Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground
4.5223 reviews18600 West Corral Hollow Road, Tracy, CA 95376
Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground
$10.00 - $10.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping is $10.00 per night per vehicle. Day-use fee is $5.00 per vehicle.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of California's rugged terrain, Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground welcomes adventure seekers with 23 thoughtfully designed sites that serve as your basecamp for off-highway exploration. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table, fire pit, and protective shade ramada, creating the perfect outdoor living space. Fresh water faucets are conveniently positioned to serve every three sites, while modern amenities including coin-operated showers and flush toilets ensure comfort after a day of dusty trails. Whether you're drawn to the challenging valley floor routes or the winding paths through surrounding hills, this compact campground puts you right at the gateway to thrilling OHV adventures.
The campground primarily caters to tent and RV camping, with basic amenities provided. Group sites and glamping options are not available, and there are no advanced features like electric or water hookups for RVs.
Historical SignificanceThis land tells a story spanning thousands of years, from the Muwekma Ohlone and Bay Miwok peoples who first called these hills home, to the coal miners who carved their fortunes from the earth in the 1850s. The early 1900s saw the rise of the Carnegie Brick and Pottery Company, whose industrial legacy still whispers through the landscape. Today, explorers can discover weathered remnants of the old brickworks scattered throughout the park, silent monuments to California's industrial past standing in stark contrast to the natural beauty that has reclaimed the land.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the classic California Mediterranean climate where sun-drenched summers give way to refreshing winter rains. The hot, dry summer months offer endless riding opportunities, while winter brings dramatic transformation as rain sweeps across the landscape. Seasoned visitors know the secret: arrive just after a light rain when the dust has settled and the trails are at their prime riding condition. Be aware that heavy winter storms can temporarily close access due to flooding, adding an element of nature's unpredictability to your adventure planning.
ElevationYour camping adventure unfolds across a dramatic vertical landscape where elevations sweep from 650 feet in the lower valleys to 1,750 feet atop the surrounding peaks. This thousand-foot elevation range creates diverse riding conditions and spectacular vantage points, offering everything from gentle valley cruising to challenging hillside climbs that reward riders with panoramic views of the California countryside.
Natural Features and SceneryCorral Hollow Canyon embraces the campground with a landscape that captures the raw beauty of California's interior. Rolling hills cascade into steep, rugged canyons where seasonal streams have carved dry, rocky washes perfect for technical riding. Majestic blue oaks and grey pines dot the golden grasslands, while California buckeye adds splashes of seasonal color. Keep your eyes skyward for red-tailed hawks circling on thermals, and you might spot majestic tule elk grazing the hillsides at dawn. As evening falls, listen for the haunting calls of coyotes while black-tailed deer emerge from the shadows to browse the native bunchgrasses.
Geological RegionPositioned where Alameda County's eastern edge meets San Joaquin County's western frontier, the campground sits within the dramatic folds of California's coastal hills. Corral Hollow Canyon showcases nature's sculptural prowess through its varied terrain—from gentle rolling hills clothed in oak-studded grasslands to challenging rocky washes and steep canyon walls that test both vehicle and driver. This diverse geological playground offers riders an ever-changing canvas of natural obstacles and scenic rewards, all carved by millions of years of tectonic forces and erosion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include ADA-compliant showers and toilet facilities. The campground is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate up to 8 people and 1 vehicle per site. The driveway surface is gravel, with some pull-through options available. The maximum pad length is 75 feet.
Sites PrivacyCampsites have partial shade provided by ramadas and are relatively clustered. Privacy may be limited due to the open layout.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews recommend visiting after light rain for reduced dust and scenic landscape. Bring earplugs due to road noise and dress warmly for cooler nights.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite information not detailed in authoritative sources, but user reviews mention sites with fire pits, ramadas, and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 pm
Check-out
12:00 pm
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not stated. All campsites are first-come, first-served.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No restrictions stated for the number of people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged along the valley floor with shared water faucets between every three sites. All sites include shade ramadas, fire pits, and picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 23 sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews suggest they are reasonably available.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as all sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is located within the Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area, which offers a variety of activities for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. The park features designated trails for dirt bikes, ATVs, and 4x4 vehicles, as well as hill climbs and tracks for different skill levels. For non-OHV users, the area offers wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic landscapes. One user review highlights the enjoyment of watching OHV activities from the campground.
