Tent camping near Kelseyville centers around Clear Lake, California's largest natural freshwater lake at 68 square miles, with an average depth of 27 feet. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 1,300-2,500 feet, creating temperature variations between lakeside and forest locations. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F during day and cool to 55-65°F at night.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Clear Lake's warm waters support large bass populations, making it a prime fishing destination. At Buckhorn Campground, campers can use the site as a base for fishing trips. Keith B. notes, "Small campground with only a few tables and sites at it with one toilet. If you're out dirt biking or four wheeling definitely a good pick away from everyone else in the OHV park."
Mountain biking trails: The hills surrounding Kelseyville offer extensive trail networks for cyclists of all skill levels. Red Mountain provides access to South Cow Mountain Recreation Area's 30+ miles of designated biking trails. Justin writes, "This location was 6 miles from civilization down a windy road, then up a mountain side. Ultimate seclusion, with normal camping accommodations."
Wildlife viewing: Spring and fall months bring migratory birds to Clear Lake's shorelines. Becky H. from Red Mountain Campground suggests, "Worth the 4x4 trek to the campground. There is a 'million dollar' view of the mountain range and Clearlake. Remember you will need to bring a solar shower and water to drink and cook with, as there is none."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layouts at certain campgrounds. At COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground, Joshua H. notes, "The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites. We stayed on a Saturday night and there weren't that many other people in the campground. I'm not sure why it's not busier, as it's just as nice as the state park campgrounds."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-fee camping at select locations. Israel M. comments about Bu-Shay Campground, "I've camped here on and off at the paid campgrounds and the free ones throughout my life. VERY beautiful scenery. There are bathrooms with showers. Water spickets everywhere and I think there are also dumping stations for people with RVs."
Post-fire regeneration: Several areas show impressive recovery from past wildfires. At Calso - Boggs Mountain Demo Forest, Stephanie S. observed, "Beautiful area very nice to see the Forrest healing from 2015 Valley fire will go back again." Another camper noted, "I used to be a Boggs regular, so it's sad to see what remains after the fires five years ago. None the less, I still come here to enjoy the new growth, the impressive new trails and the new views of the valleys below."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds around Kelseyville operate seasonally. Bu-Shay Campground typically operates May 1 to September 29, limiting off-season tent camping near Kelseyville.
Fire restrictions: Summer brings high fire danger to the region, with strict rules enforced at most sites. Due to past wildfires, several areas have permanent or seasonal fire bans.
Limited amenities: Many forest campsites require self-sufficiency. Joshua H. from Bu-Shay Campground reports, "We had OK cell coverage with Verizon. We could usually browse the internet but streaming videos were difficult. You could download and watch them pretty quickly, but just streaming was hit and miss."
Reservation requirements: The best tent camping near Kelseyville, California often requires advance planning. Bullfrog Pond Campground fills quickly during peak season. Chelsea N. shares, "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. THERE ARE NO SHOWERS HERE! We did not know this before hand."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. Joshua H. notes about Bu-Shay Campground, "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus. The flush bathrooms are fine, and there are free showers."
Alternative accommodations: For families wanting a camping experience without tents, Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers cabin options. Aulden F. reports, "Four of us stayed in the Glamping Tent for two nights and it was perfect—very comfortable and relaxing. We also had access to our own private bathroom and shower a short walk away which was great."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds require difficult drives not suitable for younger children or those prone to carsickness. Cyrel T. warns about Bullfrog Pond, "The entrance to the campground is located at the back of the park and you drive up a very winding, bumpy one lane road for about 10 minutes before you reach the campgrounds."
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Many forest roads have tight turns and steep grades. Corey O. from Bullfrog Pond Campground cautions, "One lane road access that would be intimidating at night."
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Kelseyville offer primitive RV camping without full hookups. Bu-Shay Campground provides water hookups and dump stations but lacks electrical connections.
Level site availability: Finding flat parking can be challenging in mountainous terrain. MarinMaverick advises about Bullfrog Pond, "The pond sites are first come and first served. Well maintained facilities—nothing fancy—no showers."
