Sean W.
Scout
ScoutThousand Trails Russian River
A peaceful place!
The employees are great, great attitudes.No problems whatsoever!
Camping near St. Helena, CA
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Campgrounds near St. Helena, California range from state park facilities to private resorts, catering to diverse camping preferences in the heart of wine country. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park's Ritchey Creek Campground offers tent sites, RV spots without hookups, and glamping options including yurts and cabins. Located between Calistoga and St. Helena, this park serves as a budget-friendly base for exploring nearby vineyards. Other options include Skyline Wilderness Park near Napa and San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, which provides full hookup sites and cabin rentals for those seeking more amenities.
Most campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during peak wine tourism seasons from late spring through fall. The Mediterranean climate creates ideal camping conditions throughout much of the year, though summer temperatures can rise significantly. Winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Fire restrictions frequently impact camping experiences during dry summer months, with bans often extending into fall. A camper noted, "The sad reality of the ongoing drought in California is that summer camping is not the experience it used to be. Winter or early spring is now the best time to visit places like Bothe-Napa."
Several visitors highlight the strategic location of campgrounds relative to wine country attractions. Ritchey Creek Campground receives particular mention for its proximity to wineries and tasting rooms. "It's so nice to be right in the Napa Valley. If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here," wrote one reviewer. Poison oak presents a common challenge throughout the region's campgrounds, with multiple campers mentioning its prevalence at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. The natural surroundings feature oak, madrone, and manzanita forests with creeks running through some properties. St. Helena camping options are particularly popular for those looking to combine outdoor recreation with wine tasting adventures. Campers appreciate these locations as affordable alternatives to expensive wine country accommodations, with one reviewer noting, "Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!"
Best Campgrounds near St. Helena (170)
1. Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
"The location is great since you’re close to st Helena and Calistoga. The road is narrow and the spots are tricky to back into."
"You need reservations but there are a few walk in campsites up at the end that go on first come first serve basis. Great hiking in the redwoods along a nice creek."
from $43 / night
Check Availability2. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground
"Easy access to a lot of trails. The view from the campground is nice and relaxing. Some sites are very tight and close to each other. Some are spacious enough."
"There are certainly some that are better situated than others regarding size, shade, and other amenities--but the entire campground is nice."
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability3. San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA
"showers were always clean. there was some construction going on, since it was the off season. it looked like they were renovating some of the bathrooms and aisle end sites to add grass and decks. the location"
"For us, this is a great spot to shoot down the highway and pull in for a few days to get away from the hustle and bustle of normal life!"
4. Skyline Wilderness Park
"A ton of great hiking and horseback riding trails. Literally 5 mins outside of the town of Napa. Ate at an amazing Brazilian Steakhouse and came to camp in just a short drive."
"Nice, clean place with beautiful hiking trails. The garden is very cute, perfect for a quiet walk or meditation. Sites are close to each other. This place is a good getaway into nature."
5. Spring Lake Regional Park
"It’s close to the entrance but the driveway only had a slight grade. Mostly folks with trailers. The sites are not too close together but it is easy to see into the surrounding neighbors."
"Spring Lake has been that for us. We have been here for 2 weekends in the last few months."
from $35 / night
Check Availability6. Sonoma County Fairgrounds RV Park
"Very quiet and there's lots of trails to walk. Easy walking around the lake."
"The park itself is like a little slice of heaven and surrounded by the town so nothing is that far away. It is 5 min away from the Planet fitness and it is quiet and has a night security guard too."
from $33 - $70 / night
Check Availability7. Napa County Fairgrounds
"Close to Oxbow public market, great spot for lunch or dinner."
8. Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores)
"Our favorite spot to take the kids to the lake. If your looking for something calm this is the spot at Lake Berryessa."
"Lake water level is pretty low. Overall nice experience."
from $5 - $55 / night
Check Availability9. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
from $35 / night
10. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground
"Close to Santa Rosa up a long windy road sites Sugarloaf Ridge park. A pretty popular place, even in November. Lots to do here. Hiking, biking trails. Many families camping."
from $35 - $165 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 21 min from Napa, CA
- 36 min from Santa Rosa, CA
- 37 min from Vallejo, CA
- 1 hr 11 min from San Francisco, CA
Recent Camping Photos near St. Helena, CA
250 Photos of 170 St. Helena Campgrounds
Sue B.
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Kate L.
Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
John
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground
Tammy B.
Spring Lake Regional Park
Stuart S.
smittle creek
keith B.
Putah Canyon Campground
Joel A.
Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores)
Tom and Marianne H.
Skyline Wilderness Park
Travis A.
San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA
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Miss Daisy’s Magical Wonderland
Julie D.
Harbin Hot Springs
Ken B.
Wildhaven Sonoma
Recent Reviews near St. Helena, CA
978 Reviews of 170 St. Helena Campgrounds
- Sean W.Scout
Sonoma County Fairgrounds RV Park
Your employees are great great attitude.You have a dog park, it's clean.Well kept quiet yeah no problem!
My review of this place is it's a very good place to come stay if you need a place to pull your rig.And be overnight.
Kate H.
TravelerSalt Point State Park Campground
Great time
This was our first camping trip and we loved this location. Very close to the water, we could hear the ocean at night which was so peaceful. There were other campers but everyone was chill and quiet.
There’s GREAT hiking and although the camp is pet friendly not all the trails are so be aware of that.
As others mentioned, there isn’t a ton around so make sure you’ve got everything or get there early enough to utilize shops before they close.
We stayed at spot 18 which was lovely, good trees for the hammock and you could see the ocean. Our spot wasn’t completely flat and we slid around in there quite a bit but it didn’t ruin our stay.
We also had great cell service and use Verizon.
- Lauren S.Scout
Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
Great location, tight spots
The location is great since you’re close to st Helena and Calistoga. The road is narrow and the spots are tricky to back into. It was our first time with out 20ft trailer and we struggled a bit, took us three tries we kept having to drive around the loop of the campground. Lots of poison oak. Dog friendly on the paved road/path. We didn’t use the pool, but it’s open 1-5pm and it’s spring fed. Lots of kids, definitely kid friendly since it’s so small!
Chris G.Scoutbodega dunes campground
Great trails for Ebikes
Stayed here for a day and I was impressed with all the scenery and great trails for E bikes make sure you bring a fat tire cause there’s a lot of sand.
SweetT J.ScoutSonoma County Fairgrounds RV Park
Spring Lake
Very quiet and there's lots of trails to walk. Easy walking around the lake.
- SweetT J.Scout
Johnson's Beach
Johnson's Beach
Really chill, very relaxing vibe and the locals are crazy wonderful 😊
Catherine H.TravelerHigh Valley Ridge
Worth the drive… incredible
The drive up was windy and a bit steep at points but well groomed and manageable in an SUV. I’m sure most cars can do the drive with a responsible person behind the wheel. We drove right up to the pin where there’s 2 sites, an upper (larger site) and a lower with a fire ring. It did look like there were more pull offs before we pulled up to the pin. The view is insane and it feels super safe and secluded!!
- KKristi R.
GuideRio Viento RV Park
Well run, clean park
Friendly staff, well run, clean bathrooms and showers. Bumpy narrow road on the levee on the road in but doable. It is windy due to the location, particularly at night. Really shook the RV.
Guide to St. Helena
Camping sites near St. Helena, California range from basic fairground accommodations to wilderness parks with extensive hiking trails. Located in the Napa Valley at approximately 250 feet elevation, the region experiences warm, dry summers with daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cooler winters with occasional frost. Fire restrictions typically remain in place from May through October, with many campgrounds limiting or prohibiting open flames during peak fire season.
What to do
Hiking trails at Sugarloaf Ridge: The park offers numerous hiking options within easy reach of camping areas. "There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too. My personal favorite hike in this park is at the bottom of the hill from the campground, but can be accessed by trails and a short road walk, and that is the Goodspeed Trail to Gunsight Rock," explains one visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Observatory access: Astronomy enthusiasts can visit the Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge. "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 went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" reports a camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Water activities on Lake Berryessa: The lake provides options for paddleboarding and boating in designated areas. "I came to check out the more calm waters in the canyon for my paddleboard. The site was great layout and I had a really enjoyable time out on the water. Other boaters were very respectful of the no wake zones," notes a visitor to Steele Canyon.
