RV sites near Petaluma, California provide convenient access to both coastal destinations and wine country excursions. Located in Sonoma County at approximately 30 feet above sea level, the area experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, while winter months hover between 40-65°F with increased rainfall.
What to do
Beach access opportunities: At Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park, visitors can walk to nearby coastal spots. "There is a coffee/breakfast place, and a wine/beer/restaurant at the edge of the property. Very good and convenient! Lots of nice walking opportunities!" notes camper Todd W.
Farmers market shopping: The Saturday farmers market adjacent to Bodega Bay RV Park offers fresh local produce. "On Saturdays there is a farmer's market on the property adjacent to the park," shares Edward R., who appreciated the convenient access to local goods.
River activities: Russian River camping options near Forestville include equipment rentals and water access. "Great canoe rentals to take down the river and a shuttle back is right next door," reports Gregory L. about Mirabel RV Park & Campground.
What campers like
River swimming spots: Family-friendly swimming areas with varying depths accommodate different skill levels. "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole area for adults too," explains a camper about River Bend Resort.
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms are well-maintained. General store is skimpy unless you're looking for beverages or branded apparel," notes Beverly W. about River Bend Resort.
Quiet spaces for work: Some campgrounds offer peaceful environments suitable for remote work. "Very enjoyable stay. The park is clean, quiet and there's a few trails that take you to the Beach. It's about a 30 min walk but an easy one. I work remote and have had meetings all week. No issues with Verizon or T mobile Hot spots," reports Brandon G. about Bodega Bay RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal pricing variations: Costs fluctuate significantly between peak and off-season periods, with waterfront sites commanding premium rates. "Bodega Bay CA. On the water. Grounds well maintained. Full hook ups over $100. Dry sites for $65. We were not informed about dry sites. Place nearly empty," reports Nancy L. about Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park.
Site congestion issues: Many RV parks have limited spacing between sites. "Spots are tight. Staff is great! Laundry hot tub pool are always clean. Right on the ocean (on a cliff)!" mentions Corrie G. about San Francisco RV Resort.
Highway noise impacts: Properties near major roads experience traffic sounds. "Nice people run this very nice but pricey resort with 2 nite minimum! As the other reviewer mentioned it is next to the Russian River. Restaurant next door. What was not mentioned is that it is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & nite," warns DEL H. about River Bend Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds feature multiple play areas for children. "The camp store is cute and there's a brewery next door if you want a meal out. There are several playgrounds which are fun for kids. And an arcade," shares H L. about River Bend Resort.
Activity restrictions: Certain parks limit common kid activities. "This was a very well kept place. Everything else in the area was full, so we stayed here. It's not the best for families though. No bike riding or scooting, so we had to walk them to the walking path," advises Stephanie E. about Thousand Trails Russian River.
River access safety: Shallow water areas provide safer swimming options for younger children. "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. Nice play ground for kids," notes Jeanne D. about Thousand Trails Russian River.
Tips from RVers
Transit convenience: Multiple campgrounds offer strategic proximity to public transportation into San Francisco. "30 mins away from the City. A bit pricy but that is to be expected in SF. Clean facilities but make no mistake about it... this is a parking lot with hook ups and the sites are in arms length in proximity to each other. It is well worth it as one can be in the city within 30mins," explains Raf A. about Marin RV Park.
Slide-out clearance: Site width constraints affect slide-out functionality at some parks. "Full hookup but sites are very tight and it's noisy being right against the freeway. Our slide couldn't come out all the way or we'd hit the camper next to us. His slide was touching meter box," cautions Roxanna L. about Tradewinds RV Park.
Terrain challenges: Site configurations and road conditions present maneuvering difficulties. "Roads and turns are very narrow. Some spots are inclined in a way that your hind end may really scrape the ground/asphalt. There are grooves in the road everywhere it is common," warns Derek & Alex W. about Thousand Trails Russian River.
