179 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Lakeport, California include both developed sites and dispersed options along the shores of Clear Lake. Clear Lake State Park provides established camping through Kelsey Creek Campground, offering tent sites, RV spaces, and cabins with amenities like showers, drinking water, and picnic tables. For those seeking more primitive experiences, the region supports dispersed camping at locations such as Cow Mountain Recreation Area and Lakeview Dispersed Campground. Several areas permit RV camping, though hookup availability varies considerably between developed parks and more remote locations.
Access to camping areas around Lakeport varies by location and season. The established campgrounds like Clear Lake State Park provide year-round accessibility on paved roads suitable for most vehicles. In contrast, dispersed sites at Cow Mountain and other Bureau of Land Management areas often require higher-clearance vehicles to navigate unpaved forest roads. Summer brings high temperatures to the region, with campsites near the water becoming particularly popular. Fire restrictions are common during California's dry season, especially in dispersed camping areas. A recent review noted, "DO not take CA-175 here. By the time I got to camp I was so nauseous I thought I was going to die! Campground is beautiful, we rolled up in off season and there is probably 20ish cars here."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Lakeport area. Clear Lake State Park receives positive reviews for its lakeside campsites, though visitors mention that these premium spots fill quickly during peak season. Sites offer varying levels of shade and privacy, with creek-side locations often providing more tree cover than those directly on the lakeshore. A visitor commented, "The spots are a bit close, but there are many options available—from waters edge on the creek or lake, to hilltops with views of the lake." Bathroom facilities at developed campgrounds generally receive positive mentions, though cleanliness and maintenance can vary seasonally. Most campgrounds near Clear Lake allow fishing access, with boat launches available at several locations, making these campgrounds particularly appealing to those interested in water recreation.
"nice bathrooms, token operated showers. short drive to lakeport with some cute downtown areas to get breakfast if you are like me and woke up too cold to set up the camp stove!"
"Having visited Lake County many times, I wasn't expecting much from this camp ground. I had intended to camp at Boggs Forest - my usual hangout for mountain biking when in the area."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"First time camping and going somewhat off road. 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."
"Beautiful spot with some views of the lake. No services, but had cell service (CC). I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging."
"It’s a cute little campground, conveniently located right on the lake. There are a few sites directly at Lake side and Moore across the street. Generally well kept looks a little older."
"This park has two parts: most is across the street from the lake but some spots are lakeside. The lakeside spots are very tight together-and require backing in."
from $22 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can’t turn back once on the path."
"Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October. Looking forward to a springtime visit."
"It’s a short walk from anywhere in the campground down to the lake. The water is crystal clear and there’s a little dock for jumping off of."
"MUST BE SELF CONTAINED TO STAY IN THIS LOCATION!!"
"Love going to the tech course with our off road buggy. Crawled all over that hill."
"There’s views of Lear Lake if you want to walk a bit. No water nearby. The road is very dusty on the way up!"
"Lots of little pullouts when you reach the top and then as you head down the north side more with beautiful views of the lake. Some private property on that end but nothing unusual."
"The drive up was windy and a bit steep at points but well groomed and manageable in an SUV. I’m sure most cars can do the drive with a responsible person behind the wheel."
"Recent regrading of the southern road up made it a cake walk, it's like a runway."
"I have a car and made it up just fine but I also have off road experience and took my time."
LegendI convinced myself to stay on the coast one more night and gambled I'd get a spot here, and it paid off gangbusters. Cramped sites were a bummer, but cool neighbors and an awesome sunset made it a minor detail.
TravelerGreat campground on the Russian River. Big grassy area for single or group camping. Friendly staff. Walking distance to downtown Guerneville.
TravelerUpside: almost no one here, including security and onsite host (private and undisturbed), no road noise, great playground, bathrooms, showers and water views.
Downside: no onsite host, book online (reserveca.com). Some spots are VERY OPEN no privacy and all overgrown meadow. Campsite is above lake, no access feom campground. Not all water faucets have hose attachment.
See attached map for most private $35 spots ( not waterfront) and the blue dot has a water spiket with hose attachment.
