Best Dispersed Camping near Rohnert Park, CA
Dispersed camping options near Rohnert Park, California include BLM Sheldon Creek and Cowboy Camp, both located within an hour's drive. BLM Sheldon Creek features 3-5 primitive sites situated along a wooded ridge with a seasonal creek. The campground provides vault toilets, picnic tables, and established fire rings at some sites. According to recent visitor reports, access requires navigating a winding dirt road that may be challenging for low-clearance vehicles, and travel trailers are not recommended due to limited turnaround space.
Cowboy Camp offers a more open landscape with grassy, level sites suitable for both tents and RVs. The area includes basic amenities such as pit toilets and trash collection. Several campers noted significant seasonal variations, with summer months bringing excessive heat and flies, particularly due to the area's popularity with equestrians. Recent reviews indicate potential seasonal closures, as multiple visitors in 2024 reported finding gates locked without prior notice on the BLM website.
Neither campground provides drinking water, so campers must bring adequate supplies. Fire regulations vary seasonally, with complete bans common during high fire danger periods. At Sheldon Creek, campers report finding abundant natural wood for campfires when permitted. Wildlife sightings at Sheldon Creek include deer, butterflies, and hummingbirds, particularly in spring and fall when temperatures are more moderate. The area experiences significant temperature variations, with ridge locations becoming quite hot during summer days. Pack-it-in, pack-it-out principles apply, with recent visitors noting concerns about accumulated trash at some sites.
