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.

Brannan Island State Recreation Area

Searching for the best camping near Rio Vista, CA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Rio Vista

The Best Camping Near Rio Vista, California

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

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.

Camping in the delta

It good place to camp but remember the wind. It has great facility for disabled and has great area to run around and you can fish the bay area from the area or go fishing in boat

It good and has small beach and large for family

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.

Private run and it shows

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

Almost deserted 

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.

Accessible and Family Oriented

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.

Near Sacramento river

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.

Access To The Delta

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. 

Simple and easy going

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

On the Bay  

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

Gateway to the Delta

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. 

Curfew at 930

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.

Photos of Brannan Island State Recreation Area

Real photos from real campers