The region around Fulton, California sits at approximately 125 feet elevation with hot, dry summers reaching into the 90s and mild, wet winters. The Russian River flows through this area, creating opportunities for water recreation throughout the warmer months from late May through September. The campgrounds are situated among oak woodlands, redwood groves, and vineyard valleys.
What to do
Hiking at Sugarloaf Ridge: Hike 20+ miles of trails with options for all skill levels. One visitor noted, "From the campground you can easily hike 20 miles around the park. There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too" while another recommended "the Bald Mountain hike and the Waterfall hike."
Star gazing programs: Visit the Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park for guided astronomy experiences. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shared a camper who visited with their family.
Wildlife viewing: Keep an eye out for local fauna on trails and around campsites. "We saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails! Seems they have lots of hikes available," reported one reviewer after exploring the nature trails.
Water activities: Bring kayaks or paddle boards to Spring Lake Regional Park where the lake offers calm waters for beginners. A visitor mentioned, "You can rent or bring your own kayaks or stand-up paddle boards," adding that the lake provides "great access to Spring Lake's water-based activities."
Wine tasting: Camp within minutes of local wineries. A visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park shared, "A shuttle stops at the park to take people into town for dinner if they don't want to drive after drinking," while another called it "the best secret in Napa" noting that "camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!"
What campers like
Trail connections: Many campgrounds connect to extensive trail networks. At Spring Lake Regional Park, campers appreciate "easy access to Trione-Annadel State Park for hiking and mountain biking," while one reviewer specifically mentioned the "great access to fairly flat trails, to challenging trails with lots of elevation change."
Amenities for kids: Family-friendly facilities make camping with children easier. At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, campers enjoy "swimming, play and explore all the north bay has to offer," and another visitor called it a "great getaway in a great location" with "loads to do for the family."
Proximity to towns: Most campgrounds are within minutes of services and dining. At Johnson's Beach, a visitor appreciated the "walking distance from all shops and bars while still on the river," while another mentioned it's "just a few steps away from an old small town feel" with "lots of local shops and bars right outside the campsite."
River access: Several campgrounds offer direct access to the Russian River. "Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks canoes, and whatever else you want to rent," noted a visitor to Johnson's Beach, though they cautioned about pet restrictions.
Yurt camping options: Alternative accommodations provide comfort for those wanting an upgrade from tent camping. At Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, yurt camping near Fulton offers shelter with amenities. One camper mentioned that the park has "everything you need for a great weekend!" with various accommodation options.
What you should know
Fire risk: The region is prone to wildfires during dry seasons. A camper at Ritchey Creek Campground reported, "There was no damage to the campground even though the fire burned into the grounds," highlighting the reality of fire danger in the region.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for significant temperature changes between day and night. "The night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advised a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Poison oak prevalence: Watch for poison oak on trails and natural areas. A visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley warned, "The campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year?" Another camper cautioned, "Be careful of the poison oak, it is prevalent there as it is so anywhere in Northern California."
Weekend crowds: Many campgrounds fill up on weekends but empty mid-week. A camper at Ritchey Creek noted, "The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice."
Wildlife encounters: Expect visits from local wildlife, especially if food is accessible. "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," reported a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Consider yurt camping: For families new to outdoor adventures, yurt camping near Fulton offers comfort with nature access. A Sugarloaf Ridge visitor shared, "We've camped here a couple of times with our kids it's perfect for novice campers like us. The staff is awesome, there are bathrooms and showers. You can rent a tent, buy wood and it's a short drive into town."
Choose parks with diverse activities: Select campgrounds with multiple recreational options. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, families enjoy "all kinds of trails available, as well as a paved path that runs for at least a mile or so along the creek, that used to be the old railroad line through that area."
Look for educational opportunities: Many parks offer ranger programs and nature activities. One Sugarloaf Ridge visitor mentioned the park provides "tons of info for budding naturalists" and "often nature events throughout the summer (docent led hikes for example)."
Plan for weather changes: Be prepared for significant temperature shifts. "Bring layers!" advised a camper who found it "cooler this time of year than we expected" despite camping during a typically warm season.
Check site privacy levels: Some campgrounds have more separation between sites than others. A camper at Samuel P. Taylor noted, "Sites are close, but have some privacy," while at Sugarloaf Ridge, a visitor mentioned having "many neighbors (mostly RVs) but enough space between sites."
Tips from RVers
Book early for premium sites: The best RV sites with hookups book quickly, especially in wine country. At River Bend Resort, one RVer shared, "The outer rim [sites are better]. Interior RV sites seem to be full-time residents and very cramped."
Consider weekday stays: Enjoy better availability and quieter experiences mid-week. An RVer at Bodega Bay RV Park mentioned, "Clean and well laid out. Laundry has 3 washers and 3 dryers. Prices are high but normal for CA."
Plan for tight roads: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. A San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA visitor warned, "I found the streets all very tight for RV maneuvering," and recommended planning your approach carefully.
Check hookup availability: Not all sites offer full hookups. An RVer at River Bend Resort noted, "Not all sites are full hook up. You can pay to have your Honeywell dumped if not at a full hook up."
Verify water quality: Water systems can vary between campgrounds. One RVer reported, "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."
