Best Campgrounds near Clearlake Oaks, CA
Dispersed camping areas and established campgrounds surround Clearlake Oaks, California, providing a mix of lakefront and hillside options for campers. Lakeview Dispersed Campground offers free camping with views overlooking Clear Lake, while Clear Lake State Park provides developed options with Kelsey Creek and Cole Creek campgrounds featuring cabin accommodations. The broader area includes both tent and RV sites, with options ranging from primitive dispersed camping to full-hookup facilities at places like The Aurora RV Park & Marina, which also offers glamping and yurt options approximately 20 miles northwest of Clearlake Oaks.
Road conditions to dispersed camping areas can present challenges, particularly at sites like High Valley Road and Lakeview. "The road to this pin is completely impassable in any regular vehicle, this would require an ATV," noted one visitor about High Valley Road. Most dispersed sites require careful navigation on steep, dusty roads that may be difficult after rain. While AWD or 4WD vehicles are recommended for backcountry routes, some visitors report making it to Lakeview Dispersed Campground in standard vehicles during dry conditions. Clear Lake's climate typically allows for year-round camping, though summer brings high temperatures and potentially algae issues in the water. Many established campgrounds require reservations, while dispersed sites operate on a first-come basis.
Waterfront access represents a major draw for the region, though water quality varies seasonally. Clear Lake Campground sites along Cache Creek receive mixed reviews, with one camper noting it was "right on Cache Creek with great fishing and lots of wildlife sightings." Dispersed camping areas at higher elevations provide more isolation but require preparation for potentially windy conditions. According to visitor reports, the Lakeview Dispersed area can be particularly windy at night, with one camper reporting they "had to move to another spot around 4am because the wind was just too much." Cell service is generally available at most sites, including dispersed camping areas, making this region suitable for remote workers needing connectivity. Target shooting occurs in some areas, creating periodic noise that may affect the camping experience.
