Dispersed camping near Cloverdale, California offers primitive sites in an area with hot, dry summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September and mild winters with occasional frost. The region sits at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,500 feet, with higher campsites offering views of surrounding valleys and Clear Lake. Most dispersed sites lack potable water sources, making water planning crucial when preparing for any backcountry stay.
What to do
Paddle boarding options: Smittle Creek provides access to Lake Berryessa for water activities. "This sweet little spot is a paddle boarding and fishing dream. Primitive site where Smittle Creek flows into Lake Berryessa," according to a recent visitor.
Hiking trails: The surrounding hills offer numerous hiking possibilities, particularly from spring through fall. At Cowboy Camp, visitors note there are "lots of open space" and hiking options, though some report "getting across the stream to some of the hikes" can be challenging without proper footwear.
Off-road driving: Technical driving enthusiasts can find challenging terrain throughout the region. At Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed, one visitor mentions, "Love taking our Rock crawler up to cow. Lots of obstacles," while another specifically recommends "the tech course with our off-road buggy."
What campers like
Lake views: Several dispersed sites offer views overlooking Clear Lake. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, campers report "Beautiful spot with some views of the lake" and note you can "get a lake view" if you select your campsite carefully.
Wildlife watching: Morning and evening hours bring opportunities for wildlife observation. One camper at Mayacmas Campground noted "The views made it all worth it" despite the rough access road, while another visitor to the region mentioned seeing "deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us."
Solitude: Many campers value the quiet nature of these dispersed sites. A visitor described finding "a bit of solitude a bit deeper into the campsite" and another mentioned "only two other groups were set up so not crowded, plenty of spots."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to most sites requires careful vehicle consideration. Many campers report challenging conditions, with one noting at High Valley Rd Dispersed that "The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff. There is no way to turn around once you start up it."
Seasonal access: Winter and spring rains can make roads impassable, particularly December through March. Several campsites close seasonally, with one visitor reporting "found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell."
Insect conditions: Depending on location and season, insects can impact camping comfort. One camper reported an area with "an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were," adding they "had a car full of flies that went to the coast with us."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with established fire rings and flat areas for tents. At BLM Sheldon Creek, one camper mentioned "We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up... There are even picnic tables, fire pits, and bathrooms."
Pack additional water: No potable water exists at most sites, requiring 1-2 gallons per person per day. A camper noted "No nearby water" at one site, while others mention the creeks are not reliable drinking sources.
Pack out trash: Area campsites suffer from accumulation of litter. One visitor reported "So much trash left behind here! We tried to pick up what we could but there's quite the mess left behind from others who were there prior."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: Most dispersed sites near Cloverdale accommodate smaller RVs only. A visitor reported that even for their "23" Winnebago View" they "always manage to level out" but noted the limited turning space.
Test sites before committing: Walk potential sites before driving in to check for clearance and leveling options. One RVer warned: "The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate."
Consider alternatives during rain: Unpaved access roads become hazardous when wet. An RVer cautioned that even with an "AWD midsize SUV" they experienced significant challenges, adding "we bottomed out very badly and almost got stuck."
