Campsites near El Cerrito, California offer diverse terrain across an elevation range from sea level at coastal options to over 3,800 feet at Mount Diablo. The Bay Area's unique microclimate system creates distinct camping experiences even within short distances. While summer daytime temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, coastal areas can experience dense fog particularly in June and July, with inland areas remaining considerably warmer.
What to do
Hike the Pacific Coast Trail sections: At Mount Tamalpais State Park, connect to extensive trail networks. "You can hike throughout the island to with great bay views and bridge views on all sides. Then there is the history there from the Civil War sites to the immigration sites - so there is much to see and do beyoond hiking," notes one visitor to Angel Island.
Explore historic sites: The region contains numerous military installations and immigration facilities. "The island used to be intake for immigration and even had some military presence on the island back in the day. Lots of old buildings to explore, in addition to the awesome views of the San Francisco Bay Area," shares a camper who visited Angel Island.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer exceptional wildlife encounters. "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)," reports one camper who appreciated the natural setting despite urban proximity.
What campers like
Unexpected quiet: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campgrounds provide surprising solitude. "This is a well-kept park with proactive rangers only limited by their working hours, and despite it being quite accessible to Oakland, the park felt like camping in the wilderness," explains a visitor to Anthony Chabot Regional Park.
Diverse camping options: The region offers everything from RV parks to primitive tent sites. "These cabins are well worth the cost. There is a separate bedroom, you could sleep 2 couples on beds easily with extra floor space and a small individual bunk for larger families," notes a visitor about Steep Ravine's rustic accommodations.
Ferry access to island camping: Angel Island State Park provides a unique camping experience. "Load your backpack, get on a ferry in Tiburon and head to Angel Island. Campsites are walk in throughout the island. Remember there will be fog and there will be wind," advises a regular visitor who appreciates the island's distinct character.
What you should know
Gate access restrictions: Several campgrounds have timed entry gates that lock overnight. At Mount Diablo State Park, "they lock you in at sunset; if you want to leave you have to call the fire department to open the locked gate, it's not like a tiger-teeth exit but no entry kind of situation."
Wildlife interactions: Multiple campgrounds report determined wildlife. "The raccoons are vicious and fearless. Store all food and ANYTHING with a scent in the bear box. If you plan to leave your cooler outside of the bear box make sure it has a lock or secure latch," warns a camper at Kirby Cove.
Cell service variability: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "Live Oak is the closest to the entrance (and town), and features some cool rock formations to explore, but it's colder, has terrible cellular data service, and doesn't quite have the sunset/sunrise views that Juniper has," explains a Mount Diablo camper comparing the park's campgrounds.
Weather extremes: Microclimates affect camping conditions dramatically. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises a camper who stayed at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Easy introduction sites: For first-time campers with children, Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers an ideal setting. "For families who want a quick trip over Golden Gate Bridge to introduce their children (or adults!) to the great outdoors, their first camp, nowhere is more convenient and instantly gratifying."
Education opportunities: Several parks offer interpretive programs and facilities. "There are informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information," notes a camper at Samuel P. Taylor, highlighting the educational aspects of the campground.
Accessible water features: Streams and beaches appeal to younger campers. "The stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," shares a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park, describing features that make the campground appealing for families with children.
Wildlife viewing potential: Kids particularly enjoy abundant wildlife sightings. "We saw a mix of wildlife. Deer, hawks, wild turkeys. We saw an amazing sunset too," mentions a Mount Diablo visitor about their summer camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Parking and maneuverability: Many campgrounds have tight access roads and limited space. "Some spots are larger than others, and very few can accommodate a house-size tent," notes a camper at Pantoll Campground, indicating the size limitations at many area campgrounds.
RV park proximity to transit: For exploring San Francisco without driving, Marin RV Park offers strategic advantages. "Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco," explains an RVer who appreciated the location.
Hookup availability: Full-service options exist but are limited in the immediate area. "It is nothing more than a parking lot with hookups," notes one candid reviewer about Marin RV Park, highlighting the functional but no-frills nature of the closest RV facility to San Francisco.
Advance research needed: RVers should carefully check site specifications. "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)," cautions a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
