Dispersed camping opportunities near Windsor, California extend into the surrounding counties with several Bureau of Land Management areas available for primitive camping. Windsor's location provides access to undeveloped camping within a 60-90 minute drive, with most sites situated at elevations between 1,500-2,800 feet. These areas typically have little to no cell service outside Clear Lake, and summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Wildlife watching: At BLM Sheldon Creek, visitors frequently spot deer, butterflies, and hummingbirds. "We had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October," notes one camper who enjoyed the natural surroundings.
Fishing: The proximity to water bodies offers opportunities to fish at several dispersed sites. Near Smittle Creek, anglers can find productive fishing spots. "This sweet little spot is a paddle boarding and fishing dream. Primitive site where Smittle Creek flows into Lake Berryessa," reports a visitor who enjoyed the water access.
Hiking: Many dispersed camping areas connect to trail networks. Cowboy Camp provides access to nearby hiking trails, though water crossings can be challenging. "The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes. It's a hot spot for horses which of course have no stream problems," explains a regular visitor to the area.
What campers like
Solitude: Many campers appreciate the quiet nature of these primitive sites. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, one camper noted, "We did not got many bugs which was great," while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Another visitor mentioned they "were able to find a secluded spot that overlooks the lake. Very peaceful but some traffic sounds at night from the lake towns."
Vehicle challenges: Some campers actually enjoy the difficult access as part of the adventure. At Cow Mountain Recreation Area, one visitor shared, "Love taking our Rock crawler up to cow. Lots of obstacles. Camping is awesome." Another enthusiast added, "Always fun. Love going to the tech course with our off road buggy. Crawled all over that hill."
Seasonal variety: Different seasons bring varied experiences. At BLM Sheldon Creek, fall visits provide unique wildlife viewing: "Looking forward to a springtime visit," mentioned one camper after a pleasant autumn stay. Another noted that Cow Mountain recreation areas offer year-round access if you have "a capable vehicle and are prepared to provide for your own needs."
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Vehicle requirements differ significantly by site and season. At High Valley Rd Dispersed, one camper warned, "The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff. There is no way to turn around once you start up it." This contrasts with other sites where standard vehicles can manage.
Site availability changes: Some areas experience seasonal closures not reflected online. At Cowboy Camp, a visitor discovered "The camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website." Another camper found a different site with "gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell."
Trash management: Pack out all trash as facilities are minimal to non-existent. BLM Sheldon Creek campers reported "So much trash left behind here! We tried to pick up what we could but there's quite the mess left behind from others who were there prior. Pack it in, pack it out!"
Tips for camping with families
Fire restrictions: Always check current fire regulations before your trip as they change seasonally. Some campers noted restrictions at Lakeview Dispersed where fire pits exist but seasonal bans apply. Visit recreation.gov or call the local ranger district for current restrictions.
Temperature preparation: Pack for significant temperature swings. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, a camper warned about conditions: "Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!" This temperature variation is common throughout the region.
Bathroom options: Facilities vary widely between sites. At Mayacmas Campground, basic vault toilets exist, while Sheldon Creek has toilets that might require maintenance: "You might want to be prepared to dig your own toilet though as the toilet set up was completely infested with spiders."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites have significant size restrictions. At BLM Sheldon Creek, a camper warned, "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path." This applies to many Windsor-area dispersed camping options.
Leveling challenges: Finding level spots can be difficult. One camper at Mayacmas noted, "The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate." Sites near Clear Lake generally offer more level terrain than mountainous areas.
Seasonal access: Weather significantly impacts RV accessibility. Winter rain can make dirt roads impassable for weeks, while summer provides more reliable access. Several sites around Clear Lake become inaccessible to RVs after rain events, with reviews mentioning "deep ruts" and "extremely steep" conditions.
