RV camping near Occidental, California offers varied options from coastal spots to riverside locations. The area sits within a mix of redwood forests and coastal terrain with moderate daytime temperatures ranging from 50-75°F throughout most of the year. Morning fog is common along coastal campsites while inland campgrounds see temperature swings between day and night.
What to do
Water activities on the Russian River: River Bend Resort provides direct river access for swimming and paddling. "This place has it all. Great restaurant just outside the property, well stocked general store, arcade, park, and oh yes beach front access where the river does a nice bend," notes Jeff A.
Fishing opportunities: At The Aurora RV Park & Marina, guests can fish directly from waterfront sites. "You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water," writes Tamera J.
Local food exploration: The region offers seafood dining options within walking distance of campsites. "If you wanna rv and craving crab, chowder, and oysters this is the spot for you, full hook up, fire pit, and picnic table walking distance to a restaurant and shops," reports Filipino Jack T. at Porto Bodega Marina.
What campers like
Convenient city access: Marin RV Park serves as a strategic base for San Francisco trips. "This RV Park gets 5 stars purely for its location. 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," explains Jeff T.
Level camping surfaces: Many campers appreciate well-maintained sites. "The park is clean, quiet and close to San Francisco. Sites are gravel, not level and close together. Shopping and grocery store within a couple miles," notes Tammie L. at Novato RV Park.
Waterfront views: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park offers direct bay access. "This is a favorite for us. The park is clean, sites are average in size. Not much separation between sites, some bushes, but basically a gravel parking lot. A variety of site types, including many on the water," shares Todd W.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Most RV parks in the area have limited space between sites. "This is a decent camp ground, slightly run down but still nice. We had a dry spot right on the marina side so the view was nice. If you are thinking this is a KOA type place, it is not, its just a KOA price," reports Jennifer J.
Price variations by season: Cost increases significantly during peak periods. "Bodega Bay CA. On the water. Grounds well maintained. No toilet paper in men's bathroom. First place in CA where no recycling offered. No signs to direct you to office. Full hook ups over $100. Dry sites for $65," shares Nancy L.
Shower facilities vary widely: Bodega Bay RV Park maintains clean facilities. "I felt lucky to get a last-minute drop-in spot in busy Bodega Bay on the weekend. A two-night minimum is required, but I was happy to stay for two nights. The staff is very friendly, COVID restrictions had the restrooms and laundry facilities closed," notes Edward R.
Tips for camping with families
Look for riverside spots with swimming areas: River Bend Resort features kid-friendly water access. "The good: 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," explains H L.
Choose parks with recreational facilities: Some campgrounds offer games and activities. "It is a wonderful campground for families with children and pets. We have a dog and two very young children. We had a blast there lots to do and see! On Sunday's the farmers market is nextdoor so you can walk over!" says Sasha M.
Check campground rules regarding bikes: Not all parks allow children's activities. "This was a very well kept place. Everything else in the area was full, so we stayed here. It's not the best for families though. No bike riding or scooting, so we had to walk them to the walking path," warns Stephanie E.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Thousand Trails Russian River requires careful navigation. "Coming into this Thousand Trails campground made us a little nervous at first. Check-in was easy but the entrance is a bit tight for bigger rigs. If you have a larger rig be very conscious of where the spots are that allow for them. Ask at the ranger office for the list of ones they should have open."
Hookup considerations: Varying electrical service levels exist throughout the area. "Sites are close. Some don't even have area for chairs or picnic tables. It's a membership campground which is surprising," notes John N.
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal needs. "30 mins away from the City. A bit pricy but that is to be expected in SF. Clean facilities but make no mistake about it... this is a parking lot with hook ups and the sites are in arms length in proximity to each other," explains Raf A.
