Tent campsites near Deer Park, California range from lake-oriented sites to forest-sheltered grounds with varying seasonal availability. The camping season generally runs from April through October, though some sites remain accessible year-round with limited winter amenities. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s during daytime hours, while evening temperatures can drop below 50°F even in July, requiring both sun protection and warm sleeping gear.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: At Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores), campers can enjoy clear waters for paddleboarding and swimming. A visitor noted, "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."
Beach lounging: The Russian River offers gentle waters at Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, which maintains a private beach area. A camper mentioned, "Quick walk to the river to swim or sunbathe. They own a large beach across the road and is only open to schoolhouse guests so it's not too crowded and all familiar faces."
Cliff jumping: For adventurous campers, Manzanita Canyon at Lake Berryessa provides options for more extreme water recreation. According to one review, "Nice crystal clear water. There's a pretty awesome cliff jump nearby as well. Dogs are allowed. The lake is a very popular day use area as well."
Hiking local trails: The hiking trails around Boggs Mountain Demo Forest offer views of valleys below. A visitor shared, "I still come here to enjoy the new growth, the impressive new trails and the new views of the valleys below."
What campers like
Private beaches: Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers a retreat-like atmosphere with comfortable accommodations. One camper reported, "Four of us stayed in the Glamping Tent for two nights and it was perfect- very comfortable and relaxing. We also had access to our own private bathroom and shower a short walk away which was great."
Quiet campsites: Campers appreciate the peace at many tent camping areas near Deer Park. At Highlands Resort, a visitor noted, "Small clean and friendly. Easy to find help. Tucked away from the world, cozy little camp under a bridge and looking out of a crack to see huge waves coming in!"
Family-friendly sections: Several campgrounds separate family and adult areas. At Schoolhouse Canyon, a camper explained, "There are two sections to this campground. Lower half is family section and the upper section is adults only. This is a family run campground."
Lake views: Campsites with water views rank highly with visitors to Sky Campground at Point Reyes. A camper recommended, "I stayed at site #12 and felt that it and #11 were the best ones there because they are surrounded by lush vegetation and have trees that provide shade and protection against the wind. It also had a good view of the gorgeous coastline!"
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary significantly. At Steele Canyon, a camper reported, "it's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.). Fire scars all around the lake...looks like this entire area got hit a few years ago."
Water availability: Water access differs between campgrounds. A Bullfrog Pond visitor clarified, "There is a camp host at site 4 and the grounds are maintained quite well. Even the bathroom is a normal bathroom and kept clean."
Windy conditions: Lake Berryessa campsites often experience strong winds. A camper at Steele Canyon advised, "The campsites on the bluff of the hill can get windy so be prepared for that."
Cell service: Signal varies by location. At Lower Hunting Creek Campground, a camper noted, "Decent Verizon signal."
Site selection: Some campgrounds have significantly different site characteristics. A Bullfrog Pond visitor explained, "There are sites kinda in trees up the hill that are very close together. Or sites near the pond that are very exposed but more spacious."
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity: Putah Canyon at Lake Berryessa offers calm waters ideal for children. A visitor recommended, "Our favorite spot to take the kids to the lake. If your looking for something calm this is the spot at Lake Berryessa."
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer family-specific resources. At Schoolhouse Canyon, a camper noted, "Chris had books for the kids to read at the check in and stacks of fire wood $7 a bundle if you forgot to bring your own."
Family sections: Some campgrounds designate specific areas for families. A Schoolhouse Canyon visitor explained, "My son made quick friends with some other kids there and they had a great time. The Russian River is conveniently across the street, and the gravel beach area is great for little waders."
Quiet hours: Noise regulations help ensure family-friendly environments. A camper at Schoolhouse Canyon mentioned, "Just a heads up, it's a quiet campsite. Radios aren't allowed, so if you are looking to party late into the night this isn't the spot for you. We enjoyed the peace and quiet though."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: At tent campsites near Deer Park, California, RV spaces vary significantly. A visitor to Lower Hunting Creek Campground noted, "I car camped in an area just above the campground. A good bit of utv traffic."
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds offer minimal services for RVs. At Steele Canyon, a camper reported, "Nice site. Look in the 50's & 80's for the more secluded campsites. Can get windy, and it's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.)."
Water availability: Some campgrounds offer limited water access. A Steele Canyon camper advised, "Bring extra H2O. Lake is full at the moment which is great!"
Off-season availability: Campgrounds may have different off-season policies. A camper at Pleasure Cove Marina mentioned, "Very nice and peaceful stay. It got really cold at night (32 degrees), but my fault for not checking the weather. Beautiful views. Nice landscape. Spacious sites."
