Best Tent Camping near Diablo, CA
Looking for the best Diablo tent camping? Finding a place to camp in California with your tent has never been easier. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Diablo, CA (36)
1. Sunrise Campground — Angel Island State Park
Tiburon, California9 Reviews•21 Photos•260 SavesIn the middle of San Francisco Bay sits Angel Island State Park, offering spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline, the Marin Headlands and Mount Tamalpais. The island is also alive with history. Three thousand years ago the island was a fishing and hunting site for Coastal Miwok Indians. It was later a haven for Spanish explorer Juan de Ayala, a cattle ranch, and a U.S. Army post. From 1910 to 1940, the island processed thousands of immigrants. During World War II, Japanese and German POWs were held on the island, which was also used as a jumping-off point for American soldiers returning from the Pacific. In the '50s and '60s, the island was home to a Nike missile base. Today, there are two active Coast Guard stations - at Point Blunt and Point Stuart - on the island. Angel Island became a State Park in 1958.
CAMPSITES
11 environmental, including an ADA site (each site accommodating up to 8 people) and a kayak-accessible site (holds up to 20 people).
For more information contact the rangers office: 415-435-5390
Please check in with the park staff upon arrival on the island.
Be prepared to carry and/or transport your equipment up to 2.5 miles. Some sections are uphill, total elevation gain may be over 300 feet. Tables, food-lockers, running water, pit-toilets, and a barbecue are located at each site.
Bring charcoal or a stove as no wood fires are allowed. Raccoons are active making food-locker storage very important. Travel on the island after sunset is prohibited in some areas for park security and public safety.
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Market
$30 / night
2. Steep Ravine Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park
Stinson Beach, California15 Reviews•60 Photos•489 SavesS Rav Camp Area (sites E1-E7)
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
$25 - $100 / night
3. Tilden Regional Park
Kensington, California4 Reviews•8 Photos•60 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
4. Pantoll Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park
Stinson Beach, California13 Reviews•62 Photos•339 SavesLocated half way up Mount Tamalpais' forested southern slopes, Pantoll Campground is one of two first-come, first-served walk-in campgrounds within Mount Tamalpais State Park (Bootjack being the other). With 16 historic campsites lying beneath a quiet Douglas fir forest, time spent next to the campfire here will quickly expunge thoughts of the big city that lies just a few miles to the south.
The campground has an assortment of sites that are distributed on the hill that extends from the Pantoll Day Use Area; sites located further uphill offer greater privacy and more room. All 16 sites are within a short, 100-yard walk from the car park. Each comes equipped with campfire pits and historic, stone-built campfire grills to accommodate all of your cooking and warming needs. Since advance reservations cannot be made for Pantoll, arriver earlier on weekend days to ensure you’ll have a site. You’ll likely have the campground to yourself if you are there mid-week.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
$7 - $25 / night
5. Morgan Territory Regional Preserve
Brentwood, California1 Review•25 Photos•9 Saves- Pets
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Trash
- Picnic Table
6. Redwood Regional Park
Piedmont, California1 Review•2 Photos•80 Saves- Pets
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
8. Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve
Orinda, California1 Review•27 Photos•63 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
9. Bicentennial Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Sausalito, California7 Reviews•19 Photos•280 SavesOverview
Bicentennial Campground is in an ideal location in the Marin Headlands surrounded by a grove of cypress trees. The campground is a great location for those wanting to camp near the city. There is a moderate short hill to climb to/from the campground from the parking area, which means car or RV camping is not allowed. It is downhill to the site and uphill back to the parking area.
Recreation
The Marin Headlands is noted for its great hiking, and many trails with scenic views are close by. Rodeo Beach is about 1.5 miles away. Point Bonita Lighthouse and the historic Nike Site are within walking distance.
Natural Features
The campground is secluded amongst a cypress tree grove and offers great views of the Golden Gate Bridge and city of San Francisco.
Nearby Attractions
Bicentennial Campground is a short walk from the Point Bonita Lighthouse and the Nike Missile Site. Also close by are some of the many 20th century coastal defense gun batteries and the city of San Francisco.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (415) 331-1540.
Charges & Cancellations
Refer to Recreation.gov policy on changes and cancellations.__To initiate a refund request more than 7 days after your reservation, call the recreation.gov call center at 877-444-6777.
