Seasonal camping conditions vary greatly across Sonoma County with inland campgrounds around Santa Rosa reaching 90°F in summer while coastal sites remain foggy with temperatures in the mid-60s. Many dog friendly campgrounds near Santa Rosa accommodate pets in both tent and RV sites, though specific amenities and trail access differ based on location. Winter camping presents different challenges with most campgrounds open year-round but requiring preparation for rain and cooler overnight temperatures.
What to do
Stargazing at the observatory: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground features the Robert Ferguson Observatory where visitors can join organized night hikes. One camper shares, "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" The observatory hosts regular astronomy events suitable for all ages.
Floating the Russian River: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground provides direct access to the Russian River with tubes available for rent. A visitor notes, "We spent most of our days down on the beach and floating," while another mentions you can "Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire."
Exploring coastal trails: Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground offers miles of hiking trails through redwoods with a paved path running along the creek. A camper explains, "There is also a paved path that runs for at least a mile or so along the creek, that used to be the old railroad line through that area."
Wildlife watching: Bodega Dunes Campground provides excellent opportunities to observe coastal wildlife. One visitor notes they saw "a few foxes, or the same fox a few times, so make sure to keep camp sites clean," while hiking trails offer views of marine life.
What campers like
Private beaches: Casini Ranch Family Campground offers river access with its own beach area. A camper reports, "The beach is just for guests of the campsite right across river road," providing a less crowded experience compared to public beaches.
Large campsites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at certain locations. At Casini Ranch, a visitor mentioned, "Sites are HUGE! We had plenty of room for our trailer, tent, corn hole, and more," making it ideal for families with multiple tents or larger setups.
Winter camping options: Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, offering different experiences across seasons. A camper at Spring Lake Regional Park shared, "This was a great campground to come on a winter weekend. Only 90 minutes from home to site," noting the convenience for off-season trips.
Protection from coastal wind: Doran Regional Park offers strategic protection from harsh coastal conditions. A visitor explained, "There are only a handful of tent only sites, most of which are secluded by trees," providing shelter from the consistent coastal winds.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. At Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground, "There is no cell coverage for any of the major providers, but free (slow) Wi-Fi covers half the camp, and premium Wi-Fi is available to purchase."
Varying shower systems: Most campgrounds offer showers, but payment systems differ. At Samuel P. Taylor, "Coin operated showers were also a treat," while one camper at Spring Lake Regional Park noted "free cold showers or quarters for hot showers."
Seasonal water access: Water activities may be restricted during certain times. At Samuel P. Taylor, "Access to the creek is seasonally restricted for spawning, and I believe that goes from spring to about mid June or July."
Wildlife precautions: Multiple campgrounds report active wildlife. A visitor at Bodega Dunes Campground noted, "We did see a few foxes," while another at Samuel P. Taylor mentioned "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly activities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers numerous structured activities for children. A camper shares, "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream," while another mentioned "giant bounce area" among the amenities.
Educational opportunities: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground provides nature programs specifically designed for children. A visitor noted, "Ask about the free quest hike. They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it," creating an engaging experience for younger campers.
Beach camping with kids: Doran Regional Park offers ideal conditions for families with younger children. A visitor explained, "The beach is wide, flat and great for families," noting the gentle water conditions in the protected cove.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds enforce strict noise regulations while others are more flexible. At Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, "Radios aren't allowed, so if you are looking to party late into the night this isn't the spot for you," making it ideal for families seeking quiet evenings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Bodega Dunes Campground, "They are generally smaller pull-in sites geared more toward tents, vans, and small travel trailers. There are just a handful of sites that can accommodate bigger RVs."
Water and electrical considerations: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers full hookup sites but with some limitations on space. A camper noted, "Had a pull through FHU site. Pretty narrow. Seems like a common theme."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer dump stations. At Casini Ranch Family Campground, one RVer was pleasantly surprised when "The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!"
Solar power options: Tree coverage impacts solar charging capabilities. At Samuel P. Taylor, "Because of the amazing redwood canopy, it might be hard to get good sun for solar in most of the sites," requiring alternative power planning for RVers relying on solar.
