The Russian River area campgrounds near Rio Nido provide diverse camping options within the redwood forests of Sonoma County. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during day and 50-55°F at night, with winter nights often dropping below 40°F. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though seasonal closures occur during heavy rainfall periods.
What to do
Paddling the Russian River: Johnson's Beach offers direct river access with boat rentals. "Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks canoes, and whatever else you want to rent," notes Leafe Z., though be aware that "if you have a dog, they don't allow the dog on the beach or in the boat with you."
Stargazing: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground features the Robert Ferguson Observatory where visitors can participate in astronomy programs. "You can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well! We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shares Syd D.
Wine country exploration: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to local wineries. "Kenwood seems to be a place where gentrification has not taken over attitude. Folks are pretty friendly," reports kristin H. about the town near Sugarloaf Ridge, making it an excellent base for vineyard visits.
Hiking redwood trails: The area features numerous hiking options through ancient forests. "There are several wonderful wineries and tasting rooms within a couple miles of the park located around the town of Kenwood," adds Scott J., highlighting how outdoor activities can be combined with culinary experiences.
What campers like
River swimming spots: River Bend Resort features a private beach area that's perfect for families. "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole area for adults too," explains H L.
Downtown accessibility: Several campgrounds offer the unique benefit of being within walking distance to towns. "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," says Reza T. about Johnson's Beach. Another camper adds, "There is an access to the river and few steps away from an old small town feel. Lots of local shops and bars right outside the campsite."
Family-friendly amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA provides numerous recreational facilities. "Great things for kids to be entertained by and enjoy for sure," writes Patrick J., while another reviewer notes it has "lots to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to see local fauna. "We saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails!" shares Brittney L. about her stay at Sugarloaf Ridge. The proximity to nature while maintaining access to amenities is a consistent theme in camper reviews.
What you should know
Weather variations: The climate can change dramatically within short distances. One camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground advises, "One thing to note, the night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers."
Campsite proximity: Many campgrounds place sites close together. "The sites are a bit small and close to one another, but otherwise we had no complaints," mentions Kiki W. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park. At River Bend Resort, a camper notes "Interior RV sites seem to be full-time residents and very cramped. Tent sites near the river are unbelievably cramped."
Poison oak presence: This natural hazard appears in multiple reviews. At Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, Samantha T. warns, "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."
Noise considerations: Road noise can be an issue at some locations. "If you're tent camping, the vehicle noise from the nearby Sir Francis Drake Blvd can be distracting if you are a light sleeper," advises Tai W. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with recreation options: Spring Lake Regional Park offers multiple activities for children. "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), great location to way more technical hikes," recommends Scott R.
Select quieter camping loops: At busier campgrounds, site selection matters. "Had I chosen the site to my left, or a few more down the road, I would have barely noticed them at all - sites 47-44 had no one across the way, more private, set back," advises Kathleen C. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Pack for temperature swings: The coastal influence creates significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Above the Mendocino coast the mornings are wet and Cold," notes Katherine T., highlighting the need for proper clothing and sleeping gear.
Consider glamping close to Rio Nido: For families new to outdoor experiences, glamping provides comfort while maintaining a connection to nature. "Wildhaven Sonoma offers safari-style glamping tents with picnic tables and fire pits," while the "camper cabins" at some parks provide shelter without the full commitment of tent camping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Bodega Bay RV Park, Mike W. notes, "Sites are gravel, which are racked before your arrival." This preparation makes leveling easier for RVs and trailers.
Water and hookup considerations: Water access varies by campground. "Arrive at this park full of water. There was only one spigot with threads (for attaching hose to fill tanks); it was at spot 29," advises Tammy B. about Spring Lake Regional Park.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present maneuvering difficulties. At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, Patrick J. found "the streets all very tight for RV maneuvering," adding that his "pull through FHU site" was "pretty narrow."
Check dump station availability: Not all parks offer this service. Bodega Bay RV Park provides a sanitary dump station, while Brandon G. notes, "The sewer is up near the entrance," indicating a central rather than site-specific connection.
