Dispersed camping near Petaluma provides direct access to California's diverse coastal and inland terrain. Located 32 miles north of San Francisco, this region features oak woodlands that transition to coastal redwoods, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-80°F. Fall camping brings cooler evenings with temperatures dropping to the mid-40s, while fog commonly rolls in during summer mornings, especially at coastal sites.
What to do
Horseback riding excursions: Five Brooks Ranch in Olema offers guided trail rides through Point Reyes National Seashore. A camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground recommends it as "a highlight" when staying in the area, noting "I would highly recommend Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding."
Observatory stargazing: Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge hosts night hikes and stargazing programs. According to a visitor, "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" The observatory offers regular public viewing nights with multiple telescopes.
Ocean exploration: Coastal access at Steep Ravine Campground allows for unique marine experiences. One camper reported, "I've seen deer in the seaside vernal pools, wild miniature ocean bunnies boxing in the morning sunshine, and a great white shark off the cliffs one fine day."
Hot springs hunting: Low tide reveals natural hot springs at certain beaches near Steep Ravine Campground. A visitor mentioned the "mermaid hot springs gracing the beaches during super low tides!" These geothermal pools appear only during extremely low tides.
Farmers market visits: Weekend markets operate adjacent to campgrounds. At Bodega Bay RV Park, a camper noted, "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park," making it convenient to stock up on local produce.
What campers like
Natural wildlife encounters: Multiple parks offer abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. At Sugarloaf Ridge, a camper shared, "We had a gorgeous grey fox visit our camp! We had a ton of shade and enough sun to warm up." The biodiversity extends beyond mammals to birds and reptiles.
Private coastal accommodations: Coast Campground at Point Reyes offers secluded sites with beach access. A visitor explained, "Sites 1-7 are located on the inland side of the Coast Trail just south of the junction with Firelane Trail. They're spread out in a scrub-brush area that provides a nice amount of privacy and protection from the wind."
Extensive trail networks: Regional parks connect to larger trail systems. At Spring Lake Regional Park, a camper noted it offers "great access to Spring Lake's water-based activities and hiking trails, plus easy access to Trione-Annadel State Park for hiking and mountain biking."
Cooling water activities: Swimming options range from lakes to inflatable water parks. A Spring Lake Regional Park visitor described, "Walked to the water park on spring lake that featured an inflatable, floating obstacle course/bouncy house thing. The kids LOVED that."
Wine country proximity: Campgrounds provide direct access to vineyards. A Skyline Wilderness Park camper appreciated the "easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive," making it possible to combine outdoor recreation with wine tasting.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Certain sites require planning months ahead. For glamping near Petaluma, California at Ritchey Creek Campground, a visitor advised, "The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice."
Variable weather conditions: Coastal fog and temperature swings affect camping comfort. At Steep Ravine, campers warn to "bring layers of functional clothes since the weather on the coast of the SF bay can be anything from roasting to foggy frigid cold during the day and night year round."
Wildlife precautions: Seasonal animal activity requires awareness. At Sugarloaf Ridge, a reviewer cautioned, "It's often very hot in the summer, and there can be lots of rattle snakes sunning themselves on the rocks."
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs dramatically between sites. Skyline Wilderness Park offers reliable service, with a camper reporting, "Data speeds wavered between 10-25 mbps depending on where we were on the property, but we could video conference and stream with no issues."
Poison oak prevalence: Many sites have significant plant hazards. One camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park warned about "lots of poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware."
Tips for camping with families
Play facilities options: Campgrounds with dedicated children's areas reduce need for off-site entertainment. The San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA earned praise from a camper who noted, "Had a blast here. A lot of different areas for the kids. Swimming, giant bounce area, and mild weather. Large play grounds and near shopping for any needs."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs for children. Sugarloaf Ridge provides "free quest hike. They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it," according to one family.
Child-friendly accommodations: Some glamping options near Petaluma, California specifically cater to families. A visitor to Olema Campground shared, "The kids love the playground and try their hand at shuffleboard. Close to multiple beaches."
Water activity access: Swimming facilities provide relief during hot days. A camper at Petaluma KOA mentioned, "Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer."
Noise considerations: Family-oriented campgrounds often have different sound profiles. A Samuel P. Taylor camper candidly shared, "You are going to probably experience some of the most ridiculous first-time campers with no sense of camping etiquette you have ever met in your life."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on specific rig requirements. At Bodega Bay RV Park, a camper noted, "Sites are all gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence," providing clear boundaries between neighbors.
Utility considerations: Water quality varies between parks. A Petaluma KOA visitor reported, "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."
Amenities worth paying for: Premium services can enhance convenience. A Patrick M. at Petaluma KOA was impressed that "the host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!"
Maneuvering challenges: Some parks have access limitations. Samuel P. Taylor State Park is described as "a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)."
Early arrival penalties: Check specific park policies about check-in times. At Bodega Bay RV Park, "Do not go in early least you pay a $10 fee. They do maintain the grounds so an early arrival is not good."
