Brannan Island State Recreation Area RV & Campground Guide
California
You can navigate through an endless maze of rivers and streams at Brannan Island State Recreation Area, a fascinating spot in California’s San Joaquin Delta. Situated just 58 miles northeast of San Francisco and 47 miles southwest of Sacramento, this is the perfect spot for a NoCal weekend getaway. Explore the waterways by motorboat or kayak, join local windsurfers and skim across the water, or stay on dry land and enjoy a picnic with a view. With its gentle terrain and tree-lined shores, Brannan Island is an ideal spot for families and adventurers alike. Come any time of year — summers are hot and perfect for water sports, while winters bring low crowd levels for peaceful paddling and fishing opportunities.
Spring 45-79 F
Summer 57-90 F
Fall 45-77 F
Winter 38-55 F
San Francisco, CA
Sacremento, CA
RV Resorts & Campsites in Brannan Island State Recreation Area
No matter when you’re visiting, an RV makes the perfect home base for a trip to Brannan Island State Recreation Area. If the weather’s warm, it’s a cool and shady haven; in the winter, it’s a cozy respite from the cold. Trying out the RV camping lifestyle is easy with an RVshare rental. Choose the size that best fits your crew — you can even find models that are pet-friendly or available for delivery.
Cottonwood and Willow Campgrounds
Cottonwood and Willow Campgrounds are located side-by-side inside the boundaries of Brannan Island State Recreation Area. If you’re hoping to get on the water for an early-morning fishing trip, or if you simply want to watch the sunrise, this is the place to be. Together, the two campgrounds have 102 campsites, each suitable for both tents and RVs. The majority of sites are primitive, but the 12 RV sites in the Olympic Loop have hookups for water and electricity. Keep in mind that the park allows RVs up to 36 feet long. Nearby, there’s a convenient dump station, bathrooms with flush toilets, showers, and a picnic area. Primitive sites start at $36 per night. If you’re coming between May and October, be sure to reserve online well in advance; the campgrounds fill up quickly.
Rio Viento RV Park
If you’re in search of full hookups, head about 10 minutes south of Brannan Island State Recreation Area to Rio Viento RV Park. This is a particularly good option for big rigs — every site measures 50 feet deep and 35 feet wide, so there’s plenty of room for slide-outs and extra vehicles. Your reservation fee includes full hookups and 50-amp electricity service. When it comes to location, Rio Viento shines. You can wake up to the sound of the Sacramento River and sip your morning coffee while taking in the panoramic views. Get on the water right from the campground, or watch the windsurfers from your RV. Rates at Rio Viento start at $50 per night, and you can get a big discount by booking a week at a time.
Duck Island RV Park
If you’re visiting Brannan Island State Recreation Area for fishing, you can’t beat Duck Island RV Park. This is a park designed for anglers — you can cast from the shoreline or take your pick of the six lighted docks. There’s plenty of space for everyone. It’s important to note that this RV park only accepts adults. On-site, you’ll find a store with bait and RV supplies, an expansive picnic area, and a clubhouse where you can get to know other campers. Need to get online? The park has Wi-Fi, too. Rates at Duck Island vary, so be sure to call for details.
Eddo's Harbor & RV Park
Fall asleep to the sounds of lapping water from your riverside site at Eddo's Harbor & RV Park. With just 42 sites, this park is ideal for relaxation. Every site offers full hookups with your choice of 30-amp or 50-amp service. After a day on the water, you can wash up in the shower house, fuel up your boat at the dock, and grab a snack from the convenience store. The community BBQ attracts a lively crowd, and the handy Wi-Fi service makes it easy to share your vacation photos. This family-owned park is friendly and welcoming, whether you’re coming with friends or as a family.
