Bodega Bay camping options span beyond RV parks to include tent-only sites, waterfront access, and cabins. Located on the Sonoma Coast at 20 feet above sea level, the area experiences marine fog, strong ocean breezes, and typically cool temperatures year-round, even during summer months. Wind conditions can affect tent camping, especially along the shoreline.
What to do
Beach activities and fishing: At Doran Regional Park, visitors have direct access to a wide, flat beach. "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," notes Teresa B.
Crabbing and kayaking: The harbor at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park offers water-based recreation. "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," shares Duranne C. Seafood enthusiasts have options nearby, with Filipino Jack T. mentioning it's ideal "if you wanna rv and craving crab, chowder, and oysters."
Explore local markets: Some campgrounds have weekend events right on-site. At Bodega Bay RV Park, Edward R. notes, "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park." This provides fresh local goods without needing to drive anywhere.
What campers like
Protected swimming areas: The Russian River provides safer swimming options than the ocean. At River Bend Resort, H L. reports, "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole area for adults too."
Coastal wildlife viewing: Marine animals can be spotted from camping areas. According to Duranne C. at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park, you can "wake up in the morning to either fog or bright warm sun overlooking a very sleepy glassy harbor with fishing boats bobbing in the docks" and occasionally hear seals barking.
Easy ferry access to San Francisco: For those wanting to combine coastal camping with city exploration, Marin RV Park offers unique access. Jeff T. explains, "A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown San Francisco. We spent a week here and only drove when we wanted the experience driving down Lombard St."
What you should know
Site selection for tent campers: Tent sites at Doran Regional Park offer more privacy than RV areas. "There are only a handful of tent only sites, most of which are secluded by trees," reports Teresa B., who also warns, "The tent sites are VERY windy, especially at night."
Raccoon presence: Wildlife management awareness is important at waterfront campgrounds. Jennifer J. from Porto Bodega notes, "They have raccoons but don't tell you that... their garbage cans are not raccoon proof so every morning there's garbage scattered around."
Seasonal weather challenges: At Mirabel RV Park & Campground, campers appreciate amenities that offset coastal weather. Jordan L. observed, "Each site has a table, fire pit, and even outlets which was a nice surprise. Tons of trees so every site has plenty of shade."
Tips for camping with families
Check swimming conditions: River options provide safer alternatives to ocean swimming. According to H L. at River Bend Resort, "The private beach is great for kids. Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows."
Look for educational programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities. Teresa B. at Doran Regional Park mentions, "The first Saturday of the month the rangers do a tide pool talk. They bring sea creatures to share and let the kids hold them."
Consider playground access: Multiple recreation options keep children entertained. H L. at River Bend Resort notes, "There are several playgrounds which are fun for kids. And an arcade."
Tips from RVers
Site orientation matters: At Bodega Bay rv campgrounds, some sites are pull-in rather than back-in, affecting your view and setup. Checked in a little later in the day, one camper discovered the site orientation was different than expected.
Remote work capabilities: For digital nomads, connectivity varies between rv campgrounds in Bodega Bay. Brandon G. at Bodega Bay RV Park reports, "Very enjoyable stay. The park is clean, quiet and there's a few trails that take you to the Beach. I work remote and have had meetings all week. No issues with Verizon or T-mobile Hot spots."
Early morning noise considerations: Commercial activity starts early in marina locations. Jennifer J. at Porto Bodega notes, "the fishermen docked in the marina start getting ready at about 4:30am! They are not quiet."
Water pressure fluctuations: Utility quality varies at campgrounds. At Porto Bodega, Khang N. advises, "Shower water pressure changes with toilet flushes so try to avoid the morning and evening rushes."
