Briones Regional Park

Closed — Closed for the season. All group campsites reopen mid-May and operate through October, closing November 1. Reservations required through East Bay Parks at 1-888-327-2757.

About

Briones Regional Park encompasses 6,255 acres of rolling grasslands and oak-studded hills in the East Bay, offering three primitive group campsites for seasonal use. Wee-Ta-Chi accommodates 17-50 campers with a 1.5-mile hike-in, Maud Whalen serves 25-75 campers with a 1-mile hike-in and includes a drinking fountain, and Homestead Valley is the largest, accommodating 100-300 campers with a 1-mile hike-in. All sites feature shelters or shade structures, fire circles, picnic tables, BBQs, and chemical toilets, though most require bringing your own water. The park provides diverse recreational opportunities with an extensive trail network for hiking, running, mountain biking, and horseback riding across scenic ridgelines and valleys. Wildlife viewing is excellent, with opportunities to spot black-tailed deer, coyotes, red-tailed hawks, and seasonal wildflowers. The park also features an archery range accessible from the Bear Creek entrance. Seasonal cattle grazing occurs in various areas of the park as part of habitat management.

Directions

Access Wee-Ta-Chi and Maud Whalen via Bear Creek Staging Area at 1611 Bear Creek Road, Lafayette. Homestead Valley access varies by site. Check with reservations for specific directions when booking.

Nearby Campgrounds