93% (42 reviews)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Sonoma Recreation Area adventure.
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Sonoma and its myriad outdoor activities.
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Community favorites near Lake Sonoma Recreation Area
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
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Stay at a public campground in Lake Sonoma Recreation Area
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Sonoma Recreation Area
99%
(1363)
Finley Camp
13 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Bodega Bay, CA
Finley Camp is nestled along Finley Creek in West Sonoma County. Campsites are located in open flats surrounded by Coast Doug Fir, Alder, and California Bay forests. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate, and access to a porta potty and hand washing station. The campsites are located past the end of the county road allowing for a quiet peaceful experience. Enjoy a quiet stroll on site, the surrounding communities of Bodega, Bodega Bay, Valley Ford, and Tomales, or just enjoy a quiet day in camp. Our sites are located approximately 20 minutes from Bodega Bay. The campsites are 2.5 miles from the coast and the weather can be unpredictable. As a general rule, it is very similar to that of San Francisco.
All camp sites are situated in a valley that offers protection from the coastal winds. The have both morning and evening shade. Sites #2, #6, #7, and #11 have the most space, while sites #4, #7, #8, #9 and #11 offer the most privacy. Sites 1-3, any combination of 5-7, and 12-13 are well suited for groups. Other site groupings work well depending on the number of sites being reserved. Site #8 is unique in that it has a wood deck/platform for tents. There are also NO wood fires allowed at site #8 as it is under the tree canopy. A propane firepit is provided for your use. You can bring a 5 gallon propane tank from home, or a full one is available for rent on site.
We have beef available for purchase from calves raised exclusively on our ranch. This beef is 100% grass fed and finished and never given grain of any kind. We have various cuts available such as steaks, ground, roasts, ribs, or other various specialty cuts. All beef is cut and wrapped by a USDA certified butcher. It is raised in an organic manner from cows that freely roam on the pastures of the coastal hills we call home. For further information or for a price sheet, please inquire with the camp host.
Well behaved dogs are welcome at Finley Camp. All dogs must be kept on leash at all times while on the property. There are no exceptions to this. Finley Camp is located on an active cattle ranch and directly adjacent to a neighboring ranch with cattle.
Also be sure to check out our orchard tours. The apples ripen from Late July thru late November. We'll take you to our family orchard where you can pick apples, pears, or blueberries in season and taste yummy treats out of our family garden.
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$95
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95%
(811)
The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm
8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Valley Ford, CA
The Grove (5 total)
campsites are located near the historic Narrow Gauge Railroad bed on a family owned working ranch in coastal Northern California. The camp sites are nestled in a pasture and grove of mixed Eucalyptus, willow and cypress trees. The sites are perfect for tents or camper vans, or small trailers. There are no hook-ups for RVs (the access to the camp sites also prohibits long vehicles).
There is access to a composting camp toilet. The ranch itself is 300 acres of rolling hills pasture, with hilltop views of the Estero Americano valley. The Grove is home to many varieties of raptors and other birds-providing excellent bird watching. Seasonally there are blackberries to fill your containers, and some hiking.
The sites are subject to some road noise, as we are right on Hwy 1. We are mere minutes from the quaint towns of Valley Ford, Tomales, and Dillon Beach, and a short drive from Bodega, Bodega Bay or Marshall, Pt. Reyes Station and Inverness. Nearby attractions include: Sonoma Coast beaches, Pt. Reyes National Seashore, coastal hiking trails, local farm-to-table eateries.
Inland attractions include: redwoods, wine tasting, Russian River activities and so much more. Specifics about these campsites are: They each come with a picnic table (#1,#2, has a checkerboard painted on it-bring checkers or chess!)The grounds are a working ranch, so there is variations of the soil- some lumps and bumps and general natural state of a pasture v. a groomed lawn.
There are certainly level places for tents and camper vans or trailers. The ranch borders Hwy 1, so there is some degree of road noise. Traffic usually dies down mid afternoon, and isn't too much of a disturbance. There can be however, some heavy weekend traffic during the day with car clubs and motorcycle riders enjoying the coastal highway.
The Grove Sites #1, #2, and #3 are on this listing Site 4 and Site 5 are their own listing.
*The Friendly Gray Cat's name is Boots!*
If you plan on attending
Outside Lands at Golden Gate Park, you've come to right place! Book your stay at
The Grove,
located 55 minutes from Golden Gate Park.
