Best Campgrounds near Berkeley, CA
The East Bay hills surrounding Berkeley, California feature a mix of urban-adjacent campgrounds and more secluded natural areas within a short drive. Anthony Chabot Regional Park, located just 30 minutes from the city in Castro Valley, offers year-round camping with both tent and RV sites, while Tilden Regional Park sits directly in the Berkeley Hills with sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay. Within an hour's drive, campers can access coastal options at Point Reyes National Seashore, redwood forests at Mount Tamalpais State Park, or island camping at Angel Island State Park. The proximity to urban amenities combined with diverse ecosystems makes this region distinctive for overnight outdoor experiences.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the Berkeley area, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when sites fill months in advance. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during dry summer and fall months. As one camper noted about Mount Diablo State Park, "No open fires allowed when we were there because of the dryness of the area." The Mediterranean climate brings mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, though coastal areas often experience fog and cooler temperatures. Wildlife considerations include poison oak along trails and raccoons that require secure food storage. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage at urban-adjacent sites like Tilden and spotty or non-existent service in more remote locations.
Hiking and mountain biking opportunities consistently receive praise from visitors to Berkeley-area campgrounds. According to one Tilden Regional Park camper, "This location makes up for by putting you smack dab in the middle of some very phenomenal hiking in all of the Eastbay." Many sites offer family-friendly amenities, with Anthony Chabot Regional Park described as having "family sites and there were families with kids all over." Noise levels vary considerably, with urban sounds noticeable at closer parks while coastal campgrounds provide more natural soundscapes. Sites with water views or under redwood canopies tend to book fastest, while those seeking solitude might prefer the walk-in tent sites at Mount Tamalpais State Park or the boat-in options at Angel Island.
