Camping sites near Dixon, California provide year-round options within reasonable driving distance of both Sacramento and the Bay Area. Located in the interior valleys of Northern California with elevations typically under 300 feet, this region experiences more extreme temperature swings than coastal areas. Winter fog commonly blankets the region from November through February, reducing visibility and creating damp conditions at many campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing at Brannan Island SRA: This water-oriented recreation area provides extensive fishing opportunities in the Delta waterways. "Gateway to the Delta. Lots of fishing and boating activities. Campsites are spaced out. Easy access to the water. Family favorite," notes one camper at Brannan Island State Recreation Area.
Water activities at Lake Solano: Located near Winters, this county park offers various water recreation options within 15 miles of Dixon. A camper shares, "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."
Bird watching at SacWest RV Park: The riparian habitat along the Sacramento River corridor attracts numerous bird species. "Great family park," mentions one reviewer, while another notes it's "Serene and full of fowls" at SacWest RV Park & Campground.
What campers like
River access: Waterfront sites remain popular in this otherwise inland region. At Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park, one camper appreciates "Beautiful spaces to park your RV with a view of the river and small local marina. Everything you need to 'get away' is here and big city amenities a short drive away."
Hot showers at Lake Solano: Unlike some more rustic campgrounds, Lake Solano County Park offers amenities that receive specific praise. "Love that the showers are hot and free! You may have to push the button several times but totally worth while in my opinion!" shares an enthusiastic camper at Lake Solano County Park.
Hiking options in Napa area: For those willing to drive 25-30 miles from Dixon, more terrain variety becomes available. A visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park notes, "A safe, beautiful, affordable property to spend outdoors time on. The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more."
What you should know
Summer heat management: From June through September, temperatures regularly exceed 95°F and sometimes reach 105°F. At night, temperatures often remain above 65°F. A camper at Skyline Wilderness Park warns, "The only reason we didn't extend one more night was the freezing cold at night (visited in late December)."
Reservation policies vary: Some campgrounds require significant advance planning. At Lake Solano, a frustrated camper reports, "An empty campground, tired family and the host can't let us take a space because we don't have a reservation two weeks prior."
Fairground camping option: For basic overnight stays, Dixon May Fair offers simple accommodations. A visitor notes, "We pulled in with a travel trailer and an SUV with small cargo trailer. They made us rent 2 spots even tho we could have fit it one as the sites are HUGE. Full hookup, no wifi, cable connection but no cable, and NO BATHROOMS."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for hot days: When temperatures climb, swimming facilities become essential. At Skyline Wilderness Park, facilities accommodate various needs: "RV campsites are close together and semi-level. Bathrooms could use some TLC. But the park is nice with lots of hiking, views and close to Napa."
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer designated recreation areas. One camper at SacWest notes, "Great campground! Hospitality and professionalism- that how you can describe this place! Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!"
Nature encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities appeal to younger campers. Skyline Wilderness offers "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" according to a recent visitor.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Most camping areas near Dixon offer reasonable RV accommodations. At Yolo County Fair RV Park, about 20 miles north of Dixon, a camper reports, "This place is in a great location with easy access from I-5. Plenty of room and easy on-line registration."
Overnight convenience: For those just passing through, SacWest offers accessibility. "It is the only RV parking in Sacramento that will allow you to stay for one night," explains one reviewer, with another adding, "Lots of pull through spots. Hood showers. Loved the pool. Had pizza delivered right to the spot."
Site selection considerations: Noise factors vary by location. At SacWest, a visitor advises, "This is a nice little place on the edge of town. A Maverik next door that can be noisy-as any gas station can be- but even closer to it it's not too much."
