Camping cabins near Bodega Bay, California sit along the coastal shoreline where temperatures typically range from 45°F to 65°F year-round due to the moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean. Morning fog frequently envelops the coastline during summer months, burning off by midday. Most cabin rentals require advanced booking with two-night minimums during peak summer season.
What to do
Kayaking the Russian River: Casini Ranch Family Campground provides direct river access for water activities. "You can kayak down the river and the campgrounds have a big variety of sizes, some on and off the river," notes Wes R. The campground offers free canoes for guest use.
Beach activities: River Bend Resort features family-friendly river swimming areas. "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole are for adults too," reports one camper. The resort sits adjacent to the Russian River Pub for convenient dining options.
Hiking redwood forests: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground offers trails through mature redwoods. "There are all kinds of trails available, as well as a paved path that runs for at least a mile or so along the creek, that used to be the old railroad line through that area," explains Joseph F. The park features informational signs providing historical and ecological context.
Wine country excursions: Ritchey Creek Campground provides access to nearby vineyards. "If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!" shares Peter M. The park sits midway between St. Helena and Calistoga, making it convenient for wine tasting day trips.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park offers sites directly on Bodega Harbor. "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," describes Duranne C. Dry camping sites with harbor views cost $50/night plus a $10 registration fee.
Family amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA includes numerous kid-friendly facilities. "Swimming, play and explore all the north bay has to offer. Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family," writes Adrian G. The campground includes a petting zoo and multiple playground areas.
Proximity to towns: Johnson's Beach Campground puts visitors within walking distance of Guerneville. "If you enjoy Guerneville and want a simple campsite where you can easily walk to every bar, restaurant, and the redwoods, this is the spot. Clean toilets, warm showers, river access, electrical outlets, what's not to like?" states Reza T. The walkable location eliminates driving concerns for those planning to enjoy local establishments.
Natural surroundings: Casini Ranch sites blend with the landscape. "Beautiful river along with campsites surrounded by tall trees. Nice place to relax, hike, fish and or kayaking," reports Scotty B. about the Duncan Mills campground. Most cabin sites include riverfront or forest views.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Samuel Taylor State Park offers more secluded cabin options. "Sites are close, but have some privacy. Stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," notes Gabriel F. Other campgrounds feature more open layouts with minimal separation between accommodations.
Weather patterns require layering: Coastal areas experience significant temperature swings. "The night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises one camper about the Bodega area. Morning fog can keep temperatures cool until midday.
Seasonal concerns: Porto Bodega experiences seasonal wildlife activity. "They have raccoons but don't tell you that... they didn't leave anything out but had muddy footprints all over our table in the morning!" reports Jennifer J. Secure food items at night regardless of which campground you choose.
Reservation timing: Olema Campground provides a strategic location for exploring Point Reyes National Seashore. "If you want to explore the Point Reyes National Seashore you do not have many options. This facility has been there a long time, and while not the best, it gives you great access," notes a reviewer. Book cabins 3-6 months in advance during summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Casini Ranch provides dedicated children's activity spaces. "They have an insane amount of kids activities! Face painting, s'mores campfire, hay ride, parks, karaoke- just to name a few! Easily one of our fav campgrounds!" enthuses Miya B. The campground includes a bounce pillow particularly popular with younger visitors.
Noise levels vary: When seeking quiet family time, consider site location carefully. "Spent the weekend with family (10 kids, 6 adults) at Casini Ranch for a couple birthdays. Kids were busy the whole time, riding bikes and scooters, playing on the jump pillow, feeling the animals. Sites are HUGE!" shares Dustin C. Weekday stays generally offer quieter experiences than weekends.
Shared facilities: Johnson's Beach features community bathrooms with timed showers. "This is our second time here. This is our little spot when we just don't want to be in the wilderness. There is an access to the river and few steps away from an old small town feel," explains Maria O. The campground offers both sunny and shaded sites for families to choose from based on preference.
Tips from RVers
Space constraints: Larger RVs face limitations at some facilities. "Very large campground with lots of amenities within. There is a small store with the basic essentials, a play area for young kids and of course the main attraction which is an access to the river," notes Maria O. about Casini Ranch, though she adds, "The RV site looked more crowded when we were there."
Utilities availability: Porto Bodega provides varying hookup options. "We did drive-in at one of the dry camps and it had your typical fire pit (dryer wheel) and picnic table - the view was gorgeous! Right next to the dock with an awesome view of the boats and bay," shares Khang N. Full hookup sites cost over $100 while dry sites run approximately $65.
Seasonal crowding: River Bend Resort experiences significant occupancy fluctuations. "River Bend Resort has a great helpful staff, great Russian River wine country location and is next to the Russian River pub. And campground overall is average, so long as you're on the outer rim. Interior RV sites seem to be full-time residents and very cramped," reports Beverly W. Weekday visits outside peak summer season offer better value and more space.
