Recreational vehicle camping options near Duncans Mills, California span from riverside locations along the Russian River to coastal sites facing the Pacific Ocean. The region sits at the convergence of redwood forests and coastal terrain, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak season. Most campgrounds in this area close during winter months due to flooding risks along the Russian River.
What to do
Water recreation at Russian River: Mirabel RV Park & Campground offers direct river access with free watercraft. "There's a short trail down to the river, perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. I'll be coming back again," notes Jordan L.
Seafood dining options: Campers staying at coastal RV sites near Duncans Mills can enjoy local seafood restaurants. A visitor at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park explains, "If you wanna rv and craving crab, chowder, and oysters this is the spot for you... walking distance to a restaurant and shops."
Night sky viewing: Coastal locations provide excellent stargazing opportunities. A reviewer at Porto Bodega described, "You can see the Milky Way at night while listening to the soft foghorn and every now and then a soft bark of a seal."
Wine country access: Camping in this region puts you within driving distance of Sonoma wine country. "Great Russian River wine country location and is next to the Russian River pub," notes a visitor at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Lakeside or marina camping provides unique water views. At The Aurora RV Park, "You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water," according to Tamera J.
Convenient city access: For those wanting to explore San Francisco while camping, Marin RV Park offers strategic positioning. "Drive in, park and then walk to all the sights you want to see in San Francisco. A short 10 minute walk from the RV park is the ferry that will drop you off downtown," explains Jeff T.
Quiet rural settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. At Mirabel RV Park, visitors noted each site includes "a table, fire pit, and even outlets which was a nice surprise. Tons of trees so every site has plenty of shade."
Swimming options: Russian River locations offer swimming holes for cooling off. "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," shares a camper at River Bend Resort.
What you should know
Price variations: Costs at RV sites near Duncans Mills vary considerably. A visitor at River Bend Resort observed, "Super expensive and the actual sites aren't great... it's really just a big parking lot right by the highway. I think the tent sites are a bit better."
Reservation requirements: Many coastal RV parks require advance planning, especially for waterfront spots. "We were greeted by the camp host with a smile! Very friendly! She answered all our questions and showed us around," shares a visitor at The Aurora RV Park.
Road access challenges: The roads to coastal campgrounds present challenges. "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," notes a camper at The Aurora RV Park.
Wildlife considerations: Local wildlife may visit campsites. "They have raccoons but don't tell you that... we had muddy footprints all over our table in the morning! Their garbage cans are not raccoon proof," mentions a camper at Porto Bodega Marina.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bodega Bay RV Park has child-friendly facilities. "It is a wonderful campground for families with children and pets. We have a dog and two very young children. We had a blast there lots to do and see," shares Sasha M.
Swimming safety: River locations offer child-friendly swimming areas. The Aurora RV Park provides free boating equipment: "They offer FREE canoe/paddle boating. Bathrooms are kept clean and Mike, the owner is amazing."
Activity restrictions: Some parks limit children's activities. A visitor at Bodega Bay RV Park noted, "It's not the best for families though. 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."
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer additional entertainment. River Bend Resort includes "an arcade" and "several playgrounds which are fun for kids," according to a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site placement: RV spots vary in quality and positioning. "Our spot was very close to the entrance – mostly level a little angle downhill so bring some blocks," notes an RVer at Thousand Trails Russian River.
Space constraints: Many coastal RV parks have limited space. "The spots are narrow. The ground is made up of small rocks, but is perfectly level. There are no picnic tables and/or fire pits available," explains an RVer at Marin RV Park.
Utility variations: Water and power connections differ between parks. "Coming into this Thousand Trails campground made us a little nervous at first... Spaces are all 30 amp with no sewer hookups. Many spaces are very narrow/tight and uphill from your neighbor," reports a visitor at Thousand Trails Russian River.
Site leveling: Terrain challenges require preparation. "Sites are gravel, not level and close together. Shopping and grocery store with in a couple miles. Great location to stay if visiting the city," comments an RVer at Novato RV Park.
