Christine L.
Scout
ScoutAustin Creek State Rec Area
Summer 2026 - Closed
Currently the Bull Frog Campground is closed Until Further Notice and there is no Back Country Camping available either. Day Use only.
Camping near Cobb, CA
168 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Cobb, California sits amid a mix of forest and lakeside camping options in Lake County's geothermal region. Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers both tent and cabin accommodations in a wooded setting, while Clear Lake Campground provides RV sites and cabins with lake access. Several developed campgrounds in the area feature electric hookups, showers, and fire rings, typically situated within 10-20 miles of Cobb's small town center. Both public and private facilities support a range of camping styles from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks.
Seasonal considerations affect campground operations and amenities throughout the region. "This little campground RV park is very quaint and small. Driving into it, you got the impression that it was frozen in time," noted one visitor about Clear Lake Campground. Many sites require advance reservations during summer months when lake activities are most popular. Winter camping sees reduced services at some locations, with facilities like Kelsey Creek Campground offering year-round access but limited amenities during colder months. The region experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters, with higher elevations around Cobb Mountain providing cooler temperatures during summer heat. Cell service varies considerably, with stronger signals near Clear Lake and spotty coverage in more remote forest locations.
The natural setting represents the primary draw for campers visiting the Cobb area. Proximity to Clear Lake provides water recreation opportunities at several campgrounds, while forest sites offer more seclusion and shade. According to reviews, bathrooms and shower facilities receive mixed ratings across the region's campgrounds. Visitors highlight the retro atmosphere of some older established campgrounds, with one camper describing a property as having "the appearance of years of decay like a ghost town." Nearby hiking trails in Boggs Mountain Demonstration Forest provide recreational options, though some reviewers note limited trail access in certain parks. Noise levels vary significantly, with lakeside locations typically busier than forest settings. Sites around Pine Grove Cobb Resort earn praise for privacy and natural surroundings while still offering access to modern amenities.
Best Campgrounds near Cobb (168)
1. Kelsey Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park
"Having visited Lake County many times, I wasn't expecting much from this camp ground. I had intended to camp at Boggs Forest - my usual hangout for mountain biking when in the area."
"Had a nice spot that was semi-shaded in the afternoon, next to a lovely couple who I was able to share some beers with. The place was at capacity, but many people leave during the day."
from $30 / night
Check Availability2. Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground
"Love this spot for glamping it has a fishing pond, swimming pool, and a hiking trail! Very beautiful scenery! Very close to the town of Cloverdale about a 5-10 min drive!"
"Off the beaten path so if you plan to visit cities or wineries you need a tow vehicle."
from $89 - $109 / night
Check Availability3. Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
"We just stayed here for 2 nights, great location very close to Calistoga and not to far from Saint Helena! Next time i would love to try out a cabin or yurt."
"Good access to wineries close by. Only real downside was that because of the dry conditions we could not have a campfire."
from $43 / night
Check Availability5. Clear Lake Campground
from $58 - $119 / night
Check Availability6. Calso - Boggs Mountain Demo Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
"The trees that were planted are now reaching an impressive height and providing shade on many of the trails. See the pic with the bike against the tree for a sense of scale."
"None the less, I still come here to enjoy the new growth, the impressive new trails and the new views of the valleys below. It’s Labor Day weekend and I’m one of maybe a half dozen campers."
7. Hidden Knoll Farm Glamping
"We were close to a small splash pool for floating on in pool rings and pool noodles that the host provided and there is also a galvanized soaking tub for two with an amazing view and we enjoyed it underneath"
"We love to visit Harbin Hot Springs near Middletown after wine tasting in Napa Valley, but Harbin doesn’t allow dogs. We discovered this great campground on private land."
from $45 - $75 / night
Check Availability8. Pine Grove Cobb Resort
"We also had access to our own private bathroom and shower a short walk away which was great. Would stay here again, highly recommend!"
from $25 - $210 / night
Check Availability9. Lakeview Dispersed Campground
"First time camping and going somewhat off road. If you’re worried about your vehicle making it up we saw a tesla and a nissan altima up there. My subaru made it up perfectly."
"Beautiful spot with some views of the lake. No services, but had cell service (CC). I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging."
10. Harbin Hot Springs
"Close to the parking area, though the creek is between the parking and the camping platforms, so you can't drive directly up to your site. Very clean showers and restrooms nearby. "
from $45 - $190 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 1 min from Santa Rosa, CA
- 1 hr 10 min from Napa, CA
- 1 hr 25 min from Vallejo, CA
- 1 hr 38 min from Yuba City, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Cobb, CA
231 Photos of 168 Cobb Campgrounds
Joe S.
Pine Grove Cobb Resort
Julie D.
Harbin Hot Springs
Cecil K.
Clear Lake Campground
Gabriella B.
Hidden Knoll Farm Glamping
william B.
The Wilton on the Russian River
Chris P.
Cole Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park
Ken B.
Wildhaven Sonoma
Rick F.
Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground
Nicole P.
Kelsey Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park
Madeleine B.
Koa Cloverdale Camping Resort
Summer A.
BLM Sheldon Creek
Stacy L.
Lakeview Dispersed Campground
Recent Reviews near Cobb, CA
867 Reviews of 168 Cobb Campgrounds
- LLandon R.
TravelerBlue Oak Campground
Very cool views, but a lot of trash
Found a spot on the hill that had a sweet view, but was covered in trash and shotgun shells. A lot of dirt bikers so you hear that most of the day.
Madeleine B.ScoutKoa Cloverdale Camping Resort
Glad I Ignored the Bad Reviews
Abundant bad reviews were available for this campground but we had no major issues. Bathrooms and pool were in good condition.
- H
Heather D.TravelerThousand Trails Russian River
They're trying
So the staff here are really nice and helpful and trying to keep the place up. There is definitely not enough staff for the size of of the grounds here. The river is super low right now but it's mid July inland in California so that's expected. Getting down to the river access is either by being dropped off by a car and then picked back up when you are done OR walking down the windy steep road and then back UP when you are tired and hungry and hot etc. If you have a mobility issue be prepared to get help. My husband has prosthetics and we couldn't be down at the same time without a lot of back and forth with the vehicle. The bathroom/bathhouse in A section of the park is trashed. I don't have a nicer way to put that. We lost water the second night we were there and that lasted most of the next day and then power went out at 11pm three nights later and was off for almost 24 hours. We more than likely won't be staying there again anytime soon. It looks like it used to be a really nice spot but it has just been neglected and abused.
Alan L.
GuideLake Pillsbury Resort and Marina
Nice dirt road drive!
Enjoyed our time at pillsburry. Water was warm, but too much clay and some areas had algae. Camp site was very spacious with fire pit. We fit our vehicles perfectly. Water spigot at camp site and bathrooms were across. There’s a store and token showers
- Alan L.Guide
Upper Bayview Campground — Clear Lake State Park
Spacious camp site!
Very spacious camp site. We got invited here by a relative. Stayed in the upper area, so you had to drive down to the lake. Park rangers were present. Can’t remember the camp site we stayed in but if you don’t mind taking a 5 minute drive,book the upper campground. Lake water was 7/10. Great temperature, but I’m more of a Christal clear water person. There was some algae/ weeds. I heard a lot of negative comments about the water. Overall we had a good time Bathrooms and showers were next to our site.
- CCarley C.Traveler
smittle creek
Definitely not a spot
Tons of signs that say no camping no parking no trespassing. There was a fence and it was locked. Definitely don’t come here
- TTwindaddyGuide
Calso - Boggs Mountain Demo Forest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Open to camping again!
Finally open again after a couple years of clearing storm damage.
https://www.fire.ca.gov/what-we-do/natural-resource-management/demonstration-state-forests/boggs-demonstration-state-forest
I was there the week prior to July 4 and expected a crowd. Instead I was one of only two campers until I left on the 3rd.
As in years past, the "no-see-ems" and bees get a bit thick. The bees absolutely LOVE water, so have a van with a shower on the rear door complicates things. Nonetheless, the stay was nice. The mountain biking, though tough, was super fun. I got lucky with the weather too - only hit about 82 at the warmest.
Vault toilets are reasonably well maintained. Don't be afraid to use them if you need to.
There continues to be a lot of forest recovery after the fire over a decade (wow!) ago.
The trees that were planted are now reaching an impressive height and providing shade on many of the trails. See the pic with the bike against the tree for a sense of scale.
Nice to have the option available again - I'll be back in the fall.
Oh... the pizza parlor in Cobb is also excellent. They have great pizza a great sleection of good beers on tap!
- DDaniel D.Guide
COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground
Unmaintained Free-for-all
Apparently this place has been closed for four years and is just re-opening. It definitely looks like it. Sections of the campground are still closed, and the parts that are open were ROUGH. This places does have potential- views of the lake are good, bathrooms have showers. By far the worst part of camping here is that there was no camp host and no park ranger. Saw unsafe fire practices, and experienced extremely loud music that went to 2:00 am and started again at 6:30 am. Did I ask for it by coming here on Fourth of July weekend? Probably. On the whole, the entire experience felt like trying to camp in a run down city park. Having no one to contact when things get out of control after the sun goes down invites campers to try to regulate other campers, which is always recipe for disaster. I’ve camped in all kinds of place - Nat’l park, state parks, county parks, BLM, National Forests, and have experienced the full range of camping experiences . I will never come back to this place again.
Guide to Cobb
Camping opportunities near Cobb, California range from primitive forest sites to established campgrounds with amenities. The area sits at elevations between 2,500-3,000 feet in Lake County's Mayacamas Mountains, providing cooler summer temperatures compared to the surrounding valleys. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing, with occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing at Kelsey Creek: The flowing water at Kelsey Creek Campground provides freshwater fishing opportunities during summer months. "Great camping, hiking, boating. Lots of nature trails. Super friendly staff," notes reviewer Kelly S. Access to the lake makes it ideal for various water activities.
