Tent camping options near Napa, California extend beyond Lake Berryessa, with sites available across diverse terrain ranging from 200 feet to over 2,500 feet in elevation. The region experiences typical Mediterranean climate patterns with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Fire restrictions typically begin in late May and extend through October depending on seasonal conditions and local regulations.
What to do
Explore marine wildlife: At Wildcat Campground in Point Reyes National Seashore, campers can observe diverse coastal species. "I've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine, and a great white shark off the cliffs one fine day," reports one visitor.
Visit historic sites: The Angel Island State Park campground offers access to immigration museums and military installations. "There used to be intake for immigration and even had some military presence on the island back in the day. Lots of old buildings to explore, in addition to the awesome views," notes a camper.
Swim in natural settings: Lakes near tent camping areas provide swimming opportunities during summer months. At Pantoll Campground, one visitor recommends: "Stinson beach is a 3 mile hike away or a short drive down the mountain if you are in need of more supplies."
What campers like
Early morning solitude: Many tent campers appreciate dawn hours at Steep Ravine Campground for wildlife viewing. "The sunrise is wonderful from the views on the hillside campgrounds," shares one visitor to Lake Berryessa, adding "there's a periodical splash of a fish from the lake."
Stargazing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. "The stargazing is great and there's a periodical splash of a fish from the lake. Overall great and would go again," notes a Lake Berryessa camper.
Isolation from day visitors: At Sky Campground, campers enjoy tranquility after day hikers leave. "After setting up our camp we aimed to do a short hike up to the top of Mt. Wittenberg, 'the highest point in Pt. Reyes,' but I think it is really just a hill because we were stumped trying to find an actual 'summit,'" reports one visitor.
What you should know
Potable water reliability: Water sources at several tent campgrounds can be inconsistent, particularly during drought periods. A Sunrise Campground visitor noted: "The water spigot at Sunrise was not working when we arrived, and this was not mentioned anywhere during the reservation process, or mentioned by the ranger when we checked in."
Wildlife encounters: Small animals actively seek food at night in most campgrounds. At Tilden Regional Park, "There are lots of turkeys, and watch out for poison oak on the trails," warns one camper.
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites near Napa require reservations several months in advance, especially during summer. For Steep Ravine Campground, a visitor notes it's "extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several locations offer nature programs suitable for children. "Tilden Park is perfect for anyone whose interested in wildlife and hiking in perfect climates. Tilden offers a lake in the middle to swim in and fish," reports one visitor.
Protected swimming areas: For families with children, certain locations offer safer water access. Lake Berryessa camping allows access to "nice crystal clear water" according to one visitor who adds that "the lake is a very popular day use area as well."
Child-friendly trails: Putah Canyon provides relatively flat walking paths accessible for younger hikers. "Our favorite spot to take the kids to the lake. If your looking for something calm this is the spot at Lake Berryessa," notes a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Though primarily tent-focused, some campgrounds accommodate small RVs with site-specific limitations. At Manzanita Canyon, a visitor reported: "Gorgeous views, room for multiple tents, but no shade and difficult access to rocky waterfront."
Resource management: Limited hookups require planning for water and power needs. "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 visitor to Steele Canyon.
Security presence: Some campgrounds have regular staff patrols for safety. At Putah Canyon Campground, a camper observed: "Loads of space, security driving around, noise limit is 10pm. Toilets are clean and trash cans are provided. They sell ice and propane on-site."
