Glamping options near Calistoga offer a blend of rustic charm and wine country convenience. The region, situated in northern Napa Valley at elevations between 300-600 feet, experiences warm summer days that typically cool significantly at night. Winter temperatures can drop to the 30s, requiring proper preparation for off-season stays.
What to do
Hiking at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park: Located 25 minutes from Calistoga, the park features multiple trail options. "There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too. My personal favorite hike in this park is at the bottom of the hill from the campground, but can be accessed by trails and a short road walk, and that is the Goodspeed Trail to Gunsight Rock," notes one visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Wine shuttle service: Some campgrounds coordinate transportation to local vineyards. "A shuttle stops at the park to take people into town for dinner if they don't want to drive after drinking," explains a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park, which makes a convenient base for wine country exploration.
Astronomy experiences: Stargazing opportunities enhance camping near Calistoga. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shares a visitor about the Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Some campgrounds offer scheduled astronomy programs during summer months.
What campers like
Budget-friendly wine country access: Camping provides substantial savings compared to area hotels. "We have rented at this campground many times. Never had any trouble getting a reservation in spring or fall. Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!" reports a visitor to Ritchey Creek Campground.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation. At Spring Lake Regional Park, "Walked to the water park on spring lake that featured an inflatable, floating obstacle course/bouncy house thing. The kids LOVED that," shares one camper about the summer water features.
Proximity to towns: Camping near established communities means conveniences remain accessible. "This place was wonderful! We stumbled upon this place after wine tasting in Sonoma. This place had many sites and super family friendly. Very easy to find," notes a visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park about the area's strategic location.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "We stayed here in December. It was cold and drippy that time of year but it's a nice campground. We had a nice quiet stay but we wimped out and went into town for breakfast on our last morning there," explains a winter camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
Poison oak awareness: Several campsites report this natural hazard. "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere," warns a visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs between properties. "We camp here as often as we can... There is no cell coverage for any of the major providers, but free (slow) Wi-Fi covers half the camp, and premium Wi-Fi is available to purchase," notes a regular at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "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," advises a family camper about Ritchey Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance family camping experiences. "The campsite is set around an open meadow, but spaces are a bit close together. We walked the 'Nature Trail' through the campground & when we tried to sit they would swarm. But it was a nice short easy walk, where we saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails!" shares a visitor at Johnson's Beach.
Educational programs: Some sites offer structured learning activities. "They have everything you need for a great weekend! You can walk to a trail to check out a waterfall from there (pretty darn steep!) and you can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well!" reports a family about the nature programs at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds provide complete services. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive. Picnic table, some full hook-ups and some partial," notes an RVer who stayed at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Site limitations: Many wine country campgrounds have size restrictions. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," explains an RV camper about Skyline Wilderness Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer this service. "Arrive at this park full of water. There was only one spigot with threads (for attaching hose to fill tanks); it was at spot 29," advises a fifth-wheel owner about Spring Lake Regional Park, highlighting the importance of arriving prepared.
