Camping near Crockett, California offers diverse terrain options ranging from bayfront views to hilltop retreats in the East Bay's Mediterranean climate zone. The region experiences mild winters with average temperatures between 45-60°F and warm summers reaching 70-85°F. Summer fog patterns often roll in from San Francisco Bay during evening hours, creating distinct microclimates across different campgrounds within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Hiking through redwood groves: Samuel P. Taylor State Park provides trails through impressive redwood stands just 30 miles northwest of Crockett. A paved path runs "for at least a mile or so along the creek, that used to be the old railroad line through that area," with "informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information," according to one camper who noted seasonal creek restrictions "for spawning, and I believe that goes from spring to about mid June or July."
Mountain biking on regional park trails: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers extensive trail systems for riders of various skill levels. A recent visitor mentioned: "There are plenty of easily accessible hiking and biking trails in the area... There are trails running throughout the park and around the lake that are a mix of wider open trails and narrower, through the woods, but groomed trails with plenty of up and down to make for a good hike."
Explore historical military sites: Angel Island State Park contains former military installations accessible by ferry from Tiburon. Visitors can "hike throughout the island to with great bay views and bridge views on all sides. Then there is the history there from the Civil War sites to the immigration sites - so there is much to see and do beyond hiking," notes a camper who recommends the island's unique camping options.
What campers like
Easy access to San Francisco: Marin RV Park provides a convenient base for city exploration. "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco. We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St and driving across the Golden Gate Bridge," shared one visitor who relied primarily on public transit.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Mount Diablo State Park Campground offers encounters with native animals. One camper reported seeing "a mix of wildlife. Deer, hawks, wild turkeys" and enjoying "an amazing sunset too." Another noted: "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Solitude near urban areas: Many campers appreciate the quiet nature of Anthony Chabot Regional Park despite its proximity to Oakland. A visitor noted: "Despite it being quite accessible to Oakland, the park felt like camping in the wilderness, even though I could hear cheers echoing through the canyon from a graduation somewhere below." The park offers surprising tranquility with "lots of birds singing" according to another review.
What you should know
Weather variability: Evening fog and temperature drops affect most campsites in the region. At Kirby Cove Campground, "if the fog roles in, prep for an all-night symphony of fog horns. Bring ear plugs." Another camper advised: "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers."
Wildlife precautions: Local wildlife requires proper food storage and awareness. At Kirby Cove, "the raccoons are vicious and fearless. Store all food and ANYTHING with a scent in the bear box." At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, a visitor warned: "Also, lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware."
Reservation competition: The most popular campgrounds require booking well in advance. For Kirby Cove with only five sites, "check the website for availability the SECOND the reservation window opens." Angel Island State Park similarly has "only 10 sites on the island, so permits are limited!" A camper suggested weekday visits for better availability.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for kids: Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers child-friendly stream access. A visitor mentioned the "stream is accessible shallow" and the site is "lovely in redwoods." For families seeking water activities, Lake Chabot at Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides water views, though swimming isn't permitted.
Educational opportunities: Mount Diablo State Park offers nature learning. "The summit is just a short drive away from the campgrounds and has a visitor's center that has history of the mountain and the surrounding area," notes a camper who recommends the park for its educational value.
Proximity to urban amenities: Skyline Wilderness Park balances nature with nearby conveniences. A camper described it as having "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." Another visitor appreciated being "literally 5 mins outside of the town of Napa."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Skyline Wilderness Park, RV campers should understand the layout. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," explained one visitor. Another noted sites are "semi-level" and recommended asking "for full hook ups next time just for ease of getting out when your ready to go."
Limited overnight options: Benicia State Recreation Area provides minimal facilities for self-contained vehicles. "This state recreation area has 3 spots for overnight parking (one night only, first come first served). As this is a popular day use area for hikers and bikers, you can't pull in until 3pm and you have to be out by 9am," explained a reviewer who called it "a quick overnight spot, not a camping destination."
Internet connectivity considerations: Many area campgrounds offer workable cell service for remote workers. At Skyline Wilderness Park, visitors "found no trouble at all. Data speeds wavered between 10-25 mbps depending on where we were on the property, but we could video conference and stream with no issues." Anthony Chabot Regional Park similarly offers "good cell service" according to multiple reviewers.