What to Do at
Brannan Island State Recreation Area
Inside Brannan Island State Recreation Area
The waterways are the big draw at Brannan Island State Recreation Area, so be sure to bring your fishing gear, swimsuit, and boat to enjoy the area to the fullest. If you’re looking for a fishing pier and a quiet beach for swimming, check out the Seven Mile Slough area; it’s only open to non-motorized boats, which makes it a peaceful spot for families. Be sure to bring a fishing license for everyone over 16. Bringing a motorboat? The park offers a 10-lane boat ramp, so you can get on the water in no time.
Restaurants
Shanny Mac's
Grab a quick bite at this friendly cafe, which sits just north of Brannan Island near the Rio Vista Bridge. With a menu packed with burgers, paninis, and hot dogs, it’s a great family option.
Type: Coffee, sandwiches
Location: 2510 CA-12, Isleton, CA 95641
Lucy's Cafe
There’s something for everyone at Lucy’s. This casual, friendly spot features a menu packed with pasta, burgers, seafood, and more. Be sure to try the bread, which is made fresh every day.
Type: Italian, American
Location: 95 Main St, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Foster's Bighorn
Grab a cold beer and a hearty meat-based meal at this local favorite. It’s known for its eclectic big-game trophy decor.
Type: Tavern
Location: 143 Main St, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Long Island Larry’s Hot Dogs
Meat lovers shouldn’t miss this low-key spot, where you can find everything from quarter-pound hot dogs to classic Polish sausages.
Type: Hot Dogs
Location: 659 CA-12, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Tortilla Flats
Fill up on burritos and other Mexican classics at this casual spot in Rio Vista. Servings are generous, and the breakfasts are legendary.
Type: Mexican
Location: 646 CA-12, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Shopping
Robin's Nest Thrift
Search for vintage treasures at this friendly store; it’s a fascinating spot to spend an hour.
Location: 295 N Front St, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Hap's Bait & Tackle
If you’re an angler, you don’t want to miss this quirky spot — pick up live bait for your fishing expedition, and grab a draft beer while you’re at it. You might even learn about the locals’ favorite fishing holes.
Location: 84 Main St, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Rio Gift and Souvenir Company
Pick up a memento from your trip to Brannan Island at this small shop.
Location: 20 N 2nd St, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Fishermen's Catch Bait & Tackle
If you’re coming from the south, grab last-minute bait and fishing supplies at this conveniently located store.
Location: 27 Marina Blvd, Pittsburg, CA 94565
Crossings Shopping Center
Need to grab groceries for your RV camping trip? This shopping center has everything you need.
Location: Deer Valley Rd, Antioch, CA 94531
Sightseeing
Grizzly Island Wildlife Area
You’ll never guess that San Francisco is just a short drive away when you’re standing in the middle of this protected area. With nearly 13,000 acres to explore, Grizzly Island is perfect for birdwatching, hiking, hunting, and fishing.
Sherman Island County Park
A popular spot for local windsurfers and kite boarders, Sherman Island is fun for families. Get in the water yourself, or just enjoy the view from the shore. Bring your fishing rod to cast from the shore.
Dow Wetlands Preserve
This Dow Chemical-run preserve offers unspoiled scenery and fantastic birdwatching. Wander through miles of peaceful trails and keep an eye out for wildlife from the observation decks.
San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail
Load up your canoe or kayak for a paddle along this water trail, which offers miles of unspoiled waterways. Find trailheads at the Antioch Marina and Big Break.
Location: San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Learn about the scientific research that’s happening in the waterways around Rush Ranch and China Camp.
Location: San Francisco, CA
How to Get to
Brannan Island State Recreation Area
Brannan Island State Recreation Area is located just off of Highway 160. From Antioch, take Highway 160 north. From Sacramento, hop on Highway 84 south and access Highway 160 using the Rio Vista Bridge.
Entering Brannan Island State Recreation Area
Brannan Island State Recreation Area is open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset. Entry fees vary; check at the park office for details.
If you’re planning to explore Brannan Island State Recreation Area, RVshare would love to hear about your travels. Tag RVshare when you post about the trip on social media so the team can follow along virtually. You can also email your favorite photos and stories to [email protected] Your pics may even be featured in a future blog post or social media share.