Sycamore Camp

Welcome to Sycamore Camp, a designated backpacking campsite located within the expansive and breathtaking Ohlone Wilderness Trail in Sunol, CA. As a premier destination for "Camping Near Me" in the Bay Area, Sycamore Camp offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, providing a truly remote and rugged experience for hikers and backpackers.

Sycamore Camp is situated at the edge of a meadow on a hillside within the vast 9,737-acre Ohlone Wilderness Regional Preserve. This area is characterized by its dramatic landscape of grassy ridges, oak and bay woodlands, and rugged uplands that become profusely flowered in the spring. While some older descriptions mention abundant shade from a huge sycamore tree, recent reports indicate that this tree has fallen, meaning the site is now more exposed to the afternoon sun. This change in conditions is important to note, especially for those planning trips during warmer months. The trail leading to Sycamore Camp can also be annoyingly muddy, particularly during or after wet weather, so appropriate footwear is highly recommended.

The Ohlone Wilderness Trail itself traverses 28 miles of mountains and canyons in southern Alameda County, connecting Mission Peak Regional Preserve in Fremont, Sunol Regional Wilderness, and Del Valle Regional Park. Sycamore Camp is part of the Sunol Backpack Camp area, which includes several widely-separated sites like Sky Camp, Cathedral, Hawk's Nest, Oak View, Eagle's Aerie, and Star's Rest. The campground's elevated position offers a nice view of the surrounding hills, though a downed tree might obstruct some of the vista, as noted by a past camper. This remote feel, despite being relatively close to the suburban Bay Area, is a significant draw.

The environment here is teeming with wildlife, providing a chance to observe creatures not often seen near metropolitan areas, including deer, bobcats, mountain lions, and golden eagles. During the spring, the green grasses and wildflowers create a picturesque setting, making it the ideal season for a visit. Summers can be very hot, with the west-facing hillside becoming a "furnace" in the afternoon, making spring or late fall trips more favorable for comfortable hiking and camping.

Sycamore Camp, as part of the Sunol Backpack Camp, is designed for genuine backpacking experiences. It accommodates up to 5 people and is located about 3.6 miles from the main parking lot at Sunol Regional Wilderness via a challenging hike. Key features and services at Sycamore Camp typically include:

• Designated Tent Pads: Graded tent pads are available to provide a relatively level sleeping surface.
• Picnic Tables: Each site often includes a picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Vault Toilet: An ADA-accessible vault toilet is generally available in the Sunol Backpack Camp area, though depending on the specific site within the camp, it might entail a long and steep walk.
• Water Source: Water is typically available at the Sunol Backpack Camp. However, it’s crucial to note that all water in the Ohlone Wilderness Trail backpacking areas is non-potable and comes from developed springs. Therefore, campers must filter, treat, or boil the water for human consumption. It is always advisable to check current water availability with park staff before your trip, as spring conditions can be subject to drought.
• Hitching Rails: For equestrians, hitching rails are provided.

It's important to remember that Sycamore Camp is a backcountry site, meaning amenities are basic and focused on minimal impact camping. There are no RV hookups, and ground fires are strictly prohibited to prevent wildfires. Campers must provide their own fuel for portable stoves or use provided fire pits/barbecues where allowed. Firewood is not available for collection within the park, but can be purchased at the Park store in Lodge Campground (Lower Ranch of Hollister Hills SVRA, a different park), though it's best to check with Sunol's specific regulations as services may vary. The nearest services, including food, firewood, and ice, are in the town of Sunol, about seven miles from the park entrance.

Cell service is minimal at best within the Ohlone Wilderness, encouraging a true digital detox and a deeper connection with nature. Dogs, other than service animals, are generally not allowed in overnight camps or on motorized trails, but they are permitted on the Ohlone Trail for day use on San Francisco Water Department property.

To access Sycamore Camp and the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, a special Ohlone Wilderness Regional Trail Hiking Permit is required for each person aged 12 and over, regardless of whether you are day-hiking or camping. This permit is valid for one year from the date of purchase. It can be obtained in person at various locations, including the Sunol Visitor Center, or online/by phone. In-person permits cost $2/person/year, while online/phone/mail purchases are $4/person/year for the first five permits, with a reduced rate for additional permits. It's recommended to purchase permits at least 7 days in advance if doing so online, by phone, or by mail to allow for mailing time.

Camping at Sycamore Camp requires a separate advanced reservation, which must be made at least two business days (48 hours) in advance through the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) Reservations Department. Same-day or first-come, first-served reservations are not available for backpacking sites. Reservations are open for the entire year, with some seasonal closures for certain sites. You can make reservations by calling 1-888-EBPARKS (888-327-2757), option 2, Monday-Friday, 9 AM-4 PM Pacific Standard Time. Overnight parking is allowed at the Sunol parking lot with a reservation and permit.

The Ohlone Wilderness Trail is known for its strenuous nature, often referred to as a "training hike" for longer thru-hikes due to its constant up-and-down terrain and significant elevation gains. The hike to Sycamore Camp itself can be challenging, involving steep sections. Hikers should be prepared with plenty of water, as the trail can get extremely hot and dry, especially outside of the cooler spring and fall seasons. Trekking poles, sun protection, and a reliable water filter are highly recommended.

While the view from Sycamore Camp might be partially obstructed by a downed tree, the overall experience of camping in the Ohlone Wilderness is highly rewarding for those seeking solitude and a genuine backcountry adventure. The presence of Murietta Falls nearby (though seasonal and requiring a challenging side trip) and peaks like Rose Peak (the highest in Alameda County) add to the appeal for intrepid explorers. Sycamore Camp offers a tranquil escape, allowing visitors to connect with the raw beauty of California’s natural landscape, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Sycamore Camp

Ohlone Wilderness Trail, Sunol, CA 94586, USA