Camping near Rio Nido, CA
136 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Russian River region near Rio Nido, California features several established campgrounds offering access to redwood groves and riverside camping. Facilities include Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, a family-run establishment with separate family and adult-only sections, and Johnson's Beach, which provides convenient access to both the Russian River and downtown Guerneville. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate tent camping and RVs, while some like Casini Ranch Family Campground and Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park also offer cabin rentals. These developed campgrounds are primarily clustered along the Russian River corridor and extend westward toward Bodega Bay on the Pacific coast.
Camping in this region is available year-round at many locations, though summer brings higher demand for sites near water access points. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "The Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks, canoes, and whatever else you want to rent." Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer months when water recreation is popular. Sites close to the river often fill quickly, particularly on weekends and holidays. The terrain consists primarily of river valleys surrounded by redwood forests, with coastal options available near Bodega Bay. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities including drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings, while showers and electrical hookups vary by location.
Riverside camping remains the primary draw for visitors to the Rio Nido area, with numerous reviewers highlighting swimming and water recreation opportunities. A recent review noted, "Great location on the Russian river. Host was attentive and the facilities were clean. The sites are big and surrounded by trees." Family-friendly atmospheres prevail at many campgrounds, with quiet hours enforced to maintain peaceful settings. Several campgrounds feature private beach access to the Russian River, allowing for swimming and floating during summer months. Proximity to local towns like Guerneville provides convenient access to restaurants, markets, and wineries, making these campgrounds suitable for both wilderness enthusiasts and those seeking amenities. Noise levels vary by location, with campgrounds closer to highways experiencing more traffic sounds than those tucked into canyon areas.
Best Campgrounds near Rio Nido (136)
1. Bodega Dunes Campground — Sonoma Coast State Park
"This campsite is centrally located on the peninsula. Access to several roadside dog friendly beaches within minutes. The bay and the beach are within walking distance to campground."
"The California coast is hard to beat. This campground is in the sand dunes, with a short walk to the beach. This is absolutely one of the best places to see the sunset."
from $45 / night
Check Availability2. Casini Ranch Family Campground
"A few friends and I recently spent 4 days camping at this beautiful ranch right outside of Duncan Mills and absolutely loved our stay."
"Fire puts when allowed by California. Russian River gets surprisingly warm during the summer."
3. Doran Regional Park
"We stayed here for a night at the tail end of a December California adventure before flying out of SFO the next day."
"General: Located between Bodega Bay and Bodega Harbor, this county park has over 140 sites in four campgrounds: Shell, Gull, Cove, and Jetty."
4. Wright's Beach Campground — Sonoma Coast State Park
"This campground is in the perfect location. The beach is amazing and you feel like you have it all to yourself and your fellow campers."
"This campground is located on mile-long stretch of beach within the Sonoma Coast State Park. I lived in Sonoma County for 15 years and this is my favorite beach."
from $45 / night
Check Availability5. Schoolhouse Canyon Campground
"Location location location…. The Schoolhouse Canyon Campground is located about 400 yards off the Russian River / 1/2 mile down the road from the Korbel Winery (amazing deli!!!)"
"He put us in a very level spot that was great for my rooftop tent situation. Can’t say enough good things about him and his staff. Everyone was very friendly."
from $48 / night
Check Availability6. Bodega Bay RV Park
"With a good location you can take some walks to the Salmon River. The pull thru was long but is very narrow. Time you are setup, the camp side of the site is very small."
"On the outskirts of Bodega Bay."
7. Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park
"If you wanna rv and craving crab,chowder, and oysters this is the spot for you, full hook up,fire pit , and picnic table walking distance to a restaurant and shops great views very relaxing...the down"
"There is a coffee/breakfast place, and a wine/beer/restaurant at the edge of the property. Very good and convenient! Lots of nice walking opportunities!"
8. Johnson's Beach
"There is an access to the river and few steps away from an old small town feel. Lots of local shops and bars right outside the campsite."
"Great spot in the middle of town. walking distance from all shops and bars while still on the river. Friendly staff, friendly neighbors."
from $50 - $100 / night
Check Availability9. Bullfrog Pond Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
"Bullfrog campground is located in Armstrong woods (Guerneville, CA). It's on top of a rugged drive up the woods and they are first come first serve basis."
"The entrance to the campground is located at the back of the park and you drive up a very winding, bumpy one lane road for about 10 minutes before you reach the campgrounds."
10. Ocean Cove Store and Campground
"Great scenery, and many of the tent sites are tucked away in little nooks and crannies for privacy if you don’t want the more open outer ring sites."
"Ocean Cove is a private campground right off Highway one. The owners are very friendly and helpful and they also own the grocery store across from the campsites."
from $28 - $280 / night
Check Availability

