Best Campgrounds near San Lorenzo, CA
San Lorenzo, California provides access to a range of camping experiences within the greater Bay Area region. Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers tent and RV sites with full hookups in a wooded setting approximately 10 miles east of San Lorenzo. Nearby Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay provides waterfront camping with electric and water hookups. The area includes mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several parks featuring redwood groves and waterfront locations along the San Lorenzo River and nearby coastal areas.
Reservations are essential at most established campgrounds in the region, particularly during summer months and weekends. Many campgrounds in the Santa Cruz Mountains and coastal areas fill months in advance. The climate varies significantly between inland and coastal locations, with coastal sites experiencing fog and cooler temperatures even during summer. Inland campgrounds like Del Valle can become extremely hot with significant mosquito activity during warmer months. Cell service is limited in canyon areas and redwood forests, though most established campgrounds maintain good access roads suitable for passenger vehicles. A camper noted, "We rarely make reservations to camp in California Beach Parks, as they are usually filled up weeks or even months in advance."
The redwood forests near San Lorenzo provide distinctive camping experiences with tall trees creating natural shade and cooler temperatures. Several visitors highlighted the contrast between coastal and mountain camping options within a short drive. Campgrounds along the San Lorenzo River receive consistently positive reviews for their proximity to water activities and shade. Campers frequently mention the convenience of having both natural settings and urban amenities nearby, with one visitor noting that "it's a short nice hike to the state park and the train through the redwoods." Sites at Anthony Chabot Regional Park feature views of the surrounding hills and lake, though some campers report that sites can be close together with limited privacy. The region's campgrounds typically provide clean facilities with regular maintenance, making them popular destinations for Bay Area residents seeking weekend getaways.
