Tent campsites near El Cerrito, California dot the surrounding hillsides and coastal areas, with elevations ranging from sea level to 2,500 feet. The region typically experiences summer high temperatures around 75°F with frequent fog and coastal breezes affecting campsites west of the Berkeley hills. Many campsites require advance planning, with booking windows opening 6 months ahead for the most sought-after locations.
What to do
Hike to Muir Woods: From Pantoll Campground, you can access Muir Woods without dealing with crowded shuttles. "From Pantoll you have very easy access to the summit of Mt. Tamalpais, easy access Stinson Beach and the coast, plus you can even skip the long lines and shuttles to get into Muir Woods," notes Michael I.
Island exploration: On Angel Island State Park, campers can hike the entire 5-mile island in just a few hours. "The island itself is about a 5 mile hike from one end to the other with a very modest elevation gain so it's definitely worth doing," according to Marion D. The island also features historical sites from military installations to immigration facilities.
Ocean views: Trek to Tennessee Beach from Haypress Campground on a flat, level trail suitable for various skill levels. "The walk to Tennessee Beach is very flat and level and doable for kids," explains allison W. Morning fog often blankets the area, creating dramatic scenery as it burns off.
What campers like
Golden Gate views: The tent sites at Bicentennial Campground offer prime views of San Francisco landmarks. "Gorgeous sunset and sunrise from camp or even better up the closest hill which is a 6 minute walk tops," writes august M. Despite having only three sites, campers appreciate the relative quiet and proximity to city attractions.
Cabins at Steep Ravine: Many visitors prefer the rustic cabins at Steep Ravine Campground for their cliffside ocean views. "For that, you get your own seaside cabin with million dollar views just 30 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Sleeping platforms for about 6 people split among 3 semi-private rooms," explains Adam.
Night sky access: Campers consistently mention the value of overnight stays for experiencing natural areas without daytime crowds. "Once the last ferry leaves, you have the island practically to yourself. It is pretty awesome," says Bryan R. about camping on Angel Island. Similarly, Haypress campers appreciate having sunset access to normally busy trails.
What you should know
Challenging reservations: The most popular sites book extremely quickly. "There are only 10 sites on Angel Island, so we got a permit by going during the week," explains Ellice O. For Steep Ravine cabins, plan six months ahead: "You need to be ready to click 'reserve' on the website at no less than 5 minutes before the window opens for your dates of interest."
Weather preparation: Coastal fog and wind affect most campsites. "The Bay is notoriously cold, windy, and foggy; you'll want to bring enough stakes to guy out your tent as there isn't any wind protection from trees or boulders," advises Brittany R. about Angel Island. Pack layers regardless of season.
Access challenges: Many sites require hiking with gear. At Rob Hill Campground, "Pitch tent on wood chips. Level. Fire pits, water. Nice and close, yet feels a ways away," notes Dan H. Similarly, Bicentennial requires a walk of about 200 feet from parking to campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly experiences: Angel Island offers unique family activities with educational components. "There is plenty of hiking, beach access, paved roads for biking, and tours of the history of the island," shares Haley C. The island's immigration museum provides an accessible history lesson similar to Ellis Island.
Storage considerations: Food storage is essential with local wildlife. "Lots of raccoons at night, so lock everything away," warns Samantha T. at Pantoll Campground. Most sites provide food lockers, but smaller animals remain persistent.
Group camping options: Rob Hill Campground accommodates larger family gatherings with sites for up to 30 people. "Great place for a group camping event. With the campsites centered around a large communal campfire circle," notes a reviewer. Each site costs $125, making it economical when split among multiple families.
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused region: Most campsites near El Cerrito prioritize tent camping with limited RV facilities. Tilden Regional Park offers some RV hookups but consists primarily of group campsites surrounded by eucalyptus trees. "The setting at Tilden Park is not what I would typically seek when I want to 'get out there', but for its close proximity to the urban areas of the East Bay, it is a pretty good option," explains holland G.
