The best camping in Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area, CA

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Discover the allure of Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area.  

The best camping in Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area, CA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
The Ranch at Cross Road

1. The Ranch at Cross Road

96%
(653)
8.6mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Livermore, CA
Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 10 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us! We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars. Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
 Property entrance at sunset, Spring.

4. Delta Respite

100%
(91)
19mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Sherman Island, CA
The perfect solo escape! Treat yourself to a quiet getaway for one at this cozy, clean and comfortable cabin on our rural farm, between two rivers, on Sherman Island. Located in the eastern San Francisco Bay Area at the confluence of the San Joaquin River, Sacramento River, and the eastern terminus of San Francisco Bay, Sherman Island is known for its wildlife, sunrises, and sunsets, and its dark sky for stargazing opportunities. The property is surrounded by alfalfa fields, grazing cattle, sheep, and a wildland habitat populated with migratory and native birds, animals, and plants. The one-room cabin has a bed and clawfoot bathtub with hot water offering a peaceful escape on our 5-acre tree-lined farm. Here you can listen to birdsong instead of the sounds of the city. This is an ideal cabin for birdwatchers, writers, plein air painters, nature photographers, stargazing, windsurfers/kiteboarders, meditation, or some stress-free, peaceful reset time. The private cottage has a refrigerator, microwave, compostable dinnerware, drinking water, and a coffeemaker with coffee. It is air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter. Pets are welcome and free to enjoy being off-leash in the cabin's fenced yard. The hosts raise free-range chickens and bees on their farm and also conduct a nonprofit rescue and hospice for senior pets. The property is in the Pacific Migratory Flyway, surrounded by a 1000-acre State habitat/preserve populated by wildlife and seasonal birds. Downtown San Francisco and Sacramento are each about 50 miles away in opposite directions. Mount Diablo, viewed from the property, is about 15 miles south and offers hiking trails with stunning views and abundant wildlife. Friday bookings are for a minimum of 2 nights.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$145
 / night
Amazing views of Mt. Diablo.

6. The Meadows at Isleton

95%
(1523)
26mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Isleton, CA
Once an asparagus farm for Heinz, the property was left neglected for over 25 years. They started to convert the land to a lavender farm when they realized that there was more that they should do to enjoy their journey, hence; they incorporated the camping to share this beautiful location with others. From majestic sunrises to magnificent sunsets, The Meadows offers not only a calm and relaxing atmosphere gained from the Lavenders growing, but also provides a central location to all of the California River Delta venues and experiences. From local wine tasting to boating, fishing or just enjoying the nearby collectic towns, Bring your tent, trailer, or motor home to enjoy the heart of the California river delta. Each campsite is extra large for privacy and room to spread out. Dog-friendly. Watch the sunset while enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards. Walk the streets of our historic downtown and visit the small shops and locally-owned restaurants-- Manny’s Barzzeria, Mc Broodery's, Pineapples, or Peters Steak House. Of course, don’t miss out on DeJacks our country store that stocks it all!! Spend the day at the public fishing docks, kayak for the day in the delta waters, or head over to Sherman Islands epic wind/kite surfing areas. Local year-round festivals abound in the Delta and The Meadows is strategically located central to all. Our small town of 800 people will truly give you the feeling of being out of the big city!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Redwood Haven

7. Redwood Haven

96%
(28)
30mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Stockton, CA
Tucked deeply beneath the cool serenity of the mature redwood trees surrounded by nature you will find quiet privacy here at Redwood Haven private park. Along with that, providing shelter from the blazing California sun is an important part of this peaceful small gated park. While waking up to the soothing songbirds and going to sleep alongside the serene owl sounds is what you will discover in this relaxing getaway paradise. Nature at it’s finest. Ideally located on your way to or from Yosemite National Park , Woodward Reservoir, Pinecrest, Caswell Park, Sonora , SanFrancisco and many other interesting locations. Great location nearby Manteca, Escalon , Stockton in the agriculture rich Central Valley. Near highways 99 and 120. Gated and safe on this private property. We welcome all Rv,s at our serviced sites, Tents spots as well . During your travels we hope you can stop and visit our Redwood Haven! $85/ night for trailer camping . Tents $70 / night. All Services to the sites. Dry camping offered as well. Guests love staying here: "Very quiet and secluded. Tucked away in a private redwood grove, you feel a million miles from anywhere! The hosts were extremely nice and welcoming. Would highly recommend!"
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$68
 / night
Plenty of places to camp amongst the Grove

9. Walden Ranch

99%
(921)
34mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents · Linden, CA
Walden Ranch began with the purchase of a neighboring 20 acres. Couple that with the inspiration of Thoreau's lines and life at the real Walden Pond, the ranch has grown to nearly 300 acres and the small ranch pond has grown to a 5-acre lake with a 3-acre forest and home. Scouts, family and church groups use the site for gatherings. Available are canoes, bonfire, and exploring the ranch's 300-head cattle, llamas, poultry and wildlife. Fires always allowed at fire ring. You are welcome to bring your own wood. Pitch your tent in a forest setting alongside a lake on a working cattle ranch. Watch wildlife or hike to smaller lakes on the ranch. Other animals include dogs, llamas, geese, chickens, and horses. The ranch is within a 20 minute drive to either Stockton or Lodi, CA and is surrounded by vineyards, orchards and pastures. Outdoor flush toilets, sink, tables and fire ring available. Forested area is set amidst grazing lands. This "Walden" even has willow trees slipped from a tree near Thoreau's cabin near Walden Pond, MA. Owner looks forward to sharing this peaceful, special spot!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Camp Westy Wine Country

