Tent camping near Calistoga, California ranges from riverfront sites at lower elevations to hilltop campgrounds with panoramic views. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F during the day while dropping to the 50s at night. Campsites around Lake Berryessa often face high winds, requiring secure tent stakes and rain flies.
What to do
Tubing on the Russian River: At Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, campers have easy access to river recreation. "Chris has fire wood onsite ($5 a bundle) and loads of inner tubes for use on the river ($5 a day). The beach along the river is for the camps private use and their is a company the will rent you stand up paddle boards ($50 for two hours or $100 per day)," notes one reviewer.
Wine tasting excursions: With Korbel Winery just a half-mile from some campgrounds, wine country exploration is convenient. A camper at Bullfrog Pond Campground recommends: "The park is squarely in wine country so go wine tasting for lunch and get a shuttle back to camp."
Cliff jumping spots: For adventurous campers, Lake Berryessa offers natural features beyond swimming. "Nice crystal clear water. There's a pretty awesome cliff jump nearby as well," reports a visitor to Manzanita Canyon.
What campers like
Private river beaches: Many campgrounds offer dedicated water access. "The beach is across the street and through a little trail but we'll worth it. Very nice water for floating and swimming, with a cute little beach area to keep your stuff," shares a Schoolhouse Canyon camper.
Adult-only camping sections: Several campgrounds provide separated camping areas. "The campground is divided into two areas, an adults area (higher up the road) and a family area (just inside the gate when you first arrive) both areas allow for a adult friendly & a family safe visit," explains a Schoolhouse Canyon visitor.
Scenic drives and turnouts: The Lake Berryessa region features numerous viewpoints. A camper at Putah Canyon - Lake Berryessa USBR shares: "Lake Berryessa is a large lake that has many turnouts to fish or even stop for a quick stretching of the legs, even saw a few turnouts with picnic tables and clean bathrooms."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Lake Berryessa sites can experience strong gusts. "The campsites on the bluff of the hill can get windy so be prepared for that," advises a camper at Steele Canyon.
Campsite reservation policies: Many popular sites book months in advance. A Bullfrog Pond visitor explains: "You reserve your spot ahead of time. We made the reservation in March and the earliest we could get was the end of July by that point."
Noise restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce quiet policies. "Just a heads up, it's a quiet campsite. Radios aren't allowed, so if you are looking to party late into the night this isn't the spot for you," notes a Schoolhouse Canyon camper.
Shower availability: Facilities vary widely. One camper points out: "THERE ARE NO SHOWERS HERE! We did not know this before hand," regarding Bullfrog Pond Campground, while other sites offer pay showers: "It's 25cents a minute for a hot water shower but so worth it after playing in the river all day."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Location within campgrounds matters. "The spots closest to the entrance have the most privacy, the sites in the back are good for large groups and families and are noisier than the sites up front," advises a Schoolhouse Canyon visitor.
Designated family sections: Some campgrounds have dedicated areas. As one camper notes about Schoolhouse Canyon: "Lower half is family section and the upper section is adults only. This is a family run campground."
Safe river access for children: Shallow water areas exist for younger campers. "The Russian River is conveniently across the street, and the gravel beach area is great for little waders. (River shoes are a must though)," shares a camper at Lower Hunting Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy animal sightings. "There were also animals everywhere. Take bug spray though because I didn't and I am paying for it!" warns a Bullfrog Pond camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most sites offer partial or no hookups. A Steele Canyon visitor notes: "It's dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.)."
Parking considerations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV size. "It's primarily designed for tent camping, but I did see several pop-up trailers," explains a Schoolhouse Canyon camper.
Water access planning: RVers should prepare for water limitations. "Bring extra H2O. Lake is full at the moment which is great!" advises a visitor to Steele Canyon.
