Juniper Campground

4.32

141 reviews

Mount Diablo State Park, Juniper Campground, 1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Quick Facts

2,900 ft

Price

$28 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

2,900 ft

Price

$28 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

35 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Juniper Campground

$28.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard fee for one campsite is $30 per night, including entry for one vehicle and up to eight people. Additional vehicles are charged $10 per...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

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

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Reserve California

Provider

925-837-2525Feedback.MountDiablo@parks.ca.gov

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What Campers Say

4.32

Recommended

Based on 141 reviews

155 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsprivacycleanhiking

Some mention

dusty

"User reviews highlight the campground’s stunning views, varying campsite quality, and issues with amenities like water and restrooms. The campground’s proximity to hiking trails and scenic vistas makes it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts, though raccoon activity and wind are frequent concerns."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Mount Diablo State Park, Juniper Campground, 1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Juniper Campground

Mount Diablo State Park, Juniper Campground, 1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Driving directionsTake Highway 680 to Walnut Creek and exit at Diablo Road. Continue east for 3 miles to Mount Diablo Scenic Blvd, which leads to the park and eventually to the Juniper Campground.

The roads leading to the park are steep, narrow, and winding with blind turns. Vehicles over 24 feet are not recommended due to sharp curves. There are multiple entrances, including North Gate Road, South Gate Road, Macedo Ranch Staging Area, and Mitchell Canyon Staging Area. Access may be restricted during high fire danger or adverse weather conditions.

Nearby places

Walnut Creek: approximately 8 miles (15 minutes)

Concord: approximately 15 miles (30 minutes)

Danville: approximately 12 miles (25 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Walnut Creek, approximately 8 miles away. No stores are present within the park itself.

Best Time to Camp at Juniper Campground

Experience the dramatic dance of California's mountain climate at Juniper Campground. Summer days bring warm, golden sunshine with temperatures climbing above 80°F—perfect for early morning hikes before the afternoon heat settles in. As darkness falls, the mountain air cools to a refreshing 50°F, ideal for stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape with misty mornings and dramatic cloud formations, while brisk winds carry the scent of rain across the hillsides. The mild winter temperatures make year-round camping possible, though visitors should come prepared for the mountain's famously changeable moods.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer brings warm, sunny days (80s); ideal for early hikes though heat and fire risks exist.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Early fall is popular: moderate temps and spectacular sunsets; prime camping season.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring features spectacular wildflowers and good trails but can be windy; reviews positive.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round but winter needs preparation; amenities and water may be limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Summer and early fall are popular seasons, but extreme heat and fire restrictions are common.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, but amenities like showers and potable water may be unavailable during drought conditions.
Current Alerts: Droughts frequently lead to water shortages, and fires are a continuous risk in the area.

About Juniper Campground

Perched on Mount Diablo's western slopes, Juniper Campground beckons adventurers with its stunning vistas and gateway access to pristine hiking trails. Wake up to panoramic views that stretch across the valley below, then set off to explore the nearby Diablo Valley Overlook—just one of many natural wonders within easy reach. Families love the thoughtfully designed amenities that make outdoor adventures comfortable for all ages, while the campground's strategic location serves as your basecamp for discovering Mount Diablo's countless treasures.

Juniper Campground caters to various camping styles, including tent camping and RV camping. Group sites are also available but must be reserved in advance.

Historical SignificanceCamp where ancient stories echo through the canyons. Mount Diablo holds profound spiritual significance as a sacred site in Native Californian mythology, where indigenous peoples believed the world was created. In 1851, this towering landmark became a crucial survey point that helped map the American West, with its summit serving as the reference point for land boundaries across Northern California and Nevada. Today, visitors can connect with centuries of human history while creating their own memorable chapters in this storied landscape.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of California's mountain climate at Juniper Campground. Summer days bring warm, golden sunshine with temperatures climbing above 80°F—perfect for early morning hikes before the afternoon heat settles in. As darkness falls, the mountain air cools to a refreshing 50°F, ideal for stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape with misty mornings and dramatic cloud formations, while brisk winds carry the scent of rain across the hillsides. The mild winter temperatures make year-round camping possible, though visitors should come prepared for the mountain's famously changeable moods.

ElevationAt 2,900 feet above sea level, Juniper Campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat while treating campers to some of California's most spectacular elevated vistas. This sweet spot elevation creates a natural air conditioning effect, with temperatures typically running 10-15 degrees cooler than the surrounding lowlands. From your campsite, watch as morning fog pools in the valleys below while you enjoy crisp, clear mountain air and views that seem to stretch forever across the California landscape.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living tapestry of California's diverse ecosystems. Majestic oak woodlands provide shaded retreats, while fragrant chaparral and golden grasslands paint the hillsides in ever-changing hues. Spring arrives in a spectacular burst of wildflowers that transform the landscape into nature's own impressionist painting. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters—graceful deer browsing at dawn, red-tailed hawks soaring on thermal currents, curious raccoons investigating at dusk, and the occasional wild pig foraging through the underbrush. Every vista offers a new perspective on the raw beauty of Northern California's wilderness.

