Dumbarton Quarry Campground
A surprisingly quiet Bay Area campground with spacious sites, abundant wildlife, and direct access to scenic hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Dumbarton Quarry Campground
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surprisingly quiet Bay Area campground with spacious sites, abundant wildlife, and direct access to scenic hiking trails.
"This city gem stole our hearts with its open space and miles of hiking trails.
🚗 Plan Your Arrival Time
Gates close at 10 PM. Arrive before then or be prepared to walk in!
🌬️ Brace for Bay Winds
It can get windy near the bay, so secure your gear and enjoy the fresh air!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spacious RV & Tent Sites
Throughout the campground
Generously sized spots offer ample room for your rig and outdoor living, with many featuring full hookups.
Coyote Hills Trails
Direct access from campground
Explore miles of scenic hiking trails with stunning Bay views and abundant wildlife sightings.
Wildlife Watching
Wetlands and open spaces
Spot wild turkeys, jackrabbits, and a variety of birds, including California Gulls dancing overhead .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bay Breeze
Curfew & Quiet Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Arrival Time
Gates close at 10 PM. Arrive before then or be prepared to walk in!
🌬️ Brace for Bay Winds
It can get windy near the bay, so secure your gear and enjoy the fresh air!
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Excellent for spotting the abundant birdlife and wildlife in the area.
🎣 Fishing Potential
Quarry Lake nearby is a spot for fishing, though check local advisories on consumption.
First new park and campground in decades along San Francisco Bay to open at former quarry site
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Arrival Time
Gates close at 10 PM. Arrive before then or be prepared to walk in!
🌬️ Brace for Bay Winds
It can get windy near the bay, so secure your gear and enjoy the fresh air!
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Excellent for spotting the abundant birdlife and wildlife in the area.
🎣 Fishing Potential
Quarry Lake nearby is a spot for fishing, though check local advisories on consumption.
✨ Book Full Hookups Early
These sites are highly sought after, especially on weekends. Book well in advance!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dumbarton Quarry Campground is praised as a surprisingly quiet and spacious gem in the Bay Area, offering excellent value for RV and tent campers. Visitors appreciate the abundant wildlife, scenic hiking trails, and convenient location. However, some note inconsistent restroom cleanliness and the presence of airport noise.
"Great campground for you and furry friend. Lot of open space and miles of hiking trails. Kimmy and I sat by fire pit and watched 👀 the stars. Priceless!!!"
Frank Mario Castellon
"I don't think many people know of this place. It's the only one around in Hayward area.
However, it's very quiet with wetlands. Many trails. You can hear coyotes howling at night and there are wild turkeys everywhere. Tons of jack rabbits and ground squirrels.
There is a playground and lovely grass for playing.
No store. They have a curfew where you must be back to the campground by 10pm. Gates are closed and you would have to leave your vehicle outside and walk all the way back to your rv. I stay there often when visiting family."
Myriam Makalena
"Little bit expressive and is more like rv storage there's nothing good to see here.... Bathroom are ok the people here don't really clean them up. Showers with buildup every where.. ok don't forget buggers and probably more attached to the shower walls...
Gate opens 8am and closes at 10pm. Not really good place to test because freeway is nearby and day and night traffic noise.. some people at kiosk kind of rude but if you don't care to much at details, you'll be fine with all the above!!!"
EGM
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dumbarton Quarry Campground is located in Fremont, California. It's easily accessible by car, offering a convenient escape within the Bay Area. The campground is situated near major roadways, making it a straightforward drive from San Francisco or San Jose.
While direct public transportation to the campground itself is limited, you can utilize public transit to reach nearby areas and then arrange for a taxi or rideshare to complete your journey. Check local transit schedules for options into Fremont.
From the north, take I-880 South and exit onto Dumbarton Road (CA-84 West). From the south, take I-880 North and follow signs for Dumbarton Road (CA-84 West). The campground will be accessible from this route.
Yes, there is parking available for registered campers. However, be aware of the 10 PM vehicle curfew; after this time, you'll need to park outside the gates and walk in.
The campground is approximately 30 minutes from Oakland International Airport (OAK) and about 45 minutes to an hour from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your campsite in advance, especially if you require full hookups or are planning to visit during peak times or weekends. Some reviewers noted that even in December, there were empty sites, but booking ahead is always a good strategy.
The campground gates open at 8 AM and close at 10 PM. Visitors arriving after 10 PM will not be able to drive into the campground and will need to walk in.