10. Camp Westy Wine Country

91%
(11)
42mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Lodging · American Canyon, CA
Take in the sunny weather and open space while surrounded by other RVs on the property, where you’re welcome to wander, explore, and say hello to the animals. The ranch offers a relaxing setting that’s close to many attractions, but still feels like an oasis in the heart of California. The ranch is just a 7-minute drive from Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, offering a fun theme park day. You’re also only 20 minutes away from downtown Napa, home to world-class wineries and incredible food. If you’re craving some Bay Area adventure, the Vallejo Ferry Building is a 12-minute drive away, where you can catch the ferry directly into San Francisco. Nature lovers will enjoy nearby hiking spots like Newell Open Space, Wetlands Edge Park ( both just an 8-minute drive away), and Lynch Canyon Open Space, all offering cool views and plenty of trails to explore. While this may not be a traditional hotel stay, it’s a true California camping experience – comfortable, practical, and fun. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, our VW Vanagons provide everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Westfalia Camper / Vintage Camper Van / Glamping / Camp / Camping / RV / Instagrammable Stay / Unique stay / Ranch / Open Space / Hills / Glamping Napa / Vintage Volkswagen / Boho Camping / Off Grid / Van Camp / Family Stay
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night
Once Upon a Ranch

11. Once Upon a Ranch

94%
(134)
44mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents · Dixon, CA
The Once Upon a Ranch consists of 32 acre of flat land located approximately 30 minutes from Sacramento, 35 minutes from Napa, and 40 minutes from San Francisco. It has a beautiful sunset of view of the Vacaville hills. Once Upon a Ranch is our farm that we continue to add animals to it. The 32 acre Ranch has plenty of room for you and your family to enjoy. Park your RV or pitch your tents throughout the designated sites on Once Upon a Ranch. You can choose to sit back, relax, and enjoy the country life. Once Upon a Ranch is located near lots of attractions, golf courses, wineries, and performing arts. From shopping at Vacaville Premium Outlets to entertainment at the Mondavi Center for Arts to the Dixon Fairgrounds, you'll find fun things to do in and around The Ranch. Take a Travis Air Force Base tour, which has one of the largest collections of warbirds in the west. Explore the area's old historic towns and more than 50 wineries in scenic Solano County. Or visit the campus of UC Davis. Food and Drink Package available: if you do not want to pack drinks and food, we have a food and drink package you can purchase. Reach out to us once you have book for selections and pricing. Rules and Safety: no littering, remove and pack out your own trash and wastes, provide your own self contained black and gray waste system, pets are allowed however they have to be on a leash at all time and all pet wastes are to be removed and packed out at the end of your stay, no fire works or gun allow on Once Upon a Ranch, quiet hours are Mon-Sun 10pm-7am.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
At the homestead

12. The Foxes Family Farm

97%
(648)
45mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Wilton, CA
Welcome to The Foxes Family Farm! Our property is situated on 5 beautiful acres and we offer private campsites that provide the ultimate in seclusion and relaxation. We have multiple tent/RV sites that come complete with one site with 50 amp and 3 with 30 amp power, water, and septic facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for you and your motorhome. We also have a cabin available that sleeps 4 people and comes with A/C and a private bathroom. We also have 4 tent sites with potable well water, bathroom and for $3 shower with towel. No need to worry about laundry during your stay, as we have a washer and dryer available onsite. Additionally, we've , equipped with all the amenities you'd need for a refreshing and comfortable stay. We understand that your furry friends are part of the family, so we happily welcome pets to our property. Let them explore and enjoy the great outdoors alongside you. As the sun sets and the night sky blankets the surroundings, you'll have the opportunity to gather around a crackling campfire. Enjoy the warmth, roast marshmallows, and create lasting memories. Please note that campfires are allowed unless there's a fire ban in effect, ensuring everyone's safety. Located just a 35-minute drive from Sacramento, our property offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility. Explore the city's vibrant attractions, then return to our peaceful retreat to unwind and rejuvenate.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

14. Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

99%
(96)
45mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Lodging · Woodside, CA
Breathe deep in nature on our 10-acre property on Kings Mountain, California hillside. Our generously sized Safari-style tents offer a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Each tent has beds, down comforters, crisp cotton linens, lights, and more. Outdoor and indoor furniture and little touches that will make your stay unique. The property is located 30min from SFO, 40min from San Francisco, 30min from Palo Alto, 20 min from Half Moon Bay. Each tent is perched on a sturdy wooden platform and features a fully furnished deck, providing a cozy space to relax and soak in the breathtaking ocean (Half Moon Bay views) and forest views (Kings Mountain). All tents include a mini fridge and a stove, ideal for light cooking, intimate fireside storytelling, and warmth during cool days. We suggest you bring easy-to-prep food, drinks, warm clothes, hiking shoes, and a beanie, as it can get chilly without notice. Your designated parking space is a 6-minute walk from the campsite (downhill on arrival, then back uphill (steep) in the forest), so we recommend traveling light. Our campsite is nestled within the same property as our charming little farm. Our goats roam the land all day and may visit you for pets and nuzzles. They are gentle, but please do not feed or let them inside the tent. Recharge from the day with a hot shower. Grab your fresh towels from your tent and go to your outdoor allocated bathhouses, where you’ll find an indoor shower and well-appointed restrooms. They are nicely lit and stocked with bath products. A sink area is available for dish clean-up, and a bbq/picnic area. KM is famous for its hiking and biking trails nestled amongst the redwoods. The closest is a 15-minute walk from our campsite, and others are within a 15-minute car ride. Tent 01 (180sqft) accommodates 3 people in a queen-size bed and a daybed. Tent 02 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a bunk bed and an outdoor suspended net Tent 03 (210sqft) accommodates 4 people: two in a queen-size bed and two in a twin bed + daybed and an outdoor propane stove, hangout deck Recently added: an apartment w a hot tub Kids under the age of 8 are not allowed. An adult must accompany minors under 21 YO.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$134
 / night
Summer/Fall

15. Hirst Horse Ranch

98%
(260)
46mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Clay, CA
Instagram: HirstRanch The price of camping includes the Ranch experiences of feeding the animals and collecting eggs. Our property is great for children! We have a trampoline, a tree house, a large livestock water trough that we use as a kiddie pool in summer, a great swing set, and room to play. We live on a quiet 10 acre property with trees that provide some shade, and all of our sites are near the horse pastures. You might hear horses nickering and chickens clucking. There is lots of room to walk or run around. A Treehouse is available for kids to play in, a trampoline to jump on, plus we have a 17 foot high swing for kids and adults alike! You can walk the property to observe the horses, or sign up for a special horse, tractor, or welding experience. Come camp in a very quiet and safe horse and farming area. We are near the end of a dead-end road. Our camping sites are somewhat private, some with more shade and others with more mid-day sun. We specialize in "Horse Experiences" tailored to your level of comfort and needs. None of the horse experiences listed on our site require any prior experience with horses. We will make sure you are safe and comfortable while working with the horses. *NOTE: Experiences are not available on Sundays (our sabbath day). We can fit them in on Saturday afternoon/evening for Saturday-night campers, or Monday morning for Sunday-night campers. We have a private bathroom with flush toilet and sink. Summertime brings hot days and (usually) cool nights to our area. It is not uncommon to experience 100 degree days in June, July and August. Most evenings cool down, thanks to the Delta Breeze, to around 60-70 degrees overnight. Wintertime brings cooler daytime temps (50-60 degrees) and colder night temps (30-40 degrees). We are located about 10 minutes from the Galt area, which has a large variety of Fast-food, as well as several nicer restaurants. There is also a Wal-Mart (with groceries) and a nice Supermarket. We are about 6 miles from 2 country stores in Herald and Wilton (with gas station). Sites accommodate up to 6 people, and you can add up to 2 more for an additional fee. If you need more than 8 people, then consider booking 2 or more sites. With horses and the activities we do with them, dogs are not allowed.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$72
 / night
May's Luxury Farmstays

17. May's Luxury Farmstays

96%
(115)
46mi from Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area · 5 sites · Lodging · Los Gatos, CA
Relax and recharge at our retreat in Los Gatos. Whether you’re here to reconnect with nature, hike the trails, camp under the stars, or explore the Bay Area, Harlan’s Retreat, has everything for a worry-free stay! With nature trails on-site and the Saratoga Gap down the road, you won’t have to go far, For fun drive into the city. Come home and admire the amazing views from your secluded glamp-site with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Silicon Valley 2,800 feet below. This very private site offers breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the south bay. The views at night are transcendent. The Apple building and Moffet field are clearly visible. you look down from above the clouds to the valley floor 2,800 feet below.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night

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The best camping in Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area, CA guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area, where the wind whispers tales of excitement for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here, the California Aqueduct Bikeway beckons cyclists, while anglers cast their lines, hoping for a memorable catch. The park's open waters invite small boats and windsurfers to glide across the surface, and picnic areas offer serene spots to savor the scenic surroundings.

When to go

The best times to visit Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area are during spring and fall, when mild temperatures complement outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth ideal for water sports, though it can be crowded. Winters are less favorable due to cooler weather and reduced services.

Know before you go

  • Check weather conditions before your visit, as activities are best enjoyed in good weather.
  • Remember to bring a valid fishing license if you're 16 or older and plan to fish.
  • Keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under control at all times.
  • Accessible features are available; inquire ahead for specific needs.
  • Use the Yodel App for convenient payment of parking and boating fees.
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