110 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Narrows Lodge Resort and Pine Acres Blue Lake Resort offer pet-friendly cabins alongside tent and RV camping options near Upper Lake. Both properties maintain waterfront sites where dogs can accompany their owners while fishing or relaxing by the water. Middle Creek Campground provides a more rustic option for campers with pets, featuring picnic tables and fire pits at each site with pets allowed throughout the campground. The Aurora RV Park & Marina allows pets in their lakeside and standard RV areas, though sites are notably close together. Reviews indicate clean facilities at most locations, with Pine Acres receiving particular praise for its private cove setting where pets and owners can enjoy lakefront activities together. Local campgrounds are searchable through The Dyrt's listings.
Several dispersed camping options welcome pets in the surrounding area, including Lakeview Dispersed and High Valley Road sites that provide free primitive camping with views overlooking Clear Lake. Potable water is limited at these locations, so campers should bring sufficient water for themselves and their pets. The access road to High Valley dispersed camping requires careful navigation, as reviews indicate steep, narrow conditions unsuitable for standard vehicles. Deer Valley Campground offers a more secluded environment for pets and owners, situated 45 minutes from Nice with six designated sites that include picnic tables and fire rings. Multiple reviewers note the peaceful atmosphere at these campgrounds, though seasonal fire restrictions often apply, requiring campers to bring propane stoves or gas fire pits instead of planning for traditional campfires.
"Having visited Lake County many times, I wasn't expecting much from this camp ground. I had intended to camp at Boggs Forest - my usual hangout for mountain biking when in the area."
"Had a nice spot that was semi-shaded in the afternoon, next to a lovely couple who I was able to share some beers with. The place was at capacity, but many people leave during the day."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"First time camping and going somewhat off road. If you’re worried about your vehicle making it up we saw a tesla and a nissan altima up there. My subaru made it up perfectly."
"Beautiful spot with some views of the lake. No services, but had cell service (CC). I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging."
"It’s a cute little campground, conveniently located right on the lake. There are a few sites directly at Lake side and Moore across the street. Generally well kept looks a little older."
"This park has two parts: most is across the street from the lake but some spots are lakeside. The lakeside spots are very tight together-and require backing in."
from $22 - $75 / night
Check Availability"We rented a motor boat for a few hours to explore the beautiful lake. Pet friendly. Great little beach. A dock to fish from. Everything you need to have a great time!"
"It’s a short walk from anywhere in the campground down to the lake. The water is crystal clear and there’s a little dock for jumping off of."
"Middle creek campground was as close as we could find to free camping in Upper Lake CA."
"Beautiful location, campground was easily accessible going up Elk Mountain Road. Camped in Site 11, pull through, no hook ups, nice picnic table, grill and fire pit. Vault toilets, no showers."
from $8 / night
Check Availability"After a last minute decision to leave Lake Berryessa in search of more solitude, found this gem of a spot. Lonely, picturesque, peaceful, and most importantly... open! Totally recommend it."
"But not a bad place to get away from the city. Daily easy access, rough dirt roads, I have a truck but would feel fine driving my wife’s Subaru to these sites."
"The drive up was windy and a bit steep at points but well groomed and manageable in an SUV. I’m sure most cars can do the drive with a responsible person behind the wheel."
"Recent regrading of the southern road up made it a cake walk, it's like a runway."
"There’s views of Lear Lake if you want to walk a bit. No water nearby. The road is very dusty on the way up!"
"Lots of little pullouts when you reach the top and then as you head down the north side more with beautiful views of the lake. Some private property on that end but nothing unusual."
from $39 - $175 / night
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TravelerCampsites are decently spaced for the type of campground. Awesome river access, and a short drive to restaurants or the beach. Clean bathrooms and a ton of amenities. The dog parks were clutch, since my dog needs to run. Had some neighbors who were really loud really late and Casini staff were all over it. Beautiful area not far from the bay
Scoutcentrally located in within Anderson valley,so one can go for a hike and (cool off in the Navarro river), go next door and eat organic apple, and Saunders down 128 (<1/4 mile) and sip some wine at the Navarro winery. Big bonus for pet owner this park has trails that you can walk your dog on!
