The Russian River meets the Pacific at Jenner, creating a unique coastal ecosystem where fog often blankets campgrounds until midday, especially during summer months. Campers near Jenner experience significant temperature drops after sunset, with evening temperatures commonly falling into the 40s even during summer camping seasons. This coastal region combines redwood forests with dramatic oceanfront bluffs where wind protection becomes essential for comfortable tent camping.
What to do
Crabbing and seafood gathering: At Bodega Dunes Campground, you can access nearby seafood opportunities. "Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire. Overall a great campground for adults and kids," shares Justin B., who recommends exploring "where they filmed Hitchcock's 'The Birds.'"
Tide pool exploration: Marine life viewing is accessible from several coastal campgrounds. At Ocean Cove Store and Campground, the rocky shoreline offers educational opportunities. "At low tide there was so much sea life for my son and I to explore," notes Cecil K., who recommends checking tide tables before planning your exploration.
Dunes hiking: Sand dune trails provide unique hiking experiences for active campers. "The hiking among the sand dunes and along the beach provide some really stunning scenery," explains Shari G. who camped at Bodega Dunes. "Reaching the beach, you'll find as much coastal sand as you can handle with miles and miles of it to yourself."
Farmers market visits: Several campgrounds offer easy access to local weekend markets. "A short trial behind the site connects you to a Sunday farmers market and a Mexican restaurant. That's about a 10 minute scenic walk," notes Alma L. who enjoyed the convenience from Bodega Dunes.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Casini Ranch Family Campground stands out for its generously sized sites. "Sites are HUGE! We had plenty of room for our trailer, tent, corn hole, and more," reports Dustin C., who visited with a large family group. "Kids were busy the whole time, riding bikes and scooters, playing on the jump pillow, feeling the animals."
Ocean views: Many campers prioritize oceanfront positions. Ray B. describes Ocean Cove Store and Campground: "I had been wanting to spend a couple nights somewhere with a cliff view right on the ocean. This was it. Fantastic spot. Fog rolled in and out. Otters playing below."
Protected beach access: Doran Regional Park offers calmer water conditions. "Doran Beach is great, especially during the summer for kids because it's a well protected cove and the waves don't usually get very high," notes Justin W., who appreciated the safety aspects for families.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings enhance camping experiences. "We did see a few foxes, or the same fox a few times, so make sure to keep camp sites clean," advises Michael I. at Bodega Dunes, demonstrating why proper food storage matters in this wildlife-rich region.
What you should know
Wind preparation: Coastal campgrounds experience significant winds. At Westside Regional Park, MarinMaverick warns: "This site is all about location. You are right on Bodega Bay. But that also means the wind is fierce. So while I have tent camped here it not something I would do again unless there were no other choices."
Seasonal bathroom closures: Facility maintenance impacts some parks seasonally. "In June of 2025 the bathrooms in the site #22-55 loop was undergoing a pretty major renovation and portable toilets were in use," reports Michael I. about Bodega Dunes, illustrating why checking current conditions matters.
Cash vs. credit pricing: Several campgrounds have differential pricing. "We came Fathers day weekend, didn't have problem getting a site late in the day. $35 cash $40 credit card price for tent with 1 vehicle," notes Cecil K. about Ocean Cove, highlighting potential savings for prepared campers.
Limited shower facilities: Shower availability varies widely between campgrounds. "The hard part about this campground is the weather potential, there's a lot of fog, a lot of wind, but that should be expected anytime you're spending time near the coast," shares Justin W. about Doran Regional Park, where timing showers around campground traffic patterns matters.
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility considerations: Wright's Beach Campground offers varied beach access. "There are tons of hills for kids to play on. There are no surroundings campsite so it is pretty quiet," explains Kayla L. about site 4, though she notes the mixed terrain: "Half sand half dirt."
Activity scheduling: Morning fog patterns affect family activities. "Weather was as to be expected for near the coast, but sheltered enough from the wind. Sites were large, water fill stations and bathrooms (with showers) were easily accessible," writes Dustin C. about Bodega Dunes, suggesting morning indoor activities followed by afternoon beach time.
Campsite selection for kids: At Casini Ranch, site location affects family experience. "This campground 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," warns Sarah, suggesting families prioritize tent sites for more space and privacy.
Beach safety instruction: Strong currents require parental vigilance. "The water, which is normally pretty cold year round, can also be pretty rough for swimming," cautions Shari G. about Bodega Dunes, emphasizing the need for water safety discussions with children before beach visits.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bodega Bay RV Park offers well-maintained sites. "The park is clean, quiet and there's a few trails that take you to the Beach. It's about a 30 min walk but an easy one. There's electric, cable and water at the pole," reports Brandon G., who successfully worked remotely during his stay, adding "No issues with Verizon or T mobile Hot spots."
Internet connectivity variations: Cell service fluctuates throughout the pet friendly camping areas near Jenner. "This is a dry camp facility managed by Sonoma County Regional Parks...Just a few minutes off Hwy 1, this is a fantastic launch pad for exploring the southern part of the very beautiful Sonoma Coast," writes Albert S. about Westside Regional Park, noting the 8PM-8AM generator curfew benefits peaceful evenings.
Dump station fees: RVers should budget for additional fees at some campgrounds. "Water and bathrooms were nearby, the bathrooms were decent, and the coin operated showers were nice and hot. They have a dump station charges $7.00 to dump if you are a guest there," reports Joseph F. about Westside Regional Park.
Site size limitations: Larger rigs face challenges at some campgrounds. "I added pictures below because we couldn't find any pictures of space 14 online before we left. Hopefully this will help anyone else that is wondering how much space they will have. It works, but with a 23' trailer it was tight," notes Kerri C. about Wright's Beach, suggesting research before booking specific sites.
