Penngrove's unique location between Sonoma County's rolling hills and coastal influence creates a temperate camping climate with summer highs around 80°F and cool evenings dropping to the 50s. The area's volcanic soil and oak woodland ecosystem supports diverse wildlife and contributes to the region's rich agricultural heritage. Winter camping requires preparation for rainfall averaging 30-40 inches annually from November through March.
What to do
Hike to Lake Ilsanjo: Access moderate to challenging trails from Spring Lake Regional Park with significant elevation changes. "We did a very tough hike in almost 100 degree weather up to Lake Ilsanjo and the cold plunge into that lake was exactly what was needed," notes a camper at Spring Lake Regional Park.
Explore mountain biking trails: Trione-Annadel State Park offers extensive trail networks popular with cyclists. "Connected to the west of Spring Lake is Trione-Annadel State Park, a wildly popular spot for local mountain bikers. In fact, as a hiker I tend to avoid Annadel because there are so many mountain bikers," explains a visitor to Spring Lake.
Visit the Robert Ferguson Observatory: Located within hiking distance of campsites at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground, this facility offers star gazing opportunities. "You can walk to a trail to check out a waterfall from there (pretty darn steep!) and you can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well! We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shares a camper.
Beach exploration: Walk to coastal access points from some glamping locations. "The beach was sandy and beautiful, not that many people around," describes a visitor to Coast Campground, noting the short 2-minute walk from camp to shore.
What campers like
Proximity to wineries: Glamping close to Penngrove, California provides convenient access to Napa and Sonoma wine regions. "Stayed here for a long weekend with friends in Napa Valley. Location itself is GREAT. 5 mins from everything in town," notes a visitor at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Many sites offer dedicated facilities for children. A camper at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA shared, "Had a blast here. A lot of different areas for the kids. Swimming, giant bounce area, and mild weather. Coffee bar, large play grounds and near shopping for any needs."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The diverse ecosystem supports abundant animal sightings. "We walked the 'Nature Trail' through the campground & when we tried to sit they would swarm. But it was a nice short easy walk, where we saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails!" reports a visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Clean facilities: Glamping locations frequently maintain well-appointed restrooms and showers. "Bathrooms are decent, not the cleanest, but well stocked and had hand soap. Coin operated showers were also a treat," mentions a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal weather variations: Prepare for significant temperature changes throughout the day. "It can get warm in the summer, but the cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down," advises a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground.
Poison oak awareness: Several campgrounds report abundant poison oak, particularly in spring. "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere," warns a visitor to Ritchey Creek Campground.
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance, especially for glamping accommodations during peak seasons. "It's often booked in the summer months, and rattlesnakes on trails are not uncommon. There is also no cell coverage for any of the major providers, but free (slow) Wi-Fi covers half the camp, and premium Wi-Fi is available to purchase," notes a camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Limited privacy at some locations: Site layouts vary considerably between campgrounds. "Sites are close, but have some privacy. Stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," reports a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Choose locations with swimming or boating options for children. "Lovely site in redwoods. Sites are close, but have some privacy. Stream is accessible shallow. Beautiful trees," shares a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programs for children. "We've camped here a couple of times with our kids it's perfect for novice campers like us. The staff is awesome, there are bathrooms and showers. You can rent a tent, buy wood and it's a short drive into town in case you need to stock up," explains a visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Pet policies: Verify animal restrictions before booking glamping near Penngrove. "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," warns a camper at Johnson's Beach.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs. "They have informational signs all over the place providing historical or ecological information. Access to the creek is seasonally restricted for spawning, and I believe that goes from spring to about mid June or July," explains a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on specific needs and privacy requirements. "We had a pull through FHU site. Pretty narrow. Seems like a common theme. Great things for kids to be entertained by and enjoy for sure. We were passing through and I think we would have been better served elsewhere," advises an RVer at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Hookup availability: Check for water access limitations before arrival. "Arrive at this park full of water. There was only one spigot with threads (for attaching hose to fill tanks); it was at spot 29," suggests a visitor to Spring Lake Regional Park.
Level sites: Some locations require minimal setup assistance. "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa," notes a visitor to Skyline Wilderness Park. Another camper adds, "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly."
Cell coverage: Signal strength varies significantly between glamping sites near Penngrove. "Cell phone coverage is good. Have both Verizon and Att with at least 2-3 bars. 10-12 Mbps down 4-5 Mbps up," reports a Skyline Wilderness Park visitor, important information for those needing to stay connected.