TravelerMiddle creek campground was as close as we could find to free camping in Upper Lake CA. At the time of our visit 90% of the Mendocino National Forest was closed as a result of fires the past year as well as landslides due to rains.this is normally a ohv area but since all trails are closed it is quiet and peaceful.you can hear the creek running along the camp, as well as the wild turkeys . There must be over 15 different species of birds as well. Each campsite has a picnic table , fire pit as well as a bbq grill. They do have vault toilets and running water. It was $8.00 a nite but offered a discount with a America the beautiful pass
TravelerThis has been an honestly fun time. Many unexpected things, like movies now night, community campfire, and great of leash dog park area. The staff are so helpful. Delivered fire wood and propane to the site. If you’re not able to score a site with sewer hook-up, don’t worry. They offer a honey bucket service that comes to your RV for $15. All the usual amenities at a KOA, plus a pool, game room, and small general store. We will definitely be back. Oh and, look for a place to enjoy Thanksgiving, this place have a community pot luck, bring a side dish to share. They provide the turkey.
GuideWe originally were going to Fouts Creek Campground but it was HOV weekend (Presidents). Lots of dirt bikes and law enforcement. National Forest pulled in officers from surrounding forests and Sheriff Depts.
With a 35' Class A our options were limited. A Ranger suggested Letts Lake. There is a narrow one lane newly paved road that goes up to Dixie Glade equestrian camp, from there it is dirt. Taking it slow, we made it to Letts Lake and parked in spot 12. It was a tight fit, but we made it.
There are two additional campgrounds at the opposite end of the lake but they are closed for winter. As there was no water or trash service there was no fee. Typically $5.00)
The lake is small with no motors allowed but easy to walk around. Pet friendly in fact all but one campsite had at least one dog. Fire damage to the forest is substantial but new growth is already starting
RangerBeautiful campground sitting next to water with dense forest and ground cover. Clean shower and restrooms that include hot water, hand soap, paper towels, mirrors and electrical outlets. Friendly camp host and hike and bike area. Extra fee for pets.
GuideThis spot was a great little find. There is a trail from the campground to the park and beach area which is nice for a stroll. The campground is amongst the trees along the river. I would recommend the spots along the river over those on the inner side. Make sure to get a reservation in advance as it fills up. The spots are a little close together, but the big trees offer some separation. There is a pet fee of $2 per pet fyi.
TravelerMeh…
I had high hopes for this place, but overall, I’m unimpressed.
The good: Park staff is very responsive. Very close to the 101 with no highway nose.
The bad: No reservations. It is first come, first served. Poison Oak EVERYWHERE. No designated pet areas. Very tightly packed with no privacy. Hot with very little shade. Bathrooms are old, outdated, full of cobwebs and dirt. Low water pressure and n the showers.
ScoutWe stayed one night and lived the site and area surrounding. There were so many beautiful sounding birds in the canopy above and our site was surrounded by redwoods and douglas firs. I wanted to stay longer! Needless to say, I'll be back! I think this is my new favorite place. It was a little noisy at times but that's because it's fourth of July weekend and the site next to us had two families having a great time together. I was worried they might keep me up all night but they were respectful of quite hours which was nice. Pets are allowed which I also love. Next time I am bringing my pupper!
Dispersed camping options spread throughout the forest lands surrounding Upper Lake, California, with the Mendocino National Forest offering several primitive sites at higher elevations. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s while winter brings occasional snow at elevations above 2,000 feet, requiring campers to plan accordingly. Most free camping areas near Upper Lake require visitors to pack in their own water.
Fishing at Clear Lake: Kelsey Creek Campground provides access to one of California's premier fishing destinations. "There is lake access from a large sandy beach. Extensive nature trail system throughout the park. There is also a visitors center with many displays of the animals that are found within the park as well the cultural history," writes reviewer Lena M.
