The Rumsey region of California sits within Yolo County at the northern end of the Capay Valley, with elevations ranging from 400-700 feet. Located in the Coast Range foothills, this area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer days regularly reaching the upper 90s. Water sources including Cache Creek provide camping options that vary substantially in accessibility depending on seasonal conditions and recent rainfall patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cache Creek Regional Park Campground, visitors can take advantage of the flowing creek for fishing. One visitor noted, "I kept hearing splashing in the creek. I wasn't alone - there was a herd of Elk. Super cool."
Hiking across the creek: At Cowboy Camp, trails await if you can navigate the water crossing. "Have to use horse or find low section and pile rocks as a 'bridge' to cross for hiking," explains one reviewer, detailing the DIY approach needed to reach trails on the other side.
Bird watching: Near Clear Lake Campground, you'll find excellent wildlife observation spots. A camper mentioned it's "situated next to the main water outlet of Clear Lake which is cross from a wilderness and wildlife preserve which is very cool to see all of the wildlife."
What campers like
Early morning wildlife: At Blue Oak Campground, nature observation is a highlight. "Such a beautiful campsite. It was a quiet night with not such noise from people. Tons of birds in the area to listen to," reports one visitor who enjoyed the natural soundscape.
Off-season solitude: Cache Creek camping spots near Rumsey, California can be surprisingly peaceful during certain times. "I pulled in here for the night and found I was completely alone," wrote one camper about their experience at Cache Creek Regional Park.
Free camping options: Cowboy Camp provides no-cost camping with basic facilities. "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills," shared a frequent visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some camping areas close without notice. A Cowboy Camp visitor reported, "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell."
Insect considerations: Bug protection is essential at certain Rumsey area campgrounds. A camper at Cowboy Camp warned about "Prickers everywhere. Tall grass, ticks, black widows, lizards, rattles and gardner snakes."
Highway noise: At Putah Canyon - Lake Berryessa USBR, road sounds can affect the camping experience. A visitor noted, "The highway is within earshot and cars can be heard faintly going by."
Tips for camping with families
Observatory visits: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground offers educational opportunities. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time! You can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well," shared one family.
Animal spotting: Clear Lake Campground provides wildlife viewing opportunities for kids. A visitor mentioned, "RV is situated next to the main water outlet of Clear Lake which is cross from a wilderness and wildlife preserve which is very cool to see all of the wildlife."
Wildlife safety awareness: Teach children about local wildlife at Cowboy Camp. "14-day BLM campground literally 5 minutes down the road from CalFire. Four toilets. No water, just creek running between campground and hills," noted a camper, describing the basic but functional setup.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Some camping locations near Rumsey require careful RV positioning. About Cowboy Camp, one RVer shared, "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding."
Off-peak strategy: Visit during weekdays for a better experience at camping sites around Rumsey. A visitor to Clear Lake Campground mentioned, "This little campground RV park is very quaint and small. Driving into it, you got the impression that it was frozen in time."
Water access limitations: Many Rumsey area campgrounds lack full hookups. A Cache Creek Regional Park camper noted, "It has plenty of campground shade running water in bathrooms, has coin showers and dish washing station. The days are hot nights cool off enough to sleep comfortably."
Traveler
