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Best Tent Camping near Patterson, CA

340 Reviews

County parks and regional preserves surrounding Patterson, California offer diverse tent camping options within a short drive. Uvas Canyon County Park, located about 40 miles west in the eastern Santa Cruz Mountains, features 25 tent campsites with amenities like food lockers, fire rings, and picnic tables. Joseph D. Grant County Park, situated near Mount Hamilton, provides walk-in tent sites with views of the surrounding hills. Cole Ranch offers tent camping under walnut and almond trees with riverside access. For those seeking more primitive tent camping experiences, Morgan Territory Regional Preserve offers backcountry tent sites that feel "very off grid" according to recent visitors.

Most tent campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities for comfort while maintaining a natural setting. Campsites typically feature flat dirt or gravel pads suitable for pitching tents. Uvas Canyon's sites include water faucets, trash bins, and recycling stations for every three sites. Bathroom facilities vary by location, with Joseph D. Grant offering clean restrooms with hot water and showers. Fire regulations permit campfires in designated rings at most locations, though seasonal restrictions may apply during dry periods. Tent campers should note that some sites have uneven terrain - one visitor at Uvas Canyon mentioned being "on a bit of a slope and quite a ways away from the fire pit and picnic table."

The tent camping experience varies significantly between weekdays and weekends. According to reviews, "weekdays are best if you want to avoid the crowds" at popular locations like Uvas Canyon. One camper noted that "during less crowded times (winter) this campground is one of the best" with "extremely beautiful and peaceful surroundings." Tent sites at Morgan Territory provide a more secluded backcountry camping experience. Most tent campgrounds offer access to hiking trails - Joseph D. Grant features "good trails" through oak-studded hills where visitors have spotted wildlife including bunnies and bobcats. Tent campers should be prepared for temperature drops after sunset, particularly in canyon locations where one visitor noted "it can get cold quickly."

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Best Tent Sites Near Patterson, California (9)

    1. George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area Group Camp

    2 Reviews
    Stevinson, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 632-1852

    $150 / night

    2. Cole Ranch

    3 Reviews
    Waterford, CA
    24 miles
    +1 (209) 620-6218

    $60 - $90 / night

    "They also change the hand towel in the restrooms daily for everyone to use. The campsite is well taken care of as well as the kitchen which is communal use."

    "The amenities were above and beyond anything we have seen at other locations.  Complimentary watercraft for the river, stocked outdoor kitchen, and hot showers with shampoo/lotion etc. "

    3. Joseph D. Grant County Park

    2 Reviews
    Mount Hamilton, CA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 274-6121

    "They also sell ice which was nice to grab for the cooler. Nice stay, saw a lot of bunnies and a bobcat on the way out."

    "The bathrooms were a short walk down hill. They were clean with flushing toilets. There camp ground was quiet and it was mostly couples or small family groups."

    4. Joseph D Grant County Park - Horse Camp

    4 Reviews
    Mount Hamilton, CA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 274-6121

    $15 - $400 / night

    "Lotsa shaded oak spaces. Good trails."

    "Hamilton and a lake up the road a way, there’s also a mansion & rose garden on the property, shower & bathroom are clean, there are nights to gather and stargaze.The tent spaces are sizable &amp"

    5. Uvas Canyon County Park

    11 Reviews
    New Almaden, CA
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (408) 779-9232

    $34 / night

    "There's 25 campsites; each with a food locker, fire ring, a picnic table, and parking space for 2 sedan sized vehicles or 1 RV. 8 people max per site."

    "We camp in a roof top tent and wish we had been more selective on our site, as parking space and the incline at each site are different."

    6. Sunol

    3 Reviews
    Sunol, CA
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    "Great backpacking getway.  Many day hikers here but you can backpack as well.  I camped on a beautiful ridge."

    "I have never camped here but hiked many trails."

    7. Morgan Territory Regional Preserve

    1 Review
    Brentwood, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    8. Round Valley Regional Preserve

    Be the first to review!
    Brentwood, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 327-2757

    $75 / night

    9. Deer Flat Boat In Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Valley Springs, CA
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 772-1343

    $20 / night

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Patterson, CA

13 Photos of 9 Patterson Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Patterson, CA

340 Reviews of 9 Patterson Campgrounds

  • Sara W.
    Aug. 23, 2018

    Coe Ranch Campground — Henry W. Coe State Park

    Easy Scenic Camping close to Bay Area

    Henry Coe State Park is easily accessible from the San Francisco Bay Area for a weekend getaway or short camping trip.

