Mount Diablo State Park – Live Oak Campground, California (Guide + Reviews)
Overview
Live Oak Campground lies along the lower slopes of Mount Diablo State Park, surrounded by oaks, grasslands, and sweeping East Bay hills. It’s less exposed than the summit-area Juniper Campground and offers easy access to trailheads, picnic areas, and the scenic drive up to Mount Diablo’s peak. With wide open skies and mild weather, it’s a classic Bay Area camping spot — quiet, close, and full of wildflowers in spring.
What Campers Are Saying
Overall vibe: “Quiet and convenient.” Campers appreciate the open oak forest setting, clear skies, and proximity to great hiking. It’s rustic but clean, and the views from the nearby trails are stunning.
Highlights
- Accessibility: closer to the park entrance and less steep than upper campgrounds.
- Scenery: rolling hills, oak woodlands, and spring wildflowers.
- Trail access: connects to Stage Road and Summit Trail.
- Starry nights: clear skies without city light glare.
Frictions to plan around
- No hookups: dry camping only.
- Hot afternoons: limited shade in summer — best from fall through spring.
- Wildlife: deer and raccoons are frequent visitors — use food lockers.
- Weekend demand: fills quickly due to proximity to Bay Area cities.
Camper Quotes
“So close to the city but feels totally remote.”
“Clean, quiet, and perfect for hiking Mount Diablo.”
“Great spring camping — wildflowers everywhere.”
“Fewer views than Juniper, but less wind and warmer nights.”
Campsites & Amenities
- Sites: 22 campsites for tents and small trailers (up to 20 ft).
- Hookups: none; potable water available seasonally.
- Facilities: flush toilets, picnic tables, food lockers, and fire rings.
- Environment: oak woodland with patches of open meadow.
- Pets: allowed in camp and paved areas, not on trails.
Booking & Availability
Reservations: via ReserveCalifornia.com. Open year-round. Popular with weekend hikers, so Friday and Saturday nights book out quickly in spring and fall.
Tip: Try midweek stays for peaceful sunsets and fewer crowds — especially after the spring bloom.
Best Sites
- #5–8: oak shade and afternoon breeze.
- #10–13: open sky and sunset views toward the valley.
- #20–22: slightly elevated with good privacy.
Even in mild weather, bring water and sun protection — Mount Diablo’s slopes heat up fast by afternoon.
Nearby Campgrounds
- Juniper Campground (Mount Diablo SP): higher elevation, panoramic Bay views.
- Anthony Chabot Regional Park: lakeside camping with hookups near Oakland.
- Del Valle Regional Park: full-service lake camping near Livermore.
Map & Directions
From Walnut Creek, take North Gate Road into Mount Diablo State Park and follow signs to Live Oak Campground. It’s about 3 miles past the entrance gate, on the way toward the summit road.
Address: Live Oak Campground, Mount Diablo State Park, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Live Oak Campground FAQ
Are there hookups?
No — dry camping only, but potable water is available.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, in the campground and paved areas — not on hiking trails.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, with level sites and easy access from the park road.
When’s the best time to visit?
March–May and October–November for ideal temperatures and wildflowers.
How far is it from Juniper Campground?
About 20 minutes up the summit road — perfect for a two-night split stay.
What are the chances I’ll see Bigfoot?
He’s rumored to hike the Stage Road Trail after sunset. 👣🌄
