The best camping near Del Valle Regional Park

Surrounding 5-mile-long Lake Del Valle are 4,395 acres of oak covered hills, plus many trails to hike, bike, or explore on horseback. Windsurfing and kayaking are popular water sports, while boat rentals are available and you can launch your own craft for a small fee. Anglers can do some shore fishing to fish for trout, or try using powerbait in the narrows, between the launch ramp and Heron Bay. Lakeside RV and tent camping is available year-round at the Del Valle Family Campground, and group and equestrian sites are scattered throughout the park. 

• Best for families: The Family Campground has 150 sites, including two that are wheelchair accessible. 
• Best for large groups: Eagles View group camp can accommodate 11 people or more.
• Best for equestrians: The Little Chaparral horse camp area contains four small paddocks.

1. Sites fill up fast on weekends and during summer, so be sure to reserve early—up to 12 weeks in advance.
2. Drive-in family campsites are available by reservation year-round for tent camping and motorhomes. Some sites have hookups for water, sewage, and 50-amp electrical power.
3. The campground has restrooms, hot showers, picnic tables, open areas, and connections to park trails. 
4. Organized group camping is permitted by reservation only, made at least five business days in advance.
5. Equestrian groups should reserve the Caballo Loco equestrian group camp.
6. All campers with watercraft must go to boat inspection prior to checking into the campground.

The lake is stocked with trout in fall through late spring. Stocked catfish can be caught in the summer months, but keep in mind the lake gets rowdy after Memorial Day. Del Valle Regional Park is quieter in winter and spring. For the ruggedly inclined, this is a perfect time to backpack into the Ohlone Wilderness, a 28-mile backcountry that borders the park. The weather can be changeable any time of year, so layered clothing is recommended.

• Fees apply for vehicle entry, boat inspections, dogs, fishing permits, boat rentals, boat launches, windsurfing, camping, and reservable group picnics. 
• Any size boat is allowed, but personal watercraft are not permitted.
• Mandatory boat inspections protect the lake against zebra and quagga mussel infestation. 
• Visitors can schedule a natural and cultural history boat tour with interpretive staff.
• Campers should bring their own pre-cut firewood, first aid kit, and drinking water. Fires should only be built in provided firepits.
• Hammocks and swings are not allowed to be attached or tied to trees.