Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve
00 review2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland , California, 94609, United States
Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve
$25.00 - $40.00 / 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
Reservation fees for the Sibley Backpack Camp range from $25 to $40, depending on group size and other conditions.
About this campground
Perched high in the Berkeley Hills, Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve offers adventurous campers a secluded wilderness experience just minutes from urban life. Your journey begins with a rewarding 0.2-mile uphill trek that leads to a pristine backpack camping site, where two thoughtfully placed tent pads await beneath open skies. Here, you'll find yourself dining at an ADA-accessible picnic table while gazing across a breathtaking 180-degree panorama that stretches from the majestic Mount Diablo to Volmer Peak and the rolling hills of Tilden Park. With basic amenities including a serving table and pit toilet, this primitive site strikes the perfect balance between comfort and authentic outdoor immersion.
The campground offers a primitive, hike-in camping experience designed for tents and small groups.
Historical SignificanceBeneath your feet lies one of California's most fascinating geological stories. The Round Top volcano complex serves as a natural time machine, its exposed bedrock revealing secrets from over 10 million years ago when fiery eruptions shaped this landscape. Historic quarrying operations inadvertently created an extraordinary gift for modern visitors—exposed cliff faces that function as an open-air geological textbook. Today, this outdoor laboratory attracts geology enthusiasts, students, and curious hikers who come to witness firsthand the raw power of ancient volcanism frozen in stone.
Weather and SeasonsThe preserve's Mediterranean climate creates a year-round camping destination with distinct seasonal personalities. Summer brings warm, temperate days perfect for stargazing from your tent, while winter transforms the landscape with crisp, cold air and dramatic storm systems that sweep across the hills. Autumn and winter rains nourish the volcanic soils, setting the stage for spring's spectacular wildflower displays when the hillsides burst into a kaleidoscope of colors—California poppies, lupines, and native grasses painting the ancient volcanic slopes in vibrant hues.
ElevationThe camping area sits at a commanding elevation within the Berkeley Hills, offering cooler temperatures and clearer air than the surrounding valleys below, with sweeping vistas that make every sunrise and sunset a memorable spectacle.
Natural Features and SceneryThis remarkable preserve showcases nature's dramatic artistry through its volcanic landscapes and thriving ecosystems. Ancient lava flows and volcanic deposits create a rugged terrain dotted with fascinating rock formations and outcroppings that tell stories millions of years in the making. During the wet season, ephemeral vernal pools emerge like mirrors across the landscape, transforming into temporary aquatic worlds brimming with fairy shrimp, salamanders, and specialized plants found nowhere else. The contrast between weathered volcanic peaks and delicate seasonal wetlands creates a landscape of extraordinary diversity and beauty.
Geological RegionYour camping experience unfolds atop one of the Bay Area's most dramatic geological features—the tilted Round Top volcano complex. Over the past 10 million years, the immense power of the Hayward and Moraga earthquake faults has literally turned this ancient volcano on its side, creating a unique geological phenomenon. These same tectonic forces that continue to shape California today have uplifted the Berkeley Hills, folding and fracturing the bedrock into a complex puzzle that reveals the Earth's dynamic history. Standing at your campsite, you're witnessing the ongoing collision of the Pacific and North American plates—a slow-motion drama that has created this extraordinary landscape where ancient volcanic rocks meet modern earthquake country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne of the picnic tables is ADA-compliant, providing limited accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe two tent pads measure approximately 10'x25' and 10'x20'.
Sites PrivacyInformation on privacy between campsites is not provided.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites for 180-degree views of Mount Diablo and Volmer Peak. For accessible features, use the ADA picnic table.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers are indicated, but the two tent pads available are highlighted as accommodating scenic views and basic facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in must be coordinated in advance.
Check-out
Check-out must occur within your reserved timeframe.
Stay Limit
Amaximum of 2 nights may be reserved.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 15 campers allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo primitive tent pads: 10'x25' and 10'x20'.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, but stricter fire restrictions may apply during certain periods.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through EBRPD by calling 1-888-EBPARKS (option 2).
