Tent camping near Union City, California offers diverse overnight options ranging from creek-adjacent sites to higher elevation ridge camps with temperatures varying between 55-104°F depending on season and location. Most campgrounds within a 30-mile radius operate seasonally from May through October, though some backcountry sites remain accessible year-round during favorable weather conditions. Availability typically decreases on summer weekends with many locations requiring reservations 3-6 months in advance.
What to do
Hike to ocean viewpoints: At Butano State Park, campers can access ridge trails with coastal views. "If you hike up to the ridge on a clear day you can see the ocean. There is also an old landing strip on the hill you can hike to as well," notes one visitor who appreciated the diverse terrain.
Explore rock formations: Castle Rock State Park offers unique geological features and climbing opportunities. "Very green and lots of great vistas along the ridgeline on the hike in," mentions a reviewer who found the 2.5-mile hike to the campground rewarding. The park serves as an excellent base for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Visit nearby beaches and farms: Some campgrounds provide easy access to Highway 1 and coastal attractions. One camper at Butano State Park noted, "The campground is very close to PCH/Highway 1 and the beaches are lovely. PCH is also dotted with farms and fruit stands, artisan pies, etc."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many tent campgrounds near Union City offer good separation between sites. According to one camper at Ben Ries Campground, "Space between campsites so you're not on top of each other. It was packed and there were some people making a lot of noise well into the middle of the night. Other than that it was great."
Ridge views: Elevation changes in the East Bay hills create scenic camping spots. "Campsite has picnic tables and fantastic view for sunset," reports a visitor to Castle Rock Trail Camp, highlighting the benefit of higher elevation sites.
Diverse ecosystems: The region features varied environments from redwoods to coastal scrub. "A little bowl full of redwoods, a creek and great hiking. Lots of great tent sites but pick your site wisely so you are not too close to your neighbors," notes a camper describing the landscape at Butano State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature extremes: Summer heat can be intense at certain locations. A camper at Juniper Campground warns, "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."
Water availability concerns: Not all campgrounds maintain reliable water sources. At Castle Rock Trail Camp, a camper reported, "Although there is a communal water source at the campsite entrance, the water was deemed not safe to drink when I was there, and that had been the case for a while."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for nocturnal visitors at many locations. "They have food lockers, not bear lockers, and ours was broken one time so have a solid backup plan, the raccoons are very intelligent and they come out at night so be prepared for that," advises a Juniper Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some tent camping areas require significant hiking. As one Castle Rock visitor explains, "The campground is about a 2.5mi hike in from the trail head at the parking area. Although there was a fire road at the campgrounds that looked like it maybe could be used to drive in and drop off gear, I didn't see anybody doing it, so be prepared to carry everything on your back."
Look for educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs. A visitor to Las Trampas Regional Wilderness notes, "Pass the cows grazing in the meadows to climb clear to the top for a most spectacular view of Eastbay and nearby Mt. Diablo."
Select shaded areas: Tree cover helps moderate temperatures. "Great weather, lots of shade at the campsite and on the hikes. Coast was a cool 60's-70's but warm in the sun, night time was a lovely 55-59 degrees, easy to sleep, not too cold," reports a summer camper at Butano State Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Union City restrict vehicle types. At Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, the backcountry experience is noted as "feels very off grid," indicating the lack of RV amenities common in the region's campgrounds.
Consider nearby alternatives: When tent camping near Union City, some RVers opt for established campgrounds slightly further away with more amenities. "Located just off of 680, you'll take Bollinger Canyon Road where you'll head just north of Las Trampas Stables before coming to a round-about where there's ample parking for about 30 cars," explains a visitor to Las Trampas, describing the parking situation that limits RV access.
