Camping opportunities near Winters, California range from creek-side sites to established campgrounds with varying amenities. Located in Yolo County at the southwestern edge of the Sacramento Valley, Winters sits at approximately 135 feet elevation with a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures reach 95°F with cooler evenings, making early morning and evening activities more comfortable for campers.
What to Do
Bird watching and wildlife viewing: Lake Solano County Park offers excellent opportunities for viewing local wildlife. "There was no shade in campsite #17," notes Lisa E., but the area provides habitat for numerous birds including peacocks that are "everywhere, so be prepared for a little noise."
Water recreation: At SacWest RV Park & Campground, campers can enjoy river activities. "Camp site is clean. You can order food and they will deliver. Near freeway (lots of traffic noise). The river was dry in July," reports Leah L., indicating seasonal water levels affect recreation options.
Hiking trails: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground offers multiple trail options. "You can walk to a trail to check out a waterfall from there (pretty darn steep!) and you can walk to the Robert Ferguson Observatory as well! We went on a night hike for a star gazing tour and had a great time!" shares Syd D., highlighting the diverse activities available.
Wine tasting: Proximity to wine country makes Ritchey Creek Campground a convenient base. "Camping here leaves lots of money for food and wine splurges!" notes Susan H., suggesting budget-conscious visitors can save on accommodations while enjoying local vineyards.
What Campers Like
Easy access to urban amenities: Campers appreciate the blend of natural settings with nearby services. "This is an excellent and straightforward country park. It feels like a state park. They have hookups and also dry camping. The better spots are near the water," mentions Adrian J. about Lake Solano County Park.
Free hot showers: Amenities that enhance comfort are frequently mentioned. "Love that the showers are hot and free! You may have to push the button several times but totally worth while in my opinion!" shares Mandy T. about Lake Solano County Park.
Creek-side camping: Water proximity is highly valued. Jennifer D. notes about Canyon Creek Resort: "We stayed in section C as far away from the road as possible, right next to Putah Creek. It was April and the pairs of geese were abundant. No checks yet, but I understand in May they were hatched."
Observatory access: Unique features set some campgrounds apart. Scott J. mentions, "There's great hiking, an observatory, and often nature events throughout the summer (docent led hikes for example)" at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Planning ahead is essential for some locations. "Contrary to other posts, they take walkups. It is just on the website it requires 2 weeks out," notes Adrian J. about Lake Solano Park, while another camper had a different experience: "An empty campground, tired family and the host can't let us take a space because we don't have a reservation two weeks prior."
Road noise: Traffic can impact camping experience. Alexis S. warns about Lake Solano Park: "The road parallel to the lake is super loud and for me bothersome at night. I did not get good sleep because of this, I recommend bringing ear plugs if you are sensitive to noise."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping comfort. "It was cooler this time of year than we expected. Bring layers!" advises Syd D. about Sugarloaf Ridge.
Poison oak awareness: Plant hazards exist in some areas. Samantha T. cautions about Ritchey Creek Campground: "The campgrounds were infested with poison oak. Maybe just the time of year and because of so much rain this year? Not sure but it was thick and lush everywhere."
Tips for Camping with Families
Wildlife encounters for kids: Families enjoy nature experiences. "We saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, & quails!" reports Brittney L. about her stay at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground, noting the accessible "Nature Trail" through the campground.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer structured recreation. At San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA, "Playgrounds, swimming pool, lots of space to run and scream. We stay when visiting the area and endure the screaming kids. The kids do have fun, I give them that," shares Linda A., highlighting the energy level at family-oriented campgrounds.
Educational opportunities: Learning experiences enhance family camping. "They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it," mentions Irina Maddie P. about the free quest hike at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RV campers recommend strategic positioning. "We stayed here in a 27' travel trailer," notes Cyndi D. about Lake Solano Park, while at Brannan Island State Recreation Area, one camper advises: "Upper loop has hookups and tight sites, no bathrooms or showers. Lower loop has no hookups but has two bath houses."
Campground layout awareness: Understanding site configuration helps with planning. Rich J. notes about Skyline Wilderness Park: "RV Campsites are nothing fancy and close together. But the park itself is nice...hiking trails, views, nature, and close to Napa."
Hookup variations: Utility access differs between campgrounds. "Clean showers and bathrooms, some trees, close to Raley's Grocery store. Easy drive to the wineries of Napa Valley, a little further to Sonoma but a nice drive. Picnic table, some full hook-ups and some partial," reports Lori H. about Skyline Wilderness Park.
