Clear Lake camping offers waterfront access and mountain views at elevations ranging from 1,326 to 2,000 feet. The region maintains warm summer temperatures averaging 90°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights around 55°F. Campgrounds in the Nice area provide varied terrain from lakefront properties to more wooded settings further from shore.
What to do
Kayaking access: The Aurora RV Park & Marina provides free canoe/paddle boating equipment and life jackets. "They offer FREE canoe/paddle boating. Bathrooms are kept clean and mike, the owner is amazing. Real nice guy and very helpful," writes one camper at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Fishing opportunities: Fishing directly from waterfront campsites is available at certain locations. "You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water," notes a visitor to The Aurora RV Park & Marina. Fishing permits may be required.
Swimming spots: River camping offers cool water relief during hot summer days. "River near by, nice swimming hole in October if you were willing to walk over a lot of rocks. Not sure what the river would be like in spring," mentions a reviewer at Thousand Trails Russian River.
Wine country exploration: The campgrounds' central location provides access to Sonoma County wineries. "This is a Great location in Sonoma county. The campground itself is not the greatest, but the surrounding area is fantastic. You're not far from San Francisco or Napa," explains a Thousand Trails Russian River guest.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Waterfront sites offer direct lake access though they may be positioned close together. "This place is clean. We were greeted by the camp host with a smile! Very friendly! You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water," shares a camper at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Outdoor cooking areas: Community grilling and picnic areas provide social gathering spaces. "Clean bathrooms, club house with games and a kitchen. Fire pits and BBQ's. Green grass in the BBQ area with a beautiful gazebo that has grapes growing on it!" notes a visitor about The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Natural bird watching: Wetland areas attract diverse bird species. "The water side is a low water estuary of sorts - lots of tall grasses and duckweed type plants. Many birds. I even saw an egret," observes a camper at Mirabel RV Park & Campground.
Russian River access: Several campgrounds offer direct river entry points. "Love waking up by the river. The staff are very kind and fair. The campsite is near plenty of amenities that you may need during your stay," reports a Mirabel RV Park visitor.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Expect close quarters at many lakeside RV parks. "The lakeside spots are very tight together-and require backing in. If your neighbor has a slider you are wall to wall," cautions an Aurora RV Park visitor.
Highway noise: Some locations experience traffic noise due to proximity to main roads. "What was not mentioned is that it is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & night," explains a reviewer at River Bend Resort.
Seasonal rate fluctuations: Prices increase significantly during summer months. "Super expensive and the actual sites aren't great. We camped in our van in the RV area and it's really just a big parking lot right by the highway," warns a River Bend Resort camper.
Renovation status: Some facilities may be undergoing updates affecting amenity availability. "At the time of my visit the campground was undergoing renovations. The office area where the bathrooms/showers, laundry room, and community lounge were all at some stage of construction," reports an Aurora visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer extensive children's activities. "This place has it all. Great restaurant just outside the property, well stocked general store, arcade, park, and oh yes beach front access where the river does a nice bend," recommends a visitor at River Bend Resort.
Kid-friendly swimming: The Russian River provides safe swimming areas for children. "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole are for adults too," notes a River Bend Resort camper.
Western-themed activities: Unique themed experiences are available for younger campers. "Has a western themed town that holds little dances and ice cream parlor parties for kids. This KOA also has a mini waterpark as well," explains a visitor at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Playground access: Multiple play areas keep children entertained. "There are several playgrounds which are fun for kids. And an arcade," shares a River Bend Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose specific sites based on size requirements and preference for privacy. "Take your time finding the right spot for you. Staff okay," advises a Thousand Trails Russian River visitor.
Navigation considerations: Access routes vary in difficulty based on direction of approach. "To get to clear lake from the west the road is very windy and only allows 34 feet and I think that is pushing it," warns an Aurora RV Park camper.
Electrical service verification: Confirm amperage availability matches your needs. "Each site has its own water spigot and two electrical outlets that work well," notes a visitor to Aurora RV Park about tent camping sites that also accommodate RVs.
Off-season value: Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for better rates and availability. "Good value! Had electric and water, private, cash only. Stayed here 6 weeks while my house remodel, people friendly, felt safe," recommends a visitor to Mirabel RV Park.
