Camping options near Angwin, California span Napa and Sonoma Counties at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,400 feet. Most campgrounds sit within a 30-mile radius of Angwin, with summer temperatures reaching 90°F during peak season. Winter camping sees mild 50-60°F days with occasional rainfall from November through March.
What to do
Water activities at Russian River: The Russian River offers multiple swimming spots near River Bend Resort. "Great Russian River wine country location and is next to the Russian River pub. The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole area for adults too," notes one visitor.
Boating access: Mirabel RV Park & Campground provides direct river access with canoe rentals. "Great canoe rentals to take down the river and a shuttle back is right next door," explains a camper. Many visitors appreciate the riverside setting: "Even though its an RV spot we camped in tents along with many other campers choosing tents... Theres a short trail down to the river, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding."
Coastal exploration: From Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park, explore Bodega Bay's coastline. "A short walk you can access a small beach. You can see the Milky Way at night while listening to the soft foghorn and every now and then a soft bark of a seal," shares one camper. The location puts you within walking distance of the bay, docks, and coastal trails.
What campers like
Fresh farm experiences: A unique option includes small farm-stay camping. One less-developed option is Cozy RV Farm Stay where campers can collect eggs and experience small-scale agriculture while having Wi-Fi access—though campfires aren't permitted.
City proximity with nature: Bodega Bay RV Park balances natural settings with nearby amenities. "Good campground for any RVers. Has restaurant next to campground. State park is short walk away and easy walk to Bay Area," reports a visitor. Another notes, "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park."
Family facilities: Many campers appreciate the recreational options at River Bend Resort. "This place has it all. Great restaurant just outside the property, well stocked general store, arcade, park, and oh yes beach front access where the river does a nice bend. There are several playgrounds which are fun for kids. And an arcade."
What you should know
Age restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce RV age policies. A reviewer at Sonoma County Fairgrounds RV Park reports, "We arrived in our 34 foot motor home only for someone to tell us they only accepted RVs 10 years and newer." Always confirm age restrictions before booking.
Site spacing varies significantly: Site proximity is a common concern. "Sites are all gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence. It's a packed place with no real views," notes a Bodega Bay RV Park visitor. At River Bend Resort, a camper describes, "interior RV sites seem to be full-time residents and very cramped. Tent sites near the river are unbelievably cramped."
Highway noise levels: Traffic noise affects some campgrounds more than others. At Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park, a guest warns about "muddy footprints all over our table in the morning" from wildlife and "fishermen docked in the marina start getting ready at about 4:30am! They are not quiet." Another campground review notes, "What was not mentioned is that it is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & night."
Tips for camping with families
River selection for children: When camping with children, prioritize spots with gentle water access. "The private beach is great for kids. Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole area for adults too," recommends a River Bend Resort visitor.
Playground access: Thousand Trails Russian River offers kid-friendly facilities. "Nice play ground for kids. Some sites super crowded others have a little more room. Take your time finding the right spot for you," suggests one reviewer. However, another visitor notes some limitations: "This place is clean and has a general store that has pretty much anything you could need."
Activity restrictions: Check campground policies before bringing bikes or scooters. "It's not the best for families though. No bike riding or scooting, so we had to walk them to the walking path. They also mention a few times about well behaved children," cautions a Bodega Bay RV Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Larger rigs face challenges at some RV campgrounds near Angwin. "I am reasonably ok at backing in my travel trailer but this place is a mess. Some spots are inclined in a way that your hind end may really scrape the ground/asphalt," warns a Thousand Trails Russian River visitor. Another notes, "Roads and turns are very narrow."
Hookup variations: Electricity types vary across campgrounds. Some parks offer both 30 and 50-amp service, while others limit options. "Each site has a table, fire pit, and even outlets which was a nice surprise," reports a Mirabel RV Park camper. At Thousand Trails Russian River, "Spaces are all 30 amp with no sewer hookups. Many spaces are very narrow/tight and uphill from your neighbor."
Reservation timing: Peak wine country seasons require advance planning. A Bodega Bay RV Park visitor recommends, "A two-night minimum is required, but I was happy to stay for two nights. The staff is very friendly, COVID restrictions had the restrooms and laundry facilities closed, but I appreciated the serious adherence to masks and other COVID guidelines."
