Francis Beach Campground
4.49120 reviews95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Francis Beach Campground
$35.00 - $65.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$50.00
Premium Site Fee$65.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$7.00
Group Site Fee$165.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Non-electric sites cost $35 per night, electric sites cost $50 per night, premium oceanfront sites with electricity cost $65 per night.
About this campground
Perched on dramatic coastal bluffs where the Pacific meets the shore, Francis Beach Campground invites you to fall asleep to the rhythm of crashing waves and wake to spectacular ocean sunrises. This cherished coastal retreat features 52 thoughtfully positioned campsites that welcome both tent campers seeking simplicity and RV travelers craving comfort. Whether you've snagged one of the coveted oceanview sites or nestled into a more sheltered spot, you'll find everything needed for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for sunset dinners, fire rings perfect for s'mores and storytelling, clean restroom facilities, and refreshing coin-operated showers to rinse away the salt and sand after a day of beachcombing.
Francis Beach Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent and RV camping, with designated 'tent-only' sites for smaller groups. Group camping is available at Sweetwood Group Camp, approximately 2.5 miles north.
Historical SignificanceEvery grain of sand at Francis Beach whispers stories of the past. For thousands of years, the Ohlone people called this coastline home, harvesting from the sea and celebrating the changing seasons long before the first European ships appeared on the horizon. The arrival of Spanish colonizers forever changed this landscape, leaving traces of missions and ranchos that dot the nearby hills. During the roaring twenties and Prohibition era, these same coves and inlets that now host kayakers and tide pool explorers once concealed rumrunners dodging federal agents under cover of fog, adding a dash of intrigue to your coastal camping adventure.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints Francis Beach with a palette of cool, misty mornings and sun-dappled afternoons throughout the year. Summer visitors discover a natural air conditioning system courtesy of the Pacific, with temperatures hovering in the comfortable mid-60s—perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat. Spring and fall reward early risers with crystalline skies and some of the coast's most photographable moments, while winter transforms the campground into a front-row seat for nature's most dramatic performances, complete with powerful storms and crashing waves. The secret to comfort here? Think like an onion and layer up—the coastal climate has a delightful habit of surprising visitors with everything from morning fog to afternoon sunshine in a single day.
ElevationYour camping experience unfolds at the dramatic intersection of land and sea, where towering coastal bluffs meet the endless Pacific. At sea level, you're perfectly positioned to experience the full power and beauty of the ocean environment without the climb.
Natural Features and SceneryFrancis Beach Campground serves as your gateway to one of California's most stunning coastal ecosystems. From your campsite atop weathered bluffs, sandy beaches stretch in both directions, inviting morning jogs and evening strolls. The landscape transforms with the tides, revealing hidden tide pools and expansive sandy playgrounds. Spring brings explosions of color as California poppies paint the bluffs orange, while wild radish adds splashes of purple and white. Hardy coyote bush provides year-round greenery and shelter for the diverse wildlife that calls this place home. Keep your binoculars handy—migratory birds pause here on their incredible journeys, gray whales cruise past during their annual migrations, and playful sea lions bark and splash just offshore, providing endless entertainment.
Geological RegionWelcome to one of Earth's most geologically fascinating camping destinations. Francis Beach sits at the intersection of immense tectonic forces, with the infamous San Andreas Fault and the lesser-known Seal Cove-San Gregorio fault zones sculpting this dramatic coastline. These powerful geological artists have created a landscape of marine terraces that step down to the sea like ancient staircases. Beach-combers here strike gold—or rather, semiprecious stones—discovering gleaming quartz crystals, rich red jasper, and banded onyx polished smooth by countless tides. The sand dunes themselves are living sculptures, constantly reshaped by wind and waves, ensuring that no two visits to Francis Beach are ever quite the same.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFrancis Beach Campground offers accessible campsites, comfort stations, and a campfire center. The Coastal Trail provides ADA-compliant access with asphalt surfacing suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating tents, RVs, and trailers up to 40 feet in length.
Sites PrivacySites are described as spacious but not particularly private, with some clustered closely together.
Total Campsites52 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent-only sites offer more privacy and proximity to the beach. RV sites are recommended for those needing hookups.
Best CampsitesSites 8, 13, 14, 17, 22, and 38 are highly rated for ocean views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM.