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
- Trash
$25 / night
10. Juniper Campground — Mount Diablo State Park
Diablo, California1 Review•12 Photos•1 SaveJuniper Campground
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- WiFi
$30 / night
Recent Tent Reviews in Diablo
526 Reviews of 36 Diablo Campgrounds
Ben W.
Traveler
Juniper Campground — Mount Diablo State Park
Hot as hell in the summer
Insanely hot in the summer, I would recommend not going in July like we did. It was 104° or something and I was just drenching my clothes in water to stay cool.
The hike is pretty nice to the summit from there.
Lots of free water and there's free showers too which is awesome, but don't use the stinky toilet at the top there's way better ones around the bottom area.
They have food lockers, not bear lockers, and ours was broken one time so have a solid backup plan, the raccoons are very intelligent and they come out at night so be prepared for that.
BRING SHOWER SHOES AND SOAP UR GOING TO WANT IT
- Michell C.
Ranger
Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground
Very nice beach camping spot
The atmosphere here is wonderful. It’s quiet and right on the beach. Some RV spaces with hookups back right up to the sand/vegetation. Bathrooms and showers on site. We stayed in a spot without hookups and it was $35 per night. Gate staff was friendly and helpful. No dogs allowed in the beach in the park but a short walk away there is a public beach that is dog friendly, so that was nice for our doggo.
michael D.
Guide
Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay
We liked this extremely clean and well maintained Park.
We stayed here for 12 days while visiting relatives in the Bay area. This campground, while in the heart of Fremont, feels remote and safe in spite of being close to town. Sites are not huge, but arranged in such a way as to feel private. It is in the Coyote hills regional Park. There are many many trails for hiking and biking, and wildlife is plentiful. Our RV is small and we used the showers and bathrooms quite a bit. They are cleaned daily and we're always in great shape. The laundry is run by an outside organization, and the change machine was always empty, but everything worked well.
- TTim M.
Scout
Midway RV Park
Max 2 dogs
Gosh - this area just doesn't seem to like dogs much!
joe & Isabel M.Traveler
Delta Shores Resort and Marina
I’m a owner
This is a nice mostly Rv sight haven’t seen tenting, but I’m sure you could It has some year round renters towards the backside, of the park. Slips available for needed.
Alana S.ScoutDumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay
Great for first time campers
The staff was amazing. Tent site was spacious. Not too crowded. Clean bathroom and shower. Several trails to walk. Close to town in case we forgot something.
Adrian J.Traveler
Lake Solano County Park
Great County Park
This is an excellent and straightforward country park. It feels like a state park.
They have hookups and also dry camping. The better spots are near the water.
Contrary to other posts, they take walkups. It is just on the website it requires 2 weeks out.
Cloey J.Scout
Skyline Wilderness Park
Beautiful location
Beautiful view we were in campsite 40. A beautiful view of vineyards and the sunset and people riding their horses. So calm and beautiful and so many activities here to do. Also there is showers, bathrooms, and hookups, we love this place. Only 8 mins from downtown Napa
- MMacClellan R.Scout
Olema Campground
Spacious and Accommodating
We visited this park earlier this spring. Yes it was wet, but we didn't mind. Liked the spaces and layout so much...we are going back this fall. Plus we love that whole area.
However, DYRT got some info wrong. While there are plenty of full hookup spaces for RVs, there are no pull thru sites. Only back in for trailers and drive-in for coaches. Many tent camping spaces and RV spaces w/just water and power. The folks are friendly and helpful.
M.R.
- UUT801Ranger
Coyote Valley RV Resort
Buttoned up, formal atmosphere RV resort
High priced. Nice people at desk. Damon who helped us park was very friendly. Almost entirely high-priced big rigs, some of whom seem settled here but it's clean, 'orderly,' very quiet. Rigid rules keep the order; nice that no political flags/signs allowed. 2 dog parks and lots of grassy areas to take for a walk. Showers in locker-room/bldg, bathrooms nice and clean. Green grass. Also has laundry with 2.50 wash and.25 dry for 8 min. Skunk wandered by site in the night. Cool train sounds from nearby tracks at night. Was probably the most convenient to San Jose, otherwise we likely would've been in mtns. and too far away from town for our needs at the time. Would not be a regular choice for us.
- Izzy H.Scout
Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores)
Overnight stay
I got there after they closed (closes at 5pm.) But there's a number to call that was posted for after hours. A camper in front of me had already called and someone arrived within minutes. They were very helpful and friendly. I got a beautiful spot secluded from everyone. I loved it! Just me and nature. I played some music dance by myself as if nobody was watching.