Our space offers an ideal way to relax and recharge after a day's fun enjoying the music and food
at Outside Lands.
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$45
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98%
(508)
Estero San Antonio Wonderland
13 sites · Lodging, Tents120 acres · Tomales, CA
Camp with sweeping views of beautiful pastureland in West Marin. Enjoy privacy, birds singing, cows, chickens, food from the farm, and hiking our gorgeous land that is on the Estero San Antonio. The campsites are spaced far apart from one another to ensure some privacy. It is very quiet out here at night. If there are other campers you might hear them in the distance. All campsite are located overlooking the Estero and close to the grass road to enter and exit the property.
You will have access to some of our pastures for picnics and leisurely walks.
When you check in we will give you directions to a few special places around the surrounding area and see if you would like some grassland finished beef, lamb, pork, eggs, or vegetables all grown or made on our ranch. We offer other care packages, ask us when you arrive (include, home made focaccia, sourdough bread, local cheeses, etc...)
A liability waiver will be needed to be signed. This is primitive camping, There is water but it is not potable. so bring your own drinking water.
It can get very windy out here in Spring and Summer. Come prepared. We have situated the campsites to be on the leeward side and as protected as possible.
We try to leave the land better off than we found it and hope that you will share the same respect for the pristine beauty of this place. We are 10 minutes away from the quaint town of Tomale and 15 minutes from the town of Valley Ford. Dillon Beach is only 3.5 miles away. Bring your own kayak or canoe and paddle to the ocean down the Estero San Antonio!
You can learn more about our land and practices check out True Grass Farms online.
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$70
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96%
(240)
Forest Ocean Retreat
3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · CA
Tree studded campsites with large view of the ocean. Not far off Hwy 1. Many beaches to choose from a few miles away. Close to Anchor Bay, Gualala and Point Arena. Large secluded sites with picnic tables and plenty of room to pitch a tent. Porta potty and potable water available. Great place to get away. Please note ticks are always prevalent on the coast and Spring time there are more of them please make sure you and your dog are protected.
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$49
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98%
(507)
Baby Banana Slug Farm
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Albion, CA
Once an ancient Redwood grove full of mature redwood trees towering 250 feet in the air, This is a beautiful piece of property, very private, with an old growth Redwood snag still remaining and 30 foot diameter re-sprouted Redwood fairy rings. it has its own private entrance.In the redwood forest, lots of trees and other vegetation. Good wildlife watching area. 4 miles from the ocean. Campsites have own access point. Pack it in, pack it out. Please be respectful of neighbors and land around you.2 sites available - both with potable water, and area for campfires (outside of any burn ban), and toilet access. Firewood available for fee. Pets allowed.Guests love staying here: "This was such a treat. Nathan was a responsive, present host--made sure we had all of the wood we wanted. We were tucked away in the woods with great amenities... bathroom included. There is a beautiful tree on the campsite that made the whole experience magical. And my pup was free to run and around and bring me sticks. I will definitely come back again!"
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$60
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97%
(118)
Rancho Laslendini
3 sites · RVs5 acres · Occidental, CA
The property is located east of Occidental in a unique "banana belt" along the USDA 9a/9b climate zones, inside the "Green Valley" Sonoma wine appellation, on a quintessential country lane.
Originally settled and farmed in the early 1900's by a family of Italian immigrants, from whom the lane is named after.
Several decades later the land was subdivided. My parents purchased a 5-acre parcel in the early 1970's, and began homesteading. Fifty years later we are now three generations on the same land. One acre is our family compound, two acres are forest preserve, and the other two acres are orchard - where the camp sites have been integrated.
The orchard has many different fruit trees including heritage Gravenstein apples that were originally planted by family from Italy. They are ripe between mid July to mid August. The orchard borders a forest with old growth Redwoods, Douglas Fir, Bay Laurel, Oaks, and Madrone. Some wildlife passes through the orchard, especially birds. The site offers great star gazing, sun rises, moon rises and access to a charming walk on a beautiful country lane for sunsets.
Walking distance to Occidental, and a twenty minute drive to the beaches of the Sonoma Coast and the Russian River. A great location to explore and enjoy nearby small towns, wineries, dairies, hiking, bicyling, surfing, kayaking, and farmers markets... or just relax at the site, make a picnic and bask in the serenity.
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$55
/ night
97%
(3259)
Salmon Creek Ranch
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Bodega Bay, CA
Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.
