Tent camping near Rio Vista offers options from lakefront sites to backcountry preserves across varying terrain. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90-100°F in this region, with cooler conditions in spring and fall. Most campgrounds within 35 miles of Rio Vista experience significant wind patterns, particularly sites situated along the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta waterways.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Delta Bay RV Resort provides shoreline fishing opportunities with easy water access. "Spent the night at my usual fishing spot and had a great time. Staff is friendly and food is good," notes one regular visitor at Delta Bay RV Resort.
Kayaking on calm waters: Lake Berryessa's protected coves offer paddling opportunities away from speedboat traffic. "I came to check out the more calm waters in the canyon for my paddleboard. The site was great layout and I had a really enjoyable time out on the water. Other boaters where very respectful of the no wake zones," reports a visitor at Steele Canyon.
Hiking with Bay Area views: Several regional preserves offer walking trails with views of Mount Diablo. "Feels very off grid. Camp experience was smooth and the sun was shining," mentions a camper at Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, which features backcountry trails for day hiking from campsites.
What campers like
Lakefront tent sites: Some of the best tent camping near Rio Vista includes sites directly adjacent to water. "This is a small but lovely place. I pitched a tent in site 43 right next to the lake. Excellent place," reports a tent camper at Rancho Seco Recreation Area, where approximately 50 tent sites are available.
Off-season tranquility: Weekday camping during spring and fall provides more solitude at popular locations. "It's an easy to navigate park with many sites on the water. But beware of the bees!" warns a camper at Lake Camanche, where seasonal visitor patterns significantly affect the camping experience.
Free hot showers: Several developed campgrounds offer shower facilities included with site fees. According to one camper at Mount Diablo State Park, "Lots of free water and there's free showers too which is awesome, but don't use the stinky toilet at the top there's way better ones around the bottom area."
What you should know
Summer heat preparation: Temperatures frequently exceed 95°F during peak summer months. "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," reports a camper at Juniper Campground.
Fire restrictions: Many campgrounds implement seasonal fire bans during dry periods. At Steele Canyon, "It's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.). Fire scars all around the lake...looks like this entire area got hit a few years ago," notes a July visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for nocturnal visitors at several locations. At Rancho Seco Recreation Area, campers advise to "make sure you put your food away at night raccoons will get your food and snacks." Many sites provide food lockers, but campers report some may be damaged.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated youth programming. "If you have a boat and other watercrafts there is lots to do. The place could use some more bathrooms and water stations, but it was well kept considering how many people are using the facilities," mentions a Lake Camanche visitor with children.
Beach access considerations: Water entry points vary significantly between locations. "They have a dog park for the dogs to roam free off the leash, which also has access to water/beach area for the dogs only," notes one camper at Rancho Seco, highlighting pet-friendly water access areas separate from human swimming zones.
Tiny house rentals: Alternative accommodation options exist for families not wanting to tent camp. "They have a lot of cute tiny houses in this campground. You can bring your own tiny house, or rent one for the weekend. There is an open house once or twice a year you can come and visit all the tiny houses in the community," explains a visitor at Delta Bay Marina Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: RVers recommend seeking specific site numbers based on location preferences. "Look in the 50's & 80's for the more secluded campsites. Can get windy, and it's dry camping at this time," advises an RVer staying at Steele Canyon.
Water conservation: Many campgrounds have limited or no water hookups. "No one answers the phones at the gate. If you need a ranger after 10p GOOD LUCK! We decided to find an app to explore our options," reports a Lake Camanche RVer who camps there regularly throughout summer.
Weather preparation: Wind patterns affect RV camping comfort significantly. "The campsites on the bluff of the hill can get windy so be prepared for that," warns a Steele Canyon visitor, suggesting proper tie-downs and awning precautions during windy seasons.
