Delta campgrounds near Antioch, California provide waterfront camping access at elevations near sea level with mild winters and hot, windy summers. Most sites around the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta sit on flat terrain with grassy areas and levee access, allowing for water recreation and fishing without significant hiking distances.
What to do
Explore the Sacramento River: Camp at Brannan Island State Recreation Area where you can access boat launches for fishing and water activities. "This is a big campground with everything you need for boating and fishing. They have a big boat launch for easy launching," explains Ed S., who found it to be "very close to the Sacramento River for a nice cruise."
Try paddle sports: At Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina, rent kayaks directly from the resort to explore the calm delta waters. "They rent kyacks and have a restaurant that looks right over the water," notes Cynthia H., who visited specifically for boating access.
Use levee bike trails: The flat terrain around delta campgrounds makes cycling accessible for all skill levels. "Plenty of roads to bike out/back," writes Rita C. about Brannan Island, while John and Trish N. noted the "Bonus bike trail!!" along the levee, which connects multiple recreation areas.
What campers like
Delta wildlife viewing: The river ecosystem supports diverse wildlife watching opportunities. At SacWest RV Park & Campground, campers enjoy "more than 100 ducks going around!" according to Tatiana I., while George A. mentions Brannan Island is "great area to run around and you can fish the bay area."
Waterfront dining: Several delta campgrounds feature restaurants with water views. "They have a boat trailer parking lot and a boat ramp. The bathrooms have been recently remodeled and are very nice. They rent kyacks and have a restaurant that looks right over the water," shares Cynthia H. about Sugar Barge.
Spacious sites: Compared to many California campgrounds, delta sites often provide more room. Larry W. found Sugar Barge's tent sites "GENEROUSLY spaced" with "NO generators" heard despite being near an RV section. At Brannan Island, Christina H. noted that "it was very spacious and the staff were amazing!"
What you should know
Delta winds can be intense: The region experiences strong afternoon winds, especially in summer. Kimberly M. warns that Brannan Island is "hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel)," while Susan R. mentions wind made it impossible to extend awnings during her stay.
Winter camping considerations: Though winters are mild, facilities may be limited in off-season. One camper at Cottonwood Campground visited in May when it was "very quiet squirrels running around lots of birds I think there was only three or four people that it was during the week."
Reservation requirements: Popular delta spots fill quickly, especially for waterfront sites. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Katie B. notes "the price per night is very expensive but there are a lot of amenities," recommending advance booking for holiday themes like "Christmas in July" when special activities are scheduled.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Delta locations provide swimming and boating opportunities ideal for children. At Jellystone Park, Jill P. reports "the water park is open 11 to 7 but Lazy river closes at 5," and advises that "there is the activities in club house, mini golf, lasher tag, playground, bounce pillow" to keep kids entertained.
Age-appropriate planning: Consider the target age group when selecting a delta campground. Katie B. explains Jellystone is "Great for kids under 14" where they "really enjoy the freedom to go play while the adults sit back and relax."
Seasonal activities: Many delta campgrounds offer holiday-themed weekends. At Delta Shores Resort and Marina, Craig & Linda L. describe sites as "Very nice flat green grassy cover camp sits. Like your camping in your home backyard," providing safe play areas for children.
Tips from RVers
Delta RV site selection: When seeking a yurt or cabin alternative near Antioch, carefully consider site location within parks. Christine M. at Sugar Barge advises "Site 70 was good size for us, suite 109 a little tight but in the shade and pretty view out the back!"
Water connection precautions: Delta campgrounds may have issues with water hookup placement. Christine M. warns "the water spigot is really close to the ground and really close to the sewer drain. Scrub with bleach before booking up your water and you'll be fine."
Cell reception varies: For those needing to stay connected during their yurt camping trip near Antioch, connectivity can be unreliable. "Wifi and cell reception is really poor, even when you're right outside the office. Check for updates with them if they get a new cell tower nearby," advises Christine M. at Sugar Barge.
