River access shapes the RV camping experience near Cazadero, California, a small town nestled within the redwoods about 75 miles north of San Francisco. The area sits at approximately 200 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter temperatures dropping to 35-45°F. Most RV parks in the region receive 40-60 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush surroundings but sometimes challenging driving conditions.
What to do
Beach access from camp: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park provides direct harbor access with walking paths to small beaches. "A variety of site types, including many on the water. Unlike some that show the Bay on their website, this one is actually right on the water," notes a camper at this coastal option.
River swimming opportunities: River Bend Resort features private beach access with safe swimming areas. "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," reports one visitor.
Kayaking and canoeing: Mirabel RV Park & Campground offers direct river access for paddlers. "Theres a short trail down to the river, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. I'll be coming back again," shares one camper who enjoyed the water access.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park offers harbor-side stargazing opportunities. "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," explains one camper about this coastal location.
Shade coverage: Mirabel RV Park & Campground provides extensive tree cover for comfort during hot days. "Tons of trees so every site has plenty of shade," notes a visitor who appreciated the natural canopy during summer heat.
Clean facilities: Bodega Bay RV Park maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Very clean sites and restrooms. We have stated there in the past and are very presently surprised when we go back and find it has not changed from being a great place to stay," writes one returning visitor.
What you should know
Price variations: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park offers different price tiers based on hookup needs. "Dry sites for $65. We were not informed about dry sites. Place nearly empty," reports one visitor, while another notes "Full hookups over $100."
Limited recycling options: Some coastal RV parks lack recycling facilities. "First place in CA where no recycling offered," mentions one visitor about Porto Bodega Marina.
Wi-Fi reliability issues: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "I work remote and have had meetings all week. No issues with Verizon or T mobile Hot spots," reports one camper at Bodega Bay RV Park, though other campgrounds may have less reliable service.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: River Bend Resort features multiple play areas for children. "There are several playgrounds which are fun for kids. And an arcade," notes a family who stayed at the resort.
Tent camping alternatives: Mirabel RV Park & Campground accommodates tent campers alongside RVs. "Even though its an RV spot we camped in tents along with many other campers choosing tents. Not noisy or busy at all, maybe it would be during summer peak times."
Rules about activities: Some parks have restrictions on common children's activities. "No bike riding or scooting, so we had to walk them to the walking path. They also mention a few times about well behaved children," reports a family who stayed at Bodega Bay RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven sites at many parks. "Our spot was very close to the entrance – mostly level a little angle downhill so bring some blocks," advises one RVer about their experience.
Site spacing considerations: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park has limited separation between sites. "Not much separation between sites, some bushes, but basically a gravel parking lot," reports one RVer about the coastal setup.
Electrical service variations: River Bend Resort offers full hookups with higher amperage. "Nice people run this very nice but pricey resort with 2 nite minimum," notes one RVer, while another mentions it's "right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & nite."