Water recreation: The Aurora RV Park & Marina offers free equipment for guests. "They offer FREE canoe/paddle boating. Bathrooms are kept clean and mike, the owner is amazing. Real nice guy and very helpful," notes Melissa C. The marina gives campers direct water access without bringing their own equipment.
Wildlife watching: Campers frequently report deer and bird sightings at forest camping areas. At BLM Sheldon Creek, one camper shared, "We had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October. Looking forward to a springtime visit," writes Patricia Y.
Private swimming areas: Narrows Lodge Resort offers a secluded spot for water activities with pets. "The water is crystal clear and there's a little dock for jumping off of. They bring in sand for the beach which makes it a really nice experience," writes Erika L., who also notes the resort's coffee bar as a pleasant amenity.
Affordable forest camping: Middle Creek Campground provides budget-friendly sites with basic amenities. "Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit as well as a bbq grill. They do have vault toilets and running water. It was $8.00 a nite but offered a discount with a America the beautiful pass," according to Donna M.
Overnight convenience: Lakeview Dispersed Campground offers free camping with basic setup. "There was only one other person here when I was. They got the prime spot, early bird and all. Very nice view," notes Todd N., adding that higher clearance vehicles might be needed for accessing the best spots.
Road conditions: Access to some pet friendly camping near Upper Lake requires careful navigation. Robert H. reports about Lakeview Dispersed: "I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging. It was steep with loose dirt in spots. It was an adventure. I am going to try north access into Lucerne later."
Fire restrictions: Forest Service campgrounds frequently implement fire bans during dry seasons. "Note: there are fire restrictions - bring your propane stove / gas fire pit," advises Ulises V. about Deer Valley Campground.
Weather preparation: Clear Lake area temperatures fluctuate significantly by season. "Great time to come here except for the mosquitoes. We're listening to the bullfrogs singing and wondering why they don't eat all of the mosquitoes," shares Darrel F. about springtime camping at Kelsey Creek Campground.
Enclosed accommodations: For families wanting pet-friendly options beyond tents, specialty lodging is available. At Narrows Lodge Resort, one camper shared: "We rented a camping yurt and we were so surprised how big it is! We received a key to our own bathroom and shower! They had a sink to wash dishes in and a place to clean our fish."
Educational opportunities: BLM Sheldon Creek provides natural learning experiences. "Sheldon Creek is a BLM campsite up a winding dirt/gravel road. We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up. Signs will direct you in the right direction," notes Summer A., mentioning the campground offers picnic tables and fire pits.
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, especially in spring and summer. One Kelsey Creek camper advised, "Decent facilities. Bring cash and insect repellent. Shower tokens can be purchased at the boat launch facilities. Bathrooms stocked with toilet paper and seat covers."
Site selection: RV sites with lakefront views require advance planning but offer premium experiences. At The Aurora RV Park & Marina, Julie H. notes: "This park has two parts: most is across the street from the lake but some spots are lakeside. The lakeside spots are very tight together-and require backing in. If your neighbor has a slider you are wall to wall."
Connectivity: Remote work is possible at some campgrounds despite their rural setting. "Internet. Verizon via iPhone 12: 26 mbps down and 0.40 mbps up with 34 ms ping. T-Mobile via Nighthawk MR-1100 - 4.24 mbps down and 16.9 up with 159 ping," reports Mea H. about the technology capabilities at Kelsey Creek Campground.
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. At Middle Creek Campground, Justin W. advises: "This campground is dry and built primarily for HOV people cuz the Elk mountain area is very much a dirt bike and four-wheel Haven. It's got dropped toilets and it has potable water. Problem is that the spigots don't have any hose fittings, so you can't hook up."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Upper Lake, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Upper Lake, CA is Kelsey Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park with a 3.9-star rating from 23 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Upper Lake, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 110 dog-friendly camping locations near Upper Lake, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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