Camping sites near St. Helena, California range from basic fairground accommodations to wilderness parks with extensive hiking trails. Located in the Napa Valley at approximately 250 feet elevation, the region experiences warm, dry summers with daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cooler winters with occasional frost. Fire restrictions typically remain in place from May through October, with many campgrounds limiting or prohibiting open flames during peak fire season.
What to do
Hiking trails at Sugarloaf Ridge: The park offers numerous hiking options within easy reach of camping areas. "There are a handful of great loop options and a few great out and backs too. My personal favorite hike in this park is at the bottom of the hill from the campground, but can be accessed by trails and a short road walk, and that is the Goodspeed Trail to Gunsight Rock," explains one visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Observatory access: Astronomy enthusiasts can visit the Robert Ferguson Observatory at Sugarloaf Ridge. "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!" reports a camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Water activities on Lake Berryessa: The lake provides options for paddleboarding and boating in designated areas. "I came to check out the more calm waters in the canyon for my paddleboard. The site was great layout and I had a really enjoyable time out on the water. Other boaters were very respectful of the no wake zones," notes a visitor to Steele Canyon.
What campers like
Strategic wine country location: Campers appreciate the cost-effective base for exploring nearby vineyards. "Nice campground halfway between St. Helena and Calistoga giving you access to the Napa Valley at a very reasonable price. Not very crowded during the week, but weekends are usually generally full," writes a reviewer about Ritchey Creek Campground.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "The site was great and I had a really enjoyable time... I walked the 'Nature Trail' through the campground and when we tried to sit they would swarm. But it was a nice short easy walk, where we saw a rabbit, turkeys, lizards, deer, and quails!" shares a camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Creek-adjacent campsites: Sites near flowing water provide natural sound barriers and cooling effects. "We had campsite 47 which backs up to the creek. The rumbling sound from the creek lulled us to sleep. We set up our tent towards the back of the site closest to the creek because it was more private," recounts a camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Be prepared for significant daily temperature swings. "Make sure you are prepared for the temperature swing. 89 in the day and down to 51 at night. I love a shower and they also have a pool open Memorial Day to Labor Day. Pick a spot in the shade if possible," advises a camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
Limited water access: Some campgrounds require self-sufficiency with water supplies. At Skyline Wilderness Park, a reviewer notes it's "dry camping at this time (no fires, no water, no hookups, etc.). Fire scars all around the lake...looks like this entire area got hit a few years ago. Nice host at the front gate, $45 and at least on a Sunday PM (July) it's mostly empty. Bring extra H2O."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain seasons. "The flying bugs/mosquitoes were out so come prepared. Only left with 1-2 bites = victory! We walked the 'Nature Trail' through the campground and when we tried to sit they would swarm," shares a Sugarloaf Ridge camper.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated recreational spaces. "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 and it's a short drive into town in case you need to stock up," explains a visitor to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly biking loops. "It is very forgiving here and close to everything in case you didn't pack enough food or propane or fire starter. The camp host is amazing. The bathrooms are clean with free cold showers or quarters for hot showers. They have fire pits at every location, firewood to buy on site, it is very kid friendly with a fun loop for the kids to bike or scooter around plus easy access to the lake," reports a camper at Spring Lake Regional Park.
Educational programs: Some parks offer structured activities for children. "They have a quest hike. They send you on an adventure hike and there is treasure at the end of it," shares a Sugarloaf Ridge visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "Sites are level with minimal need for blocks. Staff are friendly. Native garden is very nice," notes an RVer at Skyline Wilderness Park.
Urban RV options: For those seeking full hookups and proximity to wine country, fairground RV parks provide basic services. "Centrally located but a little walk to downtown Napa. Hookups include 30 and 50 amp with water and sewer. Nice cemented pads. Easy place to stay for the weekend and explore downtown Napa," explains a visitor to Napa Valley Expo RV Park.
Variable site dimensions: RV site layouts can vary significantly between campgrounds. "All of the sites are good though space 43 is awkward if you have a 25ft+ trailer," warns a camper at Ritchey Creek Campground.
