Mount Diablo State Park dominates the landscape near Clayton, California at 3,849 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cool winters with occasional frost. Wind conditions at higher elevations can be challenging year-round, particularly at Juniper Campground where campers report consistent strong nighttime winds regardless of season.
What to do
Hiking to summit viewpoints: Juniper Campground in Mount Diablo State Park offers trails leading directly to the mountain's summit. "We hiked to the top of the mountain, to the lookout point, on a trail through the woods and brush. We watched the sunset over the Bay Area, whew, it was spectacular," notes Linda A.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and evening hours provide opportunities for viewing local wildlife. "We saw a mix of wildlife. Deer, hawks, wild turkeys. We saw an amazing sunset too," reports Sarah F. about Mount Diablo. At Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, the backcountry setting creates optimal wildlife viewing conditions.
Mountain biking: The winding roads and trails throughout Mount Diablo attract cyclists. One camper cautions: "Plan for a 45 minute drive from town to the top, longer if you're doing it on a weekend when you'll be waiting to pass cyclists. This is a cycling destination."
Water recreation: Brannan Island State Recreation Area provides direct access to the Sacramento River Delta for boating and fishing. "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.
What campers like
Mountain views: Camping at Juniper Campground offers exceptional vistas. "It is absolutely worth it for the views of the east bay, and on a clear day, all the way to SF and the pacific. Truly one of the best camping views I've had," shares Blake H.
Proximity to urban conveniences: Skyline Wilderness Park offers wilderness camping with urban accessibility. "Super easy access and safe, in the city so close to wineries, restaurants and shops. We were here as a stop in our road trip so it was a perfect stay," reports Letícia I.
Convenient Bay Area escape: Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides accessible camping spots near Clayton, California. "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.). It's a great natural area that is so conveniently located in the Bay Area," shares Amanda P.
Year-round availability: Most camping areas maintain accessibility throughout the year, though with seasonal considerations. "The weather, though hot in the Bay Area at this point, was quite nice. The breeze and shade of the park made for a very comfortable setting," notes a camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park.
What you should know
Food storage requirements: Wildlife encounters are common at camping spots near Clayton. At Mount Diablo, one camper advises: "Make sure that you lock up all food at night as the wildlife is very present and will take advantage of left out food." Another notes specific nocturnal visitors: "If sitting around picnic table at night, make sure snacks are not out on picnic table, but kept in lap. Raccoon was not shy about jumping on inactive stove top."
Extreme summer heat: Prepare for hot conditions during summer months. "We went during the summer and it was very hot. The camp ground did not have much shade," reports Sarah F. Another camper was more direct: "Insanely hot in the summer, I would recommend not going in July like we did. It was 104° or something and I was just drenching my clothes in water to stay cool."
Wind conditions: Rio Viento RV Park and other elevated sites experience significant wind. At Juniper Campground, Mike C. warns: "No matter how hot it is you'll never be able to escape the howling winds at night. Good tent stakes and warm gear is a must."
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds have restricted water access. Blake H. notes at Juniper: "Water is off, probably forever as CA will be in perpetual drought, so plan for that as well."
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Ticks and other insects can be problematic in certain areas. At Benicia State Recreation Area, one camper warns: "Once I took my dog on a walk I saw why nobody brings their dog - TICKS! So many! Just from walking along the path, not even going into the grass, my dog got 6 ticks once and 5 ticks another walk."
Kid-friendly activities: Briones Regional Park offers accessible trails suitable for families. "Lots of opportunities for horse riders in area. Pets on leash," notes a visitor. At Anthony Chabot, families appreciate the extensive trail network for day hikes.
Sanitation considerations: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Juniper Campground, one camper advises: "Don't use the stinky toilet at the top there's way better ones around the bottom area." When visiting Anthony Chabot, another camper appreciated the "recycling collection" and "fairly clean" restrooms.
Temperature management: Summer heat requires preparation, especially for families with children. A Juniper Campground visitor recommends: "BRING SHOWER SHOES AND SOAP UR GOING TO WANT IT" due to high temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Juniper Campground, Blake H. advises: "The best sites at Juniper if you're sleeping in your vehicle are the flat ones down by the parking lot and vista (18, 20, 22). Note that most of the sites on the west side are not flat for a vehicle."
Road condition awareness: Several campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Rio Viento RV Park, Kelly N. notes: "The road in is very bumpy, so take your time." This sentiment is echoed by multiple visitors who mention the importance of careful driving on winding mountain roads.
Evening access limitations: Gate closures affect evening mobility at Mount Diablo. "They lock you in at sunset; if you want to leave you have to call the fire department to open the locked gate," warns Blake H., adding "This significantly reduces flexibility."
Hookup availability: For RVers seeking full services, Skyline Wilderness Park offers complete hookups just outside Napa. "Convenient sites with complete hookup and also restroom/showers handy. Short drive to Downtown Napa," reports Jamie G.
