Tent camping near Walnut Grove, California centers around the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta region with its extensive waterways and nearby hills. The area sits at relatively low elevation (near sea level), resulting in hot summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional fog. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant with many campers reporting raccoon encounters, while local fishing opportunities include bass, catfish, and crappie.
What to do
Fishing at Delta Bay RV Resort: Access prime fishing spots along the Sacramento River Delta where you can catch bass and other freshwater species. One camper noted that they "spent the night at my usual fishing spot and had a great time. Staff is friendly and food is good" at Delta Bay RV Resort.
Boat rentals at Rancho Seco: Rent boats at Rancho Seco Recreation Area for exploring the lake. A reviewer mentioned "there's boat rental that are a fair price, plus you get them for an hour or so." The recreation area is located about 30 miles east of Walnut Grove.
Hiking at Morgan Territory: Follow trails through oak woodland and grasslands with views of Mount Diablo. A camper described it as feeling "very off grid" and noted their "camp experience was smooth and the sun was shining" at Morgan Territory Regional Preserve.
Winter fishing at Lake Camanche: Visit during the off-season for less crowded fishing conditions. A reviewer shared that "we camped twice at this campground on the South Shore... We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January."
What campers like
Lake swimming: Cool off in the warm waters at Lake Camanche where "the water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm" according to one camper. The lake "makes for great boating" and provides relief during hot summer months.
Dog-friendly beaches: Take your pets to designated swimming areas at Rancho Seco Recreation Area where "there's a dog park for the dogs to roam free off the leash, which also has access to water/beach area for the dogs only."
Spacious campsites: Enjoy room to spread out, particularly at the less crowded campgrounds. At Lake Camanche, one camper noted their experience staying in "2 adjacent sites nearest the lake" where they had plenty of room for a "party of six."
Wildlife viewing: Watch for local birds and animals throughout the region. A camper at Tilden Regional Park mentioned "lots of turkeys" in the area, while another noted the park has "towering Eucalyptus with a splendid arbor scent that is unmatched in any forest."
What you should know
Summer heat: Temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in July and August. A camper at Juniper Campground warned it gets "insanely hot in the summer" and recommended "not going in July like we did. It was 104° or something and I was just drenching my clothes in water to stay cool."
Raccoon encounters: Secure all food items at night. Multiple campgrounds report raccoon activity, with one Lake Camanche reviewer advising to "make sure you put your food away at night raccoons will get your food and snacks."
Water levels: Lake levels can vary dramatically between seasons and years. At Lake Camanche, a camper mentioned "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."
Seasonal crowding: Weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day are typically busy. A Lake Camanche reviewer noted "weekends are filled up and busy, but during the week days it's nice and quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Rancho Seco provides family-friendly swimming areas with gradual entry points. A camper mentioned "it has free showers there and the campground are awesome and you can camp right on the water. They have boat rentals and a fishing derby every year too. It just great and has a beach."
Educational opportunities: Visit the Tilden Regional Park Little Farm with children. A reviewer suggested "taking the kids to Tilden's Little Farm (bring your own carrots, kale and lettuce)" for an interactive experience with farm animals.
Safety considerations: Monitor children around water, especially at river and delta locations with currents. At Lake Berryessa's Steele Canyon, a reviewer appreciated that "other boaters where very respectful of the no wake zones" making paddleboarding safer.
Weather preparation: Pack layers for children as temperature swings can be significant. At Juniper Campground, a camper reported that "the weather in May was really nice imo. Not too cold at night with layers, & starts warming up quick in the morning."
Tips from RVers
Winter camping advantages: Consider off-season visits for more solitude. An RVer at Rancho Seco described it as "a small but lovely place" and appreciated the tranquility of off-peak times.
Site selection: Choose locations with shade when tent camping near Walnut Grove, California during summer months. A visitor to Steele Canyon advised: "Look in the 50's & 80's for the more secluded campsites. Can get windy, and it's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.)."
Connectivity concerns: Plan for limited or no cell service at many locations. A reviewer at Lake Camanche mentioned "decent cell service" but noted there was "no wifi" available at the campground.
