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Brannan Island State Recreation Area

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Brannan Island State Recreation Area, near Rio Vista, California, is a fantastic spot for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Delta. With a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV spots, and even cabins, it caters to all kinds of campers.

The park is known for its easy access to water activities like fishing and boating, making it a favorite for families and friends looking to spend time outdoors. Visitors often rave about the friendly atmosphere, with one camper noting, “The park's natural beauty is simply breathtaking,” highlighting the expansive views and lush landscapes that surround you.

Facilities here are solid, with amenities like drinking water, showers, and picnic tables available to make your stay comfortable. While some campers have mentioned that the campground can get busy, especially on weekends, the spacious sites allow for a bit of privacy, and the well-maintained trails are perfect for exploring the local flora and fauna.

If you're up for some adventure, the nearby Sacramento River offers great opportunities for a scenic cruise. Whether you're planning a quick day trip or a weekend escape, Brannan Island State Recreation Area is a great choice for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.

Location

Brannan Island State Recreation Area is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

The park is on Highway 160 a few miles south of the city of Rio Vista in Sacramento County. The park is located on the lower peninsular extension of Brannan Island, and is surrounded by the Sacramento River on the west, Three Mile Slough on the southeast, and Seven Mile Slough on the northeast.

Address

17645 State Hwy 160
Rio Vista, CA 94571

Coordinates

38.11048857 N
121.69670036 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Connectivity

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    Verizon5G
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    Verified by 3 users
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    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 1 user

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups

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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

13 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 3, 2024

Great times

Brennan Island State Park is an absolute gem nestled in the heart of the California Delta. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by friendly staff who make you feel right at home. The park's natural beauty is simply breathtaking, with expansive views of the Delta's sparkling waters and lush landscapes.

The park offers a variety of activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into boating, fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water, there's something here for everyone. The well-maintained trails provide the perfect opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna, and the picnic areas are ideal for a leisurely lunch with family and friends.

One of the highlights of Brennan Island State Park is its sense of community. The other visitors are always warm and welcoming, creating a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere. It's a great place to meet new people who share a love for the great outdoors.

Overall, Brennan Island State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and friendly vibes of the California Delta. It's a perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Site110
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Guy , August 3, 2024
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  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Guy , August 3, 2024
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 19, 2023

Curfew at 930

You will be put on a curfew like a teenager. The first day we arrived, we ran into San Francisco to do a boat tour. When we left we hit traffic and got back at 10 to the gate closed and locked. We called and the lady chewed us out. We were not told during checkin and they have signs that are not in noticeable spots. They tried to tell us we had to come back the next day. We said to her on the phone "just so we are understanding you are saying that my kids have to sleep in our car and you are not allowing access to our camper." They came immediately. The river access is great if you have a boat but not great if you dont have a boat. We did not feel comfortable knowing that we were locked in at night in case of an emergency. We will not be back.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Feb. 22, 2021

Gateway to the Delta

Lots of fishing and boating activities. Campsites are spaced out. Easy access to the water. Family favorite.

  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Mike C., February 22, 2021
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Mike C., February 22, 2021
Reviewed Dec. 9, 2020

On the Bay

Nice park. Very quiet in late Nov. Bathrooms were closed. Couldn’t Find any trails. Good for one night.

Reviewed Oct. 26, 2020

Simple and easy going

Not a whole lot of people when I visited in March— pros and cons to having the campground to myself. A lot of privacy but almost a little to much privacy as a woman. Set up my tent near a couple as I was bike packing down US 1 for some protection. Fire wood available but I was able to find some left over from people’s campsites that went unused.

  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Issa F., October 26, 2020
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Issa F., October 26, 2020
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Issa F., October 26, 2020
Reviewed Sep. 1, 2020

Access To The Delta

I am a tent camper and there are some good tent sites here.  A bit open so can be windy but pick your site.

Access to the Delta with a boat ramp.  Access to fishing all around you. Beyond water sports not a lot to do here but relax. Or go fly a kite.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by MarinMaverick , September 1, 2020
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by MarinMaverick , September 1, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 21, 2020

Near Sacramento river

This is a big campground with everything you need for boating and fishing. They have a big boat launch for easy launching. They closed their boat berths because they were rotting. They have one cabin with electricity. It has a bunk bed And a queen. Bring air mattresses cause they are just wooden frames. Very close to the Sacramento River for a nice cruise.

SiteCabin
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Ed S., August 21, 2020
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Ed S., August 21, 2020
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Ed S., August 21, 2020
  • (4) View All
Reviewed May. 21, 2020

Accessible and Family Oriented

Brannan Island is conveniently located from SF Bay Area. Great for families. Plenty of roads to bike out / back. Love being close to the water for recreation. Clean facilities. Can be windy. Since easy access it is busy, sometimes more noise in evenings to my liking. It's a great option for beginner campers as well as veterans.

Reviewed Oct. 24, 2019

Almost deserted

Beautiful campground, very few spots with hookups . Restrooms clean, showers available bring your quarters. We stayed right on the levee 🤗 Bonus bike trail!!

  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by John and Trish N., October 24, 2019
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by John and Trish N., October 24, 2019
Reviewed Mar. 24, 2019

Private run and it shows

Nice place on river. Run by private contractor. Middle loop with hookups and showers was closed because the grass wasn't mowed yet. Upper loop has hookups and tight sites, no bathrooms or showers. Lower loop has no hookups but has two bath houses. One was completely locked. Other was mostly locked. Two open showers, one didn't work. Two open toilets, one was clogged. I guess March is off season and nobody cares. Host was not to be found. Site was nice and big and along River. It is a shame.

  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by daren W., March 24, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 7, 2018

Camping in the delta

This wasn’t the best campground I’ve ever been, the river was extremely muddy and our campsite provided little shade. But it was very spacious and the staff were amazing! I got injured while fishing and they were extremely helpful. It was also close to stores and other swimming/fishing spots with beautiful views of the delta.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Christina H., July 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Brannan Island State Recreation Area by Christina H., July 7, 2018
Reviewed May. 3, 2018

ugh

This place is noisy (lots of traffic on the main road bc of all of the boating traffic), hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel), and full of grasses like foxtails (that are quite dangerous for dogs, especially when they're dry!) I won't be coming back

Month of VisitApril

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at Brannan Island State Recreation Area campground?

Brannan Island State Recreation Area offers a range of facilities including showers (coin-operated), clean restrooms, and campsites with varying levels of amenities. Some sites feature hookups for RVs, while others are more suitable for tent camping. The campground has a cabin available with electricity, featuring a bunk bed and queen bed. Firewood is available for purchase, though gathering fallen wood is sometimes possible. The park includes accessible facilities for disabled visitors. Be aware that bathroom availability can vary seasonally, with some facilities occasionally closed.

What water recreation opportunities are available at Brannan Island State Recreation Area?

Brannan Island State Recreation Area is a water recreation paradise in the California Delta. The park features a substantial boat launch that provides easy access to the Delta waterways for boating enthusiasts. Fishing is extremely popular, with opportunities available all around the park—both from shore and by boat. The location on the Delta makes it ideal for various water activities, though be aware that the river can be muddy at times. While the boat berths were removed due to deterioration, the park remains an excellent base for exploring the Delta's extensive waterways.

How do visitors rate their experience at Brannan Island State Recreation Area?

Brannan Island State Recreation Area typically receives mixed to positive ratings from visitors. Many campers appreciate the spacious sites, fishing opportunities, and proximity to the water. The park's location offers convenient access from the San Francisco Bay Area, making it popular for weekend getaways. Some visitors note that the area can be quite windy and hot during certain seasons, which affects the overall experience. The park's natural beauty and Delta views are frequently highlighted as major positives, though some mention that noise from nearby boating traffic can occasionally be a drawback.

How much does it cost to camp at Brannan Island State Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Brannan Island State Recreation Area vary based on the type of site. Sites with hookups typically cost more than standard non-hookup sites. The park offers a range of options from basic tent sites to RV spots with utilities. For the most current and accurate fee information, contact the park directly or check the California State Parks website before your visit. Remember that additional fees may apply for boat launching, extra vehicles, or other special services.

What are the different campgrounds within Brannan Island State Recreation Area?

Brannan Island State Recreation Area features several distinct camping areas organized in loops. There's an upper loop with hookups but tighter sites and no bathroom facilities. The middle loop typically offers hookups along with shower access. The lower loop has no hookups but provides access to bath houses. Some campsites are situated right on the levee, offering excellent water views. Site characteristics vary throughout the park, with some areas providing more shade than others. When making reservations, consider which amenities and location within the park are most important for your camping style.