Tent campsites near Davis, California provide access to rugged foothills, oak woodlands, and reservoir recreation areas across multiple counties. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F during the day while dropping to the 50s at night, creating significant temperature swings campers must prepare for. Fire restrictions typically begin in June and continue through October or November depending on rainfall and fire danger levels.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: At Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores), paddlers enjoy protected canyons with calm waters. "I came to check out the more calm waters in the canyon for my paddleboard. The site was great layout and I had a really enjoyable time out on the water. Other boaters where very respectful of the no wake zones," notes Shiva S.
Off-season fishing: Winter camping provides uncrowded fishing opportunities at nearby reservoirs. "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. The lake has a North Shore Campground as well. We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend," explains Ed E. about Lake Camanche, noting "Fishing is awesome!"
Hiking through oak woodlands: Trails through oak-studded hills offer exercise with minimal elevation gain. At Camp Far West North Shore, campers can explore the shoreline and surrounding terrain. "We did a bike ride along the lake through the undeveloped overflow area and beyond to the north east end of the property," reports Ray B., who enjoyed the off-season solitude.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many tent campers value privacy and water proximity when selecting sites. Joel A. recommends specific areas at Steele Canyon: "Look in the 50's & 80's for the more secluded campsites," while noting preparation needs: "it's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.)."
Winter solitude: Off-season camping provides a completely different experience than summer crowds. "This is a wonderful spot to stay for a few days in the off season. We stayed in February. Summers would be very hot and I imagine the area would be packed with day use folks," shares a camper at Rancho Seco Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained vault toilets and shower facilities make longer stays more comfortable. At Lake Clementine, Drew M. reports, "The rangers are there everyday (I think). Very friendly folks... The river is extremely clean and clear with good temperature." The campground's proximity to town also means easier supply runs.
What you should know
Temperature variations: Significant temperature drops occur overnight even during summer. Nicholas M. from Steele Canyon warns, "It got really cold at night (32 degrees), but my fault for not checking the weather."
Campsite selection timing: Most popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations during weekends. "Tent sites along lake are best," notes Coleen C. about Rancho Seco, while another camper suggests, "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6months out)."
Wildlife awareness: Raccoons frequently target unsecured food items across campgrounds. Robert A. advises Rancho Seco campers to "make sure you put your food away at night raccoons will get your food and snacks."
Insect preparations: Some campgrounds experience seasonal beetle swarms. An Angel S. reports at Rancho Seco: "the whole park is infested with ground beetles that would just land all over you and your food. We couldn't stay up pass sunset to enjoy the fire and s'mores because you would get flooded with the beetles."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple lakes offer family-friendly shorelines. "Our favorite spot to take the kids to the lake. If your looking for something calm this is the spot at Lake Berryessa," shares Vanessa A. about Steele Canyon.
Campsite accessibility: Choose sites based on distance to bathrooms and water sources for easier family camping. Angel S. explains that at Rancho Seco "each campground has its own water spigots, 2 tables, fire pit and semi flat grounds."
Shade considerations: Summer heat requires careful site selection. Kellie D. warns about Lake Clementine: "shade can be limited depending on where you're staying" and notes that lake temperatures help offset the heat: "the water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm."
Tips from RVers
Off-season RV camping: Winter camping offers quiet experiences with fewer neighbors. "We camped at the lake for one night, mid-week, off season. We were only one of a few handful of RVs in the RV section of the campground. I could imagine it being a loud party-scene in the summer. But in the early spring, it was full of bird songs and a gorgeous sunset," shares an RVer at Lake Camanche.
Site selection for level parking: Many campsites have significant slopes. Lee D. notes at Lake Clementine: "Most of the sites that have a 'driveway' were not level, except for Sites 5 and 6. We lucked out with Site 6 – it was large and level and directly across from the vault toilets."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. Some locations like Juniper Campground have minimal service, while Lee D. reports about Lake Clementine: "We were surprised that we had a semi-decent cell signal ranging from 1 to 2 bars (Verizon)."
