The Black Mountain Backpack Camp at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve is the only campsite on Midpen lands. Only one-half hour from the midpeninsula cities below, the camp often serves as the first stopping place for backpackers wishing to hike from the valley to the coast. The camp is a 1.5-mile hike from Page Mill Road and includes a 500-foot uphill climb from the parking lot. Five single campsites are available for one- or two-night stays throughout the year. A permit is required, and the fee is $2 per night per camper payable by an online invoice emailed to you once the application is received and space is confirmed.
Reservations are issued on a first come, first served basis for one- or two-night stays throughout the year.
Check campsite availability calendar BEFORE submitting a permit application below.
Online availability does NOT guarantee a permit. Generally, applications should be submitted at least one week in advance.
Additional information
- Reservations are currently limited to groups of 6 or less. Only ONE household per group.
- Camping fee is $2 per person, per night payable by an online invoice emailed to you once the application is received and space is confirmed.
- Overnight parking is only allowed in the Monte Bello lot, and is BY PERMIT ONLY.
- There are 5 campsites: four with a capacity of 4 campers and one with a capacity of 6 campers.
- Visitors must arrive at campsite after 2 p.m. and BEFORE SUNSET. The surrounding preserve area is closed a half-hour after sunset. All campers must remain inside the campground until sunrise.
- Visitors must vacate campsite by noon.
- Stay on designated trails. Visitors must camp in designated campsites only.
- Chemical toilets and water for washing are provided. Water is non-potable; campers must bring a water purifier, carry in their own drinking water or boil before using.
- Bicyclists must wear a helmet.
- Common touch areas such as bathrooms and water faucets must be sanitized between each use. You must bring your own sanitizer.
- Campfires, wood burning and charcoal fires are prohibited. Gas powered camp stoves permitted in designated areas only.
- There are no trash cans at the campground, and campers are required to pack out their own trash.
- Dogs are prohibited.
- Radios or loud activities are prohibited.
- Firearms or weapons of any kind are prohibited.
- No one under 18 years old may camp on any District Lands, except when:
a) Accompanied by a parent or guardian; or
b) Part of a group supervised by at least one adult, each responsible for ten or fewer juveniles; or
c) The juvenile is an emancipated minor.