Camping options around the Sea Ranch coastline span across Sonoma and Mendocino counties, with elevations ranging from sea level to 500 feet in the coastal campgrounds. The region experiences a marine-influenced climate with summer fog and mild winter temperatures rarely dropping below 45°F. Most campgrounds in this area maintain year-round operations despite seasonal variations in visitation and occasional winter closures due to storm damage.
What to do
Beach exploration: 1-2 miles from camp: At Bodega Dunes Campground, campers can easily access coastal trails. "Hiking among the sand dunes and along the beach provide some really stunning scenery. Reaching the beach, you'll find as much coastal sand as you can handle with miles and miles of it to yourself," notes Shari G.
Tidepooling: Best at low tide: Several beaches near Sea Ranch offer tidepooling opportunities. "On the right day there are some tidepools (not a lot). A stream runs through camp and empties on to the beach," says MarinMaverick about the small beach at Russian Gulch State Park.
Historical sites: 15-minute drive: The Hitchcock filming locations attract film buffs. "Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire. Overall a great campground for adults and kids... see where they filmed Hitchcock's 'The Birds,'" recommends Justin B.
Fern Canyon hiking: 2-mile trail: The inland trails provide alternatives when coast weather turns foggy. "Great Fern Canyon trail and waterfall trail back in the gorge. You can explore all the Mendociono Coast from here," shares MarinMaverick.
What campers like
Private beach access: Less crowded: Many campers appreciate the small beaches near campgrounds. "I like this a little better than Van Damm down the road because of the small private beach which never appears crowded," notes MarinMaverick about Russian Gulch State Park.
Secluded campsites: More privacy: Jackson Demonstration Forest offers sites away from crowds. "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center," reports Danielle F. These campgrounds provide alternatives to the often-booked coastal sites.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn/dusk best: Wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience. "We did see a few foxes, or the same fox a few times, so make sure to keep camp sites clean," warns Michael I. about Bodega Dunes.
Dining options: Local seafood: Coastal towns near campgrounds offer fresh seafood. "Bodega Bay has a couple of small grocery stores, gas stations, and more than a few restaurants to meet nearly any craving. The area is known for its Dungeness Crab Harvest," recommends Shari G.
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Sea Ranch, California remain extremely limited. While pets are allowed at most campgrounds, dedicated equestrian camping facilities with corrals are unavailable at Bodega Dunes, Russian Gulch, and other nearby options.
Sand management: Bring mats: The coastal sites often have sandy surfaces. "I have to confess that I feel pretty silly for not being as prepared for the sand as I should have been from the name of the campground. We walked around sites 22-55 and all seem to be entirely on the sand," shares Michael I.
Weather considerations: Bring layers: Coastal fog and wind affect camping comfort. "Given that the campground is on the water, it can get very chilly at night and the wind tends to pick up," warns Haley C. about camping in Bodega Bay.
Bathhouse conditions: Token-operated: Liberty Glen Campground has specific shower systems. "Check their website for the latest update on if they have potable water on site, it can vary from year to year. Bathrooms are decently clean, with access to paid showers," advises April H.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Good for downtime: Some campgrounds offer play areas. "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus," shares Joshua H. about Bu-Shay Campground.
Bike-friendly loops: For children: Campgrounds with paved roads work well for families. "This is a great place for family, kids rode bikes all weekend. Nobody was too loud or partying late," reports Dustin C.
Creek exploration: Supervised play: Small water features provide entertainment. "A stream runs through camp and empties on to the beach," notes MarinMaverick, making Russian Gulch popular with families wanting water play options.
Group sites: For family reunions: Larger gatherings need special sites. "We statyed mostly in smaller sites, but attended a wedding at the group site (D), which was LOVELY- there was a roofed area with picnic table seating for ~50- and another roofed area for the dance party," shares Kelly M. about Liberty Glen.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Check loop locations: At Bodega Dunes, site location matters. "If you want a sunny site, go for the center of the loop in the 60s/70s. We prefer shade and some space," advises Emily W.
Off-season advantages: More availability: Visiting during shoulder seasons improves chances of finding space. "We spent a long weekend here at the end of February. Weather was as to be expected for near the coast, but sheltered enough from the wind," reports Dustin C.
Dump station access: Limited facilities: Middle Creek Campground lacks full hookups. "Site 11, pull through, no hook ups, nice picnic table, grill and fire pit. Vault toilets, no showers. There is potable water close to the campsites," notes Michi P.
Solar considerations: Site-dependent: RVers relying on solar should consider tree coverage. "Many of the sites have decent open sky resources for solar power and satellite internet, though many in the lower areas had standing water and torn up asphalt pads from the heavy rains," reports Shari G.
