Sacramento River Delta camping near Rio Vista, California centers around waterfront recreation. The region sits at sea level with numerous waterways and wetlands creating a complex network of channels that appeal to boaters and anglers. Winter temperatures average 45-60°F while summer reaches 85-95°F with persistent delta breezes that can challenge tent setups.
What to do
Boat launching: Brannan Island State Recreation Area offers excellent water access. "They have a big boat launch for easy launching," notes Ed S., adding that it's "very close to the Sacramento River for a nice cruise." Mike C. describes it as the "Gateway to the Delta" with "lots of fishing and boating activities."
Family water fun: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Tower Park provides extensive recreation beyond standard camping. "Nice playground, basketball court, volleyball, bouncy pillow, outdoor movies, pool, lazy river, water park, bumper boats, laser tag, boat rentals on the delta," writes Katie B. David B. adds, "Lots of greats amenities for families. Lots of people however the park is huge and didn't feel like it was too busy."
Beach activities: Sandy Beach County Park combines camping with riverside relaxation. "Campground is adjacent to public beach, boat ramp/dock, and picnic area," reports John W., who appreciated the "big grassy areas between sites." The park offers both recreation and affordable rates with "Senior rate of $20."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Sites along the Sacramento River provide prime viewing locations. At Delta Shores Resort and Marina, campers enjoy a marina setting. As Craig & Linda L. describe it, "Very nice flat green grassy cover camp sits. Like camping in your home backyard." R. Daniel I. adds it has "plenty of shade" and is "on the delta with marina for boaters and fishing."
Private dock access: Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina offers direct water connections. "Sugar barge is right on the delta. They have a boat trailer parking lot and a boat ramp," notes Cynthia H. Larry W. appreciated the tent area, which is "a clearing, fully backed up to the levee, with some shade and a water spigot."
Clean facilities: Many campsites near Rio Vista maintain good sanitation. At Rio Viento RV Park, Kelly N. found "Beautiful, quiet clean dog friendly park with very nice helpful staff. Large brick sites." Another camper mentioned it was "very clean and quiet" with "nice" owners.
What you should know
Wind conditions: The delta region experiences significant wind that affects camping comfort. At Brannan Island State Recreation Area, George A. advises to "remember the wind" while Christina H. notes her "campsite provided little shade." Kimberly M. describes it as "hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel)."
Road conditions: Some access roads require careful driving. At Rio Viento RV Park, Carmen F. warns that "the road leading into the park is extremely [rough]" while Kelly N. suggests to "take your time, it's worth the drive."
Reservation requirements: Many parks require advance booking. John W. notes that at Sandy Beach County Park, "Online reservations are required and must be made a minimum of 2-weeks in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Structured recreation keeps children entertained. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Stephanie B. says, "This was a nice campground that focuses around child/family activities. There is always something for kids to do." Billy describes how his "5-6 year-old" enjoyed "an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house."
Safety considerations: Watch for hazards specific to the delta. Kimberly M. warns about Brannan Island being "full of grasses like foxtails (that are quite dangerous for dogs, especially when they're dry!)." Daniel M. cautions at Jellystone to "drive slowly there are little kids everywhere!"
Budget planning: Family activities can increase costs. Katie B. notes at Jellystone, "There are a lot of amenities. We go for Halloween and there is trick or treating through the whole place, a haunted house and a decor and costume contest." However, Kayla L. advises to "be prepared to spend a lot of money for a site for the weekend."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Flag City RV Resort offers premium spaces for larger vehicles. MickandKarla W. found "The cement pad was plenty long enough for our 40' fifth wheel and unhooked F450." They noted that "The utilities are on the back quarter of the pad. We needed 15' of sewer hose."
Hookup planning: Multiple Rio Vista area campgrounds offer full services, but availability varies. At Delta Shores, Craig & Linda L. recommend "Praticeing good water management. Dish pans in sink to dump water out on grassy lawns. Only use toilet for middle of night bathroom call."
Pet amenities: Dog-friendly facilities enhance RV stays. At Flag City, Mary F. appreciated the "HUGE fenced area to walk your dog OFF LEASH" along with other amenities like "nice pool and hot tub, nice laundry facilities (more than one!), moderately sized paved and level sites."