Geological RegionExplore a geological wonderland where Earth's history unfolds beneath your feet. Mount Diablo State Park showcases Northern California's incredible geological diversity, featuring an extraordinary mix of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock formations that tell a story spanning millions of years. The summit's ancient volcanic rock stands as a testament to the region's fiery past, while the surrounding slopes reveal layers of marine sediments packed with fossils—remnants from when this mountain lay beneath prehistoric seas. Rock hounds and geology enthusiasts will discover a natural museum where every trail offers glimpses into our planet's dramatic evolution.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in starts at 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is at noon.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 15 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to eight people per site.

Groups

Group sites accommodate large numbers of visitors and multiple vehicles. They are equipped with basic facilities like vault toilets and food lockers.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground contains loops of sites, some densely surrounded by bushes for privacy and others more open and shaded by trees.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve is available for unreserved sites. Check-in begins at 2 PM, but rangers sometimes allow earlier check-ins.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or via phone with Reserve California. Specific penalties or deadlines are not detailed in the sources.

AccessibilityJuniper Campground includes three accessible campsites (#9, #10, and #19) with accessible parking, level table and tent areas, and generally accessible restroom facilities.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with some being spacious and others quite small or uneven. Sites numbering in the low-mid twenties are larger but more open.

PrivacyPrivacy varies greatly among campsites. Some are surrounded by dense shrubs offering seclusion, while others are open and closely spaced. Site #23 is noted to have good privacy.

Total Campsites35 campsites

Recommended SitesSites 17-22 offer proximity to restrooms and good sunset views. Site 13 lacks shade and is best avoided during summer.

Amenities available

Showers

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Juniper Campground provides access to a range of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and sunset watching. The campground's proximity to trails like Deer Flat Road and Juniper Trailhead makes it an ideal spot for hikers. Views of the San Francisco Bay and Diablo Valley are frequently praised.

HikingNumerous trails are accessible directly from the campground, including routes that lead to the Diablo Valley Overlook and Deer Flat Road. Hiking options range from easy walks to more strenuous climbs, such as the hike to Mount Diablo Summit.

ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.

BikingCycling is popular in Mount Diablo State Park. The addition of bike turnouts has improved safety for cyclists navigating the steep, winding roads around the campground.

Wildlife viewingThe campground offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, such as sightings of raccoons and wild pigs. Visitors are advised to secure their food and water due to scavenger threats.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsWhile specific cultural programs are not noted at the campground itself, Mount Diablo State Park offers interpretive exhibits and educational trails like the Fire Interpretive Trail.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRattlesnakes are common in warmer months. Poison oak grows along trails. The campground often experiences high winds.

Active AlertsDroughts frequently lead to water shortages, and fires are a continuous risk in the area.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Food Storage RequiredFood lockers are included at each site but raccoons can break into them easily.

Fire PolicyFires are restricted to designated fire pits. Wood gathering is prohibited, and fire danger levels may restrict all fires.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are reachable by dialing 911. For non-emergencies, contact Parks Dispatch at (916) 358-1300. The closest hospitals are in Walnut Creek.

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans are available throughout the campground, and recycling facilities are provided. Visitors report that sites are generally clean and free of garbage.

Water FeaturesNo major water bodies nearby. Potable water availability fluctuates due to drought conditions.

Camp HostRangers are available during daylight hours and patrol the area until sunset.

Weather at Juniper Campground

Reviews

4.3

141 reviews

Recommended

Juniper Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground’s stunning views, varying campsite quality, and issues with amenities like water and restrooms. The campground’s proximity to hiking trails and scenic vistas makes it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts, though raccoon activity and wind are frequent concerns.

Review Summaries

Based on 141 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views, particularly during sunset, and the abundance of nearby hiking trails. The campground is generally well-maintained, with clean facilities and...

Based on 141 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include non-operational showers and water restrictions, broken food lockers, significant wind at night, and issues with raccoons scavenging for food and water. Some users also noted...

Based on 141 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to arrive before sunset as gates close early. Bringing sufficient water and securing food against raccoons is highly recommended. Site #1, #18, and #23 are popular for views and...

Based on 141 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Late summer through early fall is ideal for camping, with moderate temperatures and spectacular sunsets. Spring offers wildflower viewing but can be windy. Winter camping is possible but requires...

Based on 141 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Lovely, spacious campsites, many with breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay.' (Jessica Alba) 2. 'Raccoons on a rampage. Keep in mind that in addition to food, they will be looking for water...

Based on 141 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #1 is recommended for its amazing views. Site #18 is praised for its proximity to restrooms and showers, while site #23 offers good privacy and shade. Site #13 is avoided during summer due to a...

Based on 141 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites include #9, #10, and #19, which offer level table areas and accessible parking. Restrooms and shower facilities near these sites are generally accessible.

Based on 141 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome at Juniper Campground, but they must be kept on a leash and are not allowed on trails. The campground is considered dog-friendly with shady spots and easy access to water.

Based on 141 reviews

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