Devilishly Good Camping

Best Camping on Mount Diablo

High & Mighty

Lofty at 3,000 feet, Juniper Campground—named for the surrounding juniper trees—is located very close to Diablo’s summit and is the largest camping area, with 36 sites. Set up camp, then set out on a 1-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike to Diablo’s peak, featuring one of the best panoramas in the entire state. Back at your tent, grill some food, roast some s’mores, and marvel at the stars. Astronomers describe Mount Diablo as one of best dark sky watching spots in California.

Small Wonder

Located at 2,200 feet, the intimate Junction Campground has six sites nestled in woodland, and shhh … it’s first come, first served. Its location lets you get an early start on Diablo’s popular Summit Trail, particularly spectacular in spring when the weather is cooler and the wildflowers are everywhere!

Sandstone Sensation

Set at 1,450 feet, Live Oak Campground's 22 sites give you easy (and early bird!) access to Diablo’s popular Rock City, filled with naturally whimsical sandstone formations. Explore the Wind Caves and see Elephant Rock, Artist Point, and Fossil Ridge. Be sure to seek out Sentinel Rock, where you’ll gain another of Diablo’s postcard famous views!

Group Scoop: Mount Diablo has five Group Camping Sites too!

Get Married Bonus!

Talk about a Lover’s High: Get married at 3,849 feet! Better than Vegas, this “destination wedding” at Mount Diablo’s summit is back by popular demand. The Contra Costa Clerk-Recorder will officiate weddings from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24. There are only 16 spots available! Schedule your ceremony.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Purely Purisima

    Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

    View
  2. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  3. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Been There, Dome That

    Surrounded by granite domes, craggy peaks, and miles of hiking trails, the High Sierra landscape of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park is famous for good reason. For a truly grand view, take a short hike to bold—and bald (except for snow at times)—Lembert Dome.

    View
  2. Lookout Ahead!

    A 3.7-mile loop hike to Boucher Hill Fire Lookout in Palomar Mountain State Park reminds us just how stunningly beautiful are the mountains of this remote, lightly visited portion of northern San Diego County.

    View
  3. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  4. Strawberry Peak Lookout Hike

    Strawberry Sunday

    The 2.5-mile (round-trip) lollipop loop climb to the Strawberry Peak Fire Lookout near the town of Lake Arrowhead dishes up some delicious views.

    View