Bodega Bay sits along California's rugged Sonoma Coast, known for its steady coastal breezes that average 10-15 mph year-round and morning fog patterns that typically burn off by midday in summer months. The area's pet friendly campsites often experience temperature variations of up to 20°F between daytime and nighttime, making layered clothing essential even during July and August when inland areas experience heat waves.
What to do
Fishing from camp access points: At Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park, guests have direct harbor access where "the fishermen docked in the marina start getting ready at about 4:30am! They are not quiet," according to Jennifer J. Many campers participate in crabbing off the nearby docks.
Exploring marine habitats: Michael I. notes that Bodega Dunes provides "direct access to the trails of Bodega Head," which includes opportunities to see coastal wildlife. Several campers mention fox sightings near their sites, so secure food properly.
Local agricultural experiences: Take advantage of the Sunday farmers market adjacent to Bodega Bay RV Park where Edward R. mentions "on Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park." The market typically runs 10am-2pm during summer months.
River activities: For alternatives to ocean camping, Schoolhouse Canyon Campground offers Russian River access where according to Nathan H., there's "a private beach just for guests of the campsite right across river road. Wood for sale and tubes available for rent." Inner tubes rent for approximately $5 per day.
What campers like
Protected camping areas: At Doran Regional Park, Michelle W. recommends to "Stay in the Cove campsites!" as these provide better wind protection than exposed beach sites. The Cove section typically has 20-30% less wind exposure than other sections.
Level sites for larger vehicles: Alma L. notes about Bodega Dunes, "Easy to maneuver big rigs, we saw some 5th wheels, and 25+ footers in here." Many sites include parking pads that can accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet in length.
Proximity to local food vendors: Fishermen's Cove gets mentioned as "A FANTASTIC restaurant. Everything we ate was excellent" by Alma L., which is approximately a 10-minute drive from Bodega Dunes. Several campgrounds are within walking distance of seafood vendors selling fresh catch.
Morning wildlife viewing: Leonard H. describes the overnight atmosphere at Bodega Dunes as "Quiet at night except for non-annoying fog horn and soothing ocean waves over hill." Many campers report sea lion and harbor seal sightings during early morning hours, particularly at waterfront sites.
What you should know
Weather patterns affect comfort: Kate L. warns about Doran Regional Park to "Be prepared for very windy weather, otherwise great park." Wind speeds typically increase in afternoon hours, making morning the best time for beach activities.
Campsite surface variations: Michael I. cautions about Bodega Dunes: "I have to confess that I feel pretty silly for not being as prepared for the sand as I should have been from the name of the campground. Who would have thought!? We walked around sites 22-55 and all seem to be entirely on the sand." Bring tent stakes suitable for sandy conditions.
Bathroom and shower access: According to Leonard H., Bodega Dunes has "Two clean restroom/shower buildings in this loop. Each had token machine ($1 for 5 minutes). Good hot water pressure." Many campgrounds charge for showers, so bring quarters.
Noise considerations: At Casini Ranch Family Campground, Sarah notes the contrast between areas, explaining "the tent campground features charming sites tucked into private groves; the RV sites with electrical and water hookups are crammed together." Choose sites based on your noise tolerance level.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety awareness: Teresa B. notes about Doran Regional Park, "The beach is wide, flat and great for families. The first Saturday of the month the rangers do a tide pool talk. They bring sea creatures (like sea stars, sea slugs etc) to share and let the kids hold them." These ranger programs typically last 45-60 minutes.
Kid-friendly activities: At Casini Ranch, Dustin C. shares that "Kids were busy the whole time, riding bikes and scooters, playing on the jump pillow, feeling the animals. Sites are HUGE!" The campground offers scheduled weekend activities for children during summer months.
Pet exercise areas: Justin W. mentions about Doran that "This place is very not dog friendly when it comes to them being off leash. They're very aggressive about protecting the wildlife in the area." Several campgrounds have designated pet exercise areas separate from wildlife habitat zones.
Weather preparation: Teresa B. warns about Doran Regional Park that "One thing to be prepared for is the wind. The tent sites are VERY windy, especially at night." Pack extra blankets for nighttime temperature drops even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Utility considerations: At Westside Regional Park, Jon M. advises "But be aware, not all sites have water hookups." Check site-specific amenities when booking as variations exist within the same campground.
Dump station access: Laura M. notes about Westside Regional Park, "There's a dump station for a $7 fee (though the website says $10, so maybe it's actually $10), honor box at the station to deposit your money. Water fill available here as well." Many campgrounds offer dump stations with varying fees.
Site selection strategy: For RVs staying at Bodega Dunes, Alma L. advises "Sites 13 and 15 of the Bodega Dunes loop are by far the best sites. The others had uneven tent pads or awkward orientations." Larger rigs should request specific sites that accommodate their length.
Power options: Justin W. notes about Doran Regional Park, "There's no hookups but there's water spigots that are potable all over the place which is great. But it still is definitely very much dry camping." Generator hours at most campgrounds typically run 8am-8pm with quiet times strictly enforced.
