On July 25, the Board of Supervisors approved a proposal by San Mateo County Parks to add campsites allowing on-leash dogs in a designated area of Memorial County Park this September. It is the first San Mateo County Park to offer camping with dogs.
During the past six years the Department has evaluated locations where dog recreation could be expanded. A recent pilot study of off-leash dog walking on designated trails in Quarry Park in El Granada was completed and study findings were also presented to the Board at the same meeting. On-leash dog walking is allowed at Pillar Point Bluff, Devil’s Slide Trail, Coyote Point Recreation Area, and Junipero Serra Park.
In early September eight tent campsites allowing dogs on leash will be available for reservation in the Huckleberry Area in Memorial Park. Seven of the family sites can accommodate up to 12 people and three dogs; one will be ADA accessible. Each campsite includes two tables, one barbecue, one fire pit, and a hitching post for dogs. The eighth is designated as flexible space for either camping to accommodate up to 30 campers and five dogs, or for 50 picnickers.
The dog camp sites are close to dog walking trails in the Loma Mar area of Memorial Park where dogs are allowed on leash. Dogs are not allowed in other areas of Memorial, including Pescadero Creek, and Pescadero and Sam McDonald parks.
The Board also approved a dog camping fee of $5 per night in addition to the resident/non-resident rate structure. Per night campsites with dogs will be $45 per night for county residents and $50 for non-residents. The fee will help off-set costs related to dog waste supplies, washing stations, and administrative fees.