Backcountry to Bohemian, Lake County Camping Has it All

Wilderness, glamorous, tent, and RV, Lake County camping has a little something for everyone. From the wild and rugged Mendocino National Forest to a hippie enclave at the foot of Mount Saint Helena, we’ve rounded up a few of Lake County’s favorite backwoods getaways.

RVs and Camp Trailers

Calling all road warriors: Lake County, California welcomes you as you cruise the American West in a camp trailer or RV.  We’re in the middle of nowhere (in the best possible way), and just big enough to have all the amenities you’ll need.

We’re midway between Portland and LA, and an easy day’s drive from Yosemite and Redwood National Park, respectively.  Take a breather on your trek from Tahoe to the Mendocino coast, or warm up in our grassy, oak-lined hills after a foggy stint on the San Francisco Bay.

You’ll find a dozen or more RV parks on the shores of Clear Lake – resort-style marinas, casinos, and a mellow state park.

Tent Camping

Whether you’re a car camper bringing the dogs, the kids, and the whole kit and caboodle, or a backcountry loner packing light, our varied terrain and diversity of campgrounds – both public and private – offer plenty of options to adventure your way.

For the rural, cheap, and reservation-free, we suggest exploring our public lands – Mendocino National Forest and the dispersed backcountry camping of Snow Mountain Wilderness.
In addition to classic public campgrounds, you’