Best Tent Camping near Santa Rosa, CA

The Russian River region west of Santa Rosa, California offers diverse tent camping options, from established campgrounds to walk-in backcountry sites. Schoolhouse Canyon Campground in Guerneville provides tent campsites under a 100-foot canopy of trees, with direct access to the Russian River. Bullfrog Pond Campground near Armstrong Redwoods State Park features tent-only sites around a pond and in surrounding woods. For more primitive tent camping experiences, Point Reyes National Seashore, located about 40 miles southwest of Santa Rosa, offers several backcountry tent campgrounds including Sky Camp, Coast Camp, and Wildcat Camp.

Tent sites throughout the region vary considerably in terrain and amenities. Most established campgrounds provide picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while backcountry sites may offer only basic facilities. At Schoolhouse Canyon, tent campers find level sites with nearby water spigots, clean bathrooms, and showers. In contrast, primitive tent camping areas in Point Reyes require hikers to carry in supplies along trails ranging from 1.3 to 6 miles. Seasonal considerations affect tent camping conditions, with summer fog common along coastal areas and potential fire restrictions during dry periods. Food storage lockers are available at most sites to protect supplies from wildlife, particularly raccoons which are prevalent throughout the region.

Walk-in tent sites provide unique advantages for campers seeking solitude. According to reviews, Bootjack Campground in Mount Tamalpais State Park offers a peaceful tent-only experience where "sites are next to a creek" and provide "quick access to solid trails." One camper noted that at Wildcat Camp in Point Reyes, "the tall grass gave some privacy between neighboring campsites." During weekdays and off-season periods, tent campers often find greater site availability and quieter surroundings. At Bullfrog Pond, a visitor reported that the campground feels "so far from the world when you are not," making it ideal for tent campers seeking a backcountry experience without venturing too far from Santa Rosa. Most walk-in tent sites require reservations, though some operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Best Tent Sites Near Santa Rosa, California (40)

    1. Schoolhouse Canyon Campground

    8 Reviews
    Rio Nido, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 869-2311

    $48 / night

    "He put us in a very level spot that was great for my rooftop tent situation. Can’t say enough good things about him and his staff. Everyone was very friendly."

    "Location location location…. The Schoolhouse Canyon Campground is located about 400 yards off the Russian River / 1/2 mile down the road from the Korbel Winery (amazing deli!!!)"

    2. Bullfrog Pond Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    7 Reviews
    Guerneville, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 869-2015

    "Right by Armstrong Redwoods State Park there is a steep winding road at the end of which there is literally a pond. "

    "We had spot number 23 but I think 24 or 21 would have been the best for shade and privacy. THERE ARE NO SHOWERS HERE! we did not know this before hand."

    3. La Bohemia

    1 Review
    Rio Nido, CA
    14 miles
    +1 (510) 866-7826

    $200 - $800 / night

    4. Highlands Resort

    2 Reviews
    Guerneville, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 869-0333

    $30 - $50 / night

    "Outdoor kitchen with grill and gas stove. ice machine, Camp among beautiful redwoods in Guerneville just off the Russian River. Many bars and restaurants in walking distance. Nearby supermarket."

    "Tucked away from the world, cozy little camp under a bridge and looking out of a crack to see huge waves coming in n! Almost like it will swallow us hole. Will be back for sure!"

    5. Sky Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore

    13 Reviews
    Point Reyes National Seashore, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (415) 663-8054

    "The hike in camp is only a 1.3 ish mile hike and it was awesome."

    "There is short backpack trip to Sky Camp which is litereally on the ridge.  You are in the Point Reyes National Seashore up on a ridge.  Beautiful views when there is no fog - but expect fog."

    6. Duncans Mills Campground (Membership)

    2 Reviews
    Duncans Mills, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 865-2024

    "Beautiful river along with campsites surrounded by tall tress. Nice place to relax,hike, fish and or kayaking. full hookups and well maintained campground along with a decent rec center."

    7. Tomales Bay Boat-In Camping — Point Reyes National Seashore

    6 Reviews
    Marshall, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    "You can buy or rent a portable toilet if you want to camp at a more secluded beach or just camp at Marshalls beach and you can walk to the pit toilets there."

    "The beach camping is primative but there is a restroom.  Crossing the bay can be treacherous so study the weather - especially winds before you set out. "

    8. Miss Daisy’s Magical Wonderland

    Be the first to review!
    Sebastopol, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 364-1622

    $35 - $80 / night

    10. Coast Campground — Point Reyes National Seashore

    9 Reviews
    Point Reyes National Seashore, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (415) 464-5100

    $30 - $90 / night

    "Fun baby backpacking trip with my husband . The hike to the campsite went by fast. Only 1.8 miles, not too bad on the elevation gain either."

    "Inside the Point Reyes National seashore, this is a hike in only campground. But has pit toilets, potable water. Groups sites also available."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Santa Rosa, CA

791 Reviews of 40 Santa Rosa Campgrounds



Guide to Santa Rosa

Tent camping near Santa Rosa, California offers a delightful escape into nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Some prices for tent camping range from $5 to $50

Local activities to enjoy while tent camping

  • At Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, guests can enjoy floating on the Russian River and exploring nearby hiking trails.
  • Bullfrog Pond Campground is close to Armstrong Redwoods State Park, perfect for hiking and enjoying the majestic redwoods.
  • For a unique experience, Tomales Bay Boat-In Camping allows for kayaking and exploring the beautiful bay, with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Santa Rosa, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Santa Rosa, CA is Schoolhouse Canyon Campground with a 5-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Santa Rosa, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 40 tent camping locations near Santa Rosa, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.