The Petaluma area sits at the southern edge of Sonoma County where the Petaluma River flows through coastal hills toward San Pablo Bay. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with fog common in morning hours, especially June through August. The region's combination of oak woodlands, coastal influence, and proximity to both wine country and beach destinations creates diverse camping conditions within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Horseback riding at Five Brooks Ranch: Located near Olema Campground, visitors can explore Point Reyes National Seashore on horseback. "Five Brooks Ranch in Olema for horseback riding" is highly recommended by campers staying at nearby sites, with one visitor noting it was "definitely a highlight" of their trip.
Visit historic Bodega Bay: Just 25 miles west of Petaluma, the coastal town offers seafood restaurants and fishing opportunities. A camper at Bodega Dunes Campground shares: "We explored the area, including eating at the famous 'Birds' restaurant. The next morning we hit the little store at Due West before our hike for coffee and pastries."
Kayaking Tomales Bay: This protected waterway north of Petaluma offers calm paddling conditions and wildlife viewing. "There is also Kayaking in Tomales Bay which is okay fun," mentions a visitor who used Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground as their base camp for exploring the area.
What campers like
Natural wildlife encounters: Multiple campsites report regular wildlife sightings close to camp. At Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground, a visitor shared: "We had a gorgeous grey fox visit our camp! We had a ton of shade and enough sun to warm up... right behind us there was an incredible never ending hill covered in ferns and tall trees, and grey fox dens."
Accessible nature trails: Campers appreciate the variety of hiking options for all skill levels. "There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too. My personal favorite hike in this park is the Goodspeed Trail to Gunsight Rock. From the trailhead the hike is 6.5 miles out and back with 2,444 feet of elevation gain," writes a reviewer of Sugarloaf Ridge.
Fresh seafood nearby: Coastal campgrounds provide access to local fishing and seafood markets. A camper at Lawson's Landing recommends: "Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire. Overall a great campground for adults and kids."
What you should know
Crowded summer weekends: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, a regular camper warns: "For families who want a quick trip over Golden Gate Bridge to introduce their children (or adults!) to the great outdoors, nowhere is more convenient and instantly gratifying... However! You are going to probably experience some of the most ridiculous first-time campers with no sense of camping etiquette."
Coastal wind conditions: Prepare for strong winds at sites near the ocean. A camper at Doran Regional Park advises: "Be prepared for very windy weather, otherwise great park," while another notes, "The tent sites are VERY windy, especially at night."
Limited privacy at some sites: Many area campgrounds have close quarters between sites. A Skyline Wilderness Park visitor observed: "The campground is zero frills - you pull into a gravel lot and you're about 12 feet from your neighbors. The plus is friendly staff, amazing views, easy hookups, FREE showers and absolutely beautiful hikes that start right outside your door."
Tips for camping with families
Beach camping adaptations: When taking children to coastal campgrounds, come prepared for changing conditions. A family at Doran Regional Park shares: "Doran Beach is great, especially during the summer for kids because it's a well protected cove and the waves don't usually get very high... The campground itself is kept really clean by the staff, patrolled heavily by park service."
Activity options for different ages: Look for campgrounds with built-in recreation facilities. "The kids were able to swim after zoom/school and get their minds off of why we left home. We'll be back just for fun next time. Beautiful grounds!" commented a family staying at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Educational ranger programs: Several parks offer kid-friendly nature programs. "The first Saturday of the month the rangers do a tide pool talk. They bring sea creatures (like sea stars, sea slugs etc) to share and let the kids hold them," reports a parent who camped at Doran Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Not all dog friendly campgrounds near Petaluma offer full hookup services. A reviewer at Petaluma KOA notes: "Paid a premium price for a Saturday one nighter, but it certainly is a great VIP campsite. The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!"
Level sites for larger rigs: At Spring Lake Regional Park, an RVer recommends: "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."
Water quality considerations: When choosing pet-friendly campgrounds near Petaluma, water quality varies. One RVer tested the water at different locations, reporting: "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."
