Clearlake Oaks camping areas sit at an elevation of approximately 1,350 feet, nestled between the eastern shore of Clear Lake and the Mendocino National Forest. Summer temperatures often reach 90-100°F during July and August, while winter nights can drop to the 30s. Most dispersed camping locations near Clearlake Oaks have variable cell service, with stronger signals on ridgetops and weaker reception in valleys.
What to do
Hike nature trails: Clear Lake State Park offers extensive trail systems where pets can accompany hikers. "There is a beautiful public BBQ sitting area right next to the private beach. You can use the canoes, kayaks, or paddle boat all free of charge and they provide life jackets," notes a visitor at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Wildlife watching: The region provides excellent opportunities for viewing local fauna. "Lots of wildlife sightings across the creek in the state park reserve. Great birdwatching," reports a camper at Clear Lake Campground. Early mornings typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fishing spots: Multiple areas along creeks and lake shores accommodate fishing. "Several dispersed camping options near Clearlake Oaks welcome pets and offer free camping. Site was perfect. Close to the water and very accessible for an RV," reports a visitor at Kelsey Creek Campground.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Many sites feature oak woodlands and creek views. "We had the place to ourselves for the 4th of July weekend, beautiful fresh water creek running through, great toilet & even a fire pit with abundance of wood around," notes a camper at BLM Sheldon Creek.
Off-season tranquility: Winter and spring camping offers a more peaceful experience. "Nice and quiet off season and mid week. Beautiful campground, good space between sites. Staff was great. Very peaceful, good birdwatching, and abundant deer life," reports a visitor at Kelsey Creek Campground.
Lake access: Sites near water remain popular despite seasonal algae issues. "Aurora has two sites that are across the road from each other. One is on the water with back up sites. It's very nice, certainly beautiful and worth the extra 10 dollars. A picnic bench behind the RVs and looking out to the water," mentions a camper at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping roads require appropriate vehicles. "The drive up was full of breathtaking views, and even though the road was quite bumpy, dusty, and steep at times, our AWD Kia made it up no problem," notes a visitor at Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Weather preparation: Summer heat and winter cold require appropriate gear. "Great time to come here except for the mosquitoes. We're listening to the bullfrogs singing and wondering why they don't eat all of the mosquitoes," reports a camper at Kelsey Creek Campground.
Facility limitations: Bathrooms and facilities vary widely between locations. "Bathroom near our campsite wasn't working. Campsites were overgrown with foxtails, not good for my dogs. Trash in our fire pit," notes one camper about Kelsey Creek Campground during busy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Shower facilities: Some campgrounds offer token-operated showers. "The showers are token operated. Outside the bathrooms is a machine for token exchange. It takes $1 and $5 bills. They are these cute, unique coins specific to the park. It's 50¢ per token and one token gets you 2 minutes," explains a camper at Kelsey Creek Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds have amenities for children. "Large campground with many great options for activities. This park has lake access from a large sandy beach. Extensive nature trail system throughout the park. There is also a visitors center with many displays of the animals," explains a visitor at Kelsey Creek Campground.
Pet restrictions: Check which trails allow dogs before planning hikes. "Not much hiking in the park, and if you decide to walk the couple short hikes, don't bring your dogs, NO DOGS ALLOWED," cautions a visitor about certain trails at Kelsey Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some RV sites offer water views but with trade-offs. "This park has two parts: most is across the street from the lake but some spots are lakeside. The lakeside spots are very tight together-and require backing in. If your neighbor has a slider you are wall to wall," warns a reviewer at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Hookup availability: Amenities vary significantly between established and dispersed camping. "The site we had was right on the water, and it was great to see the ducks and fish throughout the day! The traffic noise was noticeable but not annoying," notes a camper at Clear Lake Campground.
Dump station access: Several established campgrounds provide dump stations. "Dump station? - Yes. Water fill? - Yes. Clean site? - Yes. Clean bathroom? - Yes. Flush toilet? - Yes. Showers? - Yes, token operated. Laundry? - No. Dish washing sink? - No," details a visitor cataloging Kelsey Creek Campground facilities.
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