Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area RV & Campground Guide
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Rolling hills dominate the landscape at Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area, creating a serene escape from the bustle of San Jose, which sits just 42 miles away. Boaters and anglers dot the shimmering surface of Lake Del Valle, a massive reservoir that runs for five miles through the hills, where families splash in the shallows. If you prefer to stay on dry land, grab your hiking boots or saddle your horse to explore the trails that run high into the hills. Come any time of year — with hot summers and cool but manageable winters, the weather is always right for camping. With the town of Livermore just five miles away, you’re never far from supplies or a delicious meal.
Spring 45 F - 75 F
Summer 55 F - 90 F
Fall 45 F - 80 F
Winter 38 F - 60 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area
If you’re planning a relaxing vacation to Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area, an RV is the perfect way to enjoy your trip. If you don’t have a recreational vehicle of your own, an RV rental from RVshare is a convenient solution as you’ll be able to enjoy the comforts of your favorite model all without the long-term commitment.
Del Valle Family Campground
Be the first person in the water or on the trails at Del Valle Family Campground, which is situated inside the Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area. This 150-site spot is popular, particularly during the summer months, so be sure to reserve a spot up to 12 weeks in advance. If you’re coming in an RV, ask for one of the 21 sites with full hookups. With hot showers, flush toilets and a dump station, this is a comfortable spot for longer vacations. If you’re driving a big rig, some sites offer pull-through access for easier parking. Within the park, you’ll find a camp store, boat rentals and more. Keep in mind that generators are not allowed. RV sites with hookups start at $45 per night, and other sites are $30 per night.
Joseph D. Grant County Park Campground
Located just over an hour south of Del Valle in San Jose, Joseph D. Grant County Park is a convenient option for RVers. Here, you’ll find 40 campgrounds, each with access to hot showers and flush toilets. From your site, it’s just a quick walk to the park’s fantastic 50-mile trail system, which is particularly popular with local mountain bikers, hikers and equestrians. A handy dumpsite makes it easy to get ready to hit the road, and a variety of ranger programs keep the family entertained during the summer months. Some sites offer electric and water hookups. Be sure to reserve these sites as early as possible. Rates start at $44 for RV sites with hookups and $34 for primitive sites. From November through February, the park offers a 25 percent discount on camping fees.
Garden City RV Park
One of the closest RV parks to Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area is Garden City RV Park, which is about an hour away. Here, you’ll find full hookups, bathrooms and showers as well as a laundry room. Get online easily with the free Wi-Fi service. This park is a great option if you’re planning to visit Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Nightly prices vary, but it's always a good idea to call for rates and reservations as early as you can.
What to Do at
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area
Inside Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area
With its huge surface area and calm inland waters, Lake Del Valle is the perfect spot for kayaking, sailing and trout fishing, and you can even rent boats inside the park. Any type of boat is welcome, but keep in mind that the lake’s speed limit is 10 miles per hour. In the summer, spread your towel on the sandy beach and cool off with an occasional swim. The park also has an extensive hiking and equestrian trail network that boasts gorgeous water views. In the spring, keep an eye out for the wildflowers that line the hillsides.
How to Get to
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area is located off Mines Road, which you can access from Livermore, California. If you’re coming from San Francisco or Yosemite, take Interstate 580 to Livermore. From San Jose or Fremont, Highway 84 is an easy access route.
By Car
Entering Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area is open 365 days per year. The gates open at 6 a.m. or 7 a.m., depending on the month, and close between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. If you’re planning to camp, keep in mind that the park has a curfew between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area Per vehicle : $6.0
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area Per trailered vehicle : $4.0
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area Bus entry : $25.0
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area Dog entry : $2.0
As you travel and share your trip to Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area on social media, tag RVshare. If you aren’t on social media, just email your favorite tips, anecdotes and photos to [email protected]. Your photos may even be featured on the RVshare blog or social media accounts to inspire other campers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area
Summer is a great time for you to visit Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area. There are numerous activities to take advantage of during the summer months, including fishing, swimming, and horseback riding.
Yes! Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area has amenities for RVs, including RV sites with hookups and an RV dump station. There is a family campground with 150 sites, and 21 of these sites have water, sewage, and electrical hookup.
If you love eagles, then Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area is one of the best places to view these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Mountain lions and several different species of snake also reside within the wilderness area.
Yes, pets are allowed within the park. There is a $2 fee per pet that must be paid upon entering the park. Once inside, pets must remain leashed while in public.
Yes! The park has multiple RV spots available for disabled visitors. All bathroom buildings are wheelchair-accessible, and the Westshore and Eastshore trails are paved and gently sloped for wheelchair access.