Briones Regional Park
00 review2537 Reliez Valley Road, Martinez, California, 94553 , United States
Briones Regional Park
$50.00 - $300.00 / 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$300.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group camping fees range by site size: Wee-Ta-Chi has a minimum fee of $50 for up to 50 people, Maud Whalen has a minimum fee of $75 for up to 75 people, and Homestead Valley has a minimum fee of $300 for up to 300 people. Reservations must be made in advance and cannot be made less than 3 days before arrival.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Briones Regional Park, where three pristine group camping areas await your adventure. Whether you're gathering with 50 friends at the intimate Wee-Ta-Chi site or hosting up to 300 people at the expansive Homestead Valley, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape of golden rolling hills and hidden canyon retreats. The Maud Whalen site offers the perfect middle ground, all three nestled within a tapestry of sweeping grasslands and sheltered valleys that define this remarkable wilderness.
Briones Regional Park provides three group camping areas, each designed for large gatherings: Wee-Ta-Chi (up to 50 people), Maud Whalen (up to 75 people), and Homestead Valley (up to 300 people). These campsites are primitive, requiring advanced reservation and adherence to strict park rules.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time on land that echoes with centuries of California history. These rolling hills once formed part of the vast Rancho Boca de la Canada del Pinole, granted by the Mexican government in 1842. For generations, cattle grazed these same slopes where you'll pitch your tent, continuing a ranching tradition that shaped the region's character. The historic Briones family, who gave the park its name, stewarded this land until 1870, leaving behind a legacy that still whispers through the windswept grasses.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's dramatic seasonal transformations at Briones, where each time of year paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Autumn mornings wrap the hills in mysterious fog, creating an ethereal atmosphere perfect for early risers. Spring bursts forth with vibrant wildflower displays carpeting the verdant hillsides, while winter's gentle rains transform the terrain into a hiker's paradise of crisp air and clear views. Year-round, you'll enjoy comfortable dry conditions with refreshing breezes and minimal rainfall, making every season an ideal time to explore.
ElevationThe park's varied terrain creates natural amphitheaters and viewpoints throughout the camping areas, with elevations that provide both sheltered valleys and commanding ridge-top vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryLose yourself in a landscape that unfolds like nature's own masterpiece. From your campsite, watch as morning light transforms the rolling grasslands into waves of gold, while secluded canyons offer cool shade and quiet contemplation. Grazing cattle dot the hillsides, maintaining the area's pastoral heritage, while native wildlife thrives in this protected habitat. Be mindful of poison oak along some trails as you explore the ridgelines that reveal breathtaking panoramas stretching to the horizon.
Geological RegionPerched in the heart of Contra Costa County, Briones Regional Park commands spectacular 360-degree views that showcase Northern California's geographic diversity. From your campsite, witness the majestic silhouette of Mount Diablo rising to the east, while the shimmering waters of the Sacramento River wind through the delta below. On clear days, the panoramic ridges reveal the entire East Bay hills stretching southward and the iconic peak of Mt. Tamalpais standing sentinel across the bay, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned in the provided materials.
Sites SizeGroup camping sites accommodate varying capacities: Wee-Ta-Chi for up to 50 people, Maud Whalen for up to 75 people, and Homestead Valley for up to 300 people.
Sites PrivacyThis is likely to vary by the specific group camping area, but there is no explicit mention of privacy levels.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWee-Ta-Chi is recommended for smaller groups (up to 50), while mid-sized groups (up to 75) may prefer Maud Whalen. Larger groups (up to 300) should opt for Homestead Valley.
Best CampsitesHomestead Valley accommodates up to 300 people, offering the largest group camping site.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- Advanced reservations are required
- no walk-up availability.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites vary: Wee-Ta-Chi (max 50), Maud Whalen (max 75), Homestead Valley (max 300).
Groups
Homestead Valley supports up to 300 people, Maud Whalen up to 75 people, and Wee-Ta-Chi up to 50 people. Exact details about vehicle or equipment limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three separate group sites: Wee-Ta-Chi, Maud Whalen, and Homestead Valley.
