Best Campgrounds near Berkeley, CA

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Berkeley, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Berkeley is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Berkeley. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Berkeley, California (151)

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Recent Reviews near Berkeley, CA

792 Reviews of 151 Berkeley Campgrounds



Guide to Berkeley

Camping near Berkeley, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The local trails and creeks were breathtaking," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Beach Activities: Head to Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground for beachcombing and sunbathing. A reviewer said, "Campsites are right by the beach," which is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Lawson's Landing, you can spot wild turkeys and other wildlife. One camper shared, "We were able to take a closeup look at them," highlighting the area's natural beauty.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground said, "This is a gorgeous campground! It's big and busy, but the sites are mostly very private and lush and green."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground noted, "Restrooms are clean. Showers are clean and tidy and warm."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Families enjoy the amenities at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA. One parent mentioned, "This place is busy and expensive, but great for kids," thanks to the variety of activities available.

What you should know:

  • Poison Oak: Be cautious of poison oak at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. A camper warned, "It's full of poison oak!!!! But you can get around it."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lawson's Landing, lack showers and toilets. A visitor advised, "Bring your own TP!" due to the condition of the facilities.
  • Busy Seasons: Expect crowds during peak times. A reviewer at Francis Beach Campground noted, "The campground was full so the bathrooms were not very clean," during Labor Day weekend.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA that offer activities for kids. One reviewer said, "Great playground, jumping pillow, petting farm and mining fun."
  • Plan for Clean Facilities: Check reviews for cleanliness. A camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground mentioned, "Restrooms are clean," which is a plus for families.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with plenty of snacks. A visitor at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground suggested, "Make sure you bring a padlock as there is no locking mechanism on the door," for food lockers.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers should be aware of site sizes at campgrounds like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Not sure that this place would be good for giant rigs."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Choose campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A reviewer at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA mentioned, "The pool was great during the oven-like temperatures."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Expect busy campgrounds, especially on holidays. A camper at Lawson's Landing said, "Most people have RVs so the generators start early," which can be noisy.

Camping around Berkeley, California, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

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