Half Moon Bay State Beach is along the San Mateo County coast near the town of Half Moon Bay. Visitors to the area enjoy strolling along miles of sandy beach or walking or cycling along the paved Coastside Trail. Whale watching, fishing, and surfing are popular activities. Swimming is not recommended due to dangerous rip currents and extremely cold water.
Francis Beach Campground has 52 campsites, many with ocean views and only steps from the sand. Three campsites on a grassy area are for tents only, but all other sites can accommodate RVs, trailers, and tents. One site is available for hikers and bicyclists. During the peak season from May through October there is a 7-day camping limit, while at other times campers may stay up to 14 days. Group campsites are available at nearby Sweetwood Group Campground.
| Francis Beach Campground Basics | |
|---|---|
| Francis Beach Campground Location: | 95 Kelly Ave., Half Moon Bay, CA |
| Elevation: | 40 feet |
| Camping season: | Open year-round |
| Number of Sites: | 52 |
| Max. People per Site: | 8 (including children) |
| Vehicles per Site: | 1 vehicle, fee for 2nd and 3rd vehicle (only 1 RV per site) |
| Pets: | On leash, always attended |
| Park Headquarters: | (650) 726-8820 |
| Francis Beach Campground Reservations | |
|---|---|
| Reservations Recommended: | Reservations are recommended. First-come, first-served sites may be available, but only on a day by day basis. |
| Booking Window: | Reserve campsites up to 6 months in advance of your arrival date. |
| Maximum Vehicle Length: | 40 feet |
| Accessible Sites: | #15, 28, 34, and 44; accessible restrooms, Coastside Trail |
| Fees: | Standard campsite $35 per night
Electric hook-ups $50 Premium with electric hook-ups $65 Hike & Bike site: $7 per person per night Plus an $8 reservation fee |
| Online Reservations at ReserveCalifornia: | Half Moon Bay SB Campground Reservations
or call (800) 444-PARK (7275) between 8 AM and 6 PM |
| Check-in, check-out: | Check-in at 2:00 PM, check-out at Noon |
| Francis Beach Campground Amenities | |
|---|---|
| Campsites: | Picnic table, food locker, fire ring |
| Campground: | restrooms with flush toilets, tap water, WiFi, campfire center |
| Showers: | Yes |
| Dump Station: | Yes |
| Campground Map: | Francis Beach Campground Map |
| Attractions near Francis Beach Campground: | Walk or cycle along the Coastside Trail. Enjoy strolling on the beach, making sandcastles, and watching for passing whales. Stop by the Visitor Center. Try surf fishing for striped bass. |
Half Moon Bay State Beach's Sweetwood Group Campground is designated for tent camping only. The campground is located between Venice and Dunes beaches. Space is available for up to 50 people and 12 vehicles. The site has multiple picnic tables and wind protected cooking tables. Pit toilets are nearby.
Fees: $165 per night
Reservations: Half Moon Bay State Beach Camping Reservations
Sweetwood Group Campground
Not all campsites can accommodate trailers or RVs of all lengths. Check carefully on the reservation site when you make your reservation to be sure your vehicle will fit your campsite.
Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.
Francis Beach Campground
Half Moon Bay State Park includes 5 sandy beaches. Those camping at Francis Beach Campground have dozens of wonderful coastal adventures close by.
Check Half Moon Bay State Beach for any park and campground updates.