Hood Mountain Regional Park And Preserve
Hood Mountain Regional Park & Preserve features the only public backpacking sites in Sonoma Valley and offers 17 miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers. At 2,730 feet, Hood Mountain is the highest peak in the Mayacamas Mountains separating the Sonoma and Napa valleys. Its Gunsight Rock outcropping above Highway 12 offers stunning views of the valley and Bay Area landmarks beyond.
Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park Campground
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground offers visitors 86 sites and great amenities.
Up to 8 people are permitted per site, as well as one vehicle and one towed trailer or vehicle. RVs up to 25ft are permitted, and trailers can reach 31ft. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash and attended at all times. The cost is just $35 per night or $7 for hike and bike visitors.
The campground provides fire grills, food storage lockers, picnic tables, flush toilets, tap water, and showers.
Activities include trails through the beautiful woodland and fishing, canoeing, rafting, and kayaking in the river.
Liberty Glen Campground At Lake Sonoma
Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Liberty Glen has 96 campsites available for tent and RV camping . Each campsite contains a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern holder firewood is for sale during summer months restrooms, showers and potable water are available. Accessible sites accommodate the disabled.
An extraordinary diversity of activities awaits families at Lake Sonoma, including boating, fishing, and swimming an extensive trail system for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians an archery field a visitor center with interesting exhibits and a salmon and steelhead fish hatchery. Kids always enjoy the campfire, Junior Ranger, water safety programs and other special events that take place during the summer.
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Where To Camp To The Sound Of The Ocean In Sonoma County
If youre thinking recent warm temperatures and triple digit highs are signs of the new normal for California, experts say youre right. And when the heat heads for record territory this summer, many are taking a welcome break and heading for the coast, where it can be a dramatic 20 or 30 degrees cooler than inland.
To really immerse in the cool Pacific coastal experience, Sonoma County offers a choice of State, County and private campgrounds, where folks can watch ocean sunsets, sit around an evening campfire and drift to sleep with the timeless sound of the surf.
Here are five of the best oceanside public campgrounds along Highway 1 as it winds north along the coast.
Many of these spots have been popular for generations. Families in the Bay Area and Sacramento have been vacationing there in earnest since 1900, and for good reason.
Its cool on the coast because of a natural atmospheric effect.
When the summer sun bakes Californias interior, the resulting hot air rises high into the atmosphere, pulling in surrounding air to replace it. Since the temperature of the Pacific Ocean hovers at around a chilly 57 degrees all summer long, when air thats been cooled by contact with the ocean gets drawn inland, the coastline gets chilled. Thats why its often windy and foggy there during the summer months.
The Campgrounds
Gualala Point Park – Sonoma County Regional Parks
Salt Point State Park
Wrights Beach Sonoma Coast State Park
Bodega Dunes Sonoma Coast State Park
Donner Memorial State Park
Under 100 miles from Sacramento, you will find the Donner Memorial State Park Campground, located on Donner Lake. The 154 campsites accommodate tents, RVs up to 28ft, and trailers up to 24ft.
The campground is open from late May through to early October, but this is dependent on the weather.
Up to eight people are permitted per site and a maximum of two vehicles, though there is a charge for the second.
For $35 per night, you will also have access to a picnic table, food locker, and fire ring. The campground also has flush toilets, showers, and tap water.
There is a nearby museum and hiking paths to enjoy and lake activities, including swimming and boating.
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Of The Best Family Camping Spots In Northern California
For anyone looking for the best family campgrounds, the north of California has some great options that are worth exploring. Whether you want easy access to beaches, hiking trails, national parks, or just want somewhere to enjoy some quality family time that doesnt break the bank, camping is a great option.
There are excellent options for RV camping, tent camping, and even cabins that are perfect for family vacations.
This article will look at some of the best camping spots in the north of California to help you get a better idea of cost, amenities, activities, and nearby attractions. Or maybe youre looking for camping ideas across the whole of California? Check out our handy guide to the best family camping spots and campgrounds in California.
What People Are Saying About Alexander Valley Rv Park & Campground
Its beautiful there! The river is right next to the campsites. The only issue is the tent campers and day use, they trash the bathrooms and write bad reviews. The price is cheap and if people would follow rules this place would be great!! So its not the staff or management, they are really nice and try their best to accommodate. Cat, Google Review
Location
- Alexander Valley RV Park & Campground
- 2411 Alexander Valley Rd.,
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Silver Lake West Campground
On the north shore of Silver Lake, you will find Silver Lake West Campground, which has 42 campsites that allow up to 6 people per site and one vehicle.
Silver Lake West Campground costs $30 per night, but there are discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and the disabled, where the cost is $25 per night.
No showers are available on-site, but there are vault toilets and piped water. Campsite benefits from storage boxes for bear-proof food lockers, fire rings and grills, and a picnic table.
There are lots to keep you busy at Silver Lake West Campground with boating and fishing at Silver Lake and Caples Lake. Mountain biking and other summer activities are available at Kirkwood, or you will be able to explore the local hiking trails.
Sonoma Coast State Park
The gorgeous park includes 17 miles of fabulous beaches, bluffs, and headlands that stretch from Bodega Head to four miles past Jenner. It has two campgrounds that make for great family vacations: Bodega Dunes and Wright’s Beach.
Bodega Dunes offers 98 campsites with token-operated hot showers, flush toilets, and a trailer sanitation dump station. Maximum trailer length is 31 feet no hook-ups available. Campfire and junior Ranger programs held during the summer. Day use area includes a disabled accessible boardwalk out to a classic sandy beach.
Wright’s Beach has 27 developed campsites adjacent to the beach. Each site has a picnic table, a fire ring and a paved parking spur. Running water and flush toilets are available, but there are no showers . Maximum trailer length is 27′ no hook-ups available.
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Sonoma County Camping Rentals
With more than 250 wineries, Sonoma County is the largest wine producer in Californias Wine Country. Apart from the lure of its incredible wine though, is the region itself, which boasts more than 50 nature parks and countless corners waiting to be discovered. Sonoma County camping is a wonderful way to take complete advantage of this region. Spend your days hiking, cycling, kayaking, and exploring, and then fall asleep under the stars in your unique accommodation. Whether you stay in a delightfully cozy cabin or a luxurious yurt, glamping in Sonoma County is going to be an experience of a lifetime. Luxury camping in Sonoma County blends together the best of so many worldsincredible wine, stunning landscapes, outdoor adventure, and the chance to reconnect with the things that are most important in life. Get ready to go glamping in Sonoma County campgrounds, a trip that is sure to be full of memories that youll hold onto forever. So come and enjoy the best Lake Sonoma camping you can find right here at Glamping Hub! Sonoma glamping rentals are just a click away.Go glamping: Sonoma County awaits.
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Tips For Camping In Regional Parks
Most campsites offer a fire ring and picnic table, with showers, flush toilets, and potable water are nearby. You can see a chart of individual park amenities and/or make reservations with Sonoma County Regional Parks.
All campgrounds have a certain number of sites with disabled access.
Individual sites cost $35 per night. Rates include one vehicle and one tow per site. Get one free night of camping with a Regional Parks membership.
For a comprehensive overview of Sonoma County Regional Parks, read our Guide to the Sonoma County Regional Park System.
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Bodega Dunes Sonoma Coast State Park
The Bodega Dunes Campground in Sonoma Coast State Park is a year-round site with 99 campsites available.
Up to 8 people are permitted, and dogs must be kept on a leash at the campground. As many as three vehicles are allowed, but there are additional fees beyond the first vehicle. The maximum vehicle length at Bodega Dunes Campground is 31ft.
Sites cost $35 per night, and campsites include picnic tables, fire rings, and food lockers. Tapwater, flush toilets and hot showers are also available on site.
There are lots to see and do on the Sonoma Coast, including historic sites, sandy beaches with tide pools, and excellent hiking and equestrian trails.
Whale watching is popular at nearby Bodega Head, as is windsurfing and kiteboarding at Bodega Bay. The Russian River offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking, and there is a great golf course at Bodega Harbour.
Lake Sonoma Primitive Campsites
109 primitive campsites are located in clusters around the lakes’ shoreline. Access is by trail or boat only. Restrooms are chemical toilets. Potable water is not available. Each campsite has a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern holder. Campers with reservations no longer must check in at the visitor center before going to your campsite. Be sure to write your reservation number and place it on the dashboard of your vehicle to avoid being charged a $5 entrance fee. Campers using the Yorty Creek Recreation Area must obtain a visitor pass and security combination from the Visitor Center.
Many campsites are situation close to the lake, while others are farther up from shore. Two of the sites – Island View and Broken Bridge are group sites.
There is a 2-day minimum stay for all boat-in and hike-in sites on weekends only during the peak season. There is a 3-day minimum stay for all boat-in and hike-in sites on holiday weekends only. Note: Due to low water levels, some campgrounds may be closed. Check the reservations link below for up-to-date information.
Reservations: 444-6777 or Recreation.gov – Lake Sonoma Boat-in SitesFees: $20 per night for individual campsites.
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The Best Winter Camping In Sonoma County And Beyond
Escape the crowds and holiday shopping stress with a stay at one of these serene sites.
Camping is usually considered a summertime activity, with many Sonoma County campgrounds filled to capacity during the warmer months. Theres no better way to spend a vacation than taking hikes during the day and then spend the night by the campfire, telling stories and eating smores.
But the best camping experiences happen in the fall and winter months, when most people are busy shopping for the holidays and the crowds are staying warm inside. Without the throngs of people, the animals are more comfortable roaming in their natural habitat, and the plants are starting to take over now that they arent getting trampled. If you can brave the cold and dont mind the rain, nature will reward you with stunning wildlife and wilderness views.
So grab your hiking boots and get ready to have a cold-weather camping adventure at one of these three campgrounds:
BODEGA DUNES CAMPGROUND Bodega Bay
The Bodega Dunes Campground is an extremely popular summertime destination in Sonoma County. Theres 98 available campsites and, when its warm outside, they quickly fill up so privacy is scarce and noise levels can be high. But, head out to the dunes in the winter months and youll generally have your pick of sites and youll be able to hear the waves at night as opposed to another campfire song from three tents down the row.
POINT REYES NATIONAL SEASHORE Point Reyes Station
Top 10 Camping Spots In Sonoma County
Whether you prefer to camp under a canopy of redwoods or near waves crashing on a beach, you’re sure to find your ideal campground in Sonoma County.
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Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Kenwood: Nestled in a large, lush valley and flanked by meadows and streams sits a loop of family campsites in Sugarloafs pristine park. The 50 total camping spaces include 47 family campsites, two wheelchair accessible campsites and one group campsite with room for up to 50 people . 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood, 707-833-5712, sugarloafpark.org
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Sugarloaf Ridge’s campground has something for everyone, such as horseback riding and nature exploration through oak woodlands. Campers can also enjoy stargazing at the parks Robert Ferguson Observatory each month on a Saturday night around the new moon.
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Campsite amenities at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park include picnic tables, fire rings, food storage boxes, a campfire area, public restrooms and shower facilities. There are also luxury tents complete with furnishings available for those who want to give glamping a go. Regular campsites are $35 per night, premium sites are $45 per night, four-person luxury glamping tents are $95 per night and six-person luxury glamping tents are $125 per night . To reserve a campsite, call 800-444-7275 or reserve online at reservecalifornia.com.
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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Just 5 miles north of Santa Cruz is the wonderful Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground. Set amongst oak trees and close to the ocean, this is a popular campground during the summer.
There is a reservation fee of $8, and it costs $35 per night for up to 8 people and two vehicles. Trailers can be as large as 31 ft, RVs can be a maximum length of 35 ft.
Campsites at this campground have a food locker, picnic table, and fire ring, and other camp amenities include flush toilets, tap water, and showers.
There are great hiking trails to explore nearby as well as summer programs, or you can travel to Santa Cruz Beach, which is a short drive away.
Best Camping Spots In Sonoma County
Sonoma County has a wealth of natural beauty and so many ways to explore it. Come for the wine and food, stay and enjoy it all between a canopy of redwoods or near crashing waves, either in a classic tent or as a luxurious glamping experience!
Theres no wi-fi in the mountains, but youll find no better connection.
Anonymous
Since the area is full of campgrounds and glamping opportunities, weve compiled a list, from closest to our tasting room in Sebastopol to farthest, where you can create your own unforgettable memories.
A. 5.5 mi Mirabel RV Park & Campground ³B. 9.5 mi Schoolhouse Canyon Campground ² ³C. 11.2 mi Parkers Resort ³D. 11.6 mi Johnsons Beach ² ³E. 12.0 mi Spring Lake Regional Park ¹ F. 12.3 mi AutoCamp Russian River ²G. 15.7 mi Petaluma KOA ² H. 16.7 mi Doran Regional Park ¹ I. 17.7 mi Casini Ranch Family Campground ¹ ² J. 18.1 mi Sonoma Coast State Park
- Bodega Dunes Campground ²
- Wrights Beach ¹
K. 19.5 mi Westside Regional Park & Campground ³L. 20.8 mi Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping ³M. 21.0 mi Sugarloaf Ridge State Park ¹ N. 22.1 mi Willow Creek Environmental Camp ³O. 31.4 mi Liberty Glen Campground ¹ P. 37.1 mi Russian River RV Campground ² ³Q. 37.3 mi Stillwater Cove Regional Park ¹R. 38.7 mi Salt Point State Park ¹
- Woodside Campground ³
S. 58.5 mi Gualala Point Regional Park ¹
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Campgrounds North Of San Francisco Bay Area
Lake, Marin, Napa, Sonoma, and Yolo counties offer a wide variety of camping experiences.
Recommended Destinations
- Redwood Forests: Hendy Woods State Park – a quiet location, deep in the redwoods, great for small children and those who enjoy the beauty of nature. 2nd choice, Samuel P. Taylor State Park
- Beach Camping: Salt Point State Park – campsites set back from the ocean near many attractions. Spectacular coast, historic sites. 2nd Choice, Wright’s Beach for ocean-front camping.
- Lake Camping: Clear Lake State Park – Wide choice of beautiful campsites near lake with beach, water skiing, fishing.
Dl Bliss State Park Campground South Lake Tahoe
Tahoe is popular among visitors and campers, and the D. L. Bliss State Park Campground, located on the west shore, is a great place to take in all t has to offer.
Opened from mid-May to October, there are 140 campsites that allow up to eight visitors and one vehicle The maximum length of RVs allowed is 18 ft and 15 ft for trailers.
You will be able to choose from standard campsites at $35 per night or $45 for lakefront sites. There are also hike and bike options available at $7 per night.
Sites include a fire ring, picnic table, and food locker, and campground amenities include flush toilets, tap water, and coin-operated showers.
Visitors will be able to enjoy the sandy beach, paddle boarding and kayaking, trail hiking, bike riding, and fishing.
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