What campers like
Strategic wine country location: Campers appreciate the cost-effective base for exploring nearby vineyards. "Nice campground halfway between St. Helena and Calistoga giving you access to the Napa Valley at a very reasonable price. Not very crowded during the week, but weekends are usually generally full," writes a reviewer about Ritchey Creek Campground.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "The site was great and I had a really enjoyable time... I walked the 'Nature Trail' through the campground and when we tried to sit they would swarm. But it was a nice short easy walk, where we saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, and quails!" shares a camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Creek-adjacent campsites: Sites near flowing water provide natural sound barriers and cooling effects. "We had campsite 47 which backs up to the creek. The rumbling sound from the creek lulled us to sleep. We set up our tent towards the back of the site closest to the creek because it was more private," recounts a camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Be prepared for significant daily temperature swings. "Make sure you are prepared for the temperature swing. 89 in the day and down to 51 at night. I love a shower and they also have a pool open Memorial Day to Labor Day. Pick a spot in the shade if possible," advises a camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
Limited water access: Some campgrounds require self-sufficiency with water supplies. At Skyline Wilderness Park, a reviewer notes it's "dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.). Fire scars all around the lake...looks like this entire area got hit a few years ago. Nice host at the front gate, $45 and at least on a Sunday PM (July) it's mostly empty. Bring extra H2O."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain seasons. "The flying bugs/mosquitoes were out so come prepared. Only left with 1-2 bites = victory! We walked the 'Nature Trail' through the campground and when we tried to sit they would swarm," shares a Sugarloaf Ridge camper.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated recreational spaces. "We've camped here a couple of times with our kids it's perfect for novice campers like us. The staff is awesome, there are bathrooms and showers. You can rent a tent, buy wood and it's a short drive into town in case you need to stock up," explains a visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly biking loops. "It is very forgiving here and close to everything in case you didn't pack enough food or propane or fire starter. The camp host is amazing. The bathrooms are clean with free cold showers or quarters for hot showers. They have fire pits at every location, firewood to buy on site, it is very kid friendly with a fun loop for the kids to bike or scooter around plus easy access to the lake," reports a camper at Spring Lake Regional Park.
Educational programs: Some parks offer structured activities for children. "They have a quest hike. They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it," shares a Sugarloaf Ridge visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly. Native garden is very nice," notes an RVer at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Urban RV options: For those seeking full hookups and proximity to wine country, fairground RV parks provide basic services. "Centrally located but a little walk to downtown Napa. Hookups include 30 and 50 amp with water and sewer. Nice cemented pads. Easy place to stay for the weekend and explore downtown Napa," explains a visitor to Napa Valley Expo RV Park.
Variable site dimensions: RV site layouts can vary significantly between campgrounds. "All of the sites are good though space 43 is awkward if you have a 25ft+ trailer," warns a camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near St. Helena, California?
What are the best campgrounds near St. Helena, California?
Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is ideally located between St. Helena and Calistoga in the heart of wine country. This campground offers clean sites nestled among redwoods, oaks, and madrones with hiking trails throughout the park. For those wanting to explore beyond Napa Valley, Skyline Wilderness Park provides another excellent option near St. Helena with varied terrain and recreational opportunities. RV travelers may appreciate Napa Valley Expo RV Park for its proximity to wineries, while those seeking a more rustic experience can check out the campgrounds at Lake Berryessa, approximately 30 minutes from St. Helena.
How far is Spring Lake Regional Park from St. Helena?
How far is Spring Lake Regional Park from St. Helena?
Spring Lake Regional Park is approximately 25 miles west of St. Helena, about a 45-minute drive via Highway 12. This Santa Rosa park offers camping with newer bathrooms and shower facilities, though sites are relatively open and exposed. The campground provides excellent access to water activities on Spring Lake, hiking trails, and connects to both Trione-Annadel State Park and Howarth Park. For a coastal alternative at a similar distance, Bodega Dunes Campground is about 50 miles from St. Helena, offering access to several dog-friendly beaches with clean facilities and semi-private sites.
Where can I find a map of St. Helena, CA camping areas?
Where can I find a map of St. Helena, CA camping areas?
The most reliable maps of camping areas around St. Helena can be found on The Dyrt app or website, which offers interactive maps showing campground locations with reviews and amenities. Official maps are also available at visitor centers in Bothe-Napa Valley State Park and the St. Helena Chamber of Commerce. For specific campground layouts, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park and Napa County Fairgrounds provide downloadable site maps on their websites. California State Parks' official website features detailed PDF maps of state park campgrounds in the region. Most visitor centers in Napa Valley also distribute free printed maps showing local camping options.
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