Sweetwood Group Campground
05 reviews95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Sweetwood Group Campground
$165.00 - $165.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$165.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Sweetwood Group Camp costs $165 per night with a reservation fee of $8.25. A $10 cash-only key deposit is required at check-in.
About this campground
Nestled within a sun-dappled meadow and embraced by towering cypress trees, Sweetwood Group Campground creates an intimate outdoor sanctuary designed for memorable group gatherings. This tent-only retreat features thoughtfully placed picnic tables, wind-sheltered cooking stations, and a central fire ring where stories and s'mores are shared beneath starlit skies. The spacious layout allows groups to spread out while still maintaining that special sense of togetherness that makes camping adventures unforgettable.
Sweetwood Group Campground is strictly tent-only and caters to larger groups, with accommodations for up to 50 people. RVs, trailers, and car camping are prohibited.
Historical SignificanceThe ground beneath your tent at Sweetwood holds centuries of stories, once home to the Ohlone people who lived in harmony with this coastal landscape. These indigenous communities developed sophisticated ecological practices and cultural traditions deeply connected to the rhythms of land and sea. Today's visitors can glimpse this rich heritage through the lens of the natural world the Ohlone so expertly stewarded, offering a profound connection to the human history woven into this beautiful terrain.
Weather and SeasonsSummer mornings at Sweetwood arrive wrapped in a mystical coastal fog that slowly unveils the landscape as temperatures climb to a comfortable mid-60s – perfect for outdoor activities without the sweltering heat. Spring and fall reward visitors with crystalline days where the air seems to sparkle with clarity, ideal for hiking and exploration. Winter transforms the campground into a dramatic theater of nature, with powerful winds and rejuvenating rains that remind us of the coast's raw beauty. Seasoned campers know the secret: dress in layers to dance with the ever-changing moods of this coastal paradise.
Natural Features and ScenerySweetwood's signature cypress groves stand like ancient sentinels, their gnarled branches creating natural sculptures against the sky while providing welcome shade and windbreak for campers below. The expansive meadow spreads before you like nature's own amphitheater, perfect for group activities or quiet contemplation. Just a short journey away, the thundering waves of Venice Beach and the windswept beauty of Dunes Beach offer endless opportunities for beachcombing, sunset watching, and experiencing the raw magnificence of the Pacific coastline.
Geological RegionPerched atop one of Earth's most dynamic geological stages, Sweetwood sits within the influence of the legendary San Andreas and Palo Colorado fault systems. This powerful tectonic heritage has sculpted a landscape of dramatic contrasts – from rugged coastal cliffs that plunge toward the sea to elevated marine terraces that tell the story of ancient shorelines. Each vista reveals millions of years of geological artistry, where the relentless forces of earth and ocean continue their eternal dance, creating the spectacular scenery that makes this region utterly unforgettable.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers van-accessible parking and an accessible vault-style restroom. One large camping area has been made accessible, including picnic tables, a food preparation area, and fire ring.
Sites SizeThe group site is large and level, accommodating up to 50 people and 12 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is compromised due to the campground's location near the Coastal Trail, where many hikers and bikers pass by.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite is ideal for groups seeking a large tent-only space near the coast.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 pm
Check-out
12:00 pm
Stay Limit
- Maximum 15 days during offseason (November–April)
- maximum 7 days during peak season (May–October).
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 50 people.
Groups
- Sweetwood Group Campground allows up to 50 people and 12 vehicles per reservation. Tent camping only
- trailers and RVs are not permitted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne large meadow area surrounded by cypress groves. Includes picnic tables and wind-protected cooking tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilitySweetwood Group Camp requires reservations in advance. Same-day reservations may be available; check with ReserveCalifornia.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules governed by ReserveCalifornia policies. Check ReserveCalifornia for details.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to the Sweetwood Group Campground can enjoy nearby hiking trails and scenic beach areas. Activities include biking, wildlife viewing along the Coastal Trail, and educational programs during the summer season.
Hiking
The Coastal Trail, a paved multi-use path, runs nearby and spans 4 miles. It offers moderate terrain and scenic ocean views.Biking
The Coastal Trail adjacent to the campground is suitable for biking and provides scenic views.Wildlife viewing
Bird species such as red-tailed hawks, barn owls, and American kestrels can be observed in the area. Migratory and resident water-associated birds are also common.Cultural and Educational Programs
Summer interpretive programs include Junior Rangers, guided hikes, and campfire talks.Winter Activities
Winter recreation options are not mentioned for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only within designated fire rings. Collecting wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 pm to 6 am
Hazards
General hazardsSteep access roads challenging for low-chassis vehicles. Nearby beaches may have strong rip currents.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 94%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Foggy
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
Closest emergency services are located in Half Moon Bay, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 through October 31.
Trash and recyclingThere is no mention of specific trash and recycling facilities at Sweetwood Group Campground.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Venice Beach and Dunes Beach, but no direct access to beach from campground.
Common complaints"Restrooms are not maintained well." "Access road is steep and can be challenging for certain vehicles." "Campground experiences high foot traffic due to proximity to the Coastal Trail."
HostCampground hosts are available at Francis Beach Entrance Station to provide keys to the Sweetwood Group Camp.
Campground Map
95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Driving directionsLocated 2.5 miles north of Francis Beach on Kelly Avenue in Half Moon Bay. Accessible via Highway 1.
Access road to the campsite is steep. Cars with low chassis may require extra caution.Nearby places
Half Moon Bay (0 miles), San Francisco (25 miles), Montara (8 miles), San Gregorio (10.5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Francis Beach Entrance Station provides firewood for purchase ($10 per bundle). Additional supplies can be found in Half Moon Bay grocery stores and gas stations.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Sweetwood Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sweetwood Group Campground highlight its suitability for group camping and its proximity to hiking trails and beaches, although they mention challenges such as limited privacy and inconvenient restroom access.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
"An excellent campsite for groups. Lots of space, close enough to the ocean," and "Amazing for sunset view."
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Users frequently noted limited privacy due to its proximity to the Coastal Trail and challenges with restroom maintenance and accessibility. "Restroom is not maintained well" and "No direct access to...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water as the spigot water may appear yellowish. Carry portable heaters for camping in colder seasons, and ensure valuables are stored safely due to visitors walking through the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
In late September and early October, the marine layer burns off early or is nonexistent, making it ideal for sunny beach days.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great spot, late September, early October. Marine layer burns off early or is non-existent." "It's a campground that looks good on paper but so many people walking by/through the campsite due to it...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers are not applicable for Sweetwood Group Campground since it is a group site.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
The site has accessible parking and vault-style restrooms, though users noted the inconvenience of locking/unlocking the toilets during group use.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users should keep dogs leashed and attended at all times. Dogs are not allowed directly on the beach.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025