Tyler S.Guide
Morgan Territory Regional Preserve
Backcountry campsite.
Feels very off grid. Camp experience was smooth and the sun was shining.
- JJason R.Guide
Joseph D Grant County Park - Horse Camp
Gate closes 8:15pm
Nice bathrooms no tokens needed, hot water, clean sink for dishes. Lotsa shaded oak spaces. Good trails.
- SStacy W.Scout
Portola Redwoods State Park Campground
It sucks. Don’t go there.
Cold. Foggy. No amenities. Don’t go there.
-Coastside Local
Sean Z.Scout
Anthony Chabot Regional Park
Great time inconvenienced by yellow jackets
We love to camp here for barbecuing, mountain biking and hiking. We always do it during 7/4 holidays except for this year when the park canceled our reservation due to high heat. So we booked for the Labor Day weekend. Temperature was perfect and biking and hiking were enjoyable as usual. This year we had two new types of visitors to the the site. A couple of wild turkeys came to pick up the dropped food on the ground. We were able to take a closeup look at them and they were beautiful birds with big eyes spotting tiny bits of crumbs. They come and go from one site to the next quietly and gently. Very cute and we took pictures with their presence. Then came the aggressive yellow jackets. We never had yellow jackets in our previous 7/4 outings here. Oh boy, they fought for the meat relentlessly. At the end of the outing, both my finger and my wife’s were stung. We reported the experience to the attendant at the gate when leaving. She said the park is looking for a solution. In the meantime, she suggested contacting them early on so they might be able to provide another site. Hopefully, next year, we won’t encounter so many nasties.
Martin L.TravelerOlema Campground
Great getaway spot
Ok, I was originally hoping for a cabin, which is included in my search, but this CG is either tent or RV only. Luckily, I also brought a tent.
I was there 2 weeks ago. It's a fairly large area and flat. Lots of space for kids to play including a play area.
Sheep roam freely in one area towards the back.
It's a great place for families. Showers are great. Includes a small shop for goodies.
I love it there. Only negative is there are only portapotties. Except for a couple that are constantly in use.
Handy H.Scout
Travis AFB FamCamp
ANDREW
Doggy Gyh
- Denise G.Guide
San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA
Busy and expensive but great for kids
Wow! This place is busy and expensive. We stopped at this KOA because it was a good halfway point for us heading to the Redwoods. This KOA offers a variety of activities that cater to children, such as petting zoos, jumping pillows, climbing walls, and pools, which are excellent for keeping the young ones engaged and entertained. To me it was overcrowded and the firepits were so close to the RV’s I was afraid it would set my neighbors RV on fire, or our neighbor was going to set ours on fire. For those without children (like us), the bustling environment might be overwhelming, but it also provides an opportunity to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- GGuyGuide
Brannan Island State Recreation Area
Great times
Brennan Island State Park is an absolute gem nestled in the heart of the California Delta. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by friendly staff who make you feel right at home. The park's natural beauty is simply breathtaking, with expansive views of the Delta's sparkling waters and lush landscapes.
The park offers a variety of activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into boating, fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water, there's something here for everyone. The well-maintained trails provide the perfect opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna, and the picnic areas are ideal for a leisurely lunch with family and friends.
One of the highlights of Brennan Island State Park is its sense of community. The other visitors are always warm and welcoming, creating a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere. It's a great place to meet new people who share a love for the great outdoors.
Overall, Brennan Island State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and friendly vibes of the California Delta. It's a perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- CCarsten S.Traveler
San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA
Great pool, nice RV park
The pool was great during the oven like temperatures, the staff was very kind and the amenities were good and clean. Movies night every night, and shop for groceries on site.
Lori L.Guide
Snug Harbor RV Park & Marina
Loved it
My husband and I stayed for two nights. It is difficult to get to when in an RV towing Two skis (still haven’t found out if the ferry can take vehicles that are towing) , but it was worth the drive. It is an older park, but the bathroom was clean (and free) , there is a fantastic beach, the managers were super friendly, and best of all….. our RV window looked out over our very own doc!
