Best Campgrounds near Jenner, CA
Campgrounds near Jenner, California include options spread along the scenic Sonoma Coast and Russian River areas. Bodega Dunes Campground and Wright's Beach Campground, both within Sonoma Coast State Park, provide tent and RV sites with ocean proximity. Ocean Cove Store and Campground in Jenner offers direct coastal access with both walk-in and drive-in sites. Several facilities in the area accommodate different camping styles, from basic tent spots to full-hookup RV areas, with a few properties like Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park and Casini Ranch Family Campground also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more shelter from coastal conditions.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with many closed during winter months due to coastal storms and flooding. According to one visitor, "Recent flooding has closed this park and it is a shame. We walked through and saw no reason for closure." Campers should verify operational status before planning trips, especially during rainy seasons. Reservations are typically required for established campgrounds, with sites often booking up months in advance for prime waterfront locations. Ocean Cove Campground stands out as one of the few first-come, first-served options, operating from April through November. Temperatures remain moderate year-round but coastal winds can be significant, particularly at exposed beach locations where proper tent staking and wind protection become essential.
The proximity to the Pacific Ocean creates distinctive camping experiences throughout the area. Several visitors mentioned the sound of waves as a highlight, with one noting: "We stayed in site 2 which is smaller than the others and didn't have a full ocean view but still slept great listening to the waves off the ocean." Campgrounds along the Russian River, like Casini Ranch, offer calmer water settings with additional amenities including showers, hookups, and recreational activities. Wildlife sightings are common, with campers reporting osprey, herons, and even river otters. Beach access represents a primary draw for most coastal sites, though swimming is often discouraged due to dangerous rip currents and large waves. Many campgrounds feature thick vegetation between sites, creating natural privacy screens despite relatively close spacing.
