Benicia State Recreation Campground
4.3614 reviewsBenicia State Recreation Area, 1 State Park Road, Benicia, CA 94510
Benicia State Recreation Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
A $10 day-use vehicle fee is required at the park entrance. There is no additional fee for using trails or fishing beyond obtaining a valid California fishing license.
About this campground
Where the wind whispers through rare tidal marshes and the San Francisco Bay meets river waters, Benicia State Recreation Campground welcomes RV adventurers to a hidden ecological treasure. This intimate campground, nestled at the park's entrance, serves as your gateway to one of California's most remarkable wetland ecosystems. From your motorhome or trailer, you'll have front-row access to world-class bird watching, serene fishing spots, and trails that wind through landscapes where endangered species find sanctuary among the rustling marsh grasses.
Benicia State Recreation Campground is a small, specialized facility offering only self-contained RV camping. Tent camping and other accommodation types are not available.
Historical SignificanceThese lands hold stories spanning millennia, from the Patwin people who first called this estuary home to the Euro-American pioneers who established the historic city of Benicia. The park preserves echoes of California's industrial past at Rocky Point, where weathered cliffs still bear the marks of old sandstone quarrying operations. Here, natural history and human heritage intertwine, creating a landscape where ancient Native American traditions meet Gold Rush-era ambitions, all set against the timeless rhythm of the tides.
Weather and SeasonsBenicia's maritime climate creates a dramatic dance of weather throughout the year. Cool ocean breezes and mystical fog banks roll in regularly, keeping the atmosphere refreshingly crisp even as summer temperatures occasionally soar to a surprising 101°F. Winter brings its own charm with temperatures settling around 40°F and gentle rains averaging 3 inches, painting the marshlands in deeper shades of green. The persistent coastal winds add character to every season, carrying the salt-tinged air and the calls of countless seabirds.
ElevationRising gently from sea level, the campground rests on the threshold between land and water, where low, rolling hills covered in golden grasses meet the ever-changing tidal zones. This subtle topography creates perfect vantage points for observing the marsh's daily transformations as tides ebb and flow, revealing mudflats teeming with life before flooding them again with nutrient-rich waters.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of water and land unfolds before you, where three distinct marsh ecosystems—brackish, saltwater, and freshwater—create a mosaic of habitats rarely found in such proximity. Rocky beaches punctuate sweeping vistas of the Carquinez Strait and Southampton Bay, while endangered northern salt marsh harvest mice rustle through pickleweed and cordgrass. The surrounding hills, golden in summer and emerald in winter, frame panoramic views that stretch across the bay, offering spectacular sunrise and sunset displays reflected in the ever-shifting waters.
Geological RegionPerched at nature's grand intersection where the mighty Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers converge with San Pablo Bay, this campground occupies one of California's most ecologically significant estuaries. The unique geological setting creates a rare confluence of fresh and salt waters, sculpting a dynamic landscape of tidal channels, mudflats, and marshlands. Rocky outcrops and beaches tell the story of ancient seas and tectonic forces, while the constantly mixing waters support an extraordinarily diverse ecosystem found in few other places along the Pacific Coast.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBenicia State Recreation Campground seems to emphasize accessibility, with trails like the Mike Taugher Trail designed with shared use and accessibility in mind. Accessible parking and pathways are available within the park but there is no specific information about campground accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of three en-route sites intended for self-contained vehicles. Site size specifics are not detailed.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not specified in the authoritative sources, but user reviews or additional details do not provide insights.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites near Dillon Point for the best views of Southampton Bay and the Carquinez Strait.
Best CampsitesSites 3b, 7, 14, 16, 20, 23, 24, 26 are highlighted for scenic views and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8AM
Check-out
Sunset
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to one night per vehicle.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Only self-contained RVs and trailers are allowed
- specific guest limits per vehicle are not indicated.
Groups
Group camping is not available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe camping area is situated near the park entrance, with three designated en-route campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, from 8 AM to sunset daily.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are accepted; camping is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is limited to three en-route campsites near the park entrance on a first-come, first-served basis; tents are not allowed and sites must be fully self-contained.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not possible; camping is first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Camping at Benicia State Recreation Campground offers limited activities within the campground itself, but broader recreational opportunities exist throughout the recreation area. Visitors often engage in fishing, hiking, and bird watching.
Hiking
The campground is situated near trails such as the Mike Taugher Trail and Benicia Bay Trail, which are paved and accessible. These trails offer scenic views of the Carquinez Strait and Southampton Bay.Fishing
Dillon Point is noted for shore fishing opportunities, with species such as sturgeon, starry flounder, and striped bass available. Anglers aged 16 and over must carry a valid California fishing license.Biking
Cyclists can enjoy the 2.25 miles of paved trails within the recreation area, including the Benicia Bay Trail, which is shared with pedestrians.Wildlife viewing
The tidal marsh ecosystem supports diverse wildlife, including endangered species like the northern salt marsh harvest mouse and California clapper rail. Bird watching is popular, especially during migratory seasons.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden within the recreation area features over 250 native species and educational demonstration gardens.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No information regarding non-motorized water sports is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are not mentioned; presumed prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsWindy conditions, fog, and possible marsh erosion are environmental challenges. Wildlife such as coyotes and beavers may pose risks.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.2 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
Benicia Police Department (~2 miles), Kaiser Permanente Vallejo Medical Center (~9 miles), Benicia Fire Department (~2.5 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated; the park is open year-round.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details regarding trash and recycling facilities provided in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Southampton Bay and the Carquinez Strait, offering opportunities for shore fishing and waterfront views.
Common complaintsLimited camping availability and prohibition of tent camping are noted.
HostNo campground host services are mentioned.
Campground Map
Benicia State Recreation Area, 1 State Park Road, Benicia, CA 94510
Driving directionsThe recreation area is located 1.5 miles west of the outskirts of Benicia on I-780. Take the Columbus Parkway exit. Alternate route: Exit I-80 at Columbus Parkway, follow it to Rose Drive, and turn right into the park.
The park is easily accessible year-round via I-780 or I-80. Roads leading to the park entrance are paved. There is no mention of seasonal closures, and access does not involve challenging terrain.Nearby places
Benicia (1.5 miles, ~5 minutes), Vallejo (~8 miles, ~15 minutes), San Francisco (~37 miles, ~50 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Benicia has several grocery stores and fuel stations within 3 miles. Larger stores like Costco and Walmart can be found in Vallejo (~8 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Benicia State Recreation Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the limited facilities in the campground but praise its accessibility to scenic trails and fishing spots. Some visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the scenic trails, accessibility features, and opportunities for fishing and bird watching.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include the lack of advanced reservations and limited amenities such as showers, laundry, and flush toilets.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a self-contained RV as tent camping is not permitted. If fishing, ensure you have a valid California fishing license. Layered clothing is recommended due to the area's changeable weather.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest spring and fall are ideal seasons due to moderate temperatures and blooming plants in the botanic garden.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The trails here are fantastic – paved and with beautiful views of the strait.' 'Fishing at Dillon Point was a highlight of my trip – we caught several striped bass.' 'Limited amenities, but it’s a...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 3b, 7, 14, 16, 20, 23, 24, and 26 are rated highly.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
The accessible trails and parking options are praised, but no specific comments on campsite accessibility.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025