The Big Bend region sits along the Russian River in Sonoma County, California, offering RV travelers access to the area's renowned wine country and coastal attractions. Cell service remains strong at most campgrounds with multiple carriers showing consistent coverage. Overnight temperatures vary seasonally, with summer lows in the mid-50s and daytime highs reaching into the 80s.
What to do
Beach access on the Russian River: River Bend Resort provides a private beach area with shallow water perfect for children and deeper swimming holes for adults. "River front access where the river does a nice bend. There is every type of camp spot, river front RV, tent, back your overland rig and camp off your tailgate," notes Jeff A.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Mirabel RV Park & Campground offers convenient river access with on-site canoe rentals. "Great canoe rentals to take down the river and a shuttle back is right next door," reports Gregory L. The park provides a short trail down to the Russian River, making it "perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding."
Farmer's market shopping: Bodega Bay RV Park hosts a weekly farmer's market on the adjacent property. "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park," notes Edward R., providing campers with fresh local produce without needing to drive elsewhere.
What campers like
Convenient public transportation: Marin RV Park offers easy access to San Francisco via nearby ferry service. "Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco," shares Jeff T.
Waterfront views: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park provides direct bay access with sites overlooking the water. "We had a dry spot right on the marina side so the view was nice," states Jennifer J. Another camper adds, "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."
Clean bathroom facilities: San Francisco RV Resort maintains their facilities despite high usage. "Bathrooms were pretty dirty - not as pictured. Although I liked that the showers locked," notes Sary W. This contrasts with Bodega Bay RV Park where campers report "very clean sites and restrooms."
What you should know
Spacing between sites varies significantly: While most parks feature limited space between RVs, the degree varies greatly. At Bodega Bay RV Park, "sites are all gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence," reports Msmetoo48 S. In contrast, Porto Bodega sites are described as "level gravel areas and some are a little tight."
Highway noise impacts some locations: River Bend Resort's proximity to the highway creates noise issues. "What was not mentioned is that it is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & night," warns DEL H.
Wildlife considerations: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park has resident wildlife visitors. "They have raccoons but don't tell you that... every morning there's garbage scattered around and someone comes and picks it all up," reports Jennifer J., noting the campground's non-raccoon-proof garbage cans.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: River Bend Resort offers multiple play areas for children. "There are several playgrounds which are fun for kids. And an arcade," notes H L., providing entertainment options beyond the water activities.
Rules about children's activities: Some parks have restrictions that affect families with kids. Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park provides waterfront access, but Bodega Bay RV Park has limitations: "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," warns Stephanie E.
Water safety considerations: River Bend Resort's beach area offers safer swimming options. "Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole area for adults too," notes H L., making it appropriate for mixed-age groups.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV campgrounds near Big Bend have site preparation issues. Novato RV Park is described as having "sites [that] are gravel, not level and close together," according to Tammie L. This matches similar comments about Tradewinds RV Park's tight spacing.
Laundry facility availability: Most facilities offer laundry, but quality varies. At Vineyard RV Park, Laura P. notes a "great laundry facility" while Sonoma County Fairgrounds RV Park has "an amazing Laundry room that gets cleaned practically everyday."
Sewer hookups aren't universal: Unlike most area RV parks, Mirabel RV Park lacks sewer connections. "Had electric and water, private, cash only. Stated here 6 weeks while my house remodel, people friendly, felt safe. Free showers, rent kayaking on site, fires ok," shares Julia.
