Tent campsites near Clearlake Oaks, California offer access to diverse terrain including oak woodlands and chaparral landscapes. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Several campgrounds restrict access during high fire danger periods, typically between June and October, with modified reservation systems in place.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Red Mountain Campground provides excellent vantage points for spotting local wildlife including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. One visitor noted, "Worth the 4x4 trek to the campground. There is a 'million dollar' view of the mountain range and Clearlake."
Mountain biking excursions: Boggs Mountain Demo Forest features newly developed trail systems following recovery from previous fires. A regular visitor mentioned, "I still come here to enjoy the new growth, the impressive new trails and the new views of the valleys below."
Off-road vehicle trails: Buckhorn Campground serves as a strategic base for OHV enthusiasts with direct trail access. A camper explained, "If you're out dirt biking or four wheeling definitely a good pick away from everyone else in the OHV park."
Water activities scheduling: Fishing and boating conditions at Clear Lake vary significantly by season. Water levels tend to be lowest in late summer, sometimes limiting boat launch access. Many lakeside campsites require advance planning during peak periods from April through September.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Upper Bayview Campground offers greater site separation than other Clear Lake options, with natural vegetation providing additional screening between campsites. Sites located along the outer loops typically provide more seclusion.
Shade availability: Pine Grove Cobb Resort provides consistent shade from mature trees. A camper who stayed in their glamping tent reported, "Four of us stayed in the Glamping Tent for two nights and it was perfect - very comfortable and relaxing."
Post-fire regeneration: Witnessing ecological recovery has become a unique draw for some visitors. A camper at Boggs Mountain noted, "Beautiful area very nice to see the Forrest healing from 2015 Valley fire will go back again."
Location convenience: Lower Hunting Creek Campground offers year-round availability with manageable driving distances to necessities. A visitor mentioned, "I car camped in an area just above the campground... There is a short hike to the top of the mountain from the campground. Decent Verizon signal."
What you should know
Limited phone coverage: Most primitive camping areas have spotty cell reception, with coverage generally limited to higher elevation points. Lower Hunting Creek maintains reasonably consistent Verizon signals compared to other providers.
Bathroom facilities vary: Many campgrounds offer vault toilets without running water. Red Mountain campers advise, "They have bathroom facilities that could be cleaner, but I suggest that you bring your own."
Fire restrictions enforcement: Fire bans frequently affect camping experiences regardless of what reservation systems indicate. Recent visitors to Clear Lake State Park report that even established fire rings cannot be used during restriction periods.
Temperature extremes: Old Train Caboose offers unique camping options with more temperature control than tent sites. Many tent campers report challenging temperature management in summer, with Buckhorn Campground described as having "very hot in the summer with limited shade."
Tips for camping with families
Bring multiple cooling options: Portable shade structures, battery-operated fans, and cooling towels help manage summer heat at exposed campsites. Heat management becomes particularly important in July and August when daytime temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.
Wildlife precautions: Store food in secure containers even at developed sites. Recent campers report increased wildlife activity, especially during drought periods when animals seek water sources near campgrounds.
Restroom proximity planning: When booking at Clear Lake State Park, note that campsite #99 is positioned immediately adjacent to restroom facilities, with sites 93-98, 100, and 110 within short walking distance.
Road conditions preparation: Access roads to primitive camping areas frequently require high-clearance vehicles. Red Mountain access involves "6 miles from civilization down a windy road, then up a mountain side," according to a recent visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring substantial leveling blocks. RVers often need 2-3 inch leveling systems for comfortable overnight stays at most Clear Lake area campgrounds.
Generator policies: Cole Creek Campground prohibits generator use, requiring RVers to rely on battery power or solar systems. One visitor noted, "Nice clean camp sites close to restrooms and showers. Lots of places to fish, hike and bike."
Water conservation strategies: Most camping areas require bringing all water supplies. Red Mountain campers advise, "You should bring a solar shower and water to drink and cook with, as there is none."
Seasonal access limitations: Many Forest Service and BLM roads close during wet winter conditions, particularly December through February. Access roads may remain impassable for larger RVs for days following rain events.
