Tent camping near Moraga offers rugged wilderness experiences with elevation gains between 750 and 2,000 feet across East Bay parklands. The region's microclimate creates summer temperature swings from 55°F mornings to 90°F afternoons, with frequent fog rolling in from the coast. Most campsites require advanced reservations, especially during spring and fall when weather conditions are most favorable.
What to do
Explore Baker Beach access: From Rob Hill Campground, you're just a short hike away from Baker Beach with views of the ocean. "Heavy rains and high wind advisory cancels. Please call the weather hotline (415) 561-2115 for updated information," notes one camper about weather conditions affecting activities.
Hike Mount Tamalpais trails: Pantoll Campground offers direct access to numerous trails. "You can hike anywhere from this campground. Down to Muir Woods in less than 3 miles. Up to Rock Springs, Bolinas Ridge, and Mount Tam. Down to Stinson Beach," explains one reviewer who appreciates the location.
Paddle to Angel Island: Active campers can kayak to Sunrise Campground instead of taking the ferry from Tiburon. "The group kayak site has ample room and direct access to the water. It is on Racoon Straits side of the Island," mentions one camper who prefers this approach.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently mention diverse wildlife encounters throughout the region. "We saw deer, cattle, raccoons and many other four legged vermin running around the area," notes one visitor to Las Trampas Regional Wilderness.
Secluded camping spots: Experienced campers value the privacy at certain sites. "I picked a site more secluded from the rest. While there is some road noise from below it does give some of the feel of a back country trip with none of the hassle," shares a Pantoll Campground visitor.
Geological features: The volcanic history of the region provides unique experiences. "San Francisco East Bay residents actually have a volcano in their backyard at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. 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," explains a reviewer.
What you should know
Campsite elevation impacts: Higher elevation sites experience greater temperature variations. "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 a camper from Juniper Campground.
Limited availability: Many campgrounds have very few sites available. "There are only 10 sites on Angel Island, so we got a permit by going during the week," explains one camper who scheduled a quick 24-hour trip.
Parking challenges: Several campgrounds have limited parking. "Weekends are booked solid through the end of the year; however, weekday sites are available," notes a Rob Hill Campground visitor about both camping and parking availability.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds with history programs. "It used to be intake for immigration and even had some military presence on the island back in the day. Lots of old buildings to explore, in addition to the awesome views," reports a family who visited Sunrise Campground.
Early morning wildlife spotting: Wildlife is most active at dawn. "Lots of turkeys, and watch out for poison oak on the trails," warns a visitor to Tilden Park about keeping children safe during wildlife viewing.
Campfire alternatives: Many campgrounds restrict open fires during dry seasons. "Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit (you must bring your own firewood) and a fixed charcoal barbecue grill. Please do not burn wood or charcoal when there is a Spare the Air alert in effect," notes a Rob Hill Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping near Moraga, California doesn't accommodate larger vehicles. "Cleared 12' barely with minor scrapes. Good parking and turn around. Lots of opportunities for horse riders in area," notes a visitor to Briones Regional Park about the tight vehicle clearance.
Avoid summer weekends: RV sites fill up quickly during peak season. "A few low spots" on access roads can be problematic for larger vehicles, especially during wet conditions when ground clearance becomes an issue at Briones Regional Park.
Designated parking only: RV camping restrictions apply at most sites. "RV, pop-up and camper-truck camping is not allowed in the Presidio. No hook-ups available," cautions a Rob Hill Campground reviewer about the strict vehicle policies.
