Primitive camping near Lake Sonoma offers several dispersed sites across Bureau of Land Management lands. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F between June and September, while winters bring moderate rainfall averaging 30-40 inches annually. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet, providing temperature variation from the lower valleys.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed, visitors can access numerous trails. "Always fun. Love going to the tech course with our off road buggy. Crawled all over that hill," notes Jeanette C., highlighting the terrain options.
Creek exploration: Seasonal water features provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. At BLM Sheldon Creek, one camper observed "deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October," making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Paddling options: For water activities, Smittle Creek offers access where "Smittle Creek flows into Lake Berryessa," with one visitor calling it "a paddle boarding and fishing dream." The primitive site requires bringing all supplies but rewards with water access.
What campers like
Solitude in peak seasons: Even on busy weekends, many sites remain uncrowded. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, a visitor noted: "There were around 4 or 5 people here already but we were able to find a secluded spot that overlooks the lake. Very peaceful but some traffic sounds at night from the lake towns."
Cell service reliability: Unlike many primitive camping areas, connectivity exists at certain sites. One camper at Lakeview Dispersed Campground mentioned: "Good cell service too!" Another noted having "cell service (CC)" at High Valley Ridge, confirming "Verizon is two bars."
Natural features: Many sites offer creek access or viewpoints. A camper at High Valley Ridge described "absolutely breathtakingly stunning views of the valley to the east and the lake to the west," noting "equally beautiful sunsets and sunrises."
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Access roads frequently present challenges. At High Valley Rd Dispersed, a visitor warned: "The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff. There is no way to turn around once you start up it. It has deep ruts in the road."
Seasonal closures happen without notice: Some areas close temporarily. At Cowboy Camp, a visitor reported in November: "found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell." Another noted in February: "The camp area is closed... No indication of that on the BLM website."
Trash management concerns: Pack-out practices aren't always followed. One camper at BLM Sheldon Creek observed: "So much trash left behind here! We tried to pick up what we could but there's quite the mess left behind from others who were there prior."
Bathroom conditions: Vault toilets when available may have issues. A camper reported that at BLM Sheldon Creek, "the toilet set up was completely infested with spiders," suggesting campers "be prepared to dig your own toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some sites have natural hazards. At High Valley Rd Dispersed, a visitor experienced: "We got to a large trench in the road that we couldn't go around because we would fall off the cliff. We tried to put the trench between the wheels, but our tire went in it and we bottomed out very badly and almost got stuck."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant. A Lakeview Dispersed Campground visitor advised: "Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe diverse wildlife. At BLM Sheldon Creek, campers noted the presence of "deer, butterflies, and humming birds" making it ideal for nature education.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle recommendations: Most dispersed sites have limitations. For Lakeview Dispersed Campground, a reviewer clarified: "If you're worried about your vehicle making it up we saw a tesla and a nissan altima up there. My subaru made it up perfectly. I would however recommend AWD or a little higher clearance."
Size restrictions: Larger vehicles face significant challenges. At Mayacmas Campground, a visitor noted: "The ride up was rough. The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate."
Alternative parking strategies: Some sites offer variable options. At Cowboy Camp, an experienced camper shared: "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding."
