Campers heading to Crockett, California experience mild Mediterranean climate conditions with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Located at just 66 feet elevation in the northern San Francisco Bay Area, this region features coastal fog patterns that can drop temperatures 10-15 degrees from daytime highs. Campgrounds in the area typically receive 25-30 inches of annual rainfall, mostly between November and March, creating optimal camping conditions in late spring and early fall.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The Skyline Wilderness Park offers extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "A ton of great hiking and horseback riding trails. Literally 5 mins outside of the town of Napa," says one visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park. Multiple trails connect throughout the 800+ acres of hills and woods.
Observatory stargazing: Take advantage of the Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground for night sky programs. A visitor noted, "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" The observatory hosts regular programs and viewing sessions for campers.
Coastal exploration: Follow the Steep Ravine/Matt Davis trails that connect directly to Steep Ravine Campground for dramatic ocean views. "The hiking trails that join from the coast all the way to Mill Valley and central Marin are walking distance from this site," explains a regular visitor. The trails offer varying difficulty levels with some steep sections.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Skyline Wilderness Park offers frequent wildlife sightings right from campsites. A camper mentioned, "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" while another noted their campsite "backs up to Wilderness and saw a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away."
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access from several campgrounds. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, one reviewer highlighted the "stream that runs through it" with "wonderful campsites nestled among mature trees." The creek provides cooling relief during warmer months.
Proximity to wineries: Ritchey Creek Campground provides affordable accommodation in prime wine country. "Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!" says one regular visitor. Another mentioned, "A shuttle stops at the park to take people into town for dinner if they don't want to drive after drinking."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the Crockett area require advance planning, with some sites booking up six months ahead. For the cabins at Steep Ravine, "you need to be ready to click 'reserve' on the website at no less than 5 minutes before the window opens for your dates of interest, which was 6 months ahead of time."
Weather patterns: Pack for variable conditions regardless of season. At Olema Campground, a visitor explained the area has "mild weather" but nearby coastal sites can experience dramatic fog and wind patterns. Temperature swings of 20-30 degrees between day and night are common.
Noise levels: Campgrounds closer to roads may experience traffic noise. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, one camper mentioned, "if you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper." Choose sites further from main roads when possible.
Tips for camping with families
Play facilities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive family-friendly amenities. "A lot of different areas for the kids. Swimming, giant bounce area, and mild weather. Coffee bar, large play grounds and near shopping for any needs," reported one family. The campground provides designated activity areas for different age groups.
Educational programs: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led nature programs. At Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, a camper noted, "They have everything you need for a great weekend! The visitor center has snacks and ice cream bars, firewood, simple essentials, etc." Many parks provide junior ranger activities during summer months.
Water activities: Brannan Island State Recreation Area provides water-based recreation opportunities for families. "This is a big campground with everything you need for boating and fishing. They have a big boat launch for easy launching," explains a visitor, adding that it's "close to the Sacramento River for a nice cruise."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers recommend researching specific site dimensions before booking. At Skyline Wilderness Park, an RVer noted, "RV campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa." Look for pull-through sites when available.
Utility connections: Many campgrounds offer varying hookup options. One RVer at Olema Campground shared, "We nestled our Sprinter between to large pine trees and took the dog for a walk. Then headed down the road for our first dinner indoors since February!" Utility access varies significantly between campgrounds and specific loops.
Cell service considerations: Mobile connectivity varies by carrier and location. At Skyline Wilderness Park, a recent visitor reported, "Cell phone coverage is good. Have both Verizon and Att with at least 2-3 bars. 10-12 Mbps down 4-5 Mbps up." This allows for remote work possibilities during glamping in Crockett, California area campgrounds.
