The Sacramento River Delta creates a unique waterfront camping environment in Walnut Grove, California, with interconnected waterways spanning over 1,000 miles. The area maintains relatively mild temperatures compared to inland locations, with summer highs averaging in the 90s and winter lows rarely dropping below 40°F. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite availability and boat launch conditions.
What to do
Water recreation access points: Brannan Island State Recreation Area offers designated boat launches for exploring the delta waterways. According to Mike C., the recreation area serves as a "Gateway to the Delta. Lots of fishing and boating activities. Campsites are spaced out. Easy access to the water."
Seasonal outdoor activities: Fall and winter camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Tower Park, Katie B. notes they "go for Halloween and there is trick or treating through the whole place, a haunted house and a decor and costume contest."
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds connect to regional bike trails. At SacWest RV Park & Campground, one camper mentions, "Camp site is clean. You can order food and they will deliver. Wonderful ada bathroom/showers with a fold down bench."
What campers like
Waterfront site access: Many campers value direct water access from their sites. At Sugar Barge RV Resort & Marina, Larry W. describes the tent area as "a clearing, fully backed up to the levee, with some shade and a water spigot. Appears to be only 4 'sites,' which are defined by picnic tables, GENEROUSLY spaced, no fire rings."
Kid-friendly amenities: Family campers appreciate structured activities for children. One camper at Jellystone Park notes: "This was a nice campground that focuses around child/family activities. There is always something for kids to do. Campsites are nice. Restrooms are clean."
Off-season tranquility: Visiting during weekdays or non-peak seasons provides a quieter experience. At Brannan Island, Rita C. explains: "Since easy access it is busy, sometimes more noise in evenings to my liking. It's a great option for beginner campers as well as veterans."
What you should know
Site spacing and privacy: Sites at many delta campgrounds offer limited privacy. At Jellystone Park, Daniel M. reports: "You can easily see into your neighbors site. There was a trail but it was not like the other campgrounds, more of a behind the scenes of the campground and other sites."
Weather considerations: The delta region experiences significant wind, particularly in spring and early summer. At Brannan Island State Recreation Area, one camper warns it's "hot and windy (seriously, it's like being in a super hot wind tunnel), and full of grasses like foxtails (that are quite dangerous for dogs, especially when they're dry!)"
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Walnut Grove require advance booking, particularly during summer weekends. At SacWest, Leah L. advises: "If we come back will choose site 10 of 12. River was dry in july."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: Keep life vests for children when camping near waterfront sites. At Ko-Ket Resort, one visitor notes: "They have paddle boards you can rent and go out on the water in the morning. They have cute little cottages people can rent too."
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer structured kids' activities, but schedules vary. At Jellystone Park, Jill P. shares: "There is the activities in club house, mini golf, lasher tag, playground, bounce pillow, basketball, volleyball, dodge ball, hayride, parade wit's Yogi which the kids all follow him on their bikes."
Shade considerations: Delta camping often means limited natural shade. At Lake Camanche, one visitor recommends: "Great for just floating around, having a beer or 3... When the lake is down (like now) it's a bit of a haul to the water — cart/wagon recommended, as well as a shade pop-up AT water's edge."
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many delta campgrounds have varying site levelness. At Skyline Wilderness Park, Rich J. notes: "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa."
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different hookup configurations depending on location within each park. At Delta Shores Resort, Christine M. cautions: "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."
Gate closure times: Several campgrounds have strict entry gate closure times. At Skyline Wilderness Park, Moriah M. advises: "I definitely recommend getting there well before the gates close because there were issues getting a hold of the camp host."
