Sonoma County offers glamping options near coastal redwoods and oak woodland settings with elevations ranging from 100 to 2,400 feet. Fog rolls in during summer evenings in western areas, while eastern valleys maintain warmer temperatures. Campers should prepare for 30-40°F temperature drops at night even during summer months, with winter camping requiring extra insulation against cold, damp conditions.
What to do
Observatory stargazing at Sugarloaf Ridge: Participate in astronomy programs at the Robert Ferguson Observatory. "There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too. My personal favorite hike in this park is at the bottom of the hill from the campground, but can be accessed by trails and a short road walk, and that is the Goodspeed Trail to Gunsight Rock," notes one Sugarloaf Ridge State Park visitor.
Wine tasting by bicycle: Rent bikes in Calistoga and pedal to nearby vineyards. A Bothe-Napa Valley State Park camper shares: "Bike trail right out of the campsite, through the vineyards into Calistoga." Park at camp and avoid driving after wine tasting by using the shuttle services available.
Kayaking on Spring Lake: Rent watercraft for paddling adventures near Santa Rosa. "Lots of recreation options, but that also means busy. Great access to Spring Lake's water-based activities and hiking trails, plus easy access to Trione-Annadel State Park for hiking and mountain biking," explains a recent visitor to Spring Lake.
Waterfall hiking year-round: Several trails lead to seasonal falls from November through June. "We walked the 'Nature Trail' through the campground & when we tried to sit they would swarm. But it was a nice short easy walk, where we saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails!" describes a Sugarloaf Ridge camper.
What campers like
Private sites in redwood settings: Campsites with natural spacing and tree cover. One Samuel P. Taylor State Park visitor notes: "Beautiful campground but close to the road. It has wonderful campsites nestled among mature trees with a stream that runs through it. It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces."
Wine country proximity: Easy access to wineries without driving far. "This place was wonderful! We stumbled upon this place after wine tasting in Sonoma. This place had many sites and super family friendly. Very easy to find. There was lots of deer/wildlife which was cool to see up close," shares a Sugarloaf Ridge camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Regular encounters with local fauna throughout the year. A Skyline Wilderness Park camper reports: "Wild turkey, deer, wood peckers regularly seen!" These wildlife encounters happen frequently even at campgrounds closer to urban areas.
Year-round accessibility: Most glamping locations remain open through winter with proper facilities. "Great place to stay at when visiting the Napa wine valley that is halfway between St Helena and Calistoga, two nice tourist towns. The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice," explains a Bothe-Napa camper.
What you should know
Advance reservations essential: Book months ahead for summer and fall weekends. "It can be hard to reserve a site ahead of time but they do have first-come first serve sites too," mentions a Sugarloaf Ridge visitor. For prime glamping accommodations during harvest season (September-October), reserve 6+ months in advance.
Seasonal considerations: Wildfire season affects air quality July-October. "During COVID, this non profit ecology based campground supplied each campsite its own portopotty with volunteer donations," notes a San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA camper. Check for park closures and fire warnings during summer months.
Poison oak awareness: Prevalent in many natural areas around Sonoma. "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," warns a Bothe-Napa camper.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for fog and cold evenings even in summer. "The weather was nice mid-April. Good amount of shade. Flat ground for tent. The flying bugs/mosquitoes were out so come prepared," advises a Sugarloaf Ridge visitor. Pack layers regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming options: Kid-friendly water activities for hot days. An Olema Campground visitor shares: "Olema is our go to spot. Every year with and without grandkids. Clean and friendly staff. The store has the necessities. The kids love the playground and try their hand at shuffleboard. Close to multiple beaches."
Nature programs for children: Ranger-led activities available at several parks. "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time! Every site had their own cleaned porta potty which was very nice. Make a donation to help keep it going!" enthuses a Sugarloaf Ridge camper.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "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," notes a San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA visitor about the amenities.
Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities for kids at state parks. "We've camped here a couple of times with our kids it's perfect for novice campers like us. The staff is awesome, there are bathrooms and showers. You can rent a tent, buy wood and it's a short drive into town in case you need to stock up," explains a family at Sugarloaf Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites away from tent camping areas. "Had a pull through FHU site. Pretty narrow. Seems like a common theme. Great things for kids to be entertained by and enjoy for sure. We were passing through and I think we would have been better served elsewhere," advises a San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA visitor.
Hookup availability: Full hookups available but often require early booking. "RV campsites are close together and semi-level. Bathrooms could use some TLC. But the park is nice with lots of hiking, views and close to Napa," notes a Skyline Wilderness visitor.
Size restrictions: Many glamping sites near Sonoma limit RV length. "It's a bit too tight for large trailer or RV camping unless you are an expert at maneuvering through tight spaces," cautions a Samuel P. Taylor camper about the narrow access roads.
Dump station access: Not all parks provide on-site dumping. "Clean simple and fun place with loads to do for the family. Swim, play and explore all the north bay has to offer," comments a San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA visitor who appreciated the full-service facilities.