    The Coe Ranch campground has several tent-only campsites that can be reserved online ($8 transaction fee, $20/night), and the campground has parking for vehicles in a small parking area ~20-100 feet from the campsites. Campsites at this campground are aesthetically pleasing, with oak and pine trees around the perimeter of the campground, and there are scenic views of oak woodlands and the valley below. The picnic benches are conveniently located and provide a nice space for eating while camping at the site. Toilets are easily accessed from the campsites. Campfires are allowed in the fire rings only during non-fire season (no campfires during summer months). Dogs are allowed at the Coe Ranch Campground.

    Henry Coe SP has many great hiking opportunities, with beautiful wildflower displays in March and April, and also numerous opportunities for enjoying the beauty of the plants and wildlife seen along the hiking trails which are very accessible from the campground. Near the Coe Ranch campground there is a camp book store, which has some items for sale, including many field guides to wildlife and plants in the park. When the store is open, there is often a ranger available to answer questions about the park.

    My only compliant is that at the site we stayed at (CR005) the ground is quite compacted, so if you do not have an adequately thick sleeping pad, the ground may be uncomfortably hard to sleep on. Normally I have no trouble sleeping on the bare ground at campsites with a thin sleeping pad, so this was surprising. Bringing an extra pad may be a good idea if you are prone to sleep problems when the ground is too hard.

  • Larry W.
    Aug. 28, 2020

    Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina

    Quiet, NO other tenters!

    We (party of 4) were there primarily because we rented a boat from their Marina. That went well! This is an RV campground & full-complement resort on Bethel Island, San Joaquin River Delta. Many RVers appear to be long-term or full-time residents.

    The tent-area was a clearing, fully backed up to the levee, with some shade and a water spigot. Appears to be only 4 “sites,” which are defined by picnic tables, GENEROUSLY spaced, no fire rings AND the Delta is h.o.t.! It’s also on the far edge of the property, so car traffic was MINIMUM — and NO generators were heard, even though the RV section is huge!!!

    The rest rooms were in the Marina building, a short walk. We would DEFINITELY return for boating and tenting!!!

  • Scott R.
    Aug. 6, 2020

    Tuttletown Recreation Area

    Beautiful location - needs some help

    The location and weekend was amazing and beautiful. The 105 daytime temps were quelled by dunking ourselves in the lake and taking excursions to some of the other local wonders. We had a great view of the lake and the stars overnight were amazing. It was extremely easy to socially distance from others at all times.

    We spent the weekend camped out here but when we arrived, our location was filled with trash. The previous occupants had left garbage strewn everywhere and a garbage bag that was torn into by the wildlife. We cleaned for about half an hour and filled a large black yard waste bag with garbage before we could start to settle in.

    The other big issue is that the site says “all facilities are open” but in reality all the restrooms are closed and locked with a solution of putting portable toilets in front of the restroom areas. This is in no way better for dealing with bathroom needs.

    Also, the camp host location was marked but no host appeared or was available. The rangers drove by maybe 6 times total.

    Be aware when coming here that many sites do not have shade or places to set up hammocks.

    Don’t let my negative points turn you away, many of these things were going to be situational and we would love to go back (just not in the midst of a heatwave like that).

  • Austin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 29, 2019

    Coe Ranch Campground — Henry W. Coe State Park

    Amazing Backcountry Backpacking

    Came here from SF Bay for 2 nights on a weekend.  Obtained permit from the ranger station and had to pick a district I would camp in the first night (to limit amount of campers in a region per night).  Hiked about 8 miles southwest to a lake the first night and camped in my hammock by the lake.  Second day backpacked about 12 miles northeast to another lake and was able to grab a spot to set up my hammock next to some picnic tables and a restroom.  Saw plenty of wildlife (lizards, snakes, birds, fish).  It was fairly hot in mid-spring, and there is not much shade on the trails, especially the dirt roads.

