Joseph D Grant County Park offers pet-friendly camping options 20 miles east of Milpitas in the Diablo Range foothills. Sites are situated among oak trees at elevations between 1,500-2,200 feet, providing cooler temperatures during summer months. The park encompasses over 10,000 acres with 51 miles of trails through grasslands and wooded areas.
What to do
Paddle the lake: Del Valle Campground in Livermore provides access to a lake with regulated boating speeds. "Great lake for paddling as the speed limit for boats is low. Good fishing too. 'Private' covers along the lake to hang out in," shares Tom G.
Hike connecting trails: Dumbarton Quarry Campground connects to multiple parks via trails. "There are nice trails that will take you to the Bay and also to Coyote Hills Regional Park," notes Ann I., who appreciates the convenient location for exploring the area.
Visit historic sites: Grant County Park features a historic mansion and rose garden to explore. "Great place to stargaze, hike, & camp. Has showers & bathroom & don't forget to check out the mansion!!" recommends Lisa D.
What campers like
Free hot showers: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers clean facilities with complimentary hot water. "The showers were great. Hot and FREE!" reports Ryan W., who found the park well-maintained despite being accessible to urban areas.
Wildlife viewing: Del Valle Campground offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. "There was quite a bit of wildlife roaming through the campground mainly in the early morning. I saw deer and turkeys roaming the campground," writes Uriel S.
No cell reception: Some campers appreciate the digital detox at certain parks. "The lack of cell reception really helps the feeling of being away from the city life," mentions Uriel S. about Del Valle, which is only 15 minutes from downtown Livermore.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Be aware of park gate hours as they vary by location. "The gate closes at 8:15pm," notes Jason R. about Joseph D Grant County Park, meaning late arrivals need to plan accordingly.
Wind conditions: Coastal proximity means consistent breezes at some sites. "Every time we have stayed here it has been windy," shares Kim G. about Dumbarton Quarry, where site leveling may also be required.
Campsite spacing: Privacy levels vary significantly between parks. Sanborn County Park reviewer Pranj D. mentions: "We were camping for 1 night and boy, was it crowded! Each and every group was fighting for the 'wagons' to haul stuff up the hike-in campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Look for paved roads: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers family-friendly infrastructure. "If you have littles the roads are paved so a scooter or bike could be fun," suggests Chesney S.
Check swimming regulations: Del Valle Campground has designated swimming areas with safety staff. "They have two beaches with a lifeguard which can get crowded. You can swim at your own risk past the marina though if you want to bike, hike or boat to those beautiful areas," explains Rosina A.
Consider convenience gear: Sanborn County Park provides equipment to help with hike-in sites. "It's a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites. The park provides carts to help with hauling gear, and storage boxes are provided at the site, near the picnic table," notes Amanda P.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay offers varying site qualities. "Sites, though asphalt, require some leveling," shares Kim G., who has stayed at the campground multiple times.
Height restrictions: Be mindful of low-hanging branches. "We loved camping here with our 25ft camping trailer.
Traveler