HikingHiking opportunities exist within the Carnegie SVRA, though they are not the primary focus due to the area's emphasis on OHV activities. Trails are shared with vehicles and can vary in difficulty.
FishingThere are no fishing opportunities available at the campground or within the recreation area.
SwimmingSwimming is not supported within the campground or nearby areas.
BikingBiking is allowed on the designated trails within the recreation area, but the primary focus is on motorized vehicles. Terrain can include steep climbs and rugged paths.
BoatingThere are no boating facilities or opportunities at this campground.
Wildlife viewingWildlife commonly seen in the area includes black-tailed deer, coyotes, and birds of prey such as red-tailed hawks and kestrels. Visitors may also spot tule elk and other mammals.
Beach activitiesNo beach-related activities are available at this location.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park offers Junior Ranger programs and educational opportunities about the area's history, including its significance to local tribes and its role in California's coal mining and brick production industries.
Winter ActivitiesWinter activities are limited due to the park's focus on OHV recreation. The area's Mediterranean climate features cool, wet winters, which may improve trail conditions for riding.
Water SportsNo water sports activities are available.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only allowed in provided fire pits with purchased firewood. Ground fires and gathering wood are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is home to rattlesnakes and poison oak. Visitors are advised to stay on trails and avoid bushy areas.
Active alertsSeasonal trail closures due to rain and flooding. Tesla Road is closed at MM 9.5, restricting access to Corral Hollow Road.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 18
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include a 911 payphone located in front of the west restroom within the campground. The nearest hospital and police facilities are located in Tracy.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified, but conditions are best in winter and after light rain, as per user reviews.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are provided at each campsite. There are no recycling facilities explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features nearby. Potable water faucets located between every three campsites.
Common complaintsNoise from a nearby busy road can disrupt sleep; earplugs are recommended. Afternoon winds in warmer months can be strong, requiring extra rope to secure items.
HostNot explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Campground Map
18600 West Corral Hollow Road, Tracy, CA 95376
Driving directionsAccess Carnegie SVRA from Tracy via Corral Hollow Road, as Tesla Road is closed at MM 9.5. Drive approximately 20 miles from Tracy and follow signage to the park entrance.
The park is accessible via Corral Hollow Road, which is paved. Tesla Road is closed at MM 9.5, making Corral Hollow the sole viable access. Seasonal closures may affect accessibility during extreme weather.Nearby places
Tracy (approximately 20 miles), Livermore (approximately 21 miles).
Nearby supplies
MotoMart store in the park provides firewood, food, off-road parts, and accessories. Livermore and Tracy are the nearest cities for grocery stores and fuel supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.5
23 reviews
Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the campground for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. Visitors appreciate the convenience of amenities like potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. However, some users mention noise from a nearby road and two-way traffic on trails as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
"Facilities are meticulous and the limited camping spaces are as comfortable as anyone could hope to expect in a desert area." "Very clean and well kept." "Great spot for families; plenty of...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from a nearby road, especially at night, can be disruptive. Some users also express concerns about the two-way traffic on trails, mentioning the potential for collisions.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to mitigate road noise at night. Visit shortly after a light rain for the best riding conditions. Ensure all vehicles have spark arrestors and meet noise regulations.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter is considered the best time for riding, as the clay soil becomes firm and less dusty after rain. Summer evenings can be windy, necessitating extra rope for securing tents.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Fun to sit and watch the off-road guests as they enjoy all the great space that has been provided for their use." "Bring warmer clothes for the nights because delta winds can be strong in warmer...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not highlighted in user reviews, though all 23 sites are equipped with similar amenities.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user reviews address accessibility, but the campground features ADA-compliant showers and restrooms.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. User reviews do not mention specific experiences with pets.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025