Ritchey Creek Campground in Bothe-Napa Valley State Park sits at an elevation of 380 feet, offering moderate temperatures year-round with summer highs typically in the 80s. The campground has 50 sites spread among stands of coastal redwood, oak, and madrone trees. Cabin rentals near Calistoga require advance planning as most locations have limited availability during high season, especially on weekends.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation: Spring Lake Regional Park connects to a network of trails with over 20 miles of hiking. "There are nice hiking trails in the park though they are closed currently (Dec 2020) due to the fire in the area. There was no damage to the campground even though the fire burned into the grounds," notes a visitor to Ritchey Creek Campground.
Cycling options: Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers direct access to cycling routes. According to a camper, "Bike trail right out of the campsite, through the vineyards into Calistoga," making it convenient for exploring without driving.
Water activities: A seasonal pool at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park provides summer swimming options. "There's a pool for warm summer days and some awesome trails," shares a camper at Spring Lake Regional Park, which features its own lake with rentals for kayaking and paddleboarding.
What campers like
Proximity to wineries: Skyline Wilderness Park offers easy access to Napa Valley vineyards. "Literally 5 mins outside of the town of Napa. Ate at an amazing Brazilian Steakhouse and came to camp in just a short drive," reports a visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park.
Budget-friendly wine country access: Staying at a cabin near Calistoga provides substantial savings compared to hotels. "Traditional campground, yurts and a seasonal pool make this a fun place to go with the kids. Camp sites are on the smaller side. Take a walk to check out the Pioneer Cemetery and nearby mill. St. Clement Vineyards is a fun stop on the way out of town and is kid-friendly," shares a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The native forests around Calistoga cabins provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "I was awoken (as is the norm in NorCal) to gobbling turkeys at dawn," notes a visitor about Samuel P. Taylor State Park, while another camper at Skyline Wilderness Park reports, "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!"
What you should know
Weather variations: Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically between day and night in the Napa Valley region. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises a visitor to Casini Ranch Family Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Fall harvest season (August-October) sees the highest visitor numbers and requires advance booking for cabins near Calistoga. "The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice," reports a camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
Plant hazards: Poison oak is common throughout the region. A visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park notes, "Be careful of the poison oak, it is prevalent there as it is so anywhere in Northern California," while another camper mentions, "The campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year?"
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA provides extensive family-oriented facilities. "Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer," notes one visitor.
Cabin selection for groups: When renting cabins with multiple families, consider spacious sites. "We had a big site, it was quiet. The bathrooms are clean, showers are $1.00, they have something for every type of camper here, from tents, covered wagons to rv sites," reports a camper at Casini Ranch.
Noise levels: Campgrounds vary significantly in noise levels. "We felt like we were being hemmed in by other campers and swarms of screaming children on every side.... we left after the 1st night," reports one visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley, indicating the importance of timing visits and selecting sites carefully.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground offers varied RV sites. "Nice, clean, well kept KOA. Bathrooms and clubhouse are a little dated. Spot (3) was great and accommodated both our truck and 32" fifth wheel, as well as having plenty of space for all 3 slides," notes a visitor regarding site dimensions.
Hookup variations: Full, partial, and no-hookup sites are available at varying price points. "RV campsites are close together and semi-level. Bathrooms could use some TLC. But the park is nice with lots of hiking, views and close to Napa," reports a camper at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Water quality: Water quality varies between campgrounds. "Tested the water-Water tested as acceptable tap water after running it through an external filter. 21 elements checked, all within range. Dissolved solids were 251...pretty high. The worst water in our 6 week trip," notes an RVer at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, suggesting bringing drinking water supplies.
