Tent camping near Annapolis offers a landscape of varied terrain where coastal and inland ecosystems converge at elevations ranging from near sea level to about 1,000 feet. The Russian River flows through this region, creating opportunities for water activities alongside forest camping. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, while coastal sites experience frequent fog, especially in mornings.
What to do
River activities: At Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, campers have private beach access across River Road. "The beach is across the street and through a little trail but well worth it. Very nice water for floating and swimming, with a cute little beach area to keep your stuff," notes Amber D. The campground offers tube rentals for $5 per day.
Wine tasting: Multiple campgrounds provide access to nearby wineries. Schoolhouse Canyon Campground is just half a mile from Korbel Winery. As Christopher M. mentions, "The campsite is in a canyon under a 100 foot + high canopy of trees located about 400 yards off the Russian River / 1/2 mile down the road from the Korbel Winery (amazing deli!!!)."
Hiking options: Bullfrog Pond Campground serves as an excellent base for hiking. "There are at least two hike-in campsites in this wilderness area - primitive - that we have backpacked into. They have tables, fire rings and pit toilets in the back country sites," explains one camper. From Paul M. Demmick Campground, visitors need to drive to trailheads as there are no trails directly from the campground.
Fishing and paddling: Duncans Mills Campground provides free canoe use for members. As one camper notes, "You can fish, swim and kayak or canoe. The canoes are free to use." The Russian River offers multiple fishing spots accessible from several campgrounds.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Pomo Canyon Environmental Camp offers a quiet redwood experience with coastal access. "Beautiful redwood forest. Very quiet. Trails to the coast," notes Elliot M. The camp requires a short hike in but rewards with solitude.
Private beaches: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground provides exclusive river access. Nathan H. explains, "There is a private beach just for guests of the campsite right across river road. Wood for sale and tubes available for rent. Prices are very reasonable."
Adult-only sections: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground separates family and adult camping areas. "There are two sections to this campground. Lower half is family section and the upper section is adults only," Kenneth S. points out. This setup helps maintain appropriate noise levels for different camping preferences.
Pond views: Paul M. Demmick Campground offers creek-side camping. "Some sites overlook a creek. There is trash and recycling there but they ask that you pack it out. Tall fire pits with a section of wide grate attached," describes Susan W. The campground provides shaded sites under redwoods.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Camping options have varying reservation policies. For Bullfrog Pond, a camper notes, "We made the reservation in March and the earliest we could get was the end of July by that point." Other sites operate first-come, first-served, like Paul M. Demmick Campground: "This is a self check in first come first serve campground."
Access challenges: Many campgrounds have difficult access roads. For Bullfrog Pond, Corey O. warns, "One lane road access that would be intimidating at night." Campers should arrive during daylight hours, especially for first visits.
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Paul M. Demmick Campground "Closes Sept 2 until May," according to one reviewer. Check opening dates before planning trips in spring or fall.
Limited amenities: Facilities vary widely between sites. At Red Mountain, "You should bring a solar shower and water to drink and cook with, as there is none," advises Becky H. Many environmental campgrounds have no running water or showers.
Tips for camping with families
Spot selection: At Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, family areas are designated. Seneca E. recommends: "The family section is very fun and all the guests were friendly. They have a adults only area with a few really nice sites for those who don't want to hear the kids playing."
Beach day preparation: For river activities, proper footwear is essential. "The Russian River is conveniently across the street, and the gravel beach area is great for little waders. (River shoes are a must though)," advises Derrick M. about Schoolhouse Canyon.
Noise considerations: Families should note campground noise policies. "It's a quiet campsite. Radios aren't allowed, so if you are looking to party late into the night this isn't the spot for you," explains Derrick M. about Schoolhouse Canyon Campground.
Wildlife observation: While abundant wildlife exists, some campgrounds have limited animal encounters. At Paul M. Demmick Campground, one camper notes, "It appears to be mostly devoid of wildlife. We saw one Scrub jay and one ground squirrel while we were there and no bees, butterflies, or insects."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds near Annapolis restrict RV size. Bullfrog Pond Campground accommodates smaller RVs, but as Cyrel T. explains, "You drive up a very winding, bumpy one lane road for about 10 minutes before you reach the campgrounds," making access difficult for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist in the area. At Schoolhouse Canyon, "not all sites are full hook up. You can pay to have your Honeywell dumped if not at a full hook up," advises Cathy.
Site levelness: Finding level ground can be challenging. At Bullfrog Pond, "The site vary in size and many are on a hill so they are not exactly flat," according to Cyrel T. RVers should bring leveling blocks and consider smaller rigs for this area.
Shaded parking: Most RV sites in the area feature significant tree cover. As MarinMaverick notes about Bullfrog Pond, "The campsites are around the pond - some actually on the pond and some in the woods around. So depending on your sun tolerance pick your site accordingly."