  • Kakashimoto99
    Apr. 27, 2021

    Uvas Canyon County Park

    Hidden Gem

    Came here on a Wednesday and paid $34 to camp overnight. There's 25 campsites; each with a food locker, fire ring, a picnic table, and parking space for 2 sedan sized vehicles or 1 RV. 8 people max per site. Bathrooms were spotless with running hot water, showers were also available. The rangers sell firewood at $13 per cubic foot bundle which is pricey but you can bring your own. I'm not sure if every fire ring has a grill so be sure to bring your own stove as backup. There's also a water faucet, trash bins, and recycle bin for every 3 sites.

    There's plenty of shade which is great. Weekdays are best if you want to avoid the crowds. Not too many people know about this park which is a huge plus. I didn't get to hike the trails but there seemed to be a good amount with a few mini-waterfalls.

    Rangers frequent the area throughout the day checking trash and bathrooms even after 10pm which gives a greater sense of security.

    This is currently my favorite campground in the Bay Area. I have yet to try Mt. Madonna but I was greatly impressed with this one.

  • Toni R.
    Feb. 22, 2022

    Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park

    Nice but crowded-SUV tent camper review

    It was a nice campground to go to. Lots of wildlife and hiking. Dogs are allowed. The lake is closed to any and all water-craft because the water level is too low. It is very clean and well maintained for the most part. Cell phone service for Xfinity/Verizon is spotty at best. There is weak wifi.

    However, here's where it loses a star:

    I arrived on a Friday late afternoon. Set up my tent. People were fairly loud until about 11pm. Bathrooms were really nice and clean…at first. Saturday, in came the crowd. Loud, obnoxious, and inconsiderate way past midnight. There was no reinforcement of quiet hours past 10pm. The toilets were clogged by 9pm at both restrooms. Men's restrooms have ONLY ONE STALL. And they were clogged beyond belief. I cannot understand why people do not know how to flush a toilet in public. Do they do this crap at home? Anyway, Sunday morning past 9am, still clogged up. Lines waiting to use the compromised restrooms as well. Ridiculous. Unfortunately, that's what ruined my experience. People just being completely selfish in a public campground and staff not be able to keep up with their antics. Maybe there shouldn't be so many sites for so few facilities. Just a thought.

    For SUV tents, check out campsite pics on other sites before booking. SUV tents are usually limited to one entrance/exit point on the tent. Usually the driver's side. Each campsite is different. The one I reserved had only one pic that basically showed me nothing. I only could back in to set up my tent on the grass. Both the picnic table and firepit were facing the passenger side way far from the parking spot (as you can see in the second pic) opposite the entrance to my tent. So something to consider.

  • Lady L.
    May. 18, 2021

    Coe Ranch Campground — Henry W. Coe State Park

    Awesome primitive camping

    This is a primitive campground, no showers only vault toilets and restroom near visitor center ( 2 min walk from campground) both decently clean. Water for washing dishes is available. Spots are not close to each other so there is privacy. It is small, quiet, surrounded with beautiful views. Good hiking trails and good opportunity for bird watching, wild flowers viewing and plenty of deer around. From main road it takes about 35 min drive up the hill through narrow road which is paved but I don't think it is appropriate for RVs. It is a bit of hassle getting here but worth it! If you are car camping I advice NOT to choose drive in spots as it is not leveled but the parking where you have to walk to your camp spot is okay.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 23, 2022

    Don Pedro Lake Fleming Meadows Campground

    Not many asphalt pads that are level (Front to Back) Pads are not very wide, and have large drops to ground.

    Site was H-30. Pad was 8”+ low on rear tires of Class A motorhome. Fire pit was installed to close to picnic table, and no level ground to put chairs around. View was great!

  • G
    May. 29, 2018

    Frank Raines Regional Park

    Frank Raines and the OHV Park

    There are actually two camp areas. There are two or three small sites at Frank Raines proper. As you turn into the park turn left and on the other side of the old softball field there are a few fire rings in the oak trees. I'm not sure where you go to pay for these but you occasionally see people camping there. There are porta johns in the area but the water is signed as not drinkable so bring your own.... or drive up to the Adobe Spring faucet at the 18 mile mark and fill your water jugs.

