Glamping near Santa Rosa, California centers around both coastal and inland options within Sonoma County's diverse terrain. Summer temperatures range from 55°F to 85°F while winter brings cooler weather between 35°F and 60°F with increased rainfall. Camping accommodations vary from basic tent sites to luxury glamping setups with established facilities typically open year-round, though some have seasonal restrictions.
What to do
Observatory stargazing in wine country: Campers at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park position themselves perfectly for night sky viewing and wine tasting. "There is every type of camp spot, river front RV, tent, back your overland rig and camp off your tailgate. They even have cabins and a whole home you can rent on the property," notes one visitor to the broader region's waterfront camping options.
Hiking through redwoods and forests: With extensive trail networks connecting many campgrounds, hiking options abound. At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the natural surroundings. "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!" commented a camper about the hiking options.
Water recreation on Russian River: For those who prefer water activities, the Russian River provides swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities. "Russian River is right out front of the campground. They offer kayaks canoes, and whatever else you want to rent," observed a visitor to Johnson's Beach, though they cautioned about pet restrictions.
What campers like
Proximity to wineries and small towns: Many campers value the location near Sonoma's wineries. "It's so nice to be right in the Napa Valley. We found a great trail close by at Lake Hennessey. If you're a wine drinker, during non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!" shared one Bothe-Napa visitor, highlighting the convenient access to wine country.
Access to swimming areas: The Russian River provides popular swimming spots. "The private beach is great for kids (and adults). Easy swimming without a strong current. Lots of shallows but a deep swimming hole are for adults too," wrote one camper at River Bend Resort, noting the family-friendly swimming options.
Urban convenience with nature immersion: Many campers appreciate the balance between wilderness and convenience. "This is our little spot when we just don't want to be in the wilderness. There is an access to the river and few steps away from an old small town feel. Lots of local shops and bars right outside the campsite," explains a Johnson's Beach visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal weather patterns: The region experiences significant seasonal variations. "It can get warm in the summer, but the cool moist ocean fog comes in and blankets the area in the evenings, which can really cool it down," notes a visitor to Samuel P. Taylor State Park, emphasizing the need to pack layers regardless of season.
Site privacy varies significantly: Campground layout and privacy can differ dramatically between parks. At Spring Lake Regional Park, a camper observed: "The sites are not too close together but it is easy to see into the surrounding neighbors. The bathrooms were clean but older... 2 of the stalls were incredibly narrow."
Wildlife awareness needed: Local wildlife is abundant but requires caution. "There is also poison oak in the unmaintained areas and off the trails, so be aware," warns a Samuel P. Taylor visitor, while others mention encounters with raccoons, deer, and even rattlesnakes on trails at some parks.
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with dedicated children's activities: Many campgrounds offer facilities specifically for kids. At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, visitors appreciate the amenities: "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream. We stay when visiting the area and endure the screaming kids. The kids do have fun, I give them that."
Consider off-peak timing: Weekdays typically offer a quieter experience. "The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice. Staff are really nice," notes a camper at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park.
Pack for variable temperatures: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. One camper at Spring Lake noted: "We camped here for 3 nights over Fourth of July holiday... The weather was nice mid-April. Good amount of shade. Flat ground for tent. Picnic table, fire pit, bear box, nearby bathrooms & dumpsters."
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Arrive at this park full of water. There was only one spigot with threads (for attaching hose to fill tanks); it was at spot 29," advises an RV camper at Spring Lake Regional Park.
Site sizes vary significantly: RV site dimensions differ between campgrounds. "Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer," noted an RVer at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, where most sites can accommodate larger rigs.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds are located near roadways. "What was not mentioned is that it is right next to the highway so we heard frequent traffic day & nite," warns a River Bend Resort visitor, highlighting the importance of researching site locations within campgrounds.