Alma L.Ranger
Del Valle Regional Park
Distance from home was the highlight
I had a very different take on this place than the others. The RV spot was a fair distance from the neighboring spots, it was low-density, quite, all good qualities, but there was very little see or do near the loop. There were no hikes suitable for young kids as far as I could tell. There was a little store for ice cream and camping supplies and dump station on the loop. HOWEVER, WARNING: the road around the campground looks wide but there are boulders every 10 feet or so making it insanely hard to back into our spot - and we had only a 22ft trailer! I can't see myself coming back here. The maps do accurately depict the relatively narrow space you have for back in spots. Once we were in, it was fine. The pedestal and sewer set-up was just fine. No issues there. It's just not worth the hassle.
As for the park/water part of the park, well, it was covered in garbage from the day-trippers. It was packed and only accessible by driving to it. Truly not a place I wanted to BBQ or picnic at. Cars, people, dogs, loud music, and garbage. A gross diaper on the shore. We took a very nice hike starting at the dog run. That was beautiful, but not worth the trip.
I didn't bother to photograph our site. There were all adequate, just avoid back in site here. There are so many better places to visit. I checked this off the list, no reason to return. I don't believe there was reception either from the campsite.
Last thing, we peaked in on the cabins in our loop. They looks very nice and maintained.
- NNOra M.Scout
Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area
1 Night
We stayed 1 night and it was perfect. The staff was very nice and the place was clean and quiet. There are toilets and showers on the campground and it only cost 10$!
the campsite is perfect for traveling through and getting a night's sleep.
- RR. Daniel I.Scout
Delta Shores Resort and Marina
Clean, friendly — plenty of shade
Membership park will accept outsiders — on the delta with marina for boaters and fishing
Praveen R.Scout
Bicentennial Campground — Golden Gate National Recreation Area
No parking on the site
Had to walk all the way down to get to the camp site with all the gear, it was to windy to put up our tent
- UUriel S.Scout
East Bay Regional Park District Del Valle Family Campground
Bay Area escape
This is nice little campground that is only about 15 minutes from downtown Livermore. It’s a great escape from the craziness of the Bay Area without having to drive too far. The lack of cell reception really helps the feeling of being away from the city life. There was quite a bit of wildlife roaming through the park mainly in the early morning. I saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground.
The restrooms and showers were clean and functional. Maybe a bit outdated, but I don’t see that as a negative considering everything works. It’s also nice that the showers are free, no need to bring your roll of quarters.
The close proximity to the lake and all the hiking trails is a huge plus.
The only negatives I can mention are the camp store and the lack of privacy at each site. It seems like the camp store is only open on Saturdays which means if you need anything, it’s close to an hour long commitment to drive into Livermore, buy what you need, and drive back. I’m not sure if that’s always the case but when I visited in April that was what the sign had posted. As far as the lack of privacy, I don’t think it’s a deal breaker since there is a good amount of space between sites but they are all fully exposed. I can see these being a bit of a problem especially on a crowded weekend.
Overall a nice campground in a good location with plenty to do in the area.
Tony G.Guide
Lower Blooms Creek — Big Basin Redwoods State Park — CAMPGROUND CLOSED
Closed to camping
Big Basin is unfortunately closed to camping. You can't even bring a trailer in for day use as parking is very limited. This is due to a fire a few years back that devastated the park and completely burned down all structures, including ranger station, store, and all restrooms.
It is a shame because it is/was a fantastic place.
Guide to Diablo
Tent camping near Diablo, California offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to set up your tent and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Tips for tent camping near Diablo
- Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve features a primitive hike-in site with stunning 360-degree views, perfect for those looking to escape the city while enjoying a unique volcanic landscape.
- Tilden Regional Park provides ample hiking trails and family-friendly activities, making it a great choice for campers who want to combine relaxation with adventure.
- Morgan Territory Regional Preserve offers a backcountry experience that feels off-grid, ideal for those seeking solitude and a true connection with nature.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- At Coyote Hills Regional Park, you can enjoy scenic walking paths and wildlife viewing, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Briones Regional Park is perfect for hiking and horseback riding, providing diverse trails that cater to various skill levels.
- Las Trampas Regional Wilderness offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views, ideal for those looking to push their limits while enjoying the great outdoors.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Garin Regional Park allows pets and features picnic areas, making it a family-friendly option for those traveling with furry companions.
- Redwood Regional Park is known for its beautiful redwood trees and well-maintained facilities, providing a serene environment for campers.
- Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve welcomes pets and offers a unique historical experience, perfect for those interested in exploring the area's mining history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Diablo, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Diablo, CA is Sunrise Campground — Angel Island State Park with a 4.9-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Diablo, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 36 tent camping locations near Diablo, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.