Tent campsites near St. Helena, California offer access to a variety of outdoor activities beyond wine country exploration. Several campgrounds in the area operate seasonally with most sites available from April through October, while summer temperatures regularly reach 95-100°F. The region's camping options range from basic sites with vault toilets to more developed facilities featuring shower access and proximity to swimming areas.
What to do
Water recreation at Lake Berryessa: At Steele Canyon, campers can enjoy paddleboarding in the canyon's calm waters. "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 where very respectful of the no wake zones," notes one visitor.
Swimming in the Russian River: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground offers private beach access for guests. "The beach across River road is aprox five minute walk. You do have to wait to safely cross the busy street," explains a regular visitor. Another adds, "There is a private beach just for guests of the campsite right across river road. Wood for sale and tubes available for rent."
Hiking at Point Reyes: Multiple trails connect to Sky Campground, offering options for day hikes during your stay. "After setting up our camp we aimed to do a short hike up to the top of Mt. Wittenberg, 'the highest point in Pt. Reyes,'" shares one backpacker. Another hiker describes, "We chose to stay two nights and had a great time exploring the surrounding hiking trails - a personal favourite was Alamere Falls."
What campers like
Private beach access: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground provides exclusive river access. "Very nice water for floating and swimming, with a cute little beach area to keep your stuff," explains one camper. Another notes the equipment available: "Wood for sale and tubes available for rent. Prices are very reasonable."
Lake views: The campsites at Putah Canyon offer scenic vistas. "Lake Berryessa is a large lake that has many turnouts to fish or even stop for a quick stretching of the legs, even saw a few turnouts with picnic tables and clean bathrooms," one visitor observes. The campground has "loads of space, security driving around, noise limit is 10pm. Toilets are clean and trash cans are provided."
Forest camping: Bullfrog Pond Campground provides a quiet forest retreat. "Bullfrog campground is located in Armstrong woods (Guerneville, CA). It's on top of a rugged drive up the woods and they are first come first serve basis," explains one camper. Another notes, "Not far from Guerneville. Incredible view from the top of the campsites area. The walk-in camp sites actually have better setups albeit a little less private."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are common at most campgrounds during dry months. At Putah Canyon, "They sell ice and propane on-site," which provides cooking alternatives when fire restrictions are in place.
Limited services: Many campgrounds offer minimal amenities. At Lower Hunting Creek Campground, a camper noted, "I car camped in an area just above the campground. A good bit of utv traffic." Bring extra supplies as services are limited.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others are first-come, first-served. For Sky Campground, "Campsites are often booked solid (especially in high season), so réserve well ahead of time."
Wind exposure: Lake sites can experience significant wind. One Steele Canyon camper advised, "The campsites on the bluff of the hill can get windy so be prepared for that."
Tips for camping with families
Designated family areas: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground offers specific sections for families. "Lower half is family section and the upper section is adults only. This is a family run campground," explains one visitor. Another adds, "The spots closest to the enterance have theost privacy, the sites in the back are good for large groups and families."
Lake options for children: Steele Canyon provides calm water areas suitable for kids. "Our favorite spot to take the kids to the lake. If your looking for something calm this is the spot at Lake Berryessa," recommends one family.
Entertainment considerations: Campground policies affect family activities. At Schoolhouse Canyon, "Radios aren't allowed, so if you are looking to party late into the night this isn't the spot for you. We enjoyed the peace and quiet though."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near St. Helena offer minimal RV services. At Manzanita Canyon, an RVer noted, "Site was $45 a night, plus a $35 resort fee. Fire ban in effect, porta potties were clean and didn't stink."
Space considerations: Many campgrounds have size restrictions for RVs. "Nice site. Look in the 50's & 80's for the more secluded campsites," advises an RVer at Steele Canyon, indicating not all sites accommodate larger vehicles.
Cell service: Connectivity varies by location. At Manzanita Canyon, a camper reported "Full bars on Verizon service!" which can be important for RVers needing to stay connected.
