The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta region near Hood, California offers diverse camping options in a network of waterways at just 10 feet above sea level. Seasonal temperature swings mean summer highs can reach 95°F while winter brings cooler weather and occasional fog. Delta camping sites often have water access with established facilities for both tent and yurt camping across the region.
What to Do
Kayak rentals: At SacWest RV Park & Campground, visitors can access nearby waters. "It is the only RV parking in Sacramento that will allow you to stay for one night. Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!" notes Tatiana I.
Delta exploration: The waterways around Lake Camanche offer multiple recreation opportunities. "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend to start our year off. Water is really nice!" shares Julie E.
Wildlife observation: The delta ecosystem hosts numerous bird species. A visitor at SacWest described it as "Serene and full of fowls," making it ideal for nature photography and birdwatching.
Fishing access: Many campgrounds provide direct fishing access from campsites. One camper at Lake Camanche mentioned, "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. Fishing is awesome! Hiking trails can be better."
What Campers Like
Direct water access: Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina offers convenient water entry. "Sugar barge is right on the delta. They have a boat trailer parking lot and a boat ramp. They rent kyacks and have a restaurant that looks right over the water," reports Cynthia H.
Proximity to urban amenities: Sites like Cal Expo RV Park balance outdoor access with city conveniences. "Inter city RV Park at Cal Expo. Great Bike paths adjacent along the river into Downtown or up to Folsom. All Full hook up sites on gravel or asphalt," notes Paul N.
Tent-specific areas: While many sites focus on RVs, some offer designated tent camping. At Sugar Barge, one camper mentioned, "The tent-area was a clearing, fully backed up to the levee, with some shade and a water spigot. Appears to be only 4 'sites,' which are defined by picnic tables, GENEROUSLY spaced."
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal locations, some Hood-area campgrounds remain open year-round. "Our go to campground for Winter Camping and Fishing," shared a Lake Camanche visitor. "We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January."
What You Should Know
Seasonal crowds: Summer months bring significant visitor increases. "Weekends are filled up and busy, but during the week days it's nice and quiet," notes a Lake Camanche reviewer.
Wind conditions: The delta's geography creates consistent wind patterns. At Brannan Island State Recreation Area, a visitor warned it's "noisy (lots of traffic on the main road bc of all of the boating traffic), hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel)."
Reservation timing: For peak seasons, plan well ahead. "Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6 months out)," advises a Lake Camanche camper.
Yurt camping availability: The Hood area offers limited yurt camping options with most structures requiring advance booking. Structures range from basic canvas wall tents to more substantial cabins.
Foxtail grass hazards: Pet owners should note potential hazards. At Brannan Island, one visitor cautioned the area is "full of grasses like foxtails (that are quite dangerous for dogs, especially when they're dry!)"
Tips for Camping with Families
Youth-focused activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Tower Park specializes in family programming. "This was a nice campground that focuses around child/family activities. There is always something for kids to do. Campsites are nice. Restrooms are clean," reports Stephanie B.
Weekend entertainment options: Some sites offer scheduled activities. A Jellystone visitor shared, "We go for Halloween and there is trick or treating through the whole place, a haunted house and a decor and costume contest. Our kids really enjoy the freedom to go play while the adults sit back and relax."
Safety considerations: Family sites often have specific rules. "Caution drive slowly there are little kids everywhere!" warns a Jellystone Park camper.
Budget planning: Family activities may incur additional costs. "There are plenty of things to do for your kids but be prepared to spend a lot of money for a site for the weekend," notes a Jellystone visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Delta Shores Resort and Marina, location matters. "Very nice flat green grassy cover camp sits. Like your camping in your home backyard. 30 and 50amp campsite," notes one RVer who adds advice about water management: "Praticeing good water management. Dish pans in sink to dump water out on grassy lawns."
Hookup positioning: Some sites have challenging utility layouts. A visitor at Sugar Barge mentioned, "My only complaint, the water spigot is really close to the ground and really close to the sewer drain. Scrub with bleach before booking up your water and you'll be fine."
Noise considerations: Urban proximity means potential noise issues. A Cal Expo visitor noted, "It is quite noisy at night with traffic, sirens and other noise."
Off-season advantages: Consider scheduling outside peak periods. "We stayed at the lake for one night, mid-week, off season. We were only one of a few handful of RVs in the RV section of the campground. I could imagine it being a loud party-scene in the summer," reports a Lake Camanche visitor.