Pricing is considered reasonable, especially given the Bay Area's high costs. Specific rates can vary based on the type of site (e.g., full hookup vs. tent site) and the season. It's best to check the official booking website for current pricing.
Standard camping fees apply. For access to trails within Coyote Hills Regional Park, a park entrance fee might be applicable if you are not staying at the campground, but campground guests generally have access to the trails from their site.
Day use may be possible for accessing the trails in Coyote Hills Regional Park, but the campground itself is primarily for overnight stays. Check with the park management for specific day-use policies and fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Amenities include spacious campsites, fire rings, restrooms, and showers. Some sites offer full hookups. There's also a playground and plenty of open space for recreation.
Yes, there are restrooms and showers available. While some reviews mention they are generally clean, others have noted issues with upkeep, so experiences may vary.
Yes, it's a great campground for pets, with lots of open space and hiking trails for you and your furry friend to enjoy.
Expect to see wild turkeys, jackrabbits, ground squirrels, and a variety of birds, including blackbirds, bluebirds, and finches. California Gulls are also a common sight.
Cell service can be spotty in some areas of the campground due to its location. Wi-Fi is typically not provided. It's advisable to download any necessary maps or information offline.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there is no store or restaurant directly at the campground. You'll need to bring all your food and supplies with you or plan a trip to a nearby grocery store, which is about ten minutes away.
Yes, most sites are equipped with fire rings, allowing for campfires. Be sure to check for any local fire restrictions or burn bans, especially during dry seasons.
There are several grocery stores located about ten minutes away from the campground in Fremont, making it convenient to stock up on supplies before or during your stay.
While specific designated picnic areas might be limited, the spacious campsites and open areas provide ample opportunities for picnicking.
Fremont offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants. You can find diverse cuisines within a short drive from the campground.
📸 📸 Photography
The trails in Coyote Hills Regional Park offer stunning views of the Bay, the SF and Oakland skylines, and the surrounding wetlands, making them prime photography locations. The dancing California Gulls are also a unique subject.
You'll have opportunities to photograph wild turkeys, jackrabbits, ground squirrels, and a wide array of birds. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for wildlife shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always be respectful of wildlife and other visitors.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography, casting a warm glow over the Bay and the surrounding hills. The Bay View Trail is particularly scenic at these times.
Yes, you can photograph the campground facilities for personal use. However, be mindful of other campers' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember the 10 PM vehicle curfew when planning your arrival, as late arrivals might mean a walk to your site. Packing bug spray is also a good idea, especially during warmer months. The campground's proximity to grocery stores makes it easy to stock up on family-favorite snacks and meals.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there's no store on-site, the proximity to grocery stores (about 10 minutes away) allows for cost-effective meal planning. The free access to extensive hiking trails means you get a lot of recreational value without additional park fees, making it a budget-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
🐶 Pet Owners
Ensure your pet is on a leash when not in your immediate campsite area, and always clean up after them. The campground's pet-friendly atmosphere makes it a stress-free choice for those who don't want to leave their companions behind.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Coyote Hills
Many of these trails wind through wetlands and open grasslands, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. Keep an eye out for the resident wild turkeys, jackrabbits, and a variety of bird species that call this area home. The Bay View Trail, in particular, is frequently mentioned for its breathtaking vistas, making it a must-do for photographers and anyone seeking scenic beauty.
When planning your hikes, remember that the Bay Area can experience strong winds, especially near the water. It's also wise to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be dusty or uneven. The accessibility of these trails directly from the campground makes Dumbarton Quarry an ideal base for outdoor adventures.
Wildlife Encounters at Dumbarton Quarry
Bird enthusiasts can look forward to spotting a variety of species, including blackbirds, bluebirds, and finches. Instagram reels have even captured the mesmerizing dance of California Gulls over the campground, adding a unique visual spectacle.
The sounds of nature, including the occasional howl of coyotes at night, contribute to the immersive outdoor experience.While the wildlife is a major draw, it's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding the animals. This ensures their safety and preserves the natural ecosystem. Bringing binoculars can greatly enhance your wildlife viewing experience, allowing you to observe these creatures in their natural habitat without disturbance.
RV Camping and Campground Amenities
Beyond the individual sites, the campground provides essential amenities to make your stay comfortable. These include restrooms and showers, though user experiences on their cleanliness can vary.
It's worth noting that while the campground offers a peaceful retreat, it is situated near major roadways, meaning some traffic noise is present. Additionally, the campground is within the flight path of nearby airports, so occasional plane noise is to be expected.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit