Tent camping around Healdsburg, California offers diverse terrain including coastal access, high elevation forest settings, and riverfront locations with temperature variations from 50-90°F depending on season and proximity to the coast. Many smaller tent sites in the area can be reserved as early as 7 months in advance, with peak season running from May through September when water activities are most accessible along the Russian River.
What to do
River activities: At Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, the Russian River provides recreational opportunities beyond just swimming. One camper notes, "The beach is across the street and through a little trail but well worth it. Very nice water for floating and swimming, with a cute little beach area to keep your stuff." The campground rents tubes for $5 per day.
Wine tasting excursions: Located 1/2 mile from Korbel Winery, Schoolhouse Canyon makes an ideal base for wine country exploration. According to a visitor, "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!!!) and about 5 miles from the town of Guerneville (Safeway + bakery's etc.)."
Hiking opportunities: The Pomo Canyon Environmental Camp provides trail access to both redwood forests and coastal areas. A camper simply stated it has a "Beautiful redwood forest. Very quiet. Trails to the coast." This walk-in campground requires packing in all supplies but rewards with secluded nature experiences.
What campers like
Private river access: Many campers appreciate the dedicated beach areas that reduce crowding. A Schoolhouse Canyon reviewer mentioned, "There is a private beach just for guests of the campsite right across river road. Wood for sale and tubes available for rent. Prices are very reasonable."
Clean facilities: Tent campers frequently comment on well-maintained facilities as a standout feature. At La Bohemia, a guest noted, "The owner and his young daughter have done an amazing job restoring the forest and making a special place over the past few years. It is a great getaway from everything. No sign of any building insight."
Designated quiet areas: Highlands Resort offers separated camping zones to accommodate different preferences. According to one visitor, "Each campsite is fenced and has a table with umbrella and 4 chairs, as well as two lounge chairs. Beautiful comfortable spaces to escape and contemplate or socialize and connect with others."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. For Bullfrog Pond Campground, a camper shared, "You reserve your spot ahead of time. We made the reservation in March and the earliest we could get was the end of July by that point."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. A Bullfrog Pond visitor warned, "One lane road access that would be intimidating at night." Another noted it's "located on top of a rugged, winding road that creates a sense of remoteness."
Limited facilities: Walk-in sites often have minimal amenities. At Willow Creek Environmental Campground, you must "hike in about a quarter mile from the parking area and there are no real amenities to speak of except for a composting toilet and a faucet for water located by the path in."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly zones: Some campgrounds designate specific areas for families with children. A Schoolhouse Canyon camper explained, "There are two sections to this campground. Lower half is family section and the upper section is adults only."
Beach safety considerations: When tent camping near water with children, look for gentler swimming spots. One camper at Willow Creek noted, "The beach is across the street and through a little trail but well worth it. Very nice water for floating and swimming, with a cute little beach area to keep your stuff."
Recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer additional activities for children. At Duncans Mills Campground, "You can fish, swim and kayak or canoe. The canoes are free to use... and they have cook outs- bring a side dish and enjoy the free hot dogs and hamburgers!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Many of the most scenic campgrounds in the area restrict RV size or access entirely. At Bullfrog Pond, a review noted the campground is "on top of a rugged drive up the woods" making large RV access impossible.
Mixed-use campgrounds: Where RVs are permitted, they often share space with tent campers. At Duncans Mills, a member commented, "Nice sites, although not all sites are full hook up. You can pay to have your Honeywell dumped if not at a full hook up."
Water and electrical access: RVers should confirm utility availability before booking. One camper noted that Highlands Resort provides electric hookups while many other campgrounds in the area do not offer full hookups for larger rigs.
