Camping options near Sunol range from established campgrounds to backcountry sites at elevations between 200-2,300 feet. The region experiences summer temperatures regularly reaching 95-100°F during peak season, with nighttime temperatures cooling to the 50s even in summer months. Prevailing winds from the west can make campsites along ridgelines particularly gusty, requiring sturdy tent stakes and wind-resistant equipment.
What to do
Hiking trails from camp: Del Valle Campground offers multiple trail connections directly from campsites. "We've camped many times here. I hiked in and car camped. Fun to see the wildlife and nature all around. Can get hot during summer but close to the lake to swim and paddle board," notes Erica K. about Del Valle Campground.
Lake activities: Recreational options at Lake Del Valle include regulated boating with speed limits. "Great lake for paddling as the speed limit for boats is low. Good fishing too," reports Tom G. The lake offers swimming areas with lifeguard supervision during peak season, though camping visitor Rosina A. points out that "you have to drive to go swim and the campground isn't really walking distance to swimming."
Mountain biking: Terrain around Sunol provides challenging climbs with rewarding views. "Close to home! Love the hiking trails. Mountain biking for those who can climb," says Jamie H. about Del Valle. Trails vary in difficulty, with most riding routes requiring intermediate to advanced skills due to steep terrain.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers frequent wildlife encounters near campsites. "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.)," says Amanda P. Morning and evening hours provide the best viewing opportunities across the parks in this region.
Ridge camping views: Backpacking options in Ohlone/Sunol Wilderness provide panoramic vistas. One backpacker at Sunol Regional Wilderness shared: "I camped on a beautiful ridge. The hike is uphill... it starts along a creek/river which is referred to as Little Yosemite. Fun creek area with lots of water/rock formations. Then climb and climb the hill." These backpacking sites require permits and reservations.
Hot showers: Campground facilities at some parks include complimentary shower access. "The showers were great. Hot and FREE!" reports Ryan W. about Anthony Chabot Regional Park. Not all campgrounds in the area offer shower facilities, so check amenities before booking if this feature is important.
What you should know
Site exposure: Many campsites in the region lack natural shade coverage. "Our campsite (#139) could have used some shade, but we had plenty of space and the views were awesome," notes Colleen S. about Del Valle Campground. Sites at Del Valle can reach temperatures 5-10 degrees hotter than surrounding areas due to sun exposure.
Water availability: Several camping areas have limited or unreliable water sources, particularly in backcountry locations. "The sites are primitive and the water source questionable and unreliable. I hiked in all the water I needed," advises a backpacker at Sunol Regional Wilderness. During summer months, water restrictions may affect availability at established campgrounds as well.
Permit requirements: Backcountry sites require advance planning. "A permit is required as well as a reserved camping spot. There are other sites beyond Hawk's Nest all along the ridge lines," explains a camper at Sunol. Permits for backcountry camping typically run $5-10 per night per person depending on location.
Tips for camping with families
Park accessibility: Mount Diablo State Park offers family-friendly camping with educational opportunities. "The campgrounds on this mountain include picnic tables, grills, bathrooms, and amazing views of the Bay Area. The summit is just a short drive away from the campgrounds and has a visitor's center that has history of the mountain and the surrounding area," notes Haley C. The visitor center provides interpretive displays suitable for school-age children.
Wildlife education: Parks throughout the region provide opportunities for wildlife spotting with children. "Wildlife sightings, including deer and wild turkeys, are commonly reported at several campgrounds," with Anthony Chabot camper Ryan W. reporting, "Lots of birds and wildlife–beware says the sign...all the signs, but I mostly only saw turkeys and a few water birds."
Food storage: Secure food storage is essential with children. "Make sure that you lock up all food at night as the wildlife is very present and will take advantage of left out food," advises a Mount Diablo camper. Most campgrounds provide food lockers, but campers report raccoons are particularly bold at some sites.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Dumbarton Quarry Campground offers newer RV facilities with varying site characteristics. "Sites, though asphalt, require some leveling," notes an RVer named Kim G. Most campgrounds in the area have at least some uneven sites, so bringing leveling blocks is recommended regardless of destination.
Easy access: Some campgrounds provide straightforward approaches for larger rigs. "The grounds are clean; parking pads are concrete and flat; and drive lanes AND parking spots are wide and spacious for maneuvering large RVs," reports Tony C. about Trailer Villa RV Park. Most established RV sites in the region can accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet, with select sites handling larger rigs.
Hookup options: Del Valle offers partial hookups but lacks sewer connections. "We camp with a 27' Travel Trailer and the campgrounds can accommodate it. There were no hookups where we camped for the travel trailer," reports Ed E. RVers requiring full hookups should check with individual parks, as availability varies significantly between locations.
