Clearlake, California sits at an elevation of 1,335 feet, with Mediterranean climate patterns that create hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The largest natural freshwater lake in California, Clearlake covers 68 square miles with 100 miles of shoreline. Water temperatures reach up to 75°F in summer months, creating favorable conditions for swimming and water activities at local yurt camping facilities.
What to Do
Kayaking at creek access points: Clear Lake Campground provides direct creek access where visitors can observe local wildlife. "What a lovely peaceful campground right on Cache Creek. Great fishing! Lots of wildlife sightings across the creek in the state park reserve. Great birdwatching. Especially loved kayaking on the creek," notes Diane W.
Observatory star gazing: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground offers unique astronomy programs. "You can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well! We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shares Syd D. The park combines yurt camping with educational night sky programs.
Wine tasting excursions: Proximity to wineries makes Clearlake an ideal base for wine tourism. "The campground is only a few minutes from Kenwood and many many wineries, but feels more remote than it is," explains Scott J. Many campers arrange designated drivers or use shuttle services from campgrounds when planning wine tours.
What Campers Like
Private beaches with clear water: The Aurora RV Park & Marina maintains special access areas for water activities. "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," describes Ann D.
Shade structures and cooling areas: Outdoor gathering spaces provide relief from summer heat. "Green grass in the BBQ area with a beautiful gazebo that has grapes growing on it! Felt very nice and cool since it was very hot in Aug," reports Tamera J.
Well-maintained yurt accommodations: Narrows Lodge Resort offers spacious yurt options with private facilities. "We rented a camping yurt and we were so surprised how big it is! We received a key to our own bathroom and shower! They had a sink to wash dishes in and a place to clean our fish," explains Jessica R.
What You Should Know
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted access roads. "To get to clear lake from the west the road is very windy and only allows 34 feet and I think that is pushing it," warns Ann D. Large RVs should call ahead to verify access routes.
Seasonal water conditions: Water quality varies throughout the year. "Cute but older and I mean really old RV camp on what's called a creek. I was told I could pick any Lakefront campsite but this is not the lake!" shares Steve M. about Clear Lake Campground.
Proximity to highways: Middle Creek Campground offers basic facilities with potential for road noise. "Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit as well as a bbq grill. They do have vault toilets and running water," states Donna M. The $8 per night fee makes it one of the most affordable options in the region.
Tips for Camping with Families
Children's activities: Multiple locations offer youth-oriented amenities. "Great campsite, awesome staff. Tucked away off highway 12 in wine country it feels much more remote than it actually is," notes Scott J. "Excellent hiking with both fairly flat trails, to challenging trails with lots of elevation change."
Educational experiences: Local ecology provides learning opportunities. "From the campground you can easily hike 20 miles around the park. There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too," explains Michael I. about Sugarloaf Ridge.
Pet policies: Most yurt camping locations near Clearlake welcome pets. "Pet friendly. Great little beach. A dock to fish from. Everything you need to have a great time! They also have bigger yurts and cabins to rent," reports Jessica R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers varied site options. "The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!" mentions Patrick M. Request specific sites when making reservations for desired amenities.
Water quality considerations: Test water before filling tanks. "Tested the water-Water tested as acceptable tap water after running it through an external filter. 21 elements checked, all within range. Dissolved solids were 251...pretty high," notes Patrick J.
Tight maneuvering spaces: Plan arrival during daylight hours. "After looping around to approach the site, I found the streets all very tight for RV maneuvering," warns Patrick J. Some campgrounds require specific approaches to avoid difficult turns.
