Round Valley Regional Preserve
00 review19450 Marsh Creek Road, Brentwood, California, 94513 , United States
Round Valley Regional Preserve
$25.00 - $25.00 / 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$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for the backpack camping site is $25 per night per group.
About this campground
Escape into the wilderness at Round Valley Regional Preserve's exclusive group backpacking site, where adventure meets solitude in a fenced primitive camping experience. Whether you arrive on foot, horseback, or bicycle, you'll discover a thoughtfully designed campsite featuring graded tent pads, a sturdy picnic table, vault toilet facilities, and convenient hitching rails for equestrian visitors. This self-sufficient camping experience requires you to carry in all your water and pack out everything you bring, embracing the true spirit of leave-no-trace wilderness camping.
Round Valley Regional Preserve primarily offers a group campsite suited for backpacking, equestrian, and bicycle campers. Tent pads are available, and the site accommodates up to 25 people. There is no water or trash disposal on-site, and campers must practice leave-no-trace principles.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in thousands of years of human history, where California's indigenous peoples once gathered at this vital crossroads between the East Bay and San Joaquin Valley. These rolling hills served as neutral ground for trade, ceremonies, and cultural exchange between tribal groups. Today, carefully preserved archaeological sites whisper stories of the past, offering glimpses into the rich Native American heritage that shaped this land long before European settlement.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of this arid landscape, where summer transforms the preserve into a sun-drenched expanse with temperatures soaring above 100°F. As autumn arrives, the intense heat gives way to crisp, comfortable days perfect for exploration. Winter brings the most pleasant camping conditions, with cool temperatures and the rare gift of rainfall in this moisture-scarce environment. By early summer, ephemeral water sources vanish, leaving behind a golden, drought-adapted ecosystem.
ElevationThe preserve's varied topography creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems across its rolling terrain, though specific elevation data awaits further documentation.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of California ecosystems spread across 2,191 acres of protected wilderness. Golden grasslands ripple across hillsides, punctuated by majestic oak woodlands where ancient trees provide precious shade. Along the seasonal Round Valley Creek, a ribbon of green marks the riparian corridor where willows, native shrubs, and moisture-loving grasses create a stark contrast to the surrounding dry landscape. This diverse habitat mosaic includes chaparral shrublands clinging to steep slopes and savannahs where scattered oaks stand sentinel over waving grasses.
Geological RegionCarved by time and weather, Round Valley Regional Preserve encompasses 2,191 acres of quintessential California terrain. The landscape tells a geological story through its steep, northeastern-facing slopes that capture precious moisture and support mixed oak woodlands. These dramatic hillsides give way to gentler valleys where non-native grasslands have taken root alongside native plant communities. The preserve's varied topography creates a patchwork of ecosystems - from dense shrublands to open savannahs, each adapted to their specific position on the landscape's undulating canvas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe parking lot offers a couple of wheelchair-accessible spots, as per the user review by Jayasimha Nuggehalli. However, no additional accessibility features are detailed for the campsite itself.
Sites SizeThe campsite is described as having 'graded tent pads.' Specific dimensions and sizes of the sites are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy level for campsites is not described in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring sufficient water and sunscreen. The site is exposed and lacks natural shade.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite is available, designated as a group backpacking site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Site access begins at 8:00 AM.
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Campers must follow park rules for duration limits.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 guests are allowed per group site.
Groups
The group site is identified as suitable for up to 25 people. Campers must haul out their own trash and bring all necessary water.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has a single fenced site.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, but stricter fire restrictions may apply during summer months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the EBRPD Reservations Department at 1-888-327-2757, option 2.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned; reservations are strongly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyTo cancel or change a reservation, call the EBRPD Reservations Department at 1-888-327-2757, option 2.
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
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Round Valley Regional Preserve supports a variety of outdoor recreational activities suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling. Hiking is particularly emphasized, and trails range from flat stretches along creeks to steeper areas reaching Morgan Territory Preserve, which offers rewarding views. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, as mentioned by user Ben Fixico, who noted observing wildlife 'anytime of year.'
Hiking
Hiking is a prominent activity at Round Valley Regional Preserve. Trails range from "flat stretches along creeks," as noted by Mark Seager, to "steeper hikes up to Morgan Territory Preserve," which offers rewarding views. Savageasflux describes the trails as starting with a 'wide fire road' along a creek.Biking
Biking is allowed with some restrictions, as noted in the authoritative content. Specific details about trail terrain or difficulty are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible year-round. User Ben Fixico mentions always observing some wildlife, regardless of the season.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the park is noted to be 'green in the winter' according to user Mark Seager.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are offered at this location.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are prohibited at the backpacking site. Use of commercially purchased wood is mandatory in designated areas.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsExtreme summer heat and lack of water access are significant hazards. Poisonous plants and wildlife may also pose risks.
Active alertsStricter fire restrictions may apply during the summer months.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 reached by calling 911 or (510) 881-1121. Cell reception may be spotty or unavailable in parts of the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak usage likely corresponds to cooler months (spring and fall) due to the summer heat exceeding 100°F.
Trash and recyclingNo designated trash or recycling facilities are present. Campers are required to 'pack out what you pack in.'
Proximity to water featuresNo water features are available; Round Valley Creek dries up by early summer.
Common complaintsNo specific complaints are mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
HostNo information about campground hosts is available.
Campground Map
19450 Marsh Creek Road, Brentwood, California, 94513 , United States
Driving directionsFrom Walnut Creek: from I-680, exit at Ygnacio Valley Road. Proceed on Ygnacio Valley Road to Clayton Road in Concord and turn right (east). Clayton Road becomes Marsh Creek Road in Clayton. Proceed east on Marsh Creek Road, past Deer Valley Road, until you reach the preserve staging area on your right. From Brentwood: Take Walnut Blvd. south to Marsh Creek Road and turn right. When Marsh Creek Road intersects with Camino Diablo Road, bear right and stay on Marsh Creek Road. You will reach the preserve staging area on the left.
Access is via paved roads, but the terrain leading into the preserve can be steep and challenging. Seasonal closures or restrictions are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Brentwood is the nearest city
distances and travel times to other cities are not specified.
Nearby supplies
Details about the closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Round Valley Regional Preserve has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the preserve as a serene and spacious location, with notable mentions of wildlife, hiking opportunities, and the well-maintained parking area with accessible spots. The park is described as green and inviting in the winter months, though summer heat necessitates caution and preparation.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the 'spacious parking area,' the 'scenic hikes,' and the quiet and serene atmosphere of the park. Wildlife viewing is emphasized, as one user 'always gets to observe some wildlife.'...
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Common Concerns
Some reviews caution visitors about the summer heat, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. Another drawback mentioned is the lack of water and trash facilities at the campsite.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing plenty of water and sunscreen due to the exposed terrain. Starting hikes early in the morning is suggested to avoid the summer heat and enjoy solitude.
Seasonal Insights
Winter is highlighted as a more favorable time for a visit, with the park described as 'green' and cooler. Summer visits require heat management, with the use of hats, sunscreen, and loose clothing.
Camper Quotes
- 'Always get to observe some wildlife anytime of year.' - Ben Fixico
- 'Steep hike up to MTP, but the views along the way are worth the effort.' - Mark Seager
- 'Bring sunscreen and lots of water if...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews for individual campsites beyond general impressions of the preserve are provided.
Accessibility Features
The parking lot has a 'couple of wheelchair-accessible parking spots,' but no other accessibility features are mentioned in the camping area.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in the park, as noted in signage and confirmed by user reviews.
Last updated August 10, 2025