Cabin camping near Fulton, California sits in the heart of Sonoma County wine country, approximately 65 miles north of San Francisco. The region features a Mediterranean climate with average summer temperatures around 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-55°F at night. Most cabin sites in the area are situated among redwood groves or near the Russian River, which floods seasonally during winter rains, making early fall and late spring optimal for cabin stays.
What to do
Explore the redwood hiking trails: Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers cabin campers access to several hiking paths through towering redwoods. "Traditional campground, yurts and a seasonal pool make this a fun place to go with the kids. Take a walk to check out the Pioneer Cemetery and nearby mill," notes a visitor at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Fish in stocked ponds: Cloverdale KOA maintains a fishing pond that doesn't require a state license. "Camp staff is awesome and helpful! Josh checked us in late and took care of everything even though the store was closed. Pool/jacuzzi both warm, on-site fishing pond, many sites with full hook ups," shares a camper who stayed at Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground.
Visit wineries: Bothe-Napa Valley State Park cabins provide access to nearby vineyards. "This is our second time here. 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!" explains a guest at Ritchey Creek Campground.
Paddle the Russian River: Cabin accommodations at River Bend Resort offer direct river access. "Great river swimming for kids, but so expensive. 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," comments a visitor.
What campers like
Proximity to urban conveniences: Spring Lake cabins offer wilderness experience with city access. "It's close to town. We picked up a pizza at Urban Pizza on our way. Excellent Pi! There were tons of restaurants though if you need to pick something up," says a camper at Spring Lake Regional Park.
Beach access: The marina location at Porto Bodega provides unique waterfront cabins. "This place was great full hook up W,E,S,C you get a fire pit and a picnic table, 3 minute walk to restaurant and deli, public restroom is clean every morning and garbage gets emptied...amazing views," reports a guest at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Private riverfront locations: Cabin sites at Casini Ranch offer varying levels of privacy along the Russian River. "Spent the weekend with family (10 kids, 6 adults) at Casini Ranch for a couple birthdays. Kids were busy the whole time, riding bikes and scooters, playing on the jump pillow, feeling the animals. Sites are HUGE! We had plenty of room for our trailer, tent, corn hole, and more," comments a visitor at Casini Ranch Family Campground.
Seasonal amenities: Many cabin facilities include summer-specific features. "We have been here for 2 weekends in the last few months. It is kid friendly, fun easy hike around the lake (no swimming but you can rent or bring your own kayaks or stand-up paddle boards)," notes a camper at Spring Lake Regional Park.
What you should know
Winter bridge closures: Some cabin sites have seasonal access changes. "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 a visitor to Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground.
Water quality varies: Testing shows differences in cabin water supplies across locations. "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. Must be a California thing," reports a camper at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Evening noise levels: Many cabin areas experience varying noise patterns. "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. Wake up in the morning to either fog or bright warm sun overlooking a very sleepy Glassy harbor with fishing boats bobbing in the docks," describes a visitor to Porto Bodega Marina.
Seasonal weather shifts: Cabin campers should prepare for temperature variations. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Some cabin sites offer structured children's programs. "This campground is clearly a getaway from the more congested parts of the area. Cute petting zoo and a pool that was open during COVID! We didn't stay long enough for sure," mentions a visitor to San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Space considerations: Family cabin options vary significantly in size. "The campground is small. Some sites are sunny and has no shade at all but some are cool and shady. Also, Chris, who manages the site is pretty awesome and nice," notes a visitor at Johnson's Beach.
Wildlife education: Morning wildlife viewing offers educational opportunities. "I was awoken (as is the norm in NorCal) to gobbling turkeys at dawn," shares a camper at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Poison oak awareness: Several cabin sites require caution with local plants. "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? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere," warns a visitor at Ritchey Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Research cabin locations carefully before booking. "Interior RV sites seem to be full-time residents and very cramped. Tent sites near the river are unbelievably cramped. Bathrooms are well-maintained," reports a visitor at River Bend Resort.
Parking considerations: Many cabin sites have limited vehicle space. "The parking area for our site was large enough to accommodate our SUV and another vehicle," mentions a camper at Spring Lake Regional Park.
On-site amenities: Cabin locations offer varied levels of supply availability. "They have a well stocked store, laundry facilities," notes a visitor to Casini Ranch.
Noise buffer planning: Highway proximity affects some cabin locations. "The campground is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & nite," warns a visitor to River Bend Resort.
