Skyline Wilderness Park sits within 8 minutes of downtown Napa, offering full hookups and cabin options for camping throughout the year. Sites are arranged on a gravel lot with approximately 12 feet of separation between neighboring units. The park encompasses over 800 acres with multiple hiking trails directly accessible from the campground. Wildlife frequently passes through the camping areas, including wild turkeys and deer. Campers must keep pets leashed at all times, with the exception of a designated off-leash dog run area for supervised play.
What to do
Hiking miles of varied terrain: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground features numerous trails through redwood groves. "The trail system throughout the park provides excellent opportunities for hiking with multiple paths directly accessible from the campgrounds," notes one visitor. Another camper adds that the "800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer, wild turkeys, and woodpeckers are commonly spotted at multiple parks in the region. One camper at Skyline Wilderness Park reports "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" Another visitor noted, "I saw a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away."
Access to water recreation: While Lake Chabot at Anthony Chabot Regional Park prohibits swimming, the lake offers scenic views and fishing opportunities. A visitor cautions: "The warm waters of Lake Chabot was beautiful and tempting as a siren, but don't touch it, or let your dog touch it... It is toxic."
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: Skyline Wilderness Park provides convenient access to Napa. "Location itself is GREAT. 5 mins from everything in town. Had good cell service and park was clean," writes one camper. Another notes, "Literally 5 mins outside of the town of Napa. Ate at an amazing Brazilian Steakhouse and came to camp in just a short drive."
Clean facilities with hot showers: Many campers appreciate the free shower facilities at Anthony Chabot Regional Park. "The showers were great. Hot and FREE!" reports one camper. Another reviewer rated "Bathrooms: 4" in their assessment of the park facilities.
Moderate weather conditions: Despite summer heat in surrounding areas, many campgrounds maintain comfortable temperatures. At Skyline Wilderness Park, one visitor observed: "It's like a fairy wonderland on the Manzanita trail. Cell phone coverage is good. Have both Verizon and Att with at least 2-3 bars."
What you should know
Tick awareness on trails: Benicia State Recreation Area has significant tick populations, even on maintained paths. One camper warned: "Once I took my dog on a walk I saw why nobody brings their dog - TICKS! Just from walking along the path, not even going into the grass, my dog got 6 ticks once and 5 ticks another walk."
Limited overnight camping options: Some parks permit only day use despite appearing to be camping areas. At Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, a visitor clarifies: "I run and walk dogs there and love it but it's day use only." At Benicia State Recreation Area, camping is restricted to "3 spots for overnight parking (one night only, first come first served)."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, campsites fill quickly: "Because of the holiday and the proximity to Oakland/San Fran, the campground was in FULL EFFECT with a gang of variant families camp site hopping."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, site location significantly impacts the experience. "Had I chosen the site to my left, or a few more down the road, I would have barely noticed them at all - sites 47-44 had no one across the way, more private, set back," shares one experienced camper.
Weather preparation: Pack layers for changing conditions. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Self-contained facilities: Some pet-friendly camping near Crockett, California requires specific equipment. At Benicia State Recreation Area, a camper discovered: "Tried camping here but the ranger said I had to have a self-contained toilet since the park itself is locked at dusk."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites at most parks provide basic utilities but minimal separation. At Skyline Wilderness Park, a camper reports: "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa."
Setup timing: Park gate closures may affect arrival plans. An RVer at Benicia State Recreation Area notes: "This state recreation area has 3 spots for overnight parking. 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."
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. At Marin RV Park, "The ground is made up of small rocks, but is perfectly level. There are no picnic tables and/or fire pits available." Another camper at Skyline Wilderness Park mentioned sites are "level with minimal need for blocks."
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