Camping near Dillon Beach, California offers a mix of coastal proximity and diverse site configurations across the Sonoma Coast. The foghorn at Bodega Bay serves as a rhythmic backdrop at several campgrounds, particularly noticeable at night, while morning fog typically burns off by midday during summer months. The region's campsites range from open, wind-exposed locations directly on beaches to more protected inland sites tucked among coastal trees and dunes.
What to do
Hiking coastal trails: At Bodega Dunes Campground, visitors access multiple scenic routes. "Hiking among the sand dunes and along the beach provide some really stunning scenery. Reaching the beach, you'll find as much coastal sand as you can handle with miles and miles of it to yourself," notes Shari G. The nearby Bodega Head Trail offers additional hiking options.
Crabbing from the pier: The harbor areas near campgrounds provide excellent seafood gathering opportunities. "Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire," suggests Justin B. from Bodega Dunes. Porto Bodega campers enjoy similar proximity to fresh catches, with one visitor noting, "This place was great full hook up... 3 minute walk to restaurant and deli."
Beach exploration with kids: Samuel P. Taylor State Park serves as a good base camp for coastal exploration. "You are right on Bodega Bay's bay. Just down the road from several exceptional chowder or fish n chips locals," writes Marcus K. from Westside Regional Park. The state park's location provides access to multiple beaches while offering more tree cover than exposed beachfront sites.
What campers like
Protected camping areas: Doran Regional Park offers sites with natural windbreaks. "Doran Beach is great, especially during the summer for kids because it's a well protected cove and the waves don't usually get very high," explains Justin W. This protection from coastal wind makes evening campfires more enjoyable.
Spacious campsites: Lawson's Landing features larger sites than many coastal options. "We spent a long weekend here at the end of February. Weather was as to be expected for near the coast, but sheltered enough from the wind. Sites were large, water fill stations and bathrooms (with showers) were easily accessible," reports Dustin C., highlighting the practical amenities.
Close beach access: Wright's Beach Campground provides immediate shore access. "This is a small campground of 28 reservable spots plus a few first come first serve just north of Bodega Bay... Best part is that you're literally steps from the beach," shares Debbie M. The proximity allows campers to maximize beach time without driving.
What you should know
Wind conditions vary by location: Coastal exposure affects comfort significantly. "The tent sites are VERY windy, especially at night," warns Teresa B. about Doran Park. At Westside Park, a camper notes, "This site is all about location. You are right on Bodega Bay. But that also means the wind is fierce."
Shower facilities limited: Many campsites have minimal facilities. "No showers but the restrooms are clean, have warm/hot running water and plugs," reports Kerri C. about Wright's Beach. At Bodega Bay RV Park, Edward R. found "COVID restrictions had the restrooms and laundry facilities closed," showing how availability changes seasonally.
Cell coverage inconsistent: Service depends on location and carrier. "No issues with Verizon or T mobile Hot spots," reports Brandon G. at Bodega Bay RV Park, while at Casini Ranch, Sarah notes "There is NO VERIZON service in the campsite and limited to no Verizon service for about 1/2 mile out of the campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Sand play areas: The dunes provide natural entertainment. "I'd spend all day playing in the dunes," recalls a camper about Dillon Beach. At Lawson's Landing, "the kids enjoyed the sand dunes a lot," though Phanessa F. cautions, "It's not easy to access the beach. It seems there's a huge sand dune between the campground and the beach."
Protected swimming spots: Certain beaches offer safer water access. "Doran Beach is great, especially during the summer for kids because it's a well protected cove and the waves don't usually get very high," notes Justin W. This makes water activities more accessible for families with younger children.
Additional activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation. "This campground feels cramped to me. Walking on the beach was nice, but not really a swimmable beach due to rocks and huge waves," reports Kerry V. about Wright's Beach, suggesting families should research beach conditions before booking.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups at state parks: Most coastal state facilities have minimal services. "No showers but the restrooms are clean, have warm/hot running water and plugs. Good spot to blow dry your hair if you can shower in the trailer!" advises Kerri C. about Wright's Beach, highlighting the need for self-contained capabilities.
Site selection crucial: For larger rigs, choose carefully. "Tested the water-Water tested as acceptable tap water after running it through an external filter. 21 elements checked, all within range. Dissolved solids were 251...pretty high. The worst water in our 6 week trip," reports Patrick J. from San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Dump station availability: Not all parks offer full services. "There's a dump station for a $7 fee (though the website says $10, so maybe it's actually $10), honor box at the station to deposit your money. Water fill available here as well," notes Laura M. about Westside Regional Park, providing practical information for planning stops.
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