Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers accessible equestrian-friendly camping options within 10 miles of Kensington, California. This park features multiple trails where horses can access the terrain through designated paths. Visitors camping with horses should note that water for animals isn't automatically available at all sites, and trail conditions vary significantly with seasonal changes during winter months when some paths become muddy and challenging.
What to do
Hike volcanic landscapes: Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve trails provide unique geological features for hikers and equestrians. "Sibley Regional Preserve visitors actually have a volcano in their backyard. The 31-mile East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail traverses the preserve along the ridgeline between Wildcat Canyon and Anthony Chabot Parks," notes Elliott B., who adds that "Volcanic Trail, once a quarry haul road, contains most of the stops on the self-guided volcanic tour."
Explore lake activities: Del Valle Campground offers water recreation options with swimming areas and fishing. "Del Valle is one of the most beautiful lakes in the east bay. The water is perfect temperature. Great hikes, paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming and beginner windsurfing," shares Rosina A. The park includes "a swimming area, picnic tables and nice-sized camp sites."
Wildlife watching on trails: Las Trampas Regional Wilderness features extensive wildlife viewing opportunities. Stuart K. notes, "When we were there we saw deer, cattle, raccoons and many other four legged vermin running around the area. Take the hiking trail straight up to Las Trampas hiking ridge and pass the cows grazing in the meadows to climb clear to the top for a most spectacular view of Eastbay and nearby Mt. Diablo."
What campers like
Accessible wilderness proximity: Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides a wilderness feeling despite urban closeness. "Paradise an hour from the city. It is great for laid back camping," writes Kyla M. Another camper notes, "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.). It's a great natural area that is so conveniently located in the Bay Area."
Beach access for overnight hikers: Wildcat Campground in Point Reyes offers coastal access for those willing to hike in. "Wildcat is the jam. On the beach. A nice mid length hike. Privacy," shares J.d. E. Another visitor adds, "The campground is set on an open plateau just a dozen or so feet above the beach and there isn't a lot of cover between campsites. Site 7 is a bit protected by trees and is the closest to the beach."
Wine country proximity: Bothe-Napa Valley State Park combines camping with wine country access. "Best secret in Napa. Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges," mentions Susan H. Another visitor explains the convenience: "It's so nice to be right in the Napa Valley. During non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!"
What you should know
Limited site privacy: Many campgrounds near Kensington have closely spaced sites. At Del Valle Campground, one camper notes, "Overall, the experience falls and rises with your neighbors, and you probably know what I mean. The sites are reasonably spaced." Similarly, at Anthony Chabot, Ryan W. observes, "The sites are fairly close to each other, which matters because one of the other campers is right next to mine."
Seasonal conditions: Weather patterns affect camping comfort significantly. At Coast Campground, one camper advises, "Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night." Del Valle can experience extreme summer heat, with a visitor noting, "It can get hot during summer but close to the lake to swim and paddle board."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas near Kensington require advance planning. For Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, "Reservation must be completed at least 5 days in advance by calling 1-888-EBPARKS or 1-888-327-2757, press option 2." Similarly, for Wildcat Camp, visitors note, "These sites are in high demand, but totally worth the wait to experience."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy spotting local animals at several parks. At Anthony Chabot Regional Park, a visitor mentions, "There is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)." Another notes, "Lots of birds and wildlife—beware says the sign...all the signs, but I mostly only saw turkeys and a few water birds."
Educational experiences: Volcanic trails at Sibley provide learning opportunities. "Originally called Round Top Park, Sibley shares with Temescal and Tilden Parks the distinction of being one of the East Bay Regional Park District's original parks," shares a visitor, who adds, "Take a walk to check out the Pioneer Cemetery and nearby mill."
Swimming options: Skyline Wilderness Park and Del Valle offer water recreation for families. "Very clean space. They provide WiFi and hot shower. Lots of people were doing the trail," reports Letícia I. At Del Valle, a camper adds, "They have a swimming beach area and they rent kayaks as well."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Alameda County Fairgrounds RV Park offers complete services. "Sites are grassy, some with trees, and pretty close together. If the Alameda Fairgrounds are having an event, you can't beat this location, it's on the property," notes N V., who adds, "If you are visiting and want to go to San Francisco, I think this is one of the closest RV parks to the city."
Site selection strategies: At Skyline Wilderness Park, RVers should choose sites carefully. Rich J. explains, "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa." Another adds, "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly."
Winter camping considerations: Winter visits require preparation for changing conditions. At Anthony Chabot, Ryan W. advises, "The road in is fairly winding with a bit of a drop down the cliff. If you're heading in at dusk or dawn, go slow. You will see deer stepping through the road."
Legend
