The Russian River region near Cloverdale sits in northern Sonoma County at elevations ranging from 200-400 feet, creating microclimates that shift from warm days to cool evenings throughout camping season. Highway 101 provides the main access corridor to most rv campgrounds around Cloverdale, California, with smaller county roads branching into the Russian River valley. Morning fog frequently rolls through the valley during summer months, burning off by mid-morning.
What to do
River activities: access points vary Most campgrounds in the area provide seasonal access to the Russian River. At River Bend Resort, campers appreciate the private beach area. "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole are for adults too," reports one camper.
Wine tasting: within 20-minute drive The Alexander Valley wine region surrounds Cloverdale with numerous tasting rooms. Campers often use the campgrounds as a base for exploring. "Great Russian River wine country location," notes a visitor staying at River Bend Resort.
Local markets: Saturday mornings Multiple campers mention the farmer's market held near Bodega Bay RV Park on weekends. "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park," writes one reviewer. Another notes, "Nearby paths which I believe bay and beach access isn't far away."
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: morning or evening best Clear Lake campgrounds offer different fishing experiences than the Russian River locations. "You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water," explains a camper at The Aurora RV Park & Marina. The marina also provides boat rentals for those wanting to venture farther out.
Space between sites: varies widely Site spacing differs dramatically between campgrounds. "The camp side on most is terrible. My wife has mobility issues so I would not stay here again," reports one camper about Thousand Trails Russian River. In contrast, at Mirabel RV Park, a camper notes, "Each site has a table, fire pit, and even outlets which was a nice surprise. Tons of trees so every site has plenty of shade."
Water proximity: check booking details Many campgrounds advertise water access, but specific locations matter. "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," explains a visitor to The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
What you should know
Site limitations: inquire before booking Most campgrounds have specific limitations that aren't always clear when booking. At Thousand Trails Russian River, a camper advises: "If you have a larger rig be very conscious of where the spots are that allow for them. Ask at the ranger office for the list of ones they should have open. Drive extremely slow. Roads and turns are very narrow."
Hookup limitations: common in the region Water and electric hookups are standard, but sewer connections vary. "Spaces are all 30 amp with no sewer hookups," notes a camper about Thousand Trails Russian River. Another mentions, "No sewer but they do have a dumping station and a honey pot service for $35 so we took advantage of that."
Road noise: proximity to highways Several campgrounds border busy roads. A reviewer at River Bend Resort states, "What was not mentioned is that it is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & night." Sites farther from main roads typically have less noise interference.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: multiple options Children's facilities vary between campgrounds. At Mirabel RV Park & Campground, amenities focus on natural play. River Bend Resort features "several playgrounds which are fun for kids. And an arcade," according to one camper.
Swimming safety: variable currents The Russian River has different swimming conditions depending on location and season. "Short trail down to the river, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding," notes a Mirabel RV Park camper. Another mentions, "Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole are for adults too."
Pet restrictions: vary by campground Some campgrounds welcome pets while others have strict limitations. Bodega Bay RV Park allows dogs but with specific rules. "The dog runs were good," notes one RVer. However, another campground visitor mentions, "No bike riding or scooting, so we had to walk them to the walking path. They also mention a few times about well behaved children."
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: confusion common Pay close attention to site orientation instructions. At Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park, a camper notes: "Spaces are level gravel areas and some are a little tight." Another advises, "If you are thinking this is a KOA type place, it is not, its just a KOA price."
Access routes: size restrictions Highway 101 provides the main access corridor, but side roads may have limitations. "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 a visitor to The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Internet access: variable reliability Work-from-road capabilities differ between campgrounds. While the existing description mentions Bodega Bay having reliable service, connectivity at other parks varies. "I work remote and have had meetings all week. No issues with Verizon or T-mobile Hot spots," confirms a recent Bodega Bay RV Park camper.
