Camping near Sonoma, California ranges from basic RV lots in the heart of wine country to secluded campgrounds tucked against the Pacific coastline. The region sits at elevations between sea level and 2,500 feet, creating microclimates that can vary dramatically within a few miles. Winter campers should prepare for nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 30s, even when daytime highs reach the 60s.
What to do
Hiking through redwoods: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground, visitors can explore trails through old-growth redwoods. "The park is nice with lots of hiking, an observatory, and often nature events throughout the summer (docent led hikes for example). The volunteers who run the place do a fantastic job with everything, from keeping the site clean, to providing tons of info for budding naturalists," notes a Sugarloaf Ridge State Park camper.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Spring Lake Regional Park offers water recreation options close to Santa Rosa. According to a reviewer, "In the Bay Area there aren't too many place that you be in a city and feel like you are away. Spring Lake has been that for us... you can rent or bring your own kayaks or stand-up paddle boards, camp store, excellent hikes, and a general good groove." Spring Lake Regional Park also connects to Trione-Annadel State Park for additional outdoor activities.
Crabbing at Tomales Bay: Lawson's Landing provides access to excellent crabbing. One visitor mentioned, "Caught and ate crabs both times I've been here" at this coastal camping spot that sits "at the south end of Bodega bay, at the mouth of Tomales bay."
What campers like
Wine country accessibility: Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers affordable camping with easy access to wineries. "Best secret in Napa. We have rented at this campground many times. Never had any trouble getting a reservation in spring or fall. Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!" says one regular visitor. The park sits between St. Helena and Calistoga.
Convenience to urban amenities: Many campers appreciate how Skyline Wilderness Park lets them stay close to Napa's attractions. A reviewer noted, "A safe, beautiful, affordable property to spend outdoors time on. Convenient sites with complete hookup and also restroom/showers handy. The 800+ acres of hills, woods and fields offers archery, disc golf, hiking, horseback riding and more. Bonus: short drive to Downtown Napa."
Beach access and dunes: The protective dunes at Lawson's Landing create a buffer between the camping area and ocean. "The campground is mostly flat and grassy, with fire pits and picnic tables at the sites. One of the great features of this campground is that the camping area is separated from the beach/ocean by protective dunes. You can still hear the ocean, but it isn't as loud and windy as it could be."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campsites fill quickly in peak season. At Samuel P. Taylor, "It's often booked in the summer months," while Bothe-Napa Valley State Park campers note "Never had any trouble getting a reservation in spring or fall."
Poison oak awareness: Several parks have significant poison oak growth. At Bothe-Napa Valley, a visitor warned, "Beautiful and close to downtown Calistoga however the campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere."
Wildfire impacts: Recent fires have affected some parks. At Skyline Wilderness Park, campers can still enjoy "hiking, views, nature, and close to Napa" despite past fire damage. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park experienced "severe damage with almost 80% of the park being burned. As of today, seven months after the fires, some trails in the park remain closed. While the landscape has changed dramatically, the fires have provided an interesting new perspective to the park."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA offers extensive facilities for children. "Great getaway in a great location. Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer," reports one family. Another mentions "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."
Nature scavenger hunts: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers educational activities for children. A visitor shared, "Ask about the free quest hike. They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can spot various animals at several parks. At Sugarloaf Ridge, campers reported seeing "a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails" during a short nature walk through the campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Samuel P. Taylor State Park, experienced RVers recommend specific sites: "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping (unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces)." At Spring Lake Regional Park, one RVer noted, "Spot (3) was great and accommodated both our truck and 32" fifth wheel, as well as having plenty of space for all 3 slides."
Water access limitations: RVers should arrive with full tanks at some parks. A Spring Lake camper advised, "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."
Urban camping options: Napa Valley Expo RV Park provides in-town access. "Centrally located but a little walk to downtown Napa. Hookups include 30 and 50 amp with water and sewer. Nice cemented pads. Easy place to stay work the weekend and explore downtown Napa," reports an RVer who found it convenient despite limited amenities.
