Cabin rental options near Kenwood, California range from rustic forest retreats to waterfront accommodations with varying amenities. Located in Sonoma County at elevations between 400-800 feet, the area experiences warm summer days with temperatures often dropping 30-40 degrees at night during camping season. Winter cabin stays require additional preparation as nighttime temperatures frequently dip into the 30s from November through March.
What to do
Paddle the Russian River: Near Johnson's Beach, water activities dominate summer fun. "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 or in the boat with you," notes camper Leafe Z.
Visit local wineries: Cabins at Skyline Wilderness Park provide easy access to Napa Valley vineyards. "Convenient sites with complete hookup and also restroom/showers handy. The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more. Bonus: short drive to Downtown Napa," shares Jamie G.
Explore hiking trails: The cabin accommodations near Kenwood connect to extensive trail systems. "There are nice hiking trails in the park though they are closed currently (Dec 2020) due to the fire in the area. There was no damage to the campground even though the fire burned into the grounds," explains Robert S. about trails at Ritchey Campground.
What campers like
Private cabin settings: Some cabins offer more seclusion than others. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, cabins are set among mature redwoods. "Level pad for camp trailers. Fire pits updated and bbq on every site. Site 49 is a nice site," notes Mike C.
Seasonal swimming options: Summer cabin stays can include swimming access. "This is our second time here. We have been here for 2 weekends in the last few months. It is kid friendly, fun easy hike around the lake (no swimming but you can rent or bring your own kayaks or stand-up paddle boards)," reports Scott R. about Spring Lake Regional Park.
Accessibility to towns: Cabins near Kenwood offer both wilderness and town access. "If you enjoy Guerneville and want a simple campsite where you can easily walk to every bar, restaurant, and the redwoods, this is the spot. Clean toilets, warm showers, river access, electrical outlets, what's not to like?" shares Reza T. about Johnson's Beach cabins.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather conditions vary dramatically by season. "Unlike Big Basin or other cabins that neighbor tent camping, the SPT cabins are secluded... the mornings are wet and Cold. Loved this place," notes Katherine T. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Poison oak awareness: Several cabin areas have native hazards. "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere," cautions Samantha T. about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Water quality concerns: Some cabin sites have water issues. "Tested the water-Water tested as acceptable tap water after running it through an external filter. 21 elements checked, all within range. Dissolved solids were 251...pretty high. The worst water in our 6 week trip. Must be a California thing," reports Patrick J. about San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabin amenities: Family cabins vary significantly in comfort level. "These camp sites are well worth the cost. The cabins have fixed sleeping platforms, a built-in table, and two hard wooden benches. If you want to sit close to the wood stove or just lounge comfortably inside or out, it's DIY," explains one reviewer about camping options.
Kid-friendly activities: Some cabin locations offer specific family amenities. At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, "Had a blast here. A lot of different areas for the kids. Swimming, giant bounce area, and mild weather. Coffee bar, large play grounds and near shopping for any needs," shares Chris B.
Noise considerations: Some cabin areas have noise issues. "I haven't actually been there for 3 years, but the reason for that is that we felt like we were being hemmed in by other campers and swarms of screaming children on every side.... we left after the 1st night. YUCK," warns Robin H. about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites with cabins vary in privacy. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," advises Rich J. about Skyline Wilderness Park.
Winter camping considerations: Winter cabin rental near Kenwood requires preparation. "Stayed here in December. It was cold and drippy that time of year but it's a nice campground. We had a nice quiet stay but we wimped out and went into town for breakfast on our last morning there," shares Pete M. about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Cell service: Connectivity varies by location. "Cell phone coverage is good. Have both Verizon and Att with at least 2-3 bars. 10-12 Mbps down 4-5 Mbps up. Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" reports Adam B. about Skyline Wilderness Park.
