Cabin camping near Jenner, California offers visitors proximity to the Russian River watershed area, which spans approximately 1,485 square miles through Sonoma and Mendocino counties. Winter temperatures in this coastal region typically range from 45-65°F, with summer highs rarely exceeding 80°F due to marine influence. Fog often rolls in during evening hours, creating significant temperature drops that cabin campers should prepare for with additional layers.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Cloverdale/Healdsburg KOA features an on-site disc golf course as part of their recreational options. "We stayed on a Wednesday but it looks like they have additional activities on the weekend," notes Jeanne D., who visited with her four-year-old.
Horseback riding excursions: Plan a day trip to nearby Five Brooks Ranch in Olema from Samuel P. Taylor State Park. "The win on this campground is how close it is to Point Reyes National Seashore, San Rafael, Olema, Novato and Marshall. I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding," shares Kathleen C.
Russian River swimming: Johnson's Beach Campground provides immediate access to designated swimming areas. "Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks canoes, and whatever else you want to rent," explains Leafe Z., though noting dog restrictions apply to beach and rental equipment.
Paddle boat rentals: Rent paddle boats at Cloverdale/Healdsburg KOA's small fishing pond. "The electric scooters are pretty fun, and the paddle boats too," mentions April H., who appreciated the variety of on-site activities available.
What campers like
Proximity to local businesses: Johnson's Beach Campground earns praise for its location near Guerneville's shops and restaurants. "This is our little spot when we just don't want to be in the wilderness. 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," says Maria O.
Family amenities: Casini Ranch Family Campground provides multiple facilities specifically for children. "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!" reports Dustin C.
Coastal harbor views: Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park offers waterfront dry camping with distinctive scenery. "We did drive-in at one of the dry camps and it had your typical fire pit (dryer wheel) and picnic table - the view was gorgeous! Right next to the dock with an awesome view of the boats and bay," shares Khang N., who appreciated the change from forest camping.
Night sky viewing: Porto Bodega provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "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," notes Duranne C., highlighting the sensory experience of this coastal location.
What you should know
Site selection importance: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, campsite location significantly impacts experience quality. "If I returned I would snag site 44. Just trust me on this. Most of the sites are pretty decent, but 44 was the best," advises Kathleen C. after experiencing noisy neighbors during a holiday weekend.
Seasonal bridge access: Access to Cloverdale/Healdsburg KOA changes with seasons. "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 April H.
Bathroom facilities vary: Many campgrounds have limited bathroom facilities relative to capacity. "The only con we had was the restrooms were very scarce for the size of the campground. We had to walk so far to get to the restroom," reports Maria O. about Casini Ranch Family Campground.
Weather preparation: Coastal areas experience significant temperature fluctuations. "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," recommends Kathleen C.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: River Bend Resort provides safe river access. "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," notes H L.
Activity scheduling: Schedule visits to coincide with planned events. "This campground is on Russian river. They have full hook ups and a lot of very cool sites. They have an insane amount of kids activities! Face paining, s'mores campfire, hay ride, parks, kareoke- just to name a few!" explains Miya B. about Casini Ranch.
Wildlife education opportunities: Petaluma KOA offers animal interactions. "A nice KOA close to Petaluma with great facilities. This KOA also offered all sorts of amenities for families including a small petting zoo, a pool, playground areas, and more," shares Kelsey L.
Budget considerations: Expect premium pricing during summer months. "Super expensive and the actual sites aren't great. We camped in our van in the rv area and it's really just a big parking lot right by the highway," cautions H L. about River Bend Resort, though noting the excellent river beach makes it worthwhile for families.
Tips from RVers
Site privacy levels: Casini Ranch Family Campground has significant variation between RV and tent sites. "Casini Ranch is really two campgrounds: the tent campground features charming sites tucked into private groves; the RV sites with electrical and water hookups are crammed together, with little more than a fence post to demarcate them," warns Sarah in a recent review.
Service limitations: Cell coverage varies significantly between providers. "There is NO VERIZON service in the campsite and limited to no Verizon service for about 1/2 mile out of the campsite," notes Sarah about Casini Ranch, which is important for RVers who need connectivity.
Seasonal crowd levels: Plan visits during weekdays for quieter experiences. "Atmosphere was calm and chill, people went to sleep early and woke up late. It's 9 AM as I'm writing this and still very quiet," reports Khang N. about a mid-week October stay at Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
RV size considerations: Many coastal campgrounds have tight access roads. "The campground is never full. If you talk to the the ranger at the gate, most of the time they will let you drive around the grounds and pick any open site," says April H. about Liberty Glen, allowing RVers to select sites fitting their specific vehicle dimensions.
