Ardilla Group Camp

Are you looking for an incredible outdoor experience in California that brings your group closer to nature? Look no further than Ardilla Group Camp, nestled within the expansive Del Valle Regional Park. This hidden gem offers a fantastic opportunity for friends, families, or organizations to reconnect with the wilderness, providing a serene backdrop for unforgettable memories. Designed specifically for groups, Ardilla Group Camp delivers a primitive yet well-equipped camping adventure, making it an ideal choice for your next California escapade.

Del Valle Regional Park, where Ardilla Group Camp is situated, is a beloved destination for Bay Area residents and visitors alike. It's known for its stunning five-mile-long lake, surrounded by thousands of acres of diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to lush oak woodlands. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, Ardilla Group Camp offers a unique setting that combines the tranquility of nature with convenient access to a wide array of recreational activities.

Ardilla Group Camp is located within Del Valle Regional Park, specifically at California 94550, USA. This prime location places it in the beautiful Livermore Valley, offering a convenient escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while still being accessible for California residents. To reach the camp, you will typically drive to Del Valle Regional Park. For those coming from the wider Bay Area, the park is readily accessible via major highways.

It's important to note that Ardilla is a primitive hike-in campsite. Site access is through a trail located off the Lichen Bark Picnic site, at the end of the West Beach Parking lot. It's a relatively short 1/10th mile hike, slightly uphill, so campers should be prepared to carry their gear a short distance. While the camp offers a secluded feel, it remains connected to the broader park amenities, with flush toilets located nearby. Parking is available, and typically, parking passes are emailed to reservation holders 5-10 days before the reservation begins. Please be aware that buses, RVs, trailers, food trucks, or caterers are generally prohibited at this specific group site. This helps maintain the primitive and natural atmosphere that makes Ardilla Group Camp so appealing.

• Group Site Accommodation: Ardilla Group Camp is specifically designed for groups, with a minimum capacity of 17 people and a maximum capacity of 50. This makes it perfect for larger gatherings, scout troops, or family reunions.
• Picnic Tables: The campsite is equipped with multiple picnic tables (six 10' tables), providing ample space for communal meals and activities.
• BBQ Grills: An extra-large BBQ grill is available for cooking, allowing your group to enjoy classic camp cookouts.
• Fire Circle with Benches: A dedicated fire circle with benches offers a perfect spot for evening campfires, storytelling, and s'mores.
• Water Spigot: A water spigot is available at the site, providing convenient access to potable water.
• Nearby Flush Toilets: While Ardilla is a primitive campsite without showers, flush toilets are located conveniently near the site within the larger Del Valle Family Campground area.
• Parking Passes: Ten parking passes are typically issued with each reservation (9 for inside the west beach parking lot and 1 for outside the gate). Additional passes are not available for purchase.
• Security Deposit: A security deposit, equal to one night's fee, is required for group site reservations.

• Primitive Camping Experience: Ardilla offers a truly immersive primitive camping experience, allowing groups to disconnect from modern distractions and fully embrace the natural surroundings.
• Secluded Location: Despite its accessibility, the hike-in nature of Ardilla Group Camp ensures a more secluded and private camping experience compared to more developed sites.
• Access to Del Valle Lake: Campers at Ardilla Group Camp have easy access to Lake Del Valle, a major highlight of the regional park. The lake offers a variety of water-based activities.
• Hiking Trails: The surrounding Del Valle Regional Park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. From leisurely strolls to challenging uphill climbs, there's a trail for everyone.
• Fishing Opportunities: Lake Del Valle is renowned for its excellent fishing, regularly stocked with trout and catfish, and home to various bass species. Anglers in your group will find plenty of opportunities to cast a line.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna.
• Proximity to Park Amenities: While Ardilla itself is primitive, its location within Del Valle Regional Park means campers are still within reach of the Visitor Center, swimming beaches (with lifeguards during posted periods), and other amenities the park offers.
• Quiet Area: Ardilla Group Camp is designated as a quiet area, promoting a peaceful and restful environment for all campers.

Ardilla Group Camp is managed as part of Del Valle Regional Park by the East Bay Regional Park District. While specific direct contact information for Ardilla Group Camp itself is not typically provided, inquiries and reservations are handled through the East Bay Regional Park District's reservation system.

Address: California 94550, USA (within Del Valle Regional Park)

For reservations and general inquiries about Del Valle Regional Park and its campgrounds, including Ardilla Group Camp, it is recommended to visit the East Bay Regional Park District's official website or contact their reservations department. Group campsites typically require reservations at least three business days in advance.

For residents of California, particularly those in the Bay Area, Ardilla Group Camp at Del Valle Regional Park offers an unparalleled opportunity for a local outdoor escape. It strikes a perfect balance between being easily accessible for a weekend getaway and providing a genuine, immersive natural experience. Unlike many crowded family campgrounds, Ardilla's primitive, hike-in nature and group-only designation ensure a more private and cohesive experience for your party.

The camp's location in Livermore means it's a relatively short drive for many, minimizing travel time and maximizing your time enjoying the outdoors. It provides a much-needed respite from urban environments, allowing groups to de-stress and reconnect with nature without venturing too far from home. The rich array of activities available within Del Valle Regional Park – from hiking and fishing to swimming and boating – means there's always something for everyone in your group to enjoy, catering to diverse interests and activity levels.

Whether you're organizing a scouting trip, a large family gathering, or an outing with friends, Ardilla Group Camp provides the facilities and natural setting to create lasting memories. Its commitment to a primitive camping style ensures an authentic wilderness experience, while the proximity to essential amenities like flush toilets offers a comfortable balance. Choosing Ardilla Group Camp means opting for a convenient, engaging, and genuinely refreshing outdoor adventure right here in California's beautiful backyard.

Ardilla Group Camp

California 94550, USA