Tent campsites near Dixon, California typically experience summer temperatures that frequently exceed 100°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for camping. The region sits at relatively low elevations between 100-500 feet above sea level, with the exception of the Mount Diablo area which reaches heights of nearly 3,900 feet. Water availability varies dramatically by campground, with many sites requiring campers to bring their own supplies.
What to do
Paddleboarding and kayaking: At Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores), the lake offers calm waters perfect for paddlesports. A camper notes, "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."
Fishing opportunities: Delta Bay RV Resort provides access to excellent fishing spots. According to a visitor, "Spent the night at my usual fishing spot and had a great time. Staff is friendly and food is good." The Delta waterways contain multiple fish species and provide year-round fishing opportunities.
Hiking trails: Morgan Territory Regional Preserve offers secluded hiking with minimal crowds. A camper describes it as feeling "very off grid. Camp experience was smooth and the sun was shining." The preserve contains over 30 miles of trails through oak woodlands and grasslands.
What campers like
Lake access: Rancho Seco Recreation Area offers tent sites directly adjacent to water. According to a reviewer, "I pitched a tent in site 43 right next to the lake. Excellent place." The campground provides direct lake access from many of its sites.
Privacy between sites: Many visitors value the seclusion available at certain campgrounds. As one camper at Putah Canyon noted, "Loads of space, security driving around, noise limit is 10pm. Toilets are clean and trash cans are provided. They sell ice and propane on-site."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and facilities matter to campers in this region. A visitor to Rancho Seco Recreation Area shared, "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. 12 miles from I-5 out in the country. Very quiet."
What you should know
Extreme heat concerns: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, especially at lower elevations. One camper at Juniper Campground warned, "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."
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are common at many campgrounds around Dixon. A Juniper Campground visitor advised, "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."
Wind exposure: Some tent campsites experience significant wind, particularly those on elevated terrain. At Steele Canyon, a camper observed, "The campsites on the bluff of the hill can get windy so be prepared for that."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly water activities: Manzanita Canyon offers swimming and water recreation options. A camper shares, "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."
Kid-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds have features specifically designed for families with children. At Rancho Seco Recreation Area, a visitor noted, "Enjoyed camping here several times as a family and with a group. Beautiful lake to canoe/kayak about. Sites along lake are best."
Quiet locations for families: Some locations specifically appeal to families seeking calm environments. A camper at Steele Canyon mentioned, "Our favorite spot to take the kids to the lake. If your looking for something calm this is the spot at Lake Berryessa."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for tent campers: At Lake Berryessa, certain tent sites offer more privacy than others. A camper at Steele Canyon advised, "Look in the 50's & 80's for the more secluded campsites." Site selection can significantly impact camping experience.
Water management: Most tent sites near Dixon require campers to bring additional water supplies. A visitor to Steele Canyon noted, "it's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups) and fire scars all around the lake...looks like this entire area got hit a few years ago. Bring extra H2O."
Bathroom facilities: Tent campers should note the varying quality of bathroom facilities. A Steele Canyon visitor mentioned, "My spot did not have running water, but it did have Porta potties that were extremely clean."
