The Russian River watershed spans the camping landscape around Windsor, California, with elevations ranging from sea level at the coast to approximately 1,000 feet in the eastern hills. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 40s at night while summer days often reach the 80s inland, with cooler coastal areas rarely exceeding 70 degrees. Frequent morning fog along the coast burns off by midday, particularly in summer months, creating distinct microclimates within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
River recreation access: At Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, guests enjoy direct access to the Russian River. "Schoolhouse Canyon Campground is on Russian river. They have full hook ups and a lot of very cool sites," shares Miya B. The campground offers inner tube rentals and stand-up paddleboard options.
Observatory stargazing: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground features the Robert Ferguson Observatory. "There is an observatory and nice hiking here," notes Kristin H. Another camper, Syd D., shared, "We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!"
Kid-oriented activities: For families looking for structured activities, Casini Ranch Family Campground provides numerous options. "They have an insane amount of kids activities! Face paining, s'mores campfire, hay ride, parks, kareoke- just to name a few," explains one reviewer. The campground also features a jump pillow for children.
Coastal wildlife viewing: The Bodega Bay area offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. Campers frequently see harbor seals, various shorebirds, and occasionally river otters. One camper noted seeing foxes: "We did see a few foxes, or the same fox a few times, so make sure to keep camp sites clean."
What campers like
Private beaches: Casini Ranch Family Campground offers private river access. "Sites are HUGE! We had plenty of room for our trailer, tent, corn hole, and more," shares Dustin C. Campers appreciate the size of individual sites and direct river access.
Wine country proximity: Many campgrounds serve as bases for wine tasting. "This place was wonderful! We stumbled upon this place after wine tasting in Sonoma," writes Lauren B. about Sugarloaf Ridge. Another camper noted, "Very close to all wine country has to offer and a well stocked deli/store and post office just down the road."
Trail connectivity: Spring Lake Regional Park connects to multiple trail systems. "Connected to the west of Spring Lake is Trione-Annadel State Park, a wildly popular spot for local mountain bikers," notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "The bike paths between the regional park and city park were wonderful for riding or walking."
Beach camping: The Sonoma Coast offers direct beach access at several campgrounds. "Van was almost on beach. Great to wake up with the waves crashing," writes Cathy S. about Wright's Beach. Another camper shared, "The beach is amazing and you feel like you have it all to yourself and your fellow campers."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance planning. "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," notes Isabel B. about Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Microclimate variations: Weather can change dramatically within short distances. "It was nice and quiet, the showers were awesome never ran out of hot water and the management fantastic," reports a Mirabel RV Park camper. Coastal areas experience more wind and fog than inland sites.
Site selection strategy: Bodega Dunes Campground offers varied camping experiences. "If you want a sunny site, go for the center of the loop in the 60s/70s. We prefer shade and some space. Have stayed in 36 and 90. 36 was big enough for two tents," advises Emily W.
No-noise policies: Some campgrounds enforce strict noise regulations. "It's a quiet campsite. Radios aren't allowed, so if you are looking to party late into the night this isn't the spot for you," notes one Schoolhouse Canyon camper. Many campgrounds enforce 10 PM quiet hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA caters specifically to families. "This campground is clearly a getaway from the more congested parts of the area. Cute petting zoo and a pool that was open during COVID!" shares Marnie G. Multiple play areas provide options for children of different ages.
Protected swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature river access with gentle current areas. "The river is aprox five minute walk. You do have to wait to safely cross the busy street," notes Kenneth S. about Schoolhouse Canyon Campground. Parents should supervise river activities as current strength varies by season.
Educational opportunities: Doran Regional Park offers environmental education. "The first Saturday of the month the rangers do a tide pool talk. They bring sea creatures (like sea stars, sea slugs etc) to share and let the kids hold them," shares Teresa B.
Kid-friendly trails: Look for loop trails with minimal elevation gain. "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 Brittney L. about Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Wright's Beach Campground has limited facilities but alternatives nearby. "There is no water fill up (there are a couple of spigots) but fill and dumping are available at Bodega Dunes," advises Debbie M. Many campgrounds require advance planning for tank management.
Uneven sites: Coastal campgrounds often have sloping or sandy sites. "The ground is volcanic rock and super hard in the dry weather. I broke a couple tent poles and couldn't pull the rest out of the ground," notes one camper about Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Another mentions, "Take extra blocks if you go because our site was uneven tip to tail."
Generator policies: Rules vary by campground, with many restricting generator use. "Dry camped here with my 20ft R-Pod. Had a fun time," shares Daniel D. about Spring Lake Regional Park. Most campgrounds allow generators only during limited daytime hours.
Interior site advantages: At coastal campgrounds, interior sites provide wind protection. "Some of the sites are pretty well protected," notes one Wright's Beach camper. Many RVers prefer sites away from the immediate shoreline for more comfortable overnight conditions.
