The Kelseyville area of California sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in Lake County, surrounded by Clear Lake and the Mayacamas Mountains. Glamping options near Kelseyville range from canvas safari tents to lakeside yurts, most available year-round but with peak visitation during summer months when water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming and water activities.
What to do
Fishing from shore or dock: At Aurora RV Park & Marina, visitors can fish directly from their campsites. "Aurora has two sites that are across the road from each other. One is on the water with back up sites. It's very nice, certainly beautiful and worth the extra 10 dollars. A picnic bench behind the RVs and looking out to the water," notes Ann D.
Kayaking on Clear Lake: Clear Lake Campground offers boat rentals and ramps for guests. One visitor mentioned, "Cute little store and boat rentals. Owners are super nice. Especially loved kayaking on the creek." The campground sits on Cache Creek rather than directly on Clear Lake.
Vineyard glamping experience: Luxury tent accommodations at Wildhaven Sonoma provide access to Alexander Valley wineries. The property offers 40 safari-style tents situated among vineyards, though one visitor noted: "They really packed too many tents into the area. Large groups dominate the areas."
What campers like
Private beach access: Many glamping spots near Kelseyville feature small beaches. At Narrows Lodge Resort, a visitor reported, "The water is crystal clear and there's a little dock for jumping off of. They bring in sand for the beach which makes it a really nice experience."
Proximity to wineries: Luxury camping close to Kelseyville places visitors in the heart of wine country. Zach P. notes about Narrows Lodge: "My wife's family has been going here for over 30 years. It's a family RV & cabin campground with a lot of great amenities. The new owners (5 years now) are very friendly and helpful."
Natural surroundings: Middle Creek Campground provides a more rustic option near Kelseyville with natural surroundings. Donna M. describes it as "peaceful tranquility" noting that "you can hear the creek running along the camp, as well as the wild turkeys. There must be over 15 different species of birds as well."
What you should know
Road access limitations: Several glamping sites near Kelseyville have challenging access roads. Raven P. says about Narrows Lodge: "The road is a little tight to get into this resort (1 lane road with traffic going both ways with few pull offs) but the views are absolutely amazing!"
Campfire regulations vary: Fire restrictions differ significantly between properties. Some allow full campfires while others permit only propane units. Erika L. notes about Narrows Lodge: "there are no campfires, except for propane fire, which was kind of a bummer."
Seasonal water conditions: Cache Creek and Clear Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally. A Johnson's Beach visitor mentioned: "Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks canoes, and whatever else you want to rent however, if you have a dog, they don't allow the dog on the beach."
Tips for camping with families
Look for properties with family activities: Family-friendly glamping spots provide additional amenities. At Narrows Lodge, Jessica R. shared: "We rented a camping yurt and we were so surprised how big it is! We received a key to our own bathroom and shower! They had a sink to wash dishes in and a place to clean our fish."
Choose sites with designated swimming areas: Several glamping locations maintain beaches for water access. "It's a short walk from anywhere in the campground down to the lake. The water is crystal clear and there's a little dock for jumping off of," said one visitor about Narrows Lodge.
Consider seasonal timing: Late spring offers wildflowers while avoiding summer heat and crowds. Michi P. from Middle Creek Campground noted: "Beautiful location, campground was easily accessible going up Elk Mountain Road. Camped in Site 11, pull through, no hook ups, nice picnic table, grill and fire pit."
Tips from RVers
Check road restrictions: Some Kelseyville area campgrounds have limited access for large rigs. Ann D. cautions about Aurora RV Park: "To get to clear lake from the west the road is very windy and only allows 34 feet and I think that is pushing it."
Reserve waterfront sites early: Premium lakeside spots book months in advance. "We were greeted by the camp host with a smile! Very friendly! She answered all our questions and showed us around. You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water," reports Tamera J. at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Expect proximity to neighbors: Most glamping and RV sites near Kelseyville position units close together. Julie H. observed at Aurora RV Park: "The lakeside spots are very tight together-and require backing in. If your neighbor has a slider you are wall to wall."
