Tent camping sites near Dublin, California range from primitive backcountry locations to more developed campgrounds with varying amenities. The East Bay region features volcanic terrain, rolling hills, and elevations ranging from 400 to 3,800 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F at lower elevations, while winter nights can drop below 40°F, especially at higher campsites.
What to do
Hiking volcanic formations: Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve features unique geological hiking opportunities around an ancient volcano. "There are several trails providing tons of access throughout the preserve. The 31-mile East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail, part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail system, traverses the preserve along the ridgeline," notes Elliott B. in his Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve review.
Swimming spots: Lake Anza at Tilden Regional Park offers refreshing swimming options during hot summer months. "Tilden Park is perfect for anyone whose interested in wildlife and hiking in perfect climates. Tilden offers a lake in the middle to swim in and fish," shares Nicholas M. in his Tilden Regional Park review.
Backpacking routes: Several parks allow overnight backpacking for more adventurous tent campers. "Great backpacking getway. Many day hikers here but you can backpack as well. I camped on a beautiful ridge," reports MarinMaverick about Sunol, where the Ohlone Wilderness offers more remote camping opportunities.
What campers like
Off-grid feeling: Morgan Territory Regional Preserve delivers a sense of remoteness despite being close to Dublin. "Feels very off grid. Camp experience was smooth and the sun was shining," says Tyler S. in his Morgan Territory Regional Preserve review.
Wildlife encounters: Coyotes, raccoons, deer and other animals are commonly spotted throughout the region's campgrounds. "Heard coyotes howling night and day which was neat. No raccoons. Saw some lizards," notes Brittney L. about her camping experience at Mount Diablo State Park.
Low crowds on weekdays: Most tent campgrounds around Dublin see significantly lower usage Monday through Thursday, particularly outside summer months. "Las Trampas Regional Wilderness is a nice hidden gem that many won't know even has a campground. While tiny and available only for a small number of campers, if you can get a spot booked well in advance, you'll have the place nearly all to yourself," writes Stuart K.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Temperatures can become extreme at some campgrounds in July and August. "Insanely hot in the summer, I would recommend not going in July like we did. It was 104° or something and I was just drenching my clothes in water to stay cool," warns Ben W. about Juniper Campground.
Limited water sources: Several backcountry tent sites lack reliable drinking water. At Sunol/Ohlone Wilderness backpacking camps, "The sites are primitive and the water source questionable and unreliable. I hiked in all the water I needed," advises MarinMaverick.
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites require advanced booking, especially during peak season (May-September). At Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, "Reservation must be completed at least 5 days in advance by calling 1-888-EBPARKS or 1-888-327-2757."
Tips for camping with families
Little Farm visit: Combine tent camping with educational farm activities at Tilden Regional Park. "Taking the kids to Tilden's Little Farm (bring your own carrots, kale and lettuce)," suggests Stuart K., who notes this makes a great add-on activity to camping with children.
Wildlife safety: Teach children about proper food storage to avoid nighttime visitors. "They have food lockers, not bear lockers, and ours was broken one time so have a solid backup plan, the raccoons are very intelligent and they come out at night so be prepared for that," warns Ben W. about Juniper Campground.
Heat management: When tent camping with children during summer months, choose higher elevation sites. "The weather in May was really nice imo. Not too cold at night with layers, & starts warming up quick in the morning," reports Brittney L. about her spring camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Low clearance challenges: Some campgrounds have access roads with height restrictions. At Briones Regional Park, "A few low spots. Cleared 12' barely with minor scrapes. Good parking and turn around," reports Cococounty L.
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Dublin don't offer full RV hookups. Las Trampas Regional Wilderness has some accommodation for smaller RVs but with minimal amenities, according to reviews.
Parking restrictions: Larger RVs should verify parking availability before arrival. At Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, "Vehicles must be parked in the staging area and display a valid overnight parking permit: 3 parking permits are included in the reservation and will be mailed 5 days in advance."