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$120
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94%
(9)
Lawson's Landing
72 sites · RVs, Tents940 acres · Dillon Beach, CA
Lawson’s Landing is a fishing and boating resort and campground situated at the mouth of Tomales Bay, California. Generations of families have visited the area to rest along the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Lawson's Landing is located about 50 miles north of San Francisco and 20 miles west of Petaluma at Dillon Beach. The Landing was first established in 1929 and the family-owned and operated campground has been running since 1957. From camping to clamming to boating, there are so many activities to enjoy. Come discover what generations of visitors have long enjoyed. Bring your family and friends to experience the great outdoors along the beautiful Pacific coast.
Hookups:
At this time we don't have hookups available at our campsites, but things have progressed significantly with our redevelopment permits, so in the future, more will be coming. At this time, we offer potable water throughout the campground for tank filling and dump stations available for your use during your stay. **There is no truck service to go to your campsite to pump waste from your tanks**
Cellular Coverage/Wifi:
Verizon has full cellular coverage in Dillon Beach, AT&T has spotty reception, and we are unsure as to the coverage provided by other services. We do offer free guest wifi from our camp store (the big red building near campsites 500 & 601), but the wifi will not reach the campsites.
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$45.84
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99%
(82)
Glynraven Gardens
8 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Hopland, CA
This is a fully operational legal cannabis farm in the mountains of Mendocino County, overlooking beautiful wine country. There are
5 full time residents living and caring for the farm that also includes an organic fruit orchard and veggie garden.
The owner, Antler bought the property 18 years ago, and has lived full time her for 10 years.
Antler has a vision for this communal farm to be a place for artists and others to come and create freely. As you explore this property you will see where his vision has come into play with many artists leaving their mark on this beautiful land in many forms.
If you're looking to be inspired and get away from the usual and mundane... then this is the place to come. Many people have said this land holds some kind of special magic and there isn't anything like it.
Antler is always excited to share the story of this land, so feel free to ask questions when you see him around!
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$100
/ night
98%
(397)
Glamping in the Redwoods 🐶🐕💃🕺🏼
2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Occidental, CA
Welcome to West Sonoma County Adults-Only Hipcamping in the Redwoods!
We are located just a 2-minute drive or a 15-minute walk away from the quaint little hamlet of Occidental, where you'll find terrific restaurants with take-out, and two nice markets (one organic) and a liquor/convenience store. In town, you'll also find a terrific independent local meat market that has been in operation for over 100 years!
25 minutes from the ocean, 20 minutes to the Russian River and kayaking, and 30 minutes from HWY 101 or HWY 1. A perfect stop-over if you are travelling up the coast of California.
We have 2 campsites to choose from. (Both are clothing optional). 😉
Both sites are separate, very private and NOT SHARED with other campers.
Both sites have a capacity of 2 adults (maximum) per night.
Written permission for additional campers/guests/friends on site is required before additional people come to the property.
1. TREEHOUSE: (glamping stay with Hot Tub, Pool and Sauna). Bring your own bedding… We supply fresh fitted top sheets on upscale memory foam mattresses. Full kitchen and bath, gas barbecue, flush toilet and hot water shower.
2. VANCAMP: RV/tent site (bring your own camp stove, gas or charcoal barbecue, cooking utensils, tent or RV, and enjoy a Hot Tub and a heated Tiki Tent). (
No access to the pool). Enjoy a real bathroom with a (short) hot shower, sink and toilet.
Please see each site description below for more information.
Our property is the perfect stopover in Northern California’s Redwoods and wine country. A terrific camp spot to recharge and unwind. Quiet, exclusive, secure, gated, sunny- and in a very friendly and safe forest setting. ⛺️🏕️🌲
NOTE: Although wood campfires are not allowed in our county, we have 2 wonderful gas fire pits for your year-round enjoyment. Both the Treehouse and Vancamp have their own private hot tub and gas fire pit.
We are pet-friendly and LGBTQ-friendly! ALL ARE WELCOME 🙋♀️🙋♂️
Come and experience our little slice of heaven. We look forward to serving up a very fun and relaxing time for you and yours! Please check out our reviews and photos.