Check-out
12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
May 1–October 31: 7 days, November 1–April 30: 15 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight people maximum per campsite including children.
Groups
Sweetwood Group Camp supports up to 50 people with 12 vehicles. It is tent-only, featuring a large field, picnic area, fire ring, and accessible vault toilets. No running water is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized in rows with oceanfront premium sites on the outer edge. Tent-only sites are located closer to the beach.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round camping is available. Seasonal stay limits apply.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-in campers. Hike & bike sites are first-come-first-served beginning at 2:00 PM daily.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled at least 48 hours prior to avoid penalties. Same-day cancellations may incur a fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Francis Beach Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including immediate beach access, hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Seasonal interpretive programs such as Junior Rangers and campfire talks are available during summer.
HikingThe Coastal Trail spans approximately four miles along the coast, offering spectacular ocean views. It is accessible from all parking lots and features a generally flat asphalt surface with average slopes of less than 5%.
FishingFishing is popular in late spring through summer, with notable runs of surf smelt. Anglers often bring gear to catch striped bass that follow the smelt.
BikingThe Coastal Trail supports biking with easy terrain and scenic ocean views.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is abundant, with sightings of migrating gray whales, California sea lions, and harbor seals offshore. Resident birds include western snowy plovers, red-tailed hawks, and American kestrels.
Beach activitiesThe beach offers opportunities for sunbathing and shoreline exploration, but dogs and fires are prohibited on the sand.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsSeasonal activities include Junior Rangers and guided hikes available from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visitors can check schedules by contacting the park.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings only. Beach fires are prohibited. Firewood is sold at the campground for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCold water temperatures and rip currents pose risks for swimmers. Wildlife such as raccoons may invade campsites; secure food properly.
Active alerts.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 3
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Seton Coastside Hospital, Moss Beach (10 miles, 15 minutes). Nearest police station: Half Moon Bay Sheriff's Office (2 miles, 10 minutes).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1–October 31.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided other than general statements about the availability of restrooms and outdoor showers.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Pacific Ocean with direct access to sandy beaches.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews mention windy conditions, locked gates after sunset, and outdated restrooms.
HostHosts are available on-site and provide firewood for $10 per bundle. Several reviews praise their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Driving directionsThe campground is located a half-mile west of Highway 1. From Highway 1, turn onto Kelly Avenue and proceed west until you reach Francis Beach parking lot and campground.
The campground is easily accessible via paved roads, suitable for vehicles including RVs and trailers. Maximum trailer length is 40 feet. The entrance gates are closed at sunset, and inbound access is locked overnight.Nearby places
Half Moon Bay (1 mile, 5 minutes), San Francisco (30 miles, 45 minutes), San Mateo (20 miles, 30 minutes), Santa Cruz (50 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Safeway (1 mile, 5 minutes), local restaurants, and gas stations are located within Half Moon Bay city limits.
Camper Reviews
4.5
120 reviews
Francis Beach Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviewers praise Francis Beach Campground for its clean facilities, proximity to the beach, and spacious campsites. However, complaints include windy conditions, occasional maintenance issues, and strict park rules.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects highlighted include the serene ocean views, convenient access to trails and beaches, and well-maintained facilities. Many campers appreciate the clean restrooms and showers and find...
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Complaints include windy conditions, locked gates after sunset, overcrowding, and maintenance issues in restrooms. Some campers also report dissatisfaction with park staff interactions.
Campers recommend bringing quarters for showers, securing food due to raccoons, and preparing for windy and cold conditions. Early reservations are advised due to high demand.
During summer, campers enjoy interpretive programs and consistent weather, though the campground can become overcrowded. Winter reviews highlight quieter conditions but colder and windier days.
Eddie Valadez: 'In my opinion, Francis Campground has one of the best beaches in Half Moon Bay.' Marcus K.: 'Awesome campground right by the beach in beautiful Half Moon Bay.' D. Francis: 'Great...
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Best-rated campsites include 8, 13, 14, 17, 22, and 38 due to their ocean views and spacious setups. Site 29 received negative feedback due to maintenance issues.
Campers with disabilities appreciate the accessible campsites and Coastal Trail. Some reviews mention the need for improvement in park staff interactions.
Pets are allowed in the campground but prohibited on the beach. Reviewers often note the importance of adhering to leash laws and supervising pets at all times.
Last updated July 31, 2025