The Russian River Valley provides natural cooling for campgrounds near Rohnert Park, California, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F but dropping 20-30 degrees at night. Campsites nestled under redwood canopies can be particularly chilly, while inland locations without shade can reach the mid-90s during July and August peak season.
What to do
Horseback riding in Olema: Five Brooks Ranch offers guided rides through coastal woodland trails just minutes from Olema Campground. "Perfect backup option for the area if Samuel Taylor is booked," notes reviewer Gabriel F., adding that the campground has "lovely large meadow with scattered trees."
Disc golf at Skyline Park: The 800+ acre property features a popular disc golf course among its many recreational offerings. As one visitor shared about Skyline Wilderness Park: "A safe, beautiful, affordable property to spend outdoors time on... offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more. Very friendly, helpful staff."
Night hikes for stargazing: Book a guided astronomy experience at Robert Ferguson Observatory. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shares a camper about their experience at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
What campers like
River access for water play: Campgrounds along the Russian River provide easy entry points for swimming and boating. "Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks canoes, and whatever else you want to rent," notes a visitor to Johnson's Beach. Remember water levels change seasonally.
Winter hiking without crowds: The Sonoma County trails become lush wonderlands during rainy season. "Hiking is nice especially in winter when everything is green. It's like a fairy wonderland on the Manzanita trail," explains a reviewer about Skyline Wilderness Park trails.
Proximity to wineries: Many campgrounds serve as affordable basebases for wine country exploration. "Wonderful camp sites nestled among mature trees with a stream that runs through it... a great basecamp for easy access to everything that West Marin has to offer," writes reviewer Tai W. about Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
What you should know
Off-season yurt availability: Yurt camping near Rohnert Park provides reliable shelter during unpredictable winter months when traditional tent camping can be challenging. According to a camper at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, "We have rented at this campground many times. Never had any trouble getting a reservation in spring or fall."
Poison oak awareness: Several parks report heavy poison oak growth, especially after rainy seasons. "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," cautions a visitor to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
WiFi connectivity: Unlike many remote campgrounds, some parks offer internet access. "They have free (slow) Wi-Fi covers half the camp, and premium Wi-Fi is available to purchase," notes Scott J. about Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, adding it "feels more remote than it is."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: The Russian River area offers safe swimming spots. "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 visitor to River Bend Resort.
Animal encounters: Many parks feature farm animals or wildlife viewing. "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 saw a gorgeous fox visit our camp!" shares a Sugarloaf Ridge visitor.
Urban-adjacent camping: For novice family campers, accessible locations provide comfort. "It is a wonderful campground for families with children and pets. We have a dog and two very young children. We had a blast there lots to do and see! On Sunday's the farmers market is nextdoor so you can walk over!" shares a visitor to Bodega Bay RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Easy wine country access: Several campgrounds offer full hookup sites convenient to vineyard tours. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley," notes an RVer who stayed at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Weekday reservations recommended: Many campgrounds near Rohnert Park fill quickly on weekends. "It's often booked in the summer months," shares Scott J. about Sugarloaf Ridge. "The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice," advises another camper about San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Site selection matters: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "Sites are on the small side as well. It's a special forest though and worth a visit," advises a camper at Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Another visitor recommended: "If I returned I would snag site 44. Just trust me on this."