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$99
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98%
(105)
spirit chicken ranch
9 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Ukiah, CA
Our property boasts year round creeks, waterfalls, swimming holes, Madrones, Oaks, Douglas firs and manzanitas. Wild horses roam the land as well as the occasional mountain lion and black bear. On the human end we have an ancient walnut grove as well as many fruit trees two small ponds all in total privacy at the very end of the road. We also have a Sauna and outdoor bathtub and shower available for use. We are out a 9 mile dirt road and a 4X4 or all wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. Ask me about booking the whole place for a private event!
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$100
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96%
(455)
South Facing Ridge With Views
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Comptche, CA
Surrounded by cooperate timberland, it feels like there are no neighbors! There is not a house in sight but the the ridge views seem to go on forever!
- There is a simple latrine at each site. A full bath house with a flush toilet and hot shower is available next to the main house. A water spigot is attached to the main house.
- Spare camping supplies are available by the bath house if you forget something! Ask ahead if you need to borrow a specific item.
More about the property: I built my home high upon a southern ridge. Watching the river of coastal fog flow in and out below me is one of the most wonderful views to behold! I have 30 acres of land to explore and camp upon in the surrounding redwood forest.
10 miles east are Montgomery Woods redwood preserve with GIANT trees, and a little farther, perhaps a mile is the famous Orr Hot Springs Resort. If you drive a half hour west from my land you will be in the coastal Mendocino village.
We are marijuana friendly!! Thus, we have created more of an adult oriented atmosphere.
one last note: We recently made separate listings for different sites. See campsite #1 for reviews.Guests love staying here "What a fantastic experience. I arrived to Cosmo’s super late after a long day going up the coast. It was a last minute book that morning, if I remember right - my campsite had fallen through. His directions were spot on, and very kindly he stayed up to take me to my site and help me get set up, even going so far as to light me a fire. His property was easily navigable in the dark, and my two wheel drive made it fine. We talked for a while - what a cool guy. He was able to give me recommendations from a friend of what to do during the next legs of my trip, which was great and really did make a difference for the rest of my week. I cooked my dinner and sat stunned looking at some of the best stargazing I’ve had in a long time.When I woke up I realized that I had been sleeping next to a mountainside view - this was site 3. Talk about the best surprise I’ve gotten in a while unzipping a tent. The clouds were gathered in the valley and as I ate breakfast I got to watch the sun slowly clear then out. It was unbelievable.Before I left, Cosmo let me use his indoor solar-heated shower and told me all about his projects to build his own home and roads and move towards a more sustainable future. Overall this is really the best of what I imagine hipcamp has to offer - kind property owners & unique individuals who care about their guests while also allowing them to have their own experience. If I’m ever near Mendocino I will gladly make the trip inland to stay at his property again."
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$40
/ night
The best camping near Lake Sonoma Recreation Area guide
Overview
About
Set among the winelands of Sonoma County, Lake Sonoma Recreation Area features a postcard-worthy lake view open year-round to visitors. Recreational opportunities include camping, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, water sports and wildlife viewing that includes the peregrine falcon, one of the nation’s most endangered species.
The Congressman Don Clausen Fish Hatchery is located just behind the Visitor Center where visitors can peep operations of the hatchery and see displays that describe the life cycles of coho salmon, steelhead and chinook. From spring to early summer, wildflowers including Iris, Wild Onion and Indian Pink spread over the land like butter plays toast.
Notable campgrounds
- Boat-in Campgrounds: Accessible only by water, these sites offer a secluded retreat for campers and nature enthusiasts.
- Liberty Glen Campground: Although currently closed for maintenance, this campground is a favorite for its facilities and views when open.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early through Recreation.gov to secure your preferred camping dates at Lake Sonoma.
- Weekdays often have more availability than weekends, so consider a mid-week getaway.
- Keep an eye on the website for updates on campground reopenings and maintenance schedules.
- Explore nearby camping options if your desired dates or sites are unavailable.
When to go
The best time to visit Lake Sonoma Recreation Area is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm conditions perfect for water activities, though it's also when the park is busiest. Winter can be less crowded but check for any weather-related advisories.
Know before you go
- Check for red flag warnings indicating high fire danger and adhere to campfire restrictions.
- Some areas may be closed due to wildfire impacts; always respect closures for your safety and recovery efforts.
- Reservations for boat-in campgrounds can be made through Recreation.gov.
- Be prepared for outdoor activities with appropriate gear and water, especially during warm weather.
- Visit the Lake Sonoma Visitor Center for maps, information, and to learn about the area's rich history.
Top cities near Lake Sonoma Recreation Area
- Lake Sonoma Recreation Area
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