San Francisco is one of the most iconic destinations in the United States, known for its steep hills, divine bay views, and instantly recognisable landmarks. While driving a campervan through the heart of the city might sound daunting at first, with some careful planning and the right stops, it can be one of the most rewarding adventures on your road trip.
Today, we’ll be covering where to stay, what to see, and how to make the most of caravanning in and around the City by the Bay.
Getting to San Francisco by Campervan
Driving into San Francisco requires a little preparation, but don’t panic – by reading our article, you’ll be more prepared to face any challenge that may come your way.
The Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and the surrounding freeways are busy and often congested, especially during rush hours. If your camper is on the larger side, it’s best to avoid driving directly into the heart of downtown. Instead, plan to base yourself at one of the RV parks just outside the city and take advantage of public transport when exploring further inward. Trains, ferries, and local buses make it easy to explore without the stress of navigating San Fran’s narrow streets.
The Most Campervan Parks Near San Francisco
If you’re looking for somewhere to park your camper without driving too far away from the bustling city, check out these popular RV parks:
San Francisco RV Resort
Located just 15 minutes south of the city, this resort sits right on the oceanfront. It offers full hookups, Wi-Fi, and unbeatable views of the sunset. From here, it’s a quick drive or bus ride into the city, and you can return to the peace of the Pacific coastline after a busy day of sightseeing.
Candlestick RV Park
Though this option is slightly more urban, Candlestick RV Park is one of the closest caravan options within a reasonable distance from San Francisco. It’s a practical choice if you want quick access to downtown, although it tends to book up fast, so make sure you book with plenty of time to spare.
Marin RV Park
On the northern side of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin RV Park gives you easy access to San Francisco as well as the wine regions of Napa and Sonoma. Public transport is nearby, and you’ll find plenty of shopping and dining options within walking distance. Perfect for those looking for a more peaceful parking spot.
Scenic Drives and Day Trips
The point of having a campervan isn’t to park it up and leave it there for a week – it’s to explore a greater area than you’d be able to on just your feet! So, make sure you plan a few day trips by using some of the stunning drives surrounding San Francisco to lead the way.
The fan-favourite scenic drives include:
- Highway 1 South to Half Moon Bay: A classic coastal drive with dramatic cliffs and beach views to rival those in a movie.
- North to Muir Woods: Just across the Golden Gate, you’ll find towering redwoods and tranquil trails to get lost in.
- Wine Country: Napa and Sonoma are only an hour or so away, offering vineyard tours and tastings to waste an afternoon or two.
Tips for Van-Lifers
To make the most of your trip and avoid stress as much as possible, consider a few of our practical tips:
- Book early
Campervan parks near San Francisco fill up quickly, especially in summer when tourism is at an all-time high. Reserve your spot ahead of time to make sure you have somewhere to stay without having to drive around multiple parks looking for a space.
- Avoid peak traffic
Plan your drives around rush hour to save time and stress, and drive during the early morning and late afternoon whenever possible. If you’re hoping to spend the day at a popular destination, arrive early and hang out in your camper until opening time to avoid queues.
- Pack light layers:
San Francisco’s microclimates mean it can be sunny in one neighbourhood and foggy in the next, so pack light layers to make sure you’re never left out in the cold (literally!). Lightweight layers can be added and removed quickly, so you always remain comfortable no matter the time of day.
- Use public transport:
San Francisco isn’t optimised for campervans and RVs, so use public transport wherever possible. It’s affordable, efficient, and saves the headache of parking a large vehicle, letting you enjoy your holiday completely.
Start Planning Your San Francisco Journey Today
Caravanning in San Francisco is all about smart planning. While you won’t want to haul your caravan up Lombard Street, basing yourself just outside the city opens up all the possibilities without the hassle. Now you know how to make the most of your trip, find a suitable Travellers Autobarn campervan rental in San Francisco and hit the open road!