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all reservations must be made in advance at least 2 days before.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled via the EBRPD Reservations Department at least two days in advance.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hiking is the most prominent activity, with trails ranging from easy to moderately challenging. The park also offers geological education opportunities, dog-friendly trails, wildlife viewing, and cycling on designated paths.
Hiking
"There are lots of trails at different levels," including easy and moderate options with some steep inclines. The trails feature geological markers and educational content.Biking
Biking is allowed on fire trails and paved roads, but not on narrow-gauge trails or certain sensitive areas.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have observed diverse wildlife, including redwing blackbirds, salamanders, and newts, especially around the vernal pool in spring.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park features educational geological markers, a visitor center with exhibits, and self-guided tour brochures.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No campfires or BBQs allowed; only camp stoves are permitted. Restrictions are stricter during fire seasons.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak and slippery trails during rainy conditions are potential hazards. No campfires are allowed; users must bring their own water and supplies.
Active alertsStricter fire restrictions might be active during particular seasons; visitors are advised to check the park's website for updates.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 11.6 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
Emergency services can be contacted at 911 from a pay phone or (510) 881-1121 from a cell phone. Cell phone reception is noted to be spotty inside parks.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring and summer are the busiest times for the campground.
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash and recycling facilities are mentioned; campers are expected to clean up their site before leaving.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 0.3 miles from the nearest drinking water source.
Common complaintsUser reviews cited difficulties in trail markings and finding the campground in the dark. Others noted limited views due to fog on some days.
HostNo onsite hosts are mentioned.
Campground Map
2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland , California, 94609, United States
Driving directionsFrom Highway 24 take the Fish Ranch Road immediately east of the Caldecott Tunnel. Continue 0.8 miles to Grizzly Peak Blvd. Turn left and go 2.4 miles on Grizzly Peak to Skyline Blvd. Turn left and drive 0.1 mile to the preserve entrance on the left. BY BUS: Visit www.transit.511.org to confirm transit information. The closest bus line, AC Transit #305, runs only on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. From Lake Merritt BART, 19th Street BART, or Rockridge BART take AC Transit bus 59 or 59A; these bus lines go to the Montclair Transit Center. From there, transfer to AC Transit bus 305 and exit at the stop on Colton Boulevard and Ridgewood Drive. Walk the short distance from Colton to Skyline Boulevard, turn left and proceed to the preserve. It is a mostly level, 0.9-mile walk that passes the Huckleberry Preserve staging area.
The road access includes a narrow road leading to the entrance, where drivers should be cautious of tight curves and blind driveways. One user review noted: 'Getting to it was easy enough although the road is fairly narrow and people seem to treat it like a Monaco Raceway.'Nearby places
Oakland (approximately 10 miles away), Berkeley (approximately 8 miles), San Francisco (approximately 15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest grocery and camping supplies would likely be found in Oakland or on the way to the park. Specific locations are not provided
fallback options include nearby towns such as Berkeley and Montclair.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the preserve's diverse trail options, geological features, and scenic views. Many appreciate the educational aspects and the opportunity for a unique camping experience.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"Lots of trails at different levels," "gorgeous wildflowers," and "diverse wildlife" are frequently praised. The geological markers and educational opportunities also stand out.
Common Concerns
Trails are poorly marked, and some paths are steep. Accessing the park can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water as it requires a hike to access potable water. Avoid bringing dogs to the vernal pool in spring to protect fragile ecosystems.
Seasonal Insights
Spring brings vibrant wildlife and blooms, making it an excellent time for visits. Summer offers pleasant hiking conditions. Winter can present muddy or slippery trails.
Camper Quotes
"Loved it. There are lots of trails at different levels." (Chris Mahaney) "The most unique aspect of this preserve was the educational aspect." (Josh Klaus) "Look out for hemlock and poison oak on...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Lydia Ropp noted that "the bathroom is well maintained," and Alexandra described the vernal pool as "teaming with life" during spring.
Accessibility Features
The site's ADA-compliant picnic table provides some accessibility, but the hike-in nature and steep trails may limit options for users with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. Off-leash areas are available for well-behaved dogs under voice command.
Last updated August 10, 2025