Camping cabins near Occidental, California provide rustic lodging within the redwood forests along the Russian River watershed, where winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F. Seasonal fluctuations affect campground availability, with lower elevation sites around 200 feet remaining open year-round while higher areas experience closures during wet winter months. Access roads to cabin sites vary from paved to gravel, with some requiring navigation of narrow, winding routes.
What to do
Horseback riding near cabins: At Five Brooks Ranch in Olema, visitors can book trail rides that explore the surrounding woodland areas. A recent visitor noted, "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding" while staying at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Paddle the Russian River: Cabin campers at Johnson's Beach can rent watercraft directly from shoreline vendors. "Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks canoes, and whatever else you want to rent," notes a visitor who rated their experience highly.
Local town exploration: Several cabin sites provide walking access to nearby communities. One camper staying at Johnson's Beach observed, "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."
What campers like
River access qualities: River Bend Resort features a section of the Russian River with calm water conditions. "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," explains a family that visited in summer.
Proximity to food options: Several cabin locations feature nearby dining establishments, reducing the need for cooking supplies. "There is a coffee/breakfast place, and a wine/beer/restaurant at the edge of the property. Very good and convenient!" reports a visitor to Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Nighttime environments: Waterfront cabin options allow for unique evening experiences. One camper at Porto Bodega Marina described, "You can see the Milky Way at night while listening to the soft foghorn and every now and then a soft bark of a seal. Nice solid metal fire pits to sit around at night making smores..."
What you should know
Site spacing issues: Some cabin areas have limited separation between accommodations. A camper at Casini Ranch Family Campground reported, "The RV site looked more crowded when we were there. They looked like they were in a festival. One area looked very tight but some sites looked dispersed."
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of restrooms varies substantially by property. "The only con we had was the restrooms were very scarce for the size of the campground. We had to walk so far to get to the restroom," noted a visitor to Casini Ranch.
Wildlife encounters: Cabin campers should prepare for local wildlife activity. A Porto Bodega camper warned, "They have raccoons but don't tell you that, we didn't leave anything out but had muddy footprints all over our table in the morning!"
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers organized children's programs. "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!" reported a family visitor.
Site selection for kids: Look for cabin areas with specific play features. According to a parent visitor at Casini Ranch, "Spent the weekend with family (10 kids, 6 adults) at Casini Ranch for a couple birthdays. Kids were busy the whole time, riding bikes and scooters, playing on the jump pillow, feeling the animals."
Emergency flexibility: Some cabin providers accommodate unexpected situations for families. A parent at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA shared, "My family checked in from just a 30 minute drive from our home due to evacuations taking place in Santa Rosa due to fires. Petaluma KOA told us to head on in and check in with no minimum night stay."
Tips from RVers
Site position considerations: Corner or perimeter cabin locations often provide better experiences. A visitor to River Bend Resort advised, "River Bend Resort has a great helpful staff, great Russian River wine country location and is next to the Russian River pub. And campground overall is average, so long as you're on the outer rim."
Utility hookup types: Water quality varies significantly between cabin properties. A camper at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA tested their utilities and found, "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."
Weight and size restrictions: Some cabin areas have difficult approach roads. At Spring Lake Regional Park, a visitor advised, "Spot (3) was great and accommodated both our truck and 32" fifth wheel, as well as having plenty of space for all 3 slides. The spot felt very private and we had no problems with noise from any cars or people."
