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Best Campgrounds near Hayward, CA

929 Reviews

The East Bay area surrounding Hayward, California encompasses several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive, offering urban-adjacent camping options within regional parks and state recreation areas. Garin Regional Park in Hayward provides tent camping, while Anthony Chabot Regional Park in nearby Castro Valley offers both tent and RV sites set among eucalyptus groves. Additional options include Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont and the newer Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay, which opened in 2021. Most campgrounds in this area support tent camping, with several also accommodating RVs and a few offering cabin rentals.

Campground availability remains consistent year-round at most locations, with Anthony Chabot and Del Valle campgrounds specifically noting "all year" seasons. Reservations are generally required, with prices ranging from $35-65 per night depending on amenity levels. Many sites offer full hookups for RVs, while tent-only areas typically provide picnic tables and fire rings where permitted. The region experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, though summer fog and winter rains can affect camping conditions. A camper at Anthony Chabot noted, "This campground is beautiful and at 50% of normal capacity even better! The campground is set among a grove of eucalyptus trees that offer shade, which would be really nice during summer, and a calming aroma."

Several visitors highlight the urban-accessible nature of these campgrounds while maintaining natural surroundings. Anthony Chabot receives praise for its proximity to hiking trails and Lake Chabot, where fishing and boating are available. Dumbarton Quarry Campground, despite being recently developed, has earned positive reviews for its cleanliness and bay access. "Best part about the campground is access to miles of trails by the side of the bay," mentioned one camper. Many reviews note the convenience for Bay Area residents seeking quick getaways without lengthy travel. Sites typically include basic amenities like restrooms and showers, though amenity levels vary significantly between primitive tent sites and full-hookup RV areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the regional parks, with several reviews mentioning animal sightings.

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Best Camping Sites Near Hayward, California (178)

    1. Anthony Chabot Regional Park

    29 Reviews
    Castro Valley, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    $25 - $200 / night

    "as usual some spots are better than others but most close to restrooms and/or water. lots of poison oak and star thistle right off trail. great deterrent for kids to stay out of tick areas but id worry"

    "Midweek in June the park, which is fairly large, is still nearly empty."

    2. Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay

    10 Reviews
    Newark, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    $45 - $65 / night

    "What they do have are scores of hookup sites for $60 / night and three tent / drive-in no hookup water-only sites for $45 / night."

    "Since it's a new campground, the trees are young and don't supply much shade, but since it's close to the SF Bay, the bay breeze helps."

    3. Live Oak Campground — Mount Diablo State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Diablo, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (925) 837-2525

    $30 / night

    "This mountain has many of hiking trails for various levels of hikers."

    "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"

    4. Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Pleasanton, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (925) 426-3340

    "The Fairview RV Park is a great Bay Area location easy to find right off hwy 680, in the Alameda county fairgrounds. The staff are all pleasant to work with and the park and facilities are clean."

    "If the Alameda Fairgrounds are having an event, you can't beat this location, it's on the property."

    5. Del Valle Campground — East Bay Regional Park District

    23 Reviews
    Livermore, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    $15 - $200 / night

    "After time spent here at this oasis in the middle of Eastbay, California, you’ll very much feel like part of this place with its endless trails, fantastically well-kept camping grounds and the warm hospitality"

    "Campsite amenities were great, easy access to water and bathrooms. Bathrooms were spotless the whole weekend, even though it was a holiday weekend and every site was booked."

    6. Trailer Villa RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Redwood City, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (650) 366-7880

    "Clean, has some views from far border of the hills but the spots are tight and there is not much to do but hook-up."

    "After-hours check-in was a breeze, as the checkin instructions were taped to the main door of the office at the park entrance."

    7. Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground

    27 Reviews
    Half Moon Bay, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (650) 726-8819

    $35 - $165 / night

    "We rarely make reservations to camp in California Beach Parks, as they are usually filled up weeks or even months in advance."

    "Beautiful beach walking distance from campground. Bike or walking trails to wonderful beaches and places to eat. Short drive to many other areas. small but good size sites for where it is."

    8. Coyote Hills Regional Park

    2 Reviews
    Newark, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    $75 / night

    "We walked through and enjoyed the nature areas so much. We continue to go back and spend time at Cayote Hills because it is so beautiful. We can't wait until thwe next time."

    9. Garin Regional Park

    2 Reviews
    Union City, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    $100 / night

    "Dogs are allowed they have picknic area's and a kite area.thete are several different entrances."

    10. Sunol

    3 Reviews
    Sunol, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    "I have never camped here but hiked many trails."

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Recent Camping Photos near Hayward, CA

306 Photos of 178 Hayward Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Hayward, CA

929 Reviews of 178 Hayward Campgrounds

  • Sary W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    San Francisco RV Resort

    Close to City

    We stayed here as we had baseball game tickets in SF during our RV trip. Close to city and in a safe area. Liked sleeping to the sounds of crashing waves and was able to use full hookups.

    Bathrooms were pretty dirty - not as pictured. Although I liked that the showers locked. Rec area was very run down. Laundry has mobile payment and was clean and accessible.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Pantoll Campground — Mount Tamalpais State Park

    Pantoll

    Very nice small campground on Mt Tam. All sites are a small walk up on a hill kind of steep. Ranger station at parking lot that sells firewood. Water faucets, bathrooms. No showers. Bear lockers.

  • Jake M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground

    Very quite/ beautiful sites

    We’re hoping to get a spot with less of a hill to climb but on the top it’s a nice flat terrain. Nice view some campsites are closer to watch other than others.

  • Sary W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Redwood Resort RV Park & Campground

    Friendly and quiet

    Was able to book the night before and get the last full hookup spot. The man who checked us in was super friendly and answered all of my partners questions and even helped us with some basic RV knowledge as we’re new.

    Redwoods are super pretty. Area outside of the RV park isn’t super walkable though. Bathrooms are fine for the price and very clean.

    Situated near the people who live in the park and they were super friendly and quiet.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park

    Clean, safe place to park, fairly busy.

    Well maintained, friendly host. Clean, feels safe. Bridge construction at the mouth of the harbor, use the path next to the bridge (don’t let Apple Maps send you though miles of residential streets, just walk around the construction). Lots of things to do and see, e-bike rental racks all over the city (get the BCycle app). Best tacos at Las Palmas at the foot of the pier! It’s a University town UC Santa Cruz) so enjoy all that culture.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Anthony Chabot Regional Park

    Lovely site, really close to San Francisco!

    On visiting San Francisco we were looking for a site that wasn’t a car park. This really met the mark! Beautiful place with great sites. Nice picnic tables & fire pits! Was very quiet

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Santa Cruz Redwoods RV Resort

    Lovely RV site!

    Really lovely RV site. Nice toilets & showers. Lovely shady spots and really close to Santa Cruz

  • T
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Anthony Chabot Regional Park

    Nice location and activities, but a bit cramped

    I just needed/wanted a short getaway without driving hours from home. Since I'm used to this place for mountain biking, I figured I'd try camping here for a couple nights. 

    I did a recon ride previously on my mountain bike, so knew which spots I'd prefer and booked site 35 for a Thursday and Friday night. 

    Arrived at about 5PM and found my spot. The ranger booth was closed, but I didn't feel the need to chat with them anyway. The place was largely unoccupied at this point. Maybe a dozen or so spots appeared taken. 

    The weather, though hot in the Bay Area at this point, was quite nice. The breeze and shade of the park made for a very comfortable setting. I believe it was 88 in Castro Valley, but felt about 78 at the campground. I don't have AC for the van, but didn't feel I needed any. 

    I got setup and then headed out for a short ride, followed by a warm shower, cold beer and dinner. It was quiet that evening and I slept well. 

    I worked through the morning Friday, though the Starlink suffered some interruptions due to the tree cover. Early afternoon more people started to show up, as I expected. I went for a long ride and when I returned the place was much more occupied and people were setting up tents, starting their bbq's, etc. Though a bit close to the neighbors, none of them were obnoxious. 

    My advice would be to know the spot you're selecting and know that in the summer months the grass isn't green :) 

    I'd score the individual aspects as follows (1-5):

    Bathrooms: 4

    Location: 5

    Activities: 5

    Privacy: 3

    Cleanliness: 4

  • g
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Olema Campground

    Nice spot, little privacy

    Lovely large meadow with scattered trees. RC/van spots are arranged in cul de sacs, tent spots on the edges of fields.

    Somewhat noisy - kids, dogs, radios - but settled down by 9. Friendly vibe. Expensive at $83/nt but good showers. Wifi was slow when I stayed.

    Decent backup option for the area if Samuel Taylor is booked.

Guide to Hayward

Camping near Hayward, California, offers a great mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful trails nearby," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Beach Activities: Head to New Brighton State Beach Campground for some fun in the sun. A visitor shared, "Great views and easy access to the beach," highlighting the campground's prime location.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper noted, "We were harassed by cute little chipmunks and birds," adding a fun twist to your camping experience.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground said, "It’s a lovely campsite with most sites being under tree canopies."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Mount Madonna County Park mentioned, "The VERY cleanest restrooms, with the added convenience of hand soap!!"
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA are great for families. One parent said, "Great playground, jumping pillow, petting farm and mining fun :)" which keeps kids entertained.

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground noted, "Always tough to get a reservation, but it never disappoints if you can get one."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell coverage in some areas. A visitor at California Sunset State Beach mentioned, "Only one bar AT&T cell coverage," so plan accordingly.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see wildlife, which can be both charming and challenging. One camper at Anthony Chabot Regional Park shared, "We had two new types of visitors... wild turkeys," which can be fun but also means keeping food secure.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA that offer activities for kids. One reviewer said, "This place is busy and expensive but great for kids."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A camper at New Brighton State Beach Campground mentioned, "The pool was great during the oven-like temperatures," indicating the need for refreshments.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: With many families around, it’s good to have a quiet time. A visitor at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground noted, "It was quiet and peaceful," which can help kids recharge.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the RV sites. A camper at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground mentioned, "Not sure that this place would be good for giant rigs."
  • Bring a Lock for Food Storage: At campgrounds like Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, securing food is essential. One reviewer advised, "Make sure you bring a padlock as there is no locking mechanism on the door."
  • Utilize Dump Stations: Many campgrounds have dump stations available. A visitor at Anthony Chabot Regional Park noted, "The dump station was in good working order," which is a plus for RVers.

Camping around Hayward, CA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there private campgrounds in Hayward for more secluded camping?

For more secluded camping experiences in the Hayward area, Half Moon Bay RV Park offers private accommodations with helpful staff and well-maintained facilities. The park features pull-through sites that can be positioned to maximize privacy. Another option is Skyline Wilderness Park, which separates tent camping areas from RV sections, providing more seclusion for tent campers. While not completely isolated, the separation from RVs creates a more peaceful environment. Both parks offer the advantage of private management with amenities like water hookups while still providing a more personal camping experience than larger public campgrounds.

What are the best campgrounds in Hayward, Wisconsin?

Hayward offers excellent camping options, with Garin Regional Park standing out for its drive-in sites and reservation availability. For those seeking a more natural experience, Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides family-friendly sites with good access to restrooms and water. The park features numerous hiking trails, though be aware of poison oak and star thistle just off the trails. Campsites are spacious enough for tents and small RVs, with many sites accommodating families with children. Both parks offer excellent access to outdoor recreation while still being conveniently located near urban amenities.

Are there any lakeside camping options in Hayward?

Hayward offers excellent lakeside camping opportunities. New Brighton State Beach Campground provides stunning coastal camping with sites situated on a bluff near the ocean. These spacious sites include fire rings and tables, with easy walking access to the water. Be prepared for cooler temperatures at night due to the proximity to the water. For those preferring a different water setting, San Mateo Memorial Park offers a beautiful basecamp near coastal areas. While not directly on a lakeshore, it provides excellent access to nearby coastal hikes and water features, making it a great alternative for water-oriented camping experiences.

What types of camping accommodations are available in Hayward?

Hayward and the surrounding area offer diverse camping accommodations to suit various preferences. For traditional camping, Sanborn County Park provides walk-in tent sites with convenient carts for hauling gear, storage boxes, picnic tables, and clean bathroom facilities. RV enthusiasts can enjoy Trailer Villa RV Park with full hookup sites and big-rig-friendly accommodations. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Castle Rock Trail Camp offers backpacking-style camping accessible by trail. The region's camping options range from fully-serviced RV parks to rustic tent-only sites, with various amenities like electricity, water hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables depending on the location.

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