Napa Valley's campgrounds sit within a unique Mediterranean climate zone, averaging 260 sunny days annually with temperatures ranging from 40-90°F depending on season. Cabin camping options near Napa are positioned at elevations between 300-2,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valley floor accommodations and those in surrounding hillsides. Winter cabin rentals typically require advance booking of 2-3 months during peak wine tourism season.
What to do
Hiking at Samuel P. Taylor State Park: Located about 40 miles southwest of Napa, the park offers well-maintained trails through redwood groves. "There is also Kayaking in Tomales Bay which is okay fun," notes a visitor, while another points out the "wonderful campsites nestled among mature trees with a stream that runs through it."
Wildlife viewing at Brannan Island SRA: About 45 minutes east of Napa, this recreation area provides excellent bird watching opportunities. "Beautiful campground, very few spots with hookups. We stayed right on the levee. Bonus bike trail!!" mentions one reviewer, while another notes being "awoken (as is the norm in NorCal) to gobbling turkeys at dawn."
Horseback riding near Olema Campground: Within an hour's drive from Napa, visitors can book riding tours at nearby stables. "Olema is our go to spot. Every year with and without grandkids. The kids love the playground and try their hand at shuffleboard. Close to multiple beaches," shares one frequent visitor to this Olema Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to wine tasting: Ritchey Creek Campground offers convenient access to vineyards. "Nice quiet spot. Super friendly and helpful host. Bike trail right out of the campsite, through the vineyards into Calistoga," reports one camper. Another adds, "This is our second time here. It's so nice to be right in the Napa Valley. During non-COVID times you can catch a wine bus from here!"
Water activities: Casini Ranch Family Campground provides river access about 90 minutes from Napa. "Campground is next to the Russian River. River access for swimming & boating," notes a visitor. Another mentions that "there is a kayak rental by the beach area. The scenery along the river is nice."
Unique cabin experiences: Steep Ravine Campground offers rustic ocean-view cabins with wood-burning stoves. "These cabins are well worth the cost. There is a separate bedroom, you could sleep 2 couples on beds easily with extra floor space and a small individual bunk for larger families," shares one visitor. Another adds, "No electricity but the wood burning stove provides some light. Bring candles and lanterns and some fabric for curtains for privacy."
What you should know
Limited availability: Cabin reservations fill quickly, especially at the most sought-after locations. "Extremely hard to get a reservation. Can get very windy! Georgeous spot to pitch your tent on the ocean cliffs," notes a Steep Ravine visitor.
Weather considerations: Coastal cabin sites experience significant temperature swings. "The night is COLD up this way, and mere miles will cover several different weather systems. Bring layers," advises one Samuel P. Taylor State Park camper.
Wildlife encounters: "Raccoons, Chipmunks and Blue Jays were NOT SHY but also not a harrowing issue," reports a camper. Another warns, "Be careful of the poison oak, it is prevalent there as it is so anywhere in Northern California."
Tips for camping with families
Book midweek when possible: "The weekends usually are full, it clears out Sunday evening so during the weekdays it is really nice," notes a Bothe-Napa Valley visitor.
Pack extra activities: "We have been here for 2 weekends in the last few months. It is kid friendly, fun easy hike around the lake (no swimming but you can rent or bring your own kayaks or stand-up paddle boards)," shares a Spring Lake Regional Park camper.
Choose campgrounds with amenities: "This campground is GREAT. 5 mins from everything in town. Had good cell service and park was clean. They have a dog run area that is nice and large!" mentions a camper about Skyline Wilderness Park.
Tips from RVers
Consider site positioning: At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, "Sites were fairly close together and offered little privacy but overall it was a great place to recharge and get organized."
Check hookup locations: "Paid a premium price for a Saturday one nighter, but it certainly is a great VIP campsite. The host says they will come around in the morning and empty our tanks! No need to hook up our sewer hose!" shares a visitor at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA.
Prepare for tight spaces: "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 one Skyline Wilderness visitor.