Mountain biking at Boggs Mountain: Despite fire damage, the area offers rebuilt trails for cycling enthusiasts. "I still come here to enjoy the new growth, the impressive new trails and the new views of the valleys below," shares one visitor about Boggs Mountain Demo Forest. The trails accommodate all skill levels with varied terrain.
Wine country exploration: The region's proximity to vineyards makes it popular for wine enthusiasts. One camper at Ritchey Creek Campground noted, "It's so nice to be right in the Napa Valley. We found a great trail close by at Lake Hennessey. If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!"
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers wooded sites with privacy. "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 which was great," reports Aulden F.
Lakefront access: Campers appreciate sites with direct water views. A camper at Clear Lake State Park mentioned, "Site was perfect. Close to the water and very accessible for an RV." The park offers varying levels of proximity to the lake depending on site selection.
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds offer a more peaceful experience during weekdays and non-summer months. "Nice and quiet off season and mid week... Very peaceful, good birdwatching, and abundant deer life. We would come back," wrote Suzanne S. about Clear Lake Campground.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some dispersed camping sites require vehicles with higher clearance. "The drive up was full of breathtaking views, and even though the road was quite bumpy, dusty, and steep at times, our AWD Kia made it up no problem," reports one camper about Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Seasonal pest issues: Mosquitoes and other insects can be problematic in warmer months. "Great time to come here except for the mosquitoes. We're listening to the bullfrogs singing and wondering why they don't eat all of the mosquitoes," notes Darrel F. about camping near Clear Lake.
Poison oak awareness: The plant grows throughout the region. One visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park commented, "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year?"
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several camping sites near Cobb, California offer water recreation for children. The Cloverdale/Healdsburg KOA provides family-friendly amenities: "A little run down but my four year old did not care! Lots for kids to do. Pool, fishing pond, playground, hiking trails," reports Jeanne D.
Educational opportunities: Some parks feature nature centers with wildlife exhibits. "Large campground with many great options for activities. This park has lake access from a large sandy beach. Extensive nature trail system throughout the park. There is also a visitors center with many displays of the animals," writes Lena M. about Kelsey Creek.
Budget-friendly alternatives: Free dispersed camping sites offer cost-effective options for families. "There are about 4/5 sites, only 2 with actual fire pits. Please keep it amazing by keeping it clean. FREE," notes Kenny T. about BLM Sheldon Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers should research site dimensions before arrival. "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," cautions Andrew about Russian River RV Campground. Call ahead to verify site suitability.
Utility limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Spaces are all 30 amp with no sewer hookups. Many spaces are very narrow/tight and uphill from your neighbor," notes Derek & Alex W. about Russian River Campground. Some sites may require sewer caddies or limited water usage.
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies widely between camping sites near Cobb. "Internet. Verizon via iPhone 12: 26 mbps down and 0.40 mbps up with 34 ms ping. T-Mobile via Nighthawk MR-1100 - 4.24 mbps down and 16.9 up with 159 ping," reports Mea H., providing specific connectivity details for remote work needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need reservations for camping in Cobb, California?
Do I need reservations for camping in Cobb, California?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for camping in and around Cobb, especially during peak season (late spring through early fall). Harbin Hot Springs near Cobb requires advance reservations for all stays. For those seeking alternatives in the region, Johnson's Beach is a popular spot that fills quickly and also requires reservations. Most developed campgrounds in the area implement a reservation system, though some may keep a limited number of sites for first-come, first-served visitors. During weekends and holidays, campgrounds typically reach capacity quickly. For the best chance at securing your preferred site, book 3-6 months in advance, especially if camping between May and September.
Where is Cobb, California located and how do I get there for camping?
Where is Cobb, California located and how do I get there for camping?
Cobb is located in Lake County, California, nestled in the Mayacamas Mountains about 90 miles north of San Francisco. The town sits at an elevation of approximately 2,600 feet, providing cooler temperatures than the surrounding valleys. To reach Cobb for camping, take Highway 29 north from the Napa Valley or Highway 175 if coming from Clear Lake. Kelsey Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park is about 30 minutes from Cobb and offers water activities. Alternatively, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground is accessible via a scenic drive through the mountains and provides excellent hiking trails with beautiful views.
What camping options are available in Cobb, California?
What camping options are available in Cobb, California?
Cobb, California offers several camping options in and around the area. Pine Grove Cobb Resort provides drive-in sites with amenities including water and toilets. For those seeking nearby alternatives, Clear Lake Campground offers a quaint, small RV park experience with a helpful manager. The surrounding region features additional options including dispersed camping at Lakeview Dispersed Campground, which is free and accommodates larger vehicles. Boggs Mountain Forest previously offered camping but is temporarily closed. The area's proximity to Clear Lake also means access to several state park campgrounds within a reasonable driving distance.
Keep Exploring