Delta camping near Brentwood offers direct access to the Sacramento-San Joaquin waterways with several campgrounds situated along the river system. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below 40°F, requiring appropriate seasonal preparation. Sites along the delta provide natural wind corridors that cool camping areas but can create challenges for tent setup and campfires.
What to do
Boat launching: easy access to Delta waters at Brannan Island State Recreation Area. The recreation area has "a big boat launch for easy launching" and is "very close to the Sacramento River for a nice cruise," according to Ed S. Fishing enthusiasts often use the campground as a gateway for delta exploration.
Kayak rentals: paddle directly from camp at Lake Camanche. When water levels are down, "it's a bit of a haul to the water — cart/wagon recommended, as well as a shade pop-up AT water's edge," notes Larry W. The lake's conditions shift seasonally, with water accessibility varying throughout the year.
Disc golf and archery: land activities for non-boaters at Skyline Wilderness Park. The park offers "archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more," according to Jamie G. These activities provide options when not on the water or for campers who prefer land-based recreation.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: room to spread out at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. Sites in the Red Carpet pull-through section are "by the front entrance. Very roomy and not as crowded as the sites by the water park area," says David B. This contrasts with other sections that can feel more congested during peak season.
Off-season tranquility: fewer crowds September-April at Brannan Island State Recreation Area. One visitor experienced "not a whole lot of people when I visited in March— pros and cons to having the campground to myself," according to Issa F. Weekday visits throughout the year typically offer more solitude than weekends.
Tent-specific areas: dedicated spaces away from RVs at Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina. The tent area is "a clearing, fully backed up to the levee, with some shade and a water spigot. Appears to be only 4 'sites,' which are defined by picnic tables, GENEROUSLY spaced, no fire rings," reports Larry W. This separation from the RV section creates a quieter tent camping experience.
What you should know
Weather patterns: wind tunnels and heat can create challenging conditions. One camper at Brannan Island described it as "noisy, hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel)." Sites with tree cover provide better protection from both sun and wind.
Water levels: seasonal fluctuations affect activities at Lake Camanche. One visitor noted they've "been there during drought years and when the water is back at normal levels." Water levels impact shore access, beach quality, and boating conditions throughout the delta region.
Yurt camping availability: limited options near Brentwood, California require advance planning. While traditional yurt camping Brentwood, California options are scarce, several campgrounds offer canvas structures or cabin alternatives that provide similar experiences. SacWest RV Park & Campground offers glamping accommodations as alternatives to yurt camping.
Tips for camping with families
Waterpark access: schedule time accordingly at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. The water amenities have specific operating hours - "Water park is open 11 to 7 but Lazy river closes at 5," notes Jill P. Families should plan their day around these hours to maximize water activities.
Supervision levels: assess your comfort with independence based on campground layout. At Jellystone Park, one parent noted "Our kids really enjoy the freedom to go play while the adults sit back and relax," which works well for families with children ages 5-13.
Beach conditions: inspect for hazards before setting up. At Lake Camanche, a visitor warned that "the shores in certain areas are filled with big rocks and don't make it very fun for trying to swim in the water," while another mentioned concerns about "tons of glass an garbage" during low water periods.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: consider wind patterns when choosing locations. Since Delta areas can experience significant winds, selecting sites with natural windbreaks or proper orientation makes a difference in comfort levels.
Hookup positions: inspect before connecting at various campgrounds. At Sugar Barge RV Resort, one RVer warned "the water spigot is really close to the ground and really close to the sewer drain. Scrub with bleach before hooking up your water and you'll be fine."
Noise considerations: check proximity to highways when booking. At Delta Shores Resort and Marina, the wind was described as "crazy! We weren't able to put our awning out," showing how Delta conditions can affect RV setup and comfort.
