Camping near Clayton, California offers visitors riverfront recreation with direct access to the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta waterways. The region experiences hot summer temperatures, often reaching 90°F, while delta breezes can create challenging conditions for tent campers. Many campgrounds in the area provide boat launches for exploring the extensive delta waterways system.
What to do
Fishing the delta waters: Brannan Island State Recreation Area provides access to prime fishing spots. "This is a big campground with everything you need for boating and fishing. They have a big boat launch for easy launching," shares Ed S. The area offers both freshwater and brackish water fishing depending on the season.
Hiking accessible trails: Skyline Wilderness Park features multiple trail systems for all ability levels. Located about 40 minutes from Clayton, this park combines wilderness experiences with convenient access. "It's like a fairy wonderland on the Manzanita trail. Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" notes Adam B. Most trails are open year-round.
Star gazing programs: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground hosts astronomy events at their Robert Ferguson Observatory. "You can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well! We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shares Syd D. Programs typically run on clear weekend nights for $10-15 per person.
Water recreation: Delta waterways offer paddling, boating and swimming opportunities. "They rent kyacks and have a restaurant that looks right over the water," says Cynthia H. about Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina. The waterfront location allows campers to bring their own boats or rent equipment on-site.
What campers like
Direct water access: Campsites that back up to the delta offer convenience for water activities. "Lots of fishing and boating activities. Campsites are spaced out. Easy access to the water. Family favorite," notes Mike C. about Brannan Island State Recreation Area.
Family-oriented amenities: Campgrounds with extensive recreational facilities appeal to families with children. According to Katie B., Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers "Nice playground, basketball court, volleyball, bouncy pillow, outdoor movies, pool, lazy river, water park, bumper boats, laser tag, boat rentals on the delta, restaurants and quick bites."
Seasonal celebrations: Some campgrounds offer holiday-themed events. "We go for Halloween and there is trick or treating through the whole place, a haunted house and a decor and costume contest," says Katie B. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Tower Park.
Tent camping areas: While many sites focus on RVs, certain campgrounds offer dedicated tent spaces. Larry W. notes about Sugar Barge RV Resort: "The tent-area was 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."
What you should know
Seasonal wind patterns: The delta region experiences strong, consistent winds. George A. cautions visitors to "remember the wind" at Brannan Island, while another camper describes it as "like being in a super hot wind tunnel." Bring extra tent stakes and consider wind screens for cooking.
Limited shade at some sites: Many glamping near Clayton, California locations have minimal tree cover. "This wasn't the best campground I've ever been, the river was extremely muddy and our campsite provided little shade," reports Christina H. about her experience at Brannan Island.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Campground bathroom quality ranges significantly. "Bathrooms were closed. Couldn't Find any trails. Good for one night," notes Lisa S. about Brannan Island's off-season conditions, while Delta Shores Resort and Marina offers more consistent facilities.
High summer demand: Reservations are essential during peak season. The most popular glamping locations near Clayton book 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends. "It's often very hot in the summer, and there can be lots of rattle snakes sunning themselves on the rocks," cautions Scott J. about Sugarloaf Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's activities: Campgrounds with structured programs offer built-in entertainment. "For October, we did an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house," shares Billy about their experience at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. Most activities run on weekends.
Consider heat protection: The delta area experiences hot summer days with limited natural shade. "It was cooler this time of year then we expected. Bring layers!" recommends Syd D. about spring camping at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, which offers more tree coverage than delta sites.
Pack for wildlife encounters: The region has diverse wildlife that may visit campsites. "We had a gorgeous [grey fox] visit our camp!" mentions Syd D. Secure food in containers and teach children about maintaining safe distances from wildlife.
Select sites near facilities: With children, proximity to restrooms and water becomes important. "We car camped and found the hook ups really easy to use. Water, drain, 3 types of electricity, picnic table and firepit at every site," notes Billy about Sugarloaf Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many delta campgrounds have uneven sites. "The grass was long and sites were not level," reports Susan R. about Delta Shores Resort. Bring leveling blocks and check site descriptions before booking.
Hook-up availability: Full hook-up options vary between campgrounds. Christine M. notes about Sugar Barge: "My only complaint, 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."
Site size constraints: RV sites at many locations may be narrower than expected. "We have a 32'9" fifth wheel and a Chevy 2500. Site 70 was good size for us, suite 109 a little tight but in the shade and pretty view out the back!" shares Christine M. about their experience at Sugar Barge RV Resort.
Weather protection needs: Delta conditions can challenge RVers with wind and heat. "The wind was crazy! We weren't able to put our awning out," reports Susan R. Secure awnings and consider portable shade structures that can withstand windy conditions.