The California Delta near Pittsburg offers a network of waterways ideal for glamping and camping activities. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with winter lows around 40°F, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences. Water levels in the delta fluctuate seasonally, affecting campground access and boating conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Boating access: Easy launching at Brannan Island State Recreation Area where "they have a big boat launch for easy launching" according to Ed S., who notes that "it's very close to the Sacramento River for a nice cruise." The park maintains seasonal water access restrictions for fish spawning from spring through mid-June.
Fishing opportunities: Various spots across the delta with Brannan Island offering "lots of fishing and boating activities" and "easy access to the water," as Mike C. describes it. George A. adds that "you can fish the bay area from the area or go fishing in boat" making it versatile for different fishing styles.
Family entertainment: Water-based recreation plus organized activities at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Tower Park, which features a comprehensive lineup of family activities. Katie B. explains, "There is an ice cream shop, general store, and crafts some free some for purchase $7-$30. We went for Christmas in July and Santa was there for pictures."
Wildlife viewing: Morning walks near campgrounds with multiple reviewers reporting sightings of local fauna. At Delta Shores Resort, visitors might spot various wildlife, as the resort backs up to natural areas. One reviewer mentions, "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" in the surrounding area.
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Sites along levees at Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina where Larry W. shares, "The tent-area was a clearing, fully backed up to the levee, with some shade and a water spigot." This resort also offers "a boat trailer parking lot and a boat ramp," according to Cynthia H., who appreciates the "recently remodeled" bathrooms.
Seasonal events: Holiday-themed camping experiences throughout the delta area. Jellystone Park Tower Park offers extensive seasonal programming as Katie B. describes: "We go for Halloween and there is trick or treating through the whole place, a haunted house and a decor and costume contest."
Outdoor amenities: Recreation options beyond water activities with multiple campgrounds featuring extras like playgrounds and sports courts. One visitor to Jellystone Park notes that beyond the water park they have "mini golf, laser tag, playground, bounce pillow, basketball, volleyball, dodge ball, hayride."
Waterfront dining: On-site restaurants with delta views are available at several locations. At Sugar Barge, Lexi L. mentions they have "a cute restaurant on the water" and describes "Very peaceful and fun atmosphere. They had live music on the Saturday we were there."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind and temperature fluctuations can affect camping comfort. Kimberly M. cautions about Brannan Island being "hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel)," while another camper advises "Bring layers" due to significant temperature drops at night.
Seasonal facility limitations: Bathroom and shower availability varies throughout the year, with daren W. noting at Brannan Island, "Middle loop with hookups and showers was closed because the grass wasn't mowed yet... I guess March is off season and nobody cares."
Site spacing: Proximity to neighbors varies by campground with Ko-Ket Resort receiving praise for spaciousness. As Christine M. notes about Sugar Barge, "Some sites are pretty close together," though staff often work to accommodate visitors even during busy periods.
Wi-Fi and cell reception: Limited connectivity at most delta locations. One camper at Sugar Barge reports "Wifi and cell reception is really poor, even when you're right outside the office," suggesting visitors should prepare for limited digital connectivity during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Book well in advance for summer weekends: Popular glamping locations like Jellystone Park Tower Park fill quickly. A visitor recommends, "We go with several families with kids 5-13 and they all have a blast... Our kids really enjoy the freedom to go play while the adults sit back and relax."
Consider mid-week stays for quieter experience: Weekends tend to bring larger crowds to glamping sites near Pittsburg. One Sugar Barge visitor notes, "Gets really busy weekends and holidays," suggesting families seeking a calmer atmosphere should consider mid-week reservations.
Pack for varying water conditions: Water clarity varies throughout the delta. Christina H. from Brannan Island mentions, "the river was extremely muddy" but adds that despite this drawback "it was very spacious and the staff were amazing!"
Check activity schedules before booking: Many campgrounds offer scheduled family programming. At Jellystone, a visitor shares, "There is an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house" during October, but activities vary seasonally.
Tips from RVers
Water and sewer connections: Check hookup placement as Christine M. advises about Sugar Barge: "The water spigot is really close to the ground and really close to the sewer drain. Scrub with bleach before hooking up your water and you'll be fine."
Site leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks as conditions vary across campgrounds. At Delta Shores Resort and Marina, susan R. noted that "sites were not level" during her stay, though others report that some sections have been improved for RVs.
RV length restrictions: Call ahead to confirm fit since many delta campgrounds have varying size accommodations. The tent camping areas at Sugar Barge are generous but Jimbo M. notes the RV section "gets really busy weekends and holidays" which can make navigation challenging.
Dump station alternatives: Consider on-site pumping services where available. Craig & Linda L. at Delta Shores suggest: "Before setting up your camp, dump your tanks" since some parks occasionally have "problems with sewer systems" but offer dump stations as alternatives.