Clear Lake's shoreline stretches 100 miles around California's largest freshwater lake entirely within state borders. The region sits at 1,329 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. Clearlake and surrounding communities offer multiple camping options from state parks to dispersed sites, many accommodating pets with varying restrictions.
What to do
Water recreation on Cache Creek: Cache Creek flows from Clear Lake, providing kayaking opportunities for pet owners. A visitor at Cache Creek Regional Park Campground shared: "Beautiful river. The elk come in the early morning."
Wildlife viewing from lakeside campsites: The lake area hosts diverse wildlife visible from many campgrounds. At The Aurora RV Park & Marina, a camper observed: "You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water... Many birds. I even saw an egret."
Hiking nearby trails: Several trails provide opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape. A visitor at Kelsey Creek Campground noted: "Extensive nature trail system throughout the park. There is also a visitors center with many displays of the animals that are found within the park as well the cultural history."
What campers like
Quiet off-season camping: The area changes significantly depending on when you visit. A camper at Kelsey Creek Campground observed: "Nice and quiet off season and mid week... Very peaceful, good birdwatching, and abundant deer life."
Lake access points: Many campsites provide direct water access. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, a camper mentioned: "Beautiful spot, was able to get a lake view. Easy to get to and relatively clean."
Internet connectivity: Unlike many remote camping areas, several Clearlake campgrounds offer good connectivity. A camper at Kelsey Creek Campground reported: "Decent cell coverage - enough that I was able to stream college football."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Some camping areas require navigating challenging roads. A visitor to Lakeview Dispersed Campground warned: "The road was challenging. It was steep with loose dirt in spots. It was an adventure."
Seasonal insect activity: Spring and summer bring increased bug activity. At Kelsey Creek Campground, a camper advised: "Be prepared for bugs in Spring! We had to pull out our bug screen! Dawn and dusk is their most active time."
Shower facilities vary widely: Campground shower availability differs significantly. At Clear Lake Campground, a visitor noted: "The womens shower was so-so clean but there was hair left in the drains and on the walls (ick). One shower in the mens bathroom had no hot water."
Tips for camping with families
Token-operated showers: Prepare for pay showers at most facilities. A camper at Clear Lake Campground advised: "Need tokens for showers. Pick up tokens at boat launch bathrooms. Bring cash, small bills."
Free water activities: Some campgrounds provide complimentary water equipment. At The Aurora RV Park & Marina, a visitor highlighted: "They offer FREE canoe/paddle boating. Bathrooms are kept clean and mike, the owner is amazing."
Visitors center opportunities: Educational resources enhance pet-friendly camping near Clearlake for families with children. A Kelsey Creek Campground camper noted: "Large campground with many great options for activities. This park has lake access from a large sandy beach."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at some sites: Not all camping areas accommodate larger vehicles. One RVer at Pine Grove Cobb Resort appreciated the alternative: "Four of us stayed in the Glamping Tent for two nights and it was perfect- very comfortable and relaxing. We also had access to our own private bathroom and shower a short walk away."
Dump station availability: Plan for waste management needs when selecting a campground. A visitor to Kelsey Creek Campground confirmed: "Dump station? - Yes. Water fill? - Yes. Clean site? - Yes. Clean bathroom? - Yes. Flush toilet? - Yes. Showers? - Yes, token operated."
Tight spacing at lakeside sites: Premium waterfront spots often mean less privacy. An RVer at The Aurora RV Park & Marina observed: "The lakeside spots are very tight together-and require backing in. If your neighbor has a slider you are wall to wall."
