Lake Sonoma sits at approximately 500 feet elevation in the coastal mountain range, surrounded by rolling hills and oak woodlands. The recreation area encompasses 17,500 acres of land and water, providing both secluded wooded campsites and open grounds with lake views. Camping options vary considerably with terrain that requires careful site selection, especially for tent campers seeking level ground.
What to do
Fishing at the lake: The Lake Sonoma Marina Campground provides convenient access to the water, where campers can fish directly from the marina area. "Stumbled upon this place while out exploring. Really great views. Great sites. Can purchase firewood and provisions (if needed) from the Marina Store," notes a visitor from Lake Sonoma Marina Campground.
River swimming: For those preferring river waters over lake recreation, Schoolhouse Canyon Campground offers access to the Russian River. A camper reports, "The beach is across the street and through a little trail but well worth it. Very nice water for floating and swimming, with a cute little beach area to keep your stuff."
Hiking coastal terrain: Salt Point State Park features unique geological formations along hiking paths. "Unusual rock formations make this a unique part of the California coast. Abalone diving and spear fishing is popular here," notes a visitor to Woodside Campground.
What campers like
Private beach access: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground maintains a private beach area for guests only. "There is a private beach just for guests of the campsite right across river road. Wood for sale and tubes available for rent. Prices are very reasonable," writes a camper at Schoolhouse Canyon Campground.
Oceanfront camping: Sites at Ocean Cove allow for camping directly on coastal cliffs. "We camped right on an ocean cliff in October of 2019 and it was the most beautiful campsite we've ever stayed at! Coin operated showers were adequate. Port-a-potties were also fine," reports a visitor to Ocean Cove Store and Campground.
Distinct camping zones: Several campgrounds separate family and adult camping areas. At Schoolhouse Canyon, "There are two sections to this campground. Lower half is family section and the upper section is adults only. This is a family run campground."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer drinking water. "There was no warning in their confirmation emails or website that there is NO WATER available at the campsite. Even the restrooms down at the marina state that the water from the taps is non-potable," explains a camper from Lake Sonoma Marina Campground.
Varying site privacy: Campgrounds range from exposed to secluded. "Always windy. Great scenery, and many of the tent sites are tucked away in little nooks and crannies for privacy if you don't want the more open outer ring sites," notes a visitor to Ocean Cove.
Quiet hours enforcement: Noise management differs significantly between campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Russian River, "Place is quiet at night, but seems run down. They are going to assign sights which is what I don't like in most camp grounds."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated recreational facilities. "A little run down but my four year old did not care! Lots for kids to do. Pool, fishing pond, playground, hiking trails. We were there for one night during the week but it looks like they have additional activities on the weekend," shares a visitor to Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground.
Beach activities for children: Schoolhouse Canyon provides safe river access for children. "The Russian River is conveniently across the street, and the gravel beach area is great for little waders (River shoes are a must though). There are inner tubes and paddle boards for rent if you are so inclined."
Noise considerations: Family sections can be livelier than adult areas. "It is in a canyon so noise does carry," notes a Schoolhouse Canyon regular, something to consider when selecting sites for light sleepers or families with early bedtimes.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds present challenges for RVs. "I am reasonably ok at backing in my travel trailer but this place is a mess. I parked in wrong spot, moved to the right one, the power pedestal did not work... the camp side on most is terrible," reports an RV camper at Thousand Trails Russian River.
Limited hookup options: At Casini Ranch Family Campground, "Casini Ranch 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, with little more than a fence post to demarcate them."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "The asphalt of many spots is crumbling along the edges and the dirt eroding away. If you have stairs that come out a ways they may just end at a cliff," notes a Thousand Trails Russian River camper.
