Camping opportunities near Ukiah, California range across several climate zones within Mendocino County, from valley areas that can reach 100°F in summer to coastal regions typically 15-20 degrees cooler. The Russian River watershed provides several water recreation options, though drought conditions can affect water levels at various times of year. Most campgrounds in the area sit between 600-1,200 feet in elevation.
What to do
Paddle the lake: At The Aurora RV Park & Marina in Nice, campers can enjoy complimentary water activities. "They offer FREE canoe/paddle boating. Bathrooms are kept clean and mike, the owner is amazing," notes reviewer Melissa C. The park sits on Clearlake with dedicated water access.
Disc golf with views: Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort in Willits features an on-site disc golf course. "The disc golf course offers beautiful views when on top of the course, but watch out for poison oak!" advises Paul H. The course is suitable for beginners and intermediate players.
Wildlife watching: Visit the coastal areas for bird watching opportunities. "The walk along the roadway is very beautiful. Although it is along town building, the water side is a low water estuary or sorts - lots of tall grasses and duckweed type plants. Many birds. I even saw an egret," reports Ann D. from The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping: Westport Beach RV Park and Campground offers premium coastal sites. "You are perched out in the open on a bluff above the ocean. So the view and sunsets are epic," shares MarinMaverick. The campground provides direct beach access with sites just steps from the water.
Swimming access: Russian River access points provide swimming opportunities during summer months. "River near by, nice swimming hole in October if you were willing to walk over a lot of rocks. Not sure what the river would be like in spring," mentions Jeanne D. who visited Thousand Trails Russian River.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain good sanitation standards. At Harbor RV Park, "The RV park is part of a mobile home park. What you get is a space to park, water, electric and sewage," says Harry S. The park sits on a bluff with ocean views and offers full utility connections.
What you should know
Wind protection: Coastal campsites experience significant wind. "Being on the bluff when the wind comes in, in a tent with no cover, it can be fierce," cautions MarinMaverick about Westport-Union Landing State Beach. Tent campers should bring extra stakes and wind-resistant shelters.
Variable road conditions: Highway 1 access can challenge larger vehicles. "To get to clear lake from the west the road is very windy and only allows 34 feet and I think that is pushing it," warns Ann D. who camped at The Aurora RV Park.
Spotty connectivity: Internet access varies widely throughout the region. At Harbor RV Park, a camper reported: "Was told has Wi-Fi but I have not found it." Cell coverage generally improves closer to towns and deteriorates in valley areas.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort caters specifically to families with children. "Designed for families, this KOA a lot. A petting zoo, water play, pool, arcade and events. We were there for movie night. They had a big screen and showed a film for the kiddos," shares Donna D.
Theme activities: Look for resorts with scheduled programming. "Has a western themed town that hold little dances and ice cream parlor parties for kids. This KOA also has a mini waterpark as well," reports Amaya L. from Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Camp store supplies: Most campgrounds maintain basic provisions on-site. "The check-in area/shop had everything you needed if you forgot it," notes Jordan P. about Westport Beach RV Park, which maintains a small market with camping essentials.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground, "Its a super cramped campground for big rigs. Much nicer and more privacy if tenting," advises Marcus K. The park features both RV and tent sites with varying levels of privacy.
Space considerations: RV spaces range widely in size and layout. "The best spot is 'ocean view' but its time to change the name. That site is for tenting but can accommodate a small rv or van. The vegetation is so tall there is no actual ocean view," Marcus K. continues about Caspar Beach.
Pull-through availability: Many parks offer easier access options. "This was a well kept rv campground. They have hookups and sewer. It is more or less an rv Park for people working in the area or staying for longer periods of time," notes Zachary C. about his stay at Redwood Empire Fair RV Park.
