Camping sites near San Ramon offer diverse experiences throughout the California coastline, forests, and delta waterways. Located in Contra Costa County with average elevations around 486 feet, the area experiences mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Fog often rolls in during summer evenings at coastal sites, dropping temperatures by 15-20 degrees from daytime highs.
What to do
Hiking trails and terrain exploration: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, visitors can access "a paved path that runs for at least a mile or so along the creek, that used to be the old railroad line through that area." According to Joseph F., "There are all kinds of trails available" with "informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information."
Water recreation access: Delta boating opportunities abound at Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina, where "they have a boat trailer parking lot and a boat ramp" as noted by Cynthia H., who also mentioned they "rent kyacks and have a restaurant that looks right over the water." Larry W. confirms this focus on water activities: "We were there primarily because we rented a boat from their Marina. That went well!"
Wildlife watching: Francis Beach Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing with diverse coastal species. Marc A. notes the beachfront walk-up sites (36-38) "were right up against the beach," providing prime viewing locations. Another camper, Michell C., adds: "You can walk for miles on the beach or on the bluff trails. Everyone is laidback which makes for a peaceful experience."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Tent campers appreciate Sanborn County Park's hike-in sites for privacy and forest immersion. Amanda P. describes it as "a nice camping away from the car experience" with "a short walk up a paved path from the parking to the campsites." The park provides "carts to help with hauling gear, and storage boxes are provided at the site, near the picnic table."
Delta waterfront views: Campers enjoy the unique setting at Brannan Island State Recreation Area, where Ed S. notes "This is a big campground with everything you need for boating and fishing." Mike C. describes it as the "Gateway to the Delta" with "lots of fishing and boating activities. Campsites are spaced out. Easy access to the water. Family favorite."
Rustic yurt camping: San Ramon area visitors seeking yurt camping alternatives can find cabin and tent cabin options at several parks. At Lower Blooms Creek in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Carl N. reports, "We camp here every year in May or June. It's always fun. The tent cabins are super convenient." Other visitors note the availability of "canvas tents and glamping cabins" with stunning views of California landscapes.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Coastal campgrounds near San Ramon experience significant temperature shifts. At Steep Ravine Campground, Patrick O. warns "bring layers of functional clothes since the weather on the coast of the SF bay can be anything from roasting to foggy frigid cold during the day and night year round. Don't just look at weather online and go."
Reservation challenges: Many popular sites require advance planning. Adam notes Steep Ravine cabins are "notoriously difficult to reserve -- 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, which was 6 months ahead of time when I reserved."
Wildlife interactions: Local wildlife requires proper food storage. Elliott B. reports at Steep Ravine: "Mice. There were several brand new mouse traps provided at the entrance to my cabin. You'll need them... In two days, I caught three and actually had to buy more traps." At Samuel P. Taylor, Joseph F. mentions "lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware."
Tips for camping with families
Structured activities for kids: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive programming for children. Billy notes, "For October, we did an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house." Katie B. adds: "Our kids really enjoy the freedom to go play while the adults sit back and relax."
Proximity to urban amenities: Skyline Wilderness Park provides urban convenience with natural settings. One visitor notes, "Literally 5 mins outside of the town of Napa. Ate at an amazing Brazilian Steakhouse and came to camp in just a short drive." The park "offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more" according to Jamie G., making it ideal for families seeking activities beyond traditional camping.
Budget considerations: Family camping costs vary significantly. A camper at Jellystone Park reported: "4 adults w/ 3 kids 4,5&7 $398 for rv spot. Keep in mind it is family friendly and they do have lots of fun stuff for kids so the price would be acceptable if you had more than one full day to enjoy." For budget options, consider tent sites versus yurt camping near San Ramon at state parks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, Carina B. notes "This has it all. Beautiful beach walking distance from campground. Bike or walking trails to wonderful beaches and places to eat. Short drive to many other areas. small but good size sites for where it is." Consider site size when bringing larger rigs.
Hookup availability: RV sites with utilities are limited at many parks. At Sanborn County Park, daren W. observes "RV sites are basically parking lot with 4' strips of grass in between, But it was March and mostly empty." Christine M. at Sugar Barge warns about water connections: "My only complaint, the water spigot is really close to the ground and really close to the sewer drain. Scrub with bleach before booking up your water and you'll be fine."
Cell service and connectivity: Signal varies throughout the region. Moriah M. reports from Skyline Wilderness Park: "My fiancée and I both work remotely using hotspots on Verizon, and found no trouble at all. Data speeds wavered between 10 - 25 mbps depending on where we were on the property, but we could video conference and stream with no issues."
