153 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options near Martinez, California range from established campgrounds to wilderness areas throughout the East Bay region. Briones Regional Park, located within Martinez city limits, provides tent camping in a natural setting with electric hookups and water access. Additional campground choices extend to Mount Diablo State Park, approximately 10 miles southeast in Clayton, and Skyline Wilderness Park in Napa, about 20 miles north. The area supports diverse accommodation styles including tent sites, RV parks with full hookups, and cabin rentals at select locations like Samuel P. Taylor State Park and Skyline Wilderness.
Permit requirements and seasonal considerations vary significantly across these mixed-use campgrounds. Most regional parks require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends when temperatures can exceed 100°F in inland areas like Mount Diablo. Winter brings cooler conditions and occasional rain, making spring and fall ideal for camping in this Mediterranean climate zone. Many campgrounds feature varying levels of development - from primitive sites with minimal facilities to fully-equipped campgrounds with showers and electric hookups. Access roads to some areas like Briones involve steep, narrow routes that may challenge larger vehicles. One camper noted of Briones Regional Park: "A few low spots. Cleared 12' barely with minor scrapes. Good parking and turn around. Lots of opportunities for horse riders in area."
The East Bay's developed campgrounds receive positive reviews for their proximity to urban areas while still providing nature experiences. Campers at Mount Diablo State Park frequently mention the spectacular views and hiking opportunities, with one visitor recommending "the sunset hike to the overlook point from the campsite. It is a serious climb but well worth it." Tilden Regional Park attracts visitors seeking both recreation and camping, with reviewers noting its "towering Eucalyptus with a splendid arbor scent." Sites near water features such as Lake Anza in Tilden Park tend to be more popular. Several campgrounds provide accessible options for those with mobility limitations, though amenities vary widely between primitive wilderness sites and fully-developed campground options with RV hookups, showers, and electrical service.
"as usual some spots are better than others but most close to restrooms and/or water. lots of poison oak and star thistle right off trail. great deterrent for kids to stay out of tick areas but id worry"
"Midweek in June the park, which is fairly large, is still nearly empty."
from $25 - $200 / night
Check Availability"This mountain has many of hiking trails for various levels of hikers."
"Live Oak is the closest to the entrance (and town), and features some cool rock formations to explore, but it's colder, has terrible cellular data service, and doesn't quite have the sunset / sunrise views"
from $30 / night
Check Availability"A ton of great hiking and horseback riding trails. Literally 5 mins outside of the town of Napa. Ate at an amazing Brazilian Steakhouse and came to camp in just a short drive."
"Nice, clean place with beautiful hiking trails. The garden is very cute, perfect for a quiet walk or meditation. Sites are close to each other. This place is a good getaway into nature."
"The area is beautiful and lots of people come here to walk and exercise, and once I took my dog on a walk I saw why nobody brings their dog - TICKS! So many! "
"It's peaceful and there is a sense of stillness despite there being a few dozen people walking throughout at any given time."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"Tilden is great for anyone looking for a close park right outside of the Berkeley/San Fran area. It is a rather large park area that overlooks Berkeley."
"Tilden offers a lake in the middle to swim in and fish. The campsites have lots of fire pits. The weather is always great too!"
from $75 - $120 / night
Check Availability"Close to highway. Noise not a problem. Very friendly staff. Sites are close together but easy entry. Level sites with FHU’s. Would stay here again."
from $42 - $47 / night
Check Availability"Good parking and turn around. Lots of opportunities for horse riders in area. Pets on leash."
from $75 - $200 / night
Check Availability"Angel Island is a California State Park, but it's surprising how many visitors do not know of the 10 campsites scattered around the island!"
"Campsites are walk in throughout the island. Remember there will be fog and there will be wind. We try to get what they call the "group" kayak site. "
from $30 / night
Check Availability"The walk to the beach was 60 seconds and the ocean can be seen from the site. Cool ww2 structures. You get a code to open the gate uptop and drive down to park for your stay."
"If you plan to leave your cooler outside of the bear box make sure it has a lock or secure latch. 3- you get a gate code and parking pass to drive down, but have to walk your gear the last 500-1,000 ft"
from $40 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful trees and wonderful California charm. The campsites were decently located. Above the Mendocino coast the mornings are wet and Cold. Loved this place"
"This campground is less than an hours drive from San Francisco. It is along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard which takes you through a bunch of very cute tiny towns."
from $35 - $225 / night
Check Availability
ScoutMy review of this place is it's a very good place to come stay if you need a place to pull your rig.And be overnight.
ScoutThe campgrounds was well kept - grass was mowed - trashes empty. Beautiful little spot if you like to fish the delta. But they have a sign as you enter the property that says “Pay Here” but don’t do that because the prices on the sign are not correct, and the instructions are also incorrect… I guess. I know this because I was told that I got it wrong and if you argue about it, they will threaten to call the sheriff. I like sheriffs.
ScoutThe location is great since you’re close to st Helena and Calistoga. The road is narrow and the spots are tricky to back into. It was our first time with out 20ft trailer and we struggled a bit, took us three tries we kept having to drive around the loop of the campground. Lots of poison oak. Dog friendly on the paved road/path. We didn’t use the pool, but it’s open 1-5pm and it’s spring fed. Lots of kids, definitely kid friendly since it’s so small!
ScoutVery quiet and there's lots of trails to walk. Easy walking around the lake.
GuideFriendly staff, well run, clean bathrooms and showers. Bumpy narrow road on the levee on the road in but doable. It is windy due to the location, particularly at night. Really shook the RV.
ScoutThis spot is actually very ideal for people like me who was stressing every night while living in my car, I had multiple parking tickets while I was in San Francisco and got my car towed even so once I found out about this free camping rest area I jumped on it. Beautiful views that's a plus
GuideReservations and check-in were very easy. Stay at site 5 and and site 4 was right next us. Their house door was face our house door (see picture) and very little privacy. Otherwise, it is a very nice campground and everyone we met were so friendly. Their house door bathrooms and laundry room were very clean.
GuideThis is not a practical over night spot. You will not get sleep. It’s a hot spot for locals and tourists to come get wasted. It’s not safe either. Visit for the view, and find somewhere else to sleep.
GuideSites are jammed together and lots of families with screaming kids. If you’re old and cranky, it probably isn't the vibe you’re after. If you have kids, maybe this would work for you. Bathrooms are old and dirty—a park service employee came by at one point on a Saturday but the women's bathroom was still out of soap and paper towels when she left.
Camping options near Martinez, California extend beyond established campgrounds into distinct wilderness experiences across Contra Costa and Marin Counties. The region sits at elevations ranging from sea level to over 3,800 feet at Mount Diablo, creating microclimates that influence camping conditions. The Mediterranean climate brings winter lows around 40°F with occasional frost in higher elevations, while summer temperatures can range from coastal 60s to inland highs approaching 90°F.
Trail exploration in redwood groves: Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers hiking through old-growth redwoods with a paved path that follows the creek. "There is also 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. They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information," notes Joseph F., who camped at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing from campsites: The East Bay parks provide opportunities to observe native species. At Skyline Wilderness Park, one camper reported: "Sites backs up to Wilderness and saw a doe within 10 mins of setting up camp just a few steps away." Adam B. notes at the same park: "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!"
Mountain biking access: Anthony Chabot Regional Park connects to extensive trail networks for mountain biking. A camper called "Twindaddy" reports: "I just needed/wanted a short getaway without driving hours from home. Since I'm used to this place for mountain biking, I figured I'd try camping here... I went for a long ride and when I returned the place was much more occupied."
Island camping adventure: For a unique experience, Angel Island State Park offers camping with ferry access from Tiburon. "There's only 10 sites on Angel Island, so we got a permit by going during the week... We also took the ferry from Tiburon so factor in cost of parking and ferry boat ride into the campground," explains Ellice O.
Eucalyptus-scented camping: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers a unique aromatic experience. Amanda P. writes: "We love Anthony Chabot! The eucalyptus groves make the air smell wonderful, and there is so much wildlife to see (deer, turkeys, owls, etc.). It's a great natural area that is so conveniently located in the Bay Area."
Urban proximity with nature escape: Skyline Wilderness Park balances wilderness with convenience. One camper noted: "Super easy access and safe, in the city so close to wineries, restaurants and shops. We were here as a stop in our road trip so it was a perfect stay. They provide WiFi and hot shower."
Night sky views: Mount Diablo's elevation provides exceptional stargazing from Juniper Campground. Jay L. shared: "Diablo overlook: spacious- good views for sunset, sunrise, stargazing." Another camper, Blake H., observed that from Live Oak Campground — Mount Diablo State Park Campground, "it is absolutely worth it for the views of the east bay, and on a clear day, all the way to SF and the pacific. Truly one of the best camping views I've had."
Creek-side relaxation: Camping along Lagunitas Creek at Samuel P. Taylor State Park provides water access with seasonal restrictions. Joseph F. notes: "Access to the creek is seasonally restricted for spawning, and I believe that goes from spring to about mid June or July."
Fog and temperature swings: Coastal camping areas experience significant temperature drops at night. At Samuel P. Taylor, Joseph F. warns: "It can get warm in the summer, but the cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down."
Poison oak awareness: Several parks have this hazard off-trail. Joseph F. cautions: "Also, lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware."
Limited water availability: Some campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions. A camper at Samuel P. Taylor noted: "On our second visit, water was available, but it was not potable, and the showers and toilets were still not working."
Wind exposure concerns: Kirby Cove Campground and Mount Diablo experience significant winds. Mike C. warns about Mount Diablo: "One other thing, no matter how hot it is you'll never be able to escape the howling winds at night. Good tent stakes and warm gear is a must."
Wildlife management: Multiple parks require proper food storage. Daniel D. reports about Kirby Cove: "I've been camping my whole life and NEVER have I seen raccoons so persistent. Not aggressive. Just persistent. And fearless. They. Will. Not. Leave. You. Alone. From like 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm they will stalk your site looking for ANY unsecured food."
Close-to-city options for beginners: Camps near Martinez work well for new campers. Susie B. recommends Samuel P. Taylor State Park: "For families who want a quick trip over Golden Gate Bridge to introduce their children (or adults!) to the great outdoors, their first camp, nowhere is more convenient and instantly gratifying."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer historical and nature learning experiences. Joseph F. notes: "They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information."
Spacious sites for groups: Some parks accommodate multiple tents for family camping. Kathleen C. reports about Samuel P. Taylor: "The parking area for our site was large enough to accommodate our SUV and another vehicle."
Crowd expectations: Weekends can be busy at parks near Martinez. Kathleen C. shares: "Because of the holiday and the proximity to Oakland/San Fran, the campground was in FULL EFFECT with a gang of variant families camp site hopping."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Anthony Chabot Regional Park offers dedicated RV spots with full hookups. Lori T. notes: "There are full hookups at all 12 RV sites. All sites seemed relatively level. We stayed in site #5. Sites #1-4 back up to the Towhee Trail, so expect hikers to pass by close behind you. The better sites are #5-12 with #11 and #12 being the best."
Leveling requirements: Most campgrounds require minimal adjustments. Adam B. notes about Skyline Wilderness: "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks."
Campsite privacy variations: RV sites at some parks offer limited separation. Rich J. observes at Skyline: "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together."
Cell service for remote work: Data coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. Moriah M. reports from Skyline: "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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any camping sites near Martinez with water access?
Several campgrounds near Martinez offer excellent water access. Spring Lake Regional Park provides access to a lake perfect for swimming, paddling, and fishing with newer bathroom facilities. The park connects to multiple trails and is family-friendly. For coastal water access, Benicia State Recreation Area offers waterfront views and is much closer to Martinez. If you're willing to drive a bit farther, Del Valle Campground features a five-mile-long lake with swimming areas and boat rentals. Most water-access campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during summer months.
What are the best RV parks near Martinez?
Half Moon Bay RV Park offers pull-through sites with helpful staff who assist with reservations and provide guidance on the best way to enter sites. Though it requires a drive from Martinez, it's worth considering for its quality accommodations. Closer to Martinez, Tradewinds RV Park in Vallejo provides full hookups and is big-rig friendly, making it convenient for larger vehicles. San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA is another option with clean restrooms and Wi-Fi, though sites near the playground can be noisy with activities. Most RV parks in the area require reservations well in advance, especially during peak season.
Are there any campgrounds with cabins near Martinez?
Yes, you can find several cabin options within driving distance of Martinez. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground offers cabins in a quiet, family-friendly setting with easy access to hiking trails and scenic views. The park provides a relaxing atmosphere away from the city. Anthony Chabot Regional Park also features cabin accommodations with access to water and restrooms. The park tends to be busier on weekends but can be relatively quiet midweek. Both parks require advance reservations for cabins, which often book up quickly during summer months and holidays. Cabins typically include basic amenities but bring your own bedding and cooking supplies.
Keep Exploring