LegendSome campgrounds stay with you because of the scenery, while others become part of your family history ... and Salt Point will forever be both for me. Perched along one of the wildest stretches of the Sonoma Coast, this coastal park combines six miles of rugged Pacific shoreline with grasslands and forest, and its two primary campgrounds offer very different experiences: Gerstle Cove sits on the ocean side of Highway 1, while Woodside is tucked into the trees inland. Together they have 109 developed campsites, most with level paved pads, picnic tables, food lockers and fire rings, but no hookups or showers.
What makes Salt Point truly special is everything waiting beyond the campsite. Trails lead along rocky bluffs, through forests and down toward Gerstle Cove, while tide pools, extraordinary sandstone formations and the pounding Pacific make this feel wonderfully removed from civilization. There are more than 20 miles of trails and Stump Beach provides the park's only sandy beach.
But none of that is why I remember this place so vividly. Salt Point was the very first place I ever took my daughters camping. I can still remember that wonderful mixture of excitement and uncertainty that comes with introducing your children to something you love: setting up camp together, watching them explore this enormous new outdoor world and realizing that what felt like a simple weekend away was quietly becoming one of those family memories you carry forever. At least for me, that is true.
This is real camping rather than resort camping: no electricity, no showers and no dump station, while the nearest gas stations are roughly 18 miles away. Tent campers should feel particularly at home here and I’d favor Woodside, which is where we stayed, for its more sheltered, forested camping experience; however, choose Gerstle Cove if quicker access to the rugged coastline is what brought you here. Either way, come prepared for changing coastal weather and embrace the simplicity as that's part of Salt Point's magic.
Insider’s Tip: If this is your first visit, don't spend the entire trip at the campsite. Walk the Salt Point Trail around Gerstle Cove and give the kids time simply to explore the shoreline. Years later, they probably won't remember whether the campsite was perfectly level, but you may be surprised by what they do remember.
Happy Camping!
TravelerI enjoyed my two night stay here, the location is great right on the water.
Campsites are very close together and the Bodega Bay foghorn goes off every 10 seconds 24/7 and that got annoying.
Great for Starlink
GuidePaved interior roads, dirt and grass campsites with table and fire pit. Porta-potties. No hookups. Campground is on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
ScoutGot to this spot towards dark. Set up tent from my cars headlights. Woke up to absolutely beautiful views. The dirt road up to this site is rough. I have a car and made it up just fine but I also have off road experience and took my time.
RangerWe stayed for three nights at this large, well-developed campground. As big as this campground is, with the layout and the thick forest, you don't feel like you're camping with hundreds of other people. The one exception to that is at night time. The campground has quiet hours beginning at 10pm, but during our stay that was not enforced and at least four groups were having parties well past 11pm, or found that to be a great time to race remote control cars.
The camp store has every you could possibly need if you forget something, but be prepared as the mark-ups are steep!!
The river access is easy and great with plenty of space along the river to set up and enjoy the day. The beach is all rock, so plan accordingly. Next time we will bring kayaks or SUPs to explore more of the river, but the areas accessible by foot are nice with shallow spots for kids, swimming holes, rope swing, and even a big buried log to jump off of.
Overall we had a great time and will be back.
TravelerGood overall area not many spots to camp around the sonoma area lots of great seafood close by area stay nice and cool santa rosa was 91 amd while the campsite stayed a cool 65 pretty much the whole time we were here
The Lakeport, California area features camping options at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,800 feet, with Clear Lake serving as the central natural feature. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and September, creating high demand for water-access sites. Fire restrictions vary seasonally across Bureau of Land Management and state park lands in the region.
Paddling opportunities: Clear Lake State Park offers free canoe and kayak usage for campers. "The water is crystal clear and there's a little dock for jumping off of. They bring in sand for the beach which makes it a really nice experience," notes a visitor to Narrows Lodge Resort.
Fishing access: Many campgrounds provide lakeside or creek fishing options. A camper at Kelsey Creek Campground mentioned, "This park has lake access from a large sandy beach. Extensive nature trail system throughout the park."
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse bird populations, including waterfowl. At BLM Sheldon Creek, a visitor observed, "This is a beautifully wooded area with a flowing creek... I even saw an egret."
