Camping options near Cloverdale include both established campgrounds and dispersed sites, situated within California's northern wine country at elevations between 300-1000 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach the high 90s with little precipitation, while winter brings cooler conditions with more rainfall. The Russian River serves as a central feature for recreation with seasonal accessibility changing throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Sonoma Marina Campground has a fishing pond directly accessible from the campground area. "Great views. Great sites. Can purchase firewood and provisions (if needed) from the Marina Store," notes Mike F. The campground's proximity to the lake makes it convenient for anglers looking to fish from shore or boat.
Hiking trails: BLM Sheldon Creek offers free camping with wilderness hiking options. "Sheldon Creek is a BLM campsite up a winding dirt/gravel road. We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up," reports Summer A. The site provides access to wooded trails with creek crossings suitable for day hikes.
Water recreation: Access to swimming and paddling areas makes Casini Ranch Family Campground popular during summer months. "You can kayak down the river and the campgrounds have a big variety of sizes, some on and off the river," explains Wes R. The riverside location allows for cooling off when temperatures climb into the 90s during peak summer months.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Woodside Campground at Salt Point State Park draws campers for its forest setting. "Tucked in the woods and yet minutes from the water! Great toilets, nice fire pits, family friendly," writes Vickee M. The campground's placement provides a cooler microclimate during hot summer days.
Waterfront views: The cliff-side settings at Ocean Cove Store and Campground rank high among visitor favorites. "We camped right on an ocean cliff in October of 2019 and it was the most beautiful campsite we've ever stayed at! Coin operated showers were adequate. Port-a-potties were also fine," says Liz P. The campground offers direct ocean views from multiple sites without requiring reservations.
Spacious camping areas: Many visitors appreciate the generous site dimensions at local campgrounds. "Sites are HUGE! We had plenty of room for our trailer, tent, corn hole, and more. Staff is friendly and helpful, the store is great - they have most of whatever you may need," reports Dustin C. about Casini Ranch. This extra space allows for better separation from neighboring campers.
What you should know
Bridge removal impacts: Winter access to Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground requires additional planning. "Getting to the campground is easier in the summer because there is a bridge that goes over the river, making it a shorter drive. In the winter, the bridge is removed, so you have to go through the town of Cloverdale and back track, adding about 15-20 minutes to your trip," explains April H.
Limited amenities at wilderness sites: BLM Sheldon Creek has basic facilities only. "You might want to be prepared to dig your own toilet though as the toilet set up was completely infested with spiders," advises iliana A. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies including water.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have variable enforcement of quiet hours. "The biggest problem was Saturday night when a large group came and took over two adjacent campsites. They brought lights and loud music with them and the lights and loud music stayed on until after midnight," reports Beth B. about Lake Sonoma Marina Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's facilities. "Kids were busy the whole time, riding bikes and scooters, playing on the jump pillow, feeling the animals," shares Dustin C. about Casini Ranch Family Campground, which offers organized activities during peak season.
Swimming access: When camping during summer heat, water access becomes important. "There's a small pond to fish. Campsites were pretty maintained and spacious. Staff were friendly and helpful," notes Scotty B. about Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground, which maintains a swimming pool open during summer months.
Dog-friendly considerations: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Cloverdale have specific guidelines. "There's plenty of space to walk the dogs and some doo doo bag stations. It's been pretty quiet but I'm sure it picks up during the summer," explains Scott K. Pets should be kept leashed on trails and in camping areas at all times.
Tips from RVers
Site challenges: RVers should research specific site dimensions. "I am reasonably ok at backing in my travel trailer but this place is a mess. I parked in wrong spot, moved to the right one, the power pedestal did not work," advises andrew about Thousand Trails Russian River. Some campgrounds have tight turns and difficult approaches.
Utilities available: Hookup availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "This is a rustic park with no sewer hookups, so you need to bring a sewer caddy, and also, they have laundry onsite. They are remodeling and repairing and it is coming along very nicely," notes Venna D. about Thousand Trails Russian River.
Site placement tips: RV campers should arrive early for better site selection. "Take your time finding the right spot for you. Staff okay. Little pricey and snobby," suggests jeanne D. Requesting specific areas of campgrounds can improve the camping experience.
