The North Bay region offers diverse camping options within a short drive of Big Bend, California. Most campgrounds sit between 200-1,000 feet elevation, creating microclimates that vary significantly between coastal and inland areas. Summer temperatures at inland campsites near Big Bend can reach 90°F during the day while dropping to the 50s at night, making layered clothing essential for comfort.
What to do
Stargazing adventures: At Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground, visitors can explore the Robert Ferguson Observatory. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" reports camper Syd D. The observatory offers astronomy programs throughout the year.
Mountain biking access: Spring Lake Regional Park connects to Trione-Annadel State Park with extensive trail networks. "Connected to the west of Spring Lake is Trione-Annadel State Park, a wildly popular spot for local mountain bikers," notes Michael I. The interconnected parks provide miles of riding options for all skill levels.
Waterfall hikes: Several campgrounds offer access to seasonal waterfalls. "You can walk to a trail to check out a waterfall from there (pretty darn steep!)" mentions a Sugarloaf Ridge camper. These waterfalls typically flow strongest between December and April following winter rains.
Wine tasting: Many campgrounds serve as affordable bases for wine country exploration. "The location is really convenient given that the ferry and bus stops are within walking distance," notes Luc M. about transportation options from Marin RV Park. Some wineries offer free tastings with bottle purchase.
What campers like
Observatory access: Ritchey Creek Campground campers appreciate the astronomy programs at nearby parks. "There is an observatory and nice hiking here," mentions one visitor. The Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge hosts regular public viewing nights.
Historical sites: Several campgrounds feature historical attractions within walking distance. "Take a walk to check out the Pioneer Cemetery and nearby mill," suggests Kate L. about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. These historic sites provide context for the area's development.
Kid-friendly amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive family facilities. "A nice KOA close to Petaluma with great facilities...This KOA also offered all sorts of amenities for families including a small petting zoo, a pool, playground areas, and more," writes Kelsey L. The swimming pools typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Urban-adjacent wilderness: Campers value the quick transition from city to nature. "This is a well maintained camping, the sites are narrow specially if you have slides out. If you are in this area to visit San Francisco it's easy to get there with the ferry nearby," explains Jean-Yves P. about Marin RV Park.
What you should know
Extreme temperature swings: Inland campsites experience significant daily temperature fluctuations. "The weather was nice mid-April. Good amount of shade. Flat ground for tent. Picnic table, fire pit, bear box, nearby bathrooms & dumpsters," reports Brittney L. at Sugarloaf Ridge. Pack for both hot days and cool nights.
Poison oak prevalence: Several campgrounds have significant poison oak growth. "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year?" notes Samantha T. about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Learn to identify and avoid this plant.
Variable noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant road noise. "The site is very clean but noise from the traffic outside of it. It's difficult to sleep," reports Kenji F. about Napa Valley Expo RV Park. Consider earplugs for lighter sleepers.
Site spacing concerns: Many campgrounds feature closely spaced sites. "Sites are a bit small and close to one another, but otherwise we had no complaints," mentions Kiki W. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Review site maps before booking to find more secluded options.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Olema Campground provides family-friendly amenities. "Olema is our go to spot. Every year with and without grandkids. Clean and friendly staff. The store has the necessities. The kids love the playground and try their hand at shuffleboard," writes Outdoordude D. The playground area typically closes at sunset.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy observing local wildlife. "We saw a gorgeous one visit our camp! We had a ton of shade and enough sun to warm up," reports Syd D. about a gray fox sighting at Sugarloaf Ridge. Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Lake activities: Several campgrounds offer lake access with various activities. "Walked to the water park on spring lake that featured an inflatable, floating obstacle course/bouncy house thing. The kids LOVED that," shares Daniel D. about Spring Lake Regional Park. Water inflatables typically operate during summer weekends only.
Educational programs: Many parks offer junior ranger or naturalist programs. "The volunteers who run the place do a fantastic job with everything, from keeping the site clean, to providing tons of info for budding naturalists," notes Scott J. about Sugarloaf Ridge. Check visitor centers for program schedules.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require leveling blocks. "Sites are gravel, not level and close together," reports Tammie L. about Novato RV Park. Bring extra leveling blocks, especially for larger rigs.
Limited hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Arrive at this park full of water. There was only one spigot with threads (for attaching hose to fill tanks); it was at spot 29," advises Tammy B. about Spring Lake Regional Park. Check hookup availability when booking.
Width restrictions: Skyline Wilderness Park has tight sites for larger rigs. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," notes Rich J. Measure your RV width with slides extended before booking.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer dump stations. "This facility has been there a long time, and while not the best, it gives you great access," writes MarinMaverick about Olema Campground. Plan dump station stops accordingly.