Privacy levels: Sites vary widely in seclusion. A camper at Lakeview Dispersed Campground shared, "Only two other groups were set up so not crowded, plenty of spots."
Waterfront options: Lakeside campsites remain the most sought-after. At The Aurora RV Park & Marina, visitors appreciate water access: "Site was perfect. Close to the water and very accessible for an RV."
Off-season tranquility: Many camping areas near Lakeport offer peaceful experiences during non-summer months. A camper at Cole Creek Campground noted, "It was great for a mid-week stay. Beautiful campground, good space between sites. We're in the Kelsey Creek Campground and there's hardly anyone here. Very peaceful, good birdwatching, and abundant deer life."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed sites often requires careful vehicle consideration. At High Valley Rd Dispersed, campers warn about difficult terrain: "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."
Seasonal bug activity: Spring and early summer bring increased insect populations. A camper at Kelsey Creek Campground advised, "Be prepared for bugs in Spring! We had to pull out our bug screen! Dawn and dusk is their most active time."
Facility maintenance: Campground upkeep varies widely across the region. One visitor to Kelsey Creek Campground noted, "Bathroom near our campsite wasn't working. Campsites were overgrown with foxtails, not good for my dogs. Trash in our fire pit."
Swimming options: Several camping sites near Lakeport, California offer safe water access for children. At Narrows Lodge Resort, a visitor shared, "We rented a camping yurt and we were so surprised how big it is! We received a key to our own bathroom and shower! Great little beach. A dock to fish from."
Nature education: Clear Lake State Park provides interpretive resources. "There is also a visitors center with many displays of the animals that are found within the park as well the cultural history," mentions a Kelsey Creek Campground camper.
Entertainment amenities: Some private campgrounds offer additional activities. A visitor at Cloverdale/Healdsburg Campground reported, "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."
Site selection: RV camping near Lakeport requires attention to site characteristics. A camper at Thousand Trails Russian River noted, "If you have a larger rig be very conscious of where the spots are that allow for them. Ask at the ranger office for the list of ones they should have open."
Utility availability: Water and electrical access varies by location. At The Aurora RV Park & Marina, a visitor mentioned, "The womens shower was so-so clean but there was hair left in the drains and on the walls. One shower in the mens bathroom had no hot water."
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures affect RV comfort levels. A camper at Kelsey Creek Campground shared, "Came back a year later on a whim and still found it to be a nice place, in spite of the heat. Had a nice spot that was semi-shaded in the afternoon."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find campgrounds in Lakeport, CA?
Lakeport offers several camping options around Clear Lake. Clear Lake Campground is a quaint, small RV park with a vintage feel right in Lakeport, perfect for water access. Nearby, The Aurora RV Park & Marina in Nice provides both RV sites and boat-in access. For dispersed camping options, High Valley Rd offers free sites within driving distance of town. Cole Creek Campground in Clear Lake State Park provides another alternative with reservable sites and toilet facilities. Most campgrounds are easily accessible via Highway 29, though local roads can be winding, especially on routes like CA-175.
What are the costs for camping in Lakeport, California?
Camping costs near Lakeport vary by location and amenities. Kelsey Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park offers sites ranging from $35-45 per night with token-operated showers for an additional fee. For budget-conscious campers, Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed provides free primitive camping with basic toilet facilities. Private options like Clear Lake Campground typically charge $40-55 per night with hookups. Most state park campgrounds require an additional $8 reservation fee when booking online. Many campgrounds offer discounts for seniors, veterans, and off-season stays. Remember that holiday weekends and summer months typically command premium pricing.
Are there family-friendly tent camping sites near Lakeport?
Several family-friendly tent camping sites are available near Lakeport. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground is excellent for families, offering quiet surroundings, easy access to hiking trails, and spacious sites with beautiful views. Many campers report it's ideal for kids with clean facilities and relaxing environments. For water activities, Spring Lake Regional Park provides family-friendly camping with newer bathroom facilities and shower amenities, plus direct access to water-based recreation and hiking trails. Though slightly further from Lakeport, both parks offer the amenities families need including clean restrooms, flat tent sites, and nearby recreational opportunities that children enjoy.
Keep Exploring