Open and Closed SeasonGroup campsites are available for reservation beginning mid-May through October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made by calling 1-888-327-2757, option 2 (9:00 AM-4:00 PM), Monday-Friday, or 510-544-2707 for Canadian residents.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; group sites require advanced reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCall the EBRPD Reservations Department at 1-888-327-2757, option 2, for cancellation or changes, Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Briones Regional Park is celebrated for its diverse recreational offerings. 'Hiking, running, and horseback riding over the park's scenic trails' are officially noted as main activities. User reviews enhance this description, highlighting 'picnicking, birdwatching, kite flying, photography, and nature study' as common pastimes. Seasonal variations such as 'newts in the ponds' and springtime wildflowers add to the allure.
Hiking
The park features a broad network of trails that traverse grassy hills and shaded forests. Trails vary in elevation, offering panoramic views of natural landmarks like Mount Diablo. User reviews describe the trails as 'mostly double wide,' accommodating hikers of all levels. However, caution is advised on narrower, less-maintained paths due to poison oak.Biking
Mountain biking is noted as a popular activity, leveraging the park's challenging terrain and scenic ridges.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight; cows roam the park year-round, and newts populate seasonal ponds in specific periods. Poison oak is noted as a drawback but is generally avoidable on marked trails.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts annual events like the Bay Area Orienteering Club's orienteering meet, which is open to interested participants.Winter Activities
The park's recreational focus does not shift significantly in colder months, as its offerings cater to year-round outdoor activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as options.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated areas and must be attended by an adult. Commercial fire logs or processed wood must be used. Collecting wood is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poison oak (especially in unmarked trails), mountain lions (spotted at night as per user reviews), and roaming cows. Campers should also watch for cow pies.
Active alertsFire and BBQ restrictions vary seasonally; campers are advised to check park alerts for updates.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.7 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
In case of emergency, campers are advised to call 911 from a payphone or 510-881-1121 via cell phone. Cell phone reception is noted to be spotty or unavailable inside the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May through October.
Trash and recyclingThere is no information detailing trash and recycling facilities or their schedules.
Proximity to water featuresNo water hookup or waterfront access available.
Common complaintsComplaints include poison oak on unmarked trails, spotty cell phone reception throughout the park, and unclear website directions.
HostCampground host information is unavailable.
Campground Map
2537 Reliez Valley Road, Martinez, California, 94553 , United States
Driving directionsFROM HWY 24: exit Orinda Village and head north on Camino Pablo Rd. Shortly after Camino Pablo becomes San Pablo Dam Rd, turn right at the light onto Bear Creek Rd. Bear Creek entrance is on the right, just beyond Happy Valley Rd. FROM HWY 80: exit San Pablo Dam Rd and head east through town past San Pablo Reservoir. Turn left at the light onto Bear Creek Rd and look for Bear Creek park entrance just beyond Happy Valley Rd.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from major highways HWY 24 and HWY 80. Some user reviews note spotty cell phone reception inside the park, suggesting potential challenges for navigation.Nearby places
Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord, and Martinez (specific distances not provided).
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery, camping supplies, and fuel locations are unspecified. Campers are advised to plan ahead.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Briones Regional Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users consistently praise the park's scenic beauty and diverse trails, with specific highlights such as 'waves of fog' and 'views from the crest of the hills.' Seasonal attractions like wildflowers and newts are also noted. Some reviews mention challenges, including poison oak and unmarked trails.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- 'Magical trails' with scenic fog and panoramic views.
- Seasonal attractions like wildflowers and newts.
- Family-friendly and varied trails accommodating different activities like biking and...
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Common Concerns
- Presence of poison oak in some areas.
- Poorly marked trails in certain spots.
- Limited signage and directions, creating difficulty in navigation.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Visit during spring for lush greenery and wildflowers.
- Wear protective clothing to avoid poison oak.
- Carry a map or use a GPS to navigate less-marked trails.
Seasonal Insights
Spring is highlighted as the best season for lush greenery, wildflowers, and clear weather. Winter sees a decline in aesthetic appeal due to browner landscapes, but trails remain accessible.
Camper Quotes
- 'Magical trails! We got here in the early morning on a weekend in November and it was gorgeous.' - Aaron Durant
- 'In the spring, it's beautiful and green with flowers, but it's browner through...
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Site-Specific Reviews
- Homestead Valley is the largest group camping area, accommodating up to 300 people. However, no specific reviews are linked directly to individual campsites.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and dogs can hike off-leash except in areas with cattle. This is a notable positive for pet owners.
Last updated August 10, 2025