer, Stanford game weekends, and major Bay Area events. For a cheap RV rental in Palo Alto, consider booking in the shoulder seasons (March to May or September to October) and look for hosts who offer weekly discounts. Use the filters on RVezy to compare nightly rates, included mileage, and amenities so you can find the best value for your trip.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palo%20Alto%2C%20CaliforniaWhat are the requirements to rent an RV in Palo Alto?
To rent an RV in Palo Alto through RVezy, you generally need to be at least 25 years old and hold a valid driver's license. A standard, non-commercial license is sufficient for the vast majority of RVs available on the platform in California. International travelers are welcome and should bring their home-country license along with an International Driving Permit when applicable. Driver verification is completed online through RVezy before your trip, so the process is quick and straightforward, even for first-time renters.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs insurance included when I book an RV rental in Palo Alto?
Every RV rental in Palo Alto booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan that you select at checkout. Protection plans include coverage for accidental physical damage to the RV and 24/7 roadside assistance, with different tiers available so you can choose the level of coverage that fits your trip. This gives you peace of mind whether you are camping at Half Moon Bay State Beach or heading out to Yosemite. Coverage details and limits are clearly outlined on RVezy before you confirm your booking.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat is the cancellation policy if my Palo Alto RV trip plans change?
RVezy uses a standardized cancellation policy that applies to all bookings, so you don't need to negotiate terms with individual hosts. The refund amount depends on how far in advance you cancel relative to your trip start date, and full details are shown during checkout and in your booking confirmation. If a host cancels your booking, RVezy issues a refund or travel credit to help you rebook. All cancellations are managed directly through your RVezy account for a transparent, low-stress experience.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my pet on my Palo Alto RV rental?
Yes, pet-friendly RV rentals in Palo Alto are easy to find on RVezy. Simply apply the Pet-Friendly filter when browsing listings to see RVs that welcome animals. Nearby outdoor spots like Foothills Nature Preserve and many Bay Area trails allow leashed dogs, making it easy to bring your furry companion along. Message the host before booking to confirm any pet rules, cleaning fees, or size restrictions so everyone has a smooth trip.
cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Open-Space-Parks/Find-a-Park-Trail/Foothills-Nature-PreserveHow does RV delivery work in Palo Alto?
RV delivery is one of the easiest ways to start your Palo Alto RV trip. Many hosts on RVezy offer to deliver the RV directly to a local campground, your home, or another agreed-upon location, often setting it up and providing a walkthrough so you don't need to drive in Bay Area traffic. To find delivery-friendly options, use the Delivery filter when searching and enter your destination. Delivery fees and maximum distances are listed on each host's profile so you can plan with confidence.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palo%20Alto%2C%20CaliforniaAre there mileage limits for RV rental in Palo Alto?
Mileage policies are set by each host and are clearly displayed on every listing. Some Palo Alto RV rentals include unlimited mileage, while others offer a daily allowance (commonly 100 to 150 miles per day) with a stated per-mile fee for additional miles. If you are planning a longer trip, such as Palo Alto to Yosemite (about 195 miles), Lake Tahoe (about 220 miles), or down the coast to Santa Cruz (about 40 miles), review the mileage policy before booking so you know your total expected cost.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palo%20Alto%2C%20CaliforniaWhere can I park an RV while visiting Palo Alto?
There are several great options for RV camping near Palo Alto. Popular nearby choices include San Mateo County Memorial Park (redwood-shaded sites about 25 miles west), Coyote Point Recreation Area in San Mateo for bayside views, and Trailer Villa RV Park in Redwood City for full hookups. Half Moon Bay State Beach is about 35 miles away and offers oceanfront camping. Overnight RV parking is not permitted on Palo Alto city streets, so always reserve a designated campground or RV park for your stay.
parks.smcgov.org/memorial-parkWhat is the best time of year for an RV trip in Palo Alto?
Palo Alto's mild Mediterranean climate makes RV trips enjoyable nearly year-round. Spring (April to June) brings green hills and daytime highs in the 60s to low 70s F. Summer (July to August) is warm and dry, typically in the 70s to mid-80s F, and ideal for coastal trips. Fall (September to early November) offers warm, sunny days with smaller crowds. Winter is cooler (40s to low 60s F) and is the wettest season, with most rainfall between December and March. Book early around Stanford home games and major Bay Area events.
weather.gov/mtr/I have never rented an RV before, can I do this?
Absolutely. First time renting an RV in Palo Alto is easier than most travelers expect. Every RVezy booking includes a personal walkthrough from the host who shows you how to drive the RV, connect hookups, and operate appliances. Many hosts also provide written guides and stay reachable through the RVezy messaging app throughout your trip. For an easy first outing, consider nearby destinations like San Mateo County Memorial Park or Half Moon Bay State Beach, which have well-maintained sites suited to new RVers.
parks.smcgov.org/memorial-parkWhat happens if my RV breaks down during my Palo Alto RV trip?
Every RVezy booking includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the renter protection plan. If you experience a flat tire, dead battery, lockout, or need a tow while exploring Palo Alto or destinations like Big Basin Redwoods State Park, simply call the roadside assistance number provided in your booking confirmation. The team coordinates the right help so you can get back on the road quickly and keep enjoying your trip with confidence.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I drive my rental RV from Palo Alto into other states or to Canada?
Most Palo Alto RV rentals on RVezy are approved for travel throughout California and across the western United States. If you plan to cross state lines, for example to Oregon (about 635 miles to Portland) or Nevada (about 220 miles to Reno), let your host know your route in advance. Cross-border travel to Canada may be allowed with prior host approval and the right documentation, so confirm before booking. Travel into Mexico is not permitted on any RVezy rental.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityHow much should I budget for fuel on my Palo Alto RV road trip?
Fuel is a key part of any RV road trip from Palo Alto. Class A and Class C motorhomes typically average 8 to 12 MPG, while smaller campervans can reach 15 to 20 MPG. California gas prices are generally among the highest in the country, often around $4.50 to $5.50 per gallon in the Bay Area. As an example, a round trip from Palo Alto to Yosemite is roughly 400 miles, which can cost $140 to $250 in fuel depending on the RV. Apps like GasBuddy help you find cheaper fill-ups outside the immediate Bay Area.
energy.ca.gov/data-reports/energy-almanac/transportation-energy/gasoline-data/gasoline-price-statisticsHow far in advance should I reserve a campground near Palo Alto?
Popular campgrounds near Palo Alto, such as San Mateo County Memorial Park, Uvas Canyon County Park, and Half Moon Bay State Beach, often fill up well in advance for weekends and the summer season. To secure your preferred dates, book 2 to 3 months ahead through ReserveCalifornia for state parks, or the San Mateo and Santa Clara County parks reservation systems for county campgrounds. For last-minute trips, weekday stays and private RV parks like Trailer Villa or Coyote Point typically have better availability.
reservecalifornia.com/What is traffic like for RV driving in Palo Alto and the Bay Area?
Driving an RV in Palo Alto is manageable, but expect heavier congestion on US 101 and I-280 during weekday commute hours (roughly 7 to 10 am and 3 to 7 pm). Most freeway overpasses in California are at least 14 feet, but always confirm your RV's height before your trip and avoid older urban routes when possible. Traveling during midday or early morning makes the drive smoother. If you prefer to skip city driving altogether, choose a host who offers RV delivery directly to your campground.
quickmap.dot.ca.gov/What hookups and facilities do local campgrounds offer around Palo Alto?
Campgrounds around Palo Alto offer a range of facilities to fit different RV setups. Coyote Point Recreation Area in San Mateo has RV sites with electric hookups, restrooms, and bayside access. San Mateo County Memorial Park provides shaded redwood sites with potable water and restrooms but limited hookups. Private parks like Trailer Villa in Redwood City offer full water, electric, and sewer hookups. Dump stations are available at many county parks and along major coastal routes. Always confirm hookup type and length restrictions when booking.
parks.smcgov.org/coyote-point-recreation-areaWhat amenities and features can I expect in a typical Palo Alto RV rental?
Most Palo Alto RV rentals on RVezy come well equipped for comfortable travel. You can expect a kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, sink, and basic cookware, a bathroom with a toilet and shower in most motorhomes and trailers, and sleeping space for 2 to 8 people depending on the RV size. Many listings include air conditioning, heat, a TV, and onboard generators for off-grid stays. Each listing details its exact amenities, so you can compare options for a family RV trip in Palo Alto or a weekend coastal escape.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palo%20Alto%2C%20CaliforniaWhat add-ons or extras can I get with my RV rental in Palo Alto?
Many Palo Alto RV hosts offer helpful add-ons such as camp chairs, kitchen and linen kits, bike racks, portable BBQs, and generator fuel for boondocking trips. Some also provide airport pickup or flexible drop-off for an extra fee. Mileage and generator-hour policies are clearly listed on each listing, so you can plan longer drives without surprises. Review the Add-Ons section of any RVezy listing before booking to customize your trip exactly the way you want.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palo%20Alto%2C%20CaliforniaHow does the RVezy payment and security deposit process work for Palo Alto rentals?
When you book a Palo Alto RV rental on RVezy, your rental fees are paid securely through the platform. A refundable security deposit is held separately from the rental payment and is set by each host, commonly between $500 and $1,500, to cover any accidental damage during your trip. As long as the RV is returned in the same condition it was picked up, the deposit is released after your trip. Doing a thorough walkthrough with the host at pickup and drop-off helps keep the process smooth and transparent.
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