Camping at Mount Diablo State Park
Location and Access
Mount Diablo State Park is situated in Northern California, approximately 20 miles east of Berkeley. The park's main access points are via North Gate Road and South Gate Road. Visitors can enter the park from Walnut Creek to the north or Danville to the south. The physical address for the park is:
Mount Diablo State Park 96 Mitchell Canyon Road Clayton, CA 94517
Camping Facilities
The park offers a variety of camping options, including family campsites, group campsites, and hike/bike campsites. The main camping areas within Mount Diablo State Park are:
- Live Oak Campground: Provides family campsites with amenities including restrooms and showers.
- Juniper Campground: Sits at a higher elevation than Live Oak and also offers family campsites with similar amenities.
- Junction Campground: This smaller campground is near the summit and has a few campsites.
- Group Campgrounds: Available for larger groups, but require advance reservations.
All campsites generally include a table, fire ring, and access to water and restrooms. Reservations for campsites can be made through the Reserve California website or by calling their toll-free number.
Camping Reservations
Camping reservations for Mount Diablo State Park can be made:
- Online at ReserveCalifornia.com
- By phone: 1-800-444-7275 (PARK)
Reservations may be necessary, especially during peak seasons or on weekends when the park is most crowded.
Camping Fees
Camping fees at Mount Diablo vary based on the type of site and the season. Fees are subject to change, so visitors should verify current rates via the official state parks website or by contacting the park directly.
Park Hours and Seasons
The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset for day use. Overnight camping is also available throughout the year, but some campgrounds may be closed during off-season or due to weather conditions.
Wildlife and Safety
Mount Diablo is home to various species of wildlife including birds, deer, and snakes. It's important for campers to store food securely and to be aware of their surroundings, especially on trails. Rattlesnakes are present in the area, so visitors should watch their step and give wildlife plenty of space.
Recreational Activities
Apart from camping, visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The park has an extensive network of trails, including paths leading to the summit with stunning panoramic views. Rock climbing and picnicking are also popular.
Fire Safety and Regulations
Campfires and portable stoves are allowed in designated areas, but visitors must follow current fire regulations and guidelines to prevent wildfires. During high fire danger, restrictions may be in place.
Leave No Trace
Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty. This includes packing out all trash, camping only in designated sites, and not disturbing wildlife or natural resources.
Additional Information
For the latest updates, regulations, and any alerts related to camping at Mount Diablo State Park, campers should contact the park directly or visit the California Department of Parks and Recreation website for Mount Diablo State Park.
