Camping sites near Hercules, California sit at the convergence of three counties—Contra Costa, Marin, and Solano—creating diverse terrain options within a 30-mile radius. The area experiences a Mediterranean climate with summer temperatures ranging from 60-80°F, while winter brings cooler weather and occasional rainfall averaging 24 inches annually. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop into the 40s overnight, especially at sites with higher elevations.
What to do
Explore hiking trails at Skyline Wilderness Park: Located in Napa, this park offers hiking through native terrain with elevation changes. A camper noted, "Hiking is nice too especially in winter when everything is green. It's like a fairy wonderland on the Manzanita trail."
Visit Angel Island by ferry: Accessible only by boat from Tiburon, Angel Island State Park offers unique camping with city views. "The upside of being patient with how far out you make your reservation is that once the last ferry leaves, you have the island practically to yourself. It is pretty awesome," one visitor shared.
Beach access at Golden Gate Recreation Area: From Kirby Cove Campground, you can reach a private beach with Golden Gate Bridge views. "Three minute walk to the beach with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. You will pass Battery Kirby on the way to the beach," reports a camper.
Mountain biking at Anthony Chabot: The park features extensive trail networks for cycling enthusiasts. "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," a visitor mentioned.
What campers like
Privacy at Mount Tamalpais sites: Pantoll Campground offers secluded camping despite its popularity. A camper described, "We swooped up sites 10/11 with some privacy in the back and away from the rest of the camp, but alongside a trailhead."
Access to San Francisco without driving: RV campers appreciate locations with public transportation. One reviewer at Marin RV Park shared, "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco. We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St."
Diverse wildlife sightings: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to see native animals. At Skyline Wilderness Park, a camper noted, "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" while another mentioned seeing "a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away."
Historical exploration: Several sites feature military history. "Battery Kirby is right there at the campground and interesting to explore. Active from 1898 to 1934 the battery is quite interesting to walk through," a visitor to Kirby Cove reported.
What you should know
Cell service varies by location: While urban-adjacent sites have good connectivity, others may not. A camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park explained, "In terms of cell service, I had pretty good range, was able to listen to the Cubs win one of four games against the Pirates."
Site proximity and noise: Many campgrounds have closely situated sites. At Marin RV Park, a reviewer noted, "Sites were cramped in tight. $65/night for water and electricity," while another described it as "a parking lot with hookups."
Wildlife precautions necessary: Raccoons are particularly problematic at some sites. A Kirby Cove camper warned, "I've been camping my whole life and NEVER have I seen raccoons so persistent. Not aggressive. Just persistent. And fearless. They. Will. Not. Leave. You. Alone."
Weather differences between locations: Coastal sites experience different conditions than inland areas. "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," noted a camper at Anthony Chabot.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly activities: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers easy trails and wildlife viewing suitable for children. "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)," a visitor shared.
Consider neighborhood camping etiquette: Some campgrounds attract first-time campers unfamiliar with protocols. A Samuel P. Taylor visitor advised, "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."
Pack for rapidly changing weather: Coastal fog and wind affect comfort significantly. An Angel Island camper cautioned, "Be aware that it gets very windy and chilly at night, so come prepared with a sturdy tent and warm clothing."
Reserve well in advance for weekends: Popular sites fill quickly, especially Angel Island with only 10 sites total. A camper noted, "There are only 10 sites on Angel Island, so we got a permit by going during the week (24 hour trip out the front door and back) Tuesday-Wednesday."
Tips from RVers
Consider site spacing limitations: At Skyline Wilderness Park, RV sites have specific constraints. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," one RVer reported.
Look for quick overnight options: For transit stops, Benicia State Recreation Area offers affordable short stays. A visitor explained, "This state recreation area has 3 spots for overnight parking (one night only, first come first served). As this is a popular day use area for hikers and bikers, you can't pull in until 3pm and you have to be out by 9am."
Check for self-contained requirements: Not all sites accommodate all RV types. A Benicia visitor warned, "Tried camping here but the ranger said I had to have a self-contained toilet since the park itself is locked at dusk."
Use rest areas for economical stays: The H. Dana Bower Rest Area offers free overnight parking with Golden Gate views. "Stayed for two nights, great view. Reasonably quiet on the side away from the road. Very safe, police patrols throughout the day/night," a visitor shared.
