Best Tent Camping near Winters, CA
Tent campers visiting Winters, California can find several established campgrounds within 30-60 minutes' drive, primarily clustered around Lake Berryessa to the northwest. Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores) and Putah Canyon offer tent-specific sites with lake access, while Lower Hunting Creek Campground provides more primitive backcountry tent camping experiences in the Knoxville Recreation Area. Most tent sites are seasonal, with peak availability from spring through fall when weather conditions are most favorable.
Sites at Lake Berryessa tent campgrounds typically feature dirt or gravel tent pads with minimal leveling. Many locations enforce seasonal fire restrictions, particularly during California's dry summer months when wildfire risk is highest. Steele Canyon tent sites cost approximately $45 per night, with some locations requiring additional fees. Campers should bring ample drinking water as many tent-only areas lack potable water sources. Vault toilets or porta-potties are available at most tent campgrounds, though shower facilities are rare. A review from The Dyrt noted, "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)."
Walk-in tent sites at Tilden Regional Park provide closer-to-town alternatives for campers seeking short hikes to their campsite. Tent pads are generally uneven, requiring careful site selection for comfort. These areas become substantially quieter after day visitors depart, creating peaceful evening environments for tent campers. Morning wildlife viewing opportunities are common, with turkeys frequently spotted around campsites. Areas around Lake Berryessa feature exposed, wind-prone tent sites but offer excellent water access and swimming opportunities during summer months. Based on camper reviews, the best walk-in tent sites fill quickly on weekends, with visitors noting, "I got a beautiful spot secluded from everyone. I loved it! Just me and nature."
