Lake Sonoma offers equestrian-focused camping options in northern California, approximately 20 miles northwest of Healdsburg. The area sits at elevations between 500-2,700 feet with oak woodland and chaparral ecosystems dominating the landscape. During summer months, temperatures regularly reach 90°F with cool 50°F evenings, while winter brings considerable rainfall averaging 40 inches annually.
What to do
Explore archery range: The Lake Sonoma area includes an archery range for visitors seeking alternative recreational activities. "There is also an archery range at a nearby area of the Lake. Check their website for the latest check in information," notes a visitor to Liberty Glen Campground.
Hike to swimming spots: The lake offers swimming opportunities accessed via hiking trails. "The walk down to swim in the lake was a significant downhill but the dip was worth it! Funny dead trees sticking out of the lake were fun to climb on," shares a camper who visited Liberty Glen.
Visit Bodega Bay: For a coastal day trip, Bodega Bay is accessible within an hour's drive. "This is the second campground we've visited in Bodega Bay and enjoyed the more private campsite found here. We had a grand time exploring Bodega Bay and enjoying the seafood available," reports a visitor to Bodega Dunes Campground.
What campers like
Nearby wine country access: The region's location provides convenient access to wineries. "It's so nice to be right in the Napa Valley. If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!" explains a visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Site selection flexibility: Some campgrounds allow campers to choose their own sites upon arrival. "If you talk to the ranger at the gate, most of the time they will let you drive around the grounds and pick any open site. This is great for groups, especially if you have a few loud people in the mix because you can pick a more secluded site," notes a Liberty Glen Campground visitor.
Relative solitude: Even during peak seasons, many campgrounds retain uncrowded conditions. "I've been to Liberty Glen 3 times, and even in peak season the campground is never full," shares one camper. Another notes, "Both times were fairly full, but never totally full. You can make a reservation, but you cant pick your spot until you get there."
What you should know
Amenities vary by season: Water availability fluctuates at some locations. "Check their website for the latest update on if they have potable water on site, it can vary from year to year," advises a Liberty Glen visitor.
Wild boar presence: Local wildlife includes wild boar populations that are legally hunted. "When hiking in the area be aware of the local wild boar problem. Due to overpopulation, bow hunting of wild boars in the Lake Sonoma area is legal most of the year," reports a camper.
Limited supplies nearby: The remote location requires bringing necessary provisions. "Bring everything you need, the closest store is in Cloverdale, 20 minutes away," mentions a Liberty Glen camper. Similarly at Coast Campground, a visitor notes, "Always expect fog. Expect cold and damp at night."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus," shares a family that stayed at Bu-Shay Campground.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds have bike-friendly environments. "This is a great place for family, kids rode bikes all weekend. Nobody was too loud or partying late," notes a visitor to Bodega Dunes Campground.
Trail accessibility considerations: When choosing equestrian camps with children, assess trail difficulty. "Coast camp in kind of the tale of two campgrounds. Sites 1-7 are located on the inland side of the Coast Trail just south of the junction with Firelane Trail. They're spread out in a scrub-brush area that provides a nice amount of privacy and protection for the wind," reports a Coast Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Campsite surface conditions: RV campers should note the terrain at horse campgrounds near Lake Sonoma. "Sites are nice with picnic tables. Some more level than others. Nice big trees," explains a visitor to Bodega Dunes Campground.
Dispersed camping alternatives: For RVers seeking primitive options with equestrian access, Cowboy Camp offers an alternative. "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding. There is a rural road near by but traffic noise isn't a problem," shares one RVer.
Sanitary facilities: Dump stations are available at select locations. "The bathrooms are clean and comfortable with flush toilets and warm showers (coin operated)," notes a Bodega Dunes visitor, while another adds "Good hot water pressure. Saw some porti-potties in other loop so don't know what's working over there."
