Lake Sonoma glamping options range from luxury canvas tents to riverside accommodations with direct water access. The area sits within Sonoma County wine country at elevations between 200-2,700 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours, dropping to 50-60°F overnight, creating significant temperature swings that campers should prepare for.
What to do
Water activities at Russian River: Johnson's Beach in Guerneville provides direct river access just steps from campsites. "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 and they're not allowed to stay behind in the tent, so you're kind of stuck if you have a dog," notes Leafe Z.
Explore local towns: Johnson's Beach connects visitors to downtown Guerneville. "This is our little spot when we just don't want to be in the wilderness. 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. We spent one afternoon just strolling on the strip and checking out stores," shares Maria O.
Hiking trails: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers numerous trail options for different skill levels. "There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too. My personal favorite hike in this park is at the bottom of the hill from the campground, but can be accessed by trails and a short road walk, and that is the Goodspeed Trail to Gunsight Rock," explains Michael I.
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Duncans Mills Campground offers waterfront access with complimentary equipment. "You can fish, swim and kayak or canoe. The canoes are free to use. Nice sites, although not all sites are full hook up," explains Cathy.
Wine country proximity: Ritchey Creek Campground at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park provides affordable camping near wineries. "We have rented at this campground many times. Never had any trouble getting a reservation in spring or fall. Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!" says Susan H.
Community events: Some glamping sites near Lake Sonoma organize social gatherings. According to Scotty B. at Duncans Mills Campground, "Nice place to relax, hike, fish and or kayaking. Full hookups and well maintained campground along with a decent rec center."
What you should know
Temperature variations: Weather in the Lake Sonoma area fluctuates dramatically between day and night. "Make sure you are prepared for the temperature swing. 89 in the day and down to 51 at night. I love a shower and they also have a pool open Memorial Day to Labor Day. Pick a spot in the shade of possible," advises Tanya B. at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Site spacing: Many campgrounds in the area place sites close together. At Wildhaven Sonoma, Dan S. reports: "They really packed too many tents into the area. Large groups dominate the areas. Loud and crowded. I will not be back. They need to have basically half the tents they have to make it pleasant."
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities operate only during specific months. "It is open year round and unless it is raining hard the weather is good. Hiking is very nice in the area except in 2020 and into 2021 due to the recent fires closing all the trails to protect the soil," notes Robert S.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Spring Lake Regional Park offers inflatable water features popular with younger visitors. "Walked to the water park on spring lake that featured an inflatable, floating obstacle course/bouncy house thing. The kids LOVED that," shares Daniel D.
Kid-friendly infrastructure: Campgrounds with dedicated cycling paths work well for families. "The bike paths between the regional park and city park were wonderful for riding or walking," Tammy B. notes about Spring Lake Regional Park.
Educational opportunities: Some glamping sites near Lake Sonoma provide nature programs. According to Scott J., Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers "an observatory, and often nature events throughout the summer (docent led hikes for example). The volunteers who run the place do a fantastic job with everything, from keeping the site clean, to providing tons of info for budding naturalists."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers varying site configurations. "After looping around to approach the site, I found the streets all very tight for RV maneuvering. The place was packed. Had a pull through FHU site. Pretty narrow. Seems like a common theme," reports Patrick J.
Utility connections: Check water quality and hookup availability before arrival. Patrick J. continues: "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."
Nearby amenities: RV campers appreciate facilities and attractions within short driving distance. "This campground is clearly a getaway from the more congested parts of the area. Cute petting zoo and a pool that was open during COVID! We didn't stay long enough for sure. We also appreciated that it was close to city amenities like Lagunitas Brewing Co," notes Marnie G.