    Just up the road is the OHV park with a large campground with bathrooms, tables, electrical hook ups, tables, flush toilets and fire rings. Lots of flat spots for rv and trailers and a hall you can rent out for events. It's also a popular OHV area so expect a lot of activity and noise at all times of the day.

    Neither spot has drinkable water according to the signage, there is water, but you're not supposed to drink it.

Guide to Patterson

Tent camping near Patterson, California offers options ranging from riverside sites to backcountry experiences within a 50-mile radius. Summer temperatures in this region regularly exceed 90°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall provide milder conditions. The terrain varies from oak woodland to exposed grasslands with limited natural shade at several campgrounds.

What to do

Watercraft activities: At Cole Ranch, campers can borrow canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks for river recreation. "We took out one of the facilities canoes on the river and relaxed on the water all afternoon. Fishing was a success, what a bonus," reports one visitor.

Wildlife spotting: The oak-studded hills around Joseph D. Grant County Park provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "Saw a lot of bunnies and a bobcat on the way out," notes a camper who stayed overnight at the park.

Waterfall hikes: Multiple trails connect from the camping areas at Uvas Canyon County Park to seasonal waterfalls. "The 25-site campground is relatively small, so camp sites are not big," explains a camper, but "short hikes along the Uvas Creek and Swanson creek are right next to the campground."

What campers like

Well-maintained facilities: Campers at Uvas Canyon County Park appreciate the clean amenities. "Super clean and maintained. Especially the bathrooms and showers. The sites are spaced out nicely and there is a water faucet and trash bins plus recycle every couple of sites," notes a recent visitor.

Helpful camp hosts: Staff at several campgrounds receive positive mentions for their service. At Cole Ranch, "Barry and his wife were amazing hosts! They made sure that we had everything we needed!" One visitor's dog lost a toy in the water, and "they took time out of their day to buy him a new one."

Off-grid feeling: Backcountry sites at Morgan Territory Regional Preserve provide seclusion not found at more developed campgrounds. A camper describes the experience as feeling "very off grid" while noting "camp experience was smooth and the sun was shining."

What you should know

Seasonal considerations: Weather varies dramatically by season and can affect camping conditions. At George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area, flooding has been an issue, with one visitor reporting in June 2023 that the "main gate is locked. No entry, despite what it says on the park website about day use area being open."

Insect preparedness: Some campgrounds have seasonal insect issues. A camper at Uvas Canyon noted, "We were here about 2 weeks ago at a different site and didn't have any wasp issues. I'm pretty sure there is a wasp nest near 25."

Limited privacy: Many campgrounds in the region have closely spaced sites. At Joseph D. Grant County Park - Horse Camp, sites are "fairly spare, with some having shade," and the campground can feel crowded during peak periods.

Tips for camping with families

Accessible water play: Families with children should consider Cole Ranch for its safe water access. "The shoreline overlooking the river was relaxing, quiet and inviting," notes a visitor, adding that the site offers "complimentary watercraft for the river" making it ideal for family activities.

Trail difficulty awareness: When camping with children at Uvas Canyon, be aware of trail conditions. "Trails are narrow and steep at some places but mostly shaded. Small waterfalls are the highlights of the trail, but kids will enjoy playing in the water on hot days," explains a camper.

Poison oak precautions: At some campgrounds, plant hazards require extra vigilance with children. "On the trails there's quite a bit of poison oak so keep dogs close," warns a camper about the hiking paths at Uvas Canyon.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for leveling: For those camping in vehicles or with rooftop tents, terrain can present challenges. A visitor to Sunol noted that many sites have "uphill" terrain, and recommends checking site specifications before booking.

Gate closure timing: RV campers should note access restrictions at certain parks. At Joseph D. Grant County Park, "Gate closes 8:15pm," reports a visitor, which can limit late arrivals or returns from day trips.

Hookup availability: Most tent campgrounds near Patterson offer limited RV amenities. Sunol provides electric hookups with both fifty-amp and thirty-amp options, but lacks sanitary dump stations and showers, making it better suited for self-contained units.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Patterson, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Patterson, CA is George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area Group Camp with a 1.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Patterson, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Patterson, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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