The Lake Berryessa region near Angwin sits between 300-1,000 feet elevation with terrain ranging from oak woodlands to exposed shorelines. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights drop into the 30s. Many campgrounds remain open year-round despite seasonal extremes, with water levels at Lake Berryessa fluctuating significantly between seasons.
What to do
Stargazing sessions at observatory: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground hosts astronomy activities at the Robert Ferguson Observatory. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time! The visitor center has snacks and ice cream bars, firewood, simple essentials, etc. It is an amazing campground with gorgeous sites and hikes," reports Syd D.
Hiking diverse terrain: Cache Creek Regional Park Campground offers trails through grasslands with wildlife viewing. "Camped mid-May 2018. Mostly dry land/brush... Have to use horse or find low section and pile rocks as a 'bridge' to cross for hiking," notes Allyson D. The park's accessible natural areas provide opportunities to spot local fauna including elk.
Water activities: Steele Canyon offers paddleboard and boating access with designated no-wake zones. "I came to check out the more calm waters in the canyon for my paddleboard. The site was great layout and I had a really enjoyable time out on the water. Other boaters were very respectful of the no wake zones," shares Shiva S.
What campers like
Private sites among trees: Spring Lake Regional Park has secluded camping areas with good shade coverage. "This was a great campground to come on a winter weekend. Only 90 minutes from home to site. We stayed on site 3. It's close to the entrance but the driveway only had a slight grade," notes Sophie S. Winter camping provides more privacy when fewer visitors are present.
Location near wineries: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground offers proximity to Sonoma wine country. "This place was wonderful! We stumbled upon this place after wine tasting in Sonoma. This place had many sites and super family friendly. Very easy to find," reports Lauren B. The campground's location makes it convenient for visiting nearby tasting rooms.
Urban convenience with natural setting: Skyline Wilderness Park balances access to city amenities with outdoor recreation. "An 800+ acre property to spend outdoors time on. Convenient sites with complete hookup and also restroom/showers handy. The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more. Bonus: short drive to Downtown Napa," mentions Jamie G.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Campsites at Lake Berryessa experience significant wind on exposed sites. "The campsites on the bluff of the hill can get windy so be prepared for that. Regardless, I'll be back," advises Shiva S. at Steele Canyon. Temperature variations between seasons require appropriate gear.
Wildlife encounters: Spring Lake Regional Park has various animal species visitors should be prepared to encounter. "Green and Lush... at least in February. The bathrooms were clean but older... 2 of the stalls were incredibly narrow," reports Sophie S. The regional parks maintain basic facilities while preserving natural habitats.
Water availability limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted water access during dry seasons. "It's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.). Fire scars all around the lake...looks like this entire area got hit a few years ago. Bring extra H2O," recommends Joel A. about camping at Steele Canyon.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities for children: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers numerous activities for young campers. "Had a blast here. A lot of different areas for the kids. Swimming, giant bounce area, and mild weather. Coffee bar, large play grounds and near shopping for any needs," writes Chris B. The facility maintains dedicated play areas specifically designed for family use.
Educational opportunities: Sugarloaf Ridge provides guided activities for younger visitors. "Ask about the free quest hike. They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it," suggests Irina Maddie P. The park staff develop programs specifically for children's engagement with nature.
Pet-friendly trails: Multiple campgrounds accommodate dogs on trails with varying terrain difficulty. "We camp here as often as we can. It's a lovely campsite with most sites being under tree canopies, with a large meadow in the center, which is great for frisbee, or other games," reports Scott J. about Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Most sites enforce standard leash requirements while providing suitable exercise areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Skyline Wilderness Park offers various hookup options with easy grocery access. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," notes Rich J. The proximity to urban amenities makes resupply convenient despite compact camping areas.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require minimal adjustment for comfortable parking. "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly. Native garden is very nice. Hiking is nice too especially in winter when everything is green," explains Adam B. RV sites typically include water and electric hookups with additional fees for full service connections.
Dump station access: Campgrounds with sanitary facilities may have limited hours. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive," advises Lori H. about Skyline Wilderness Park. Most RV sites require advance reservations during peak season months from May through October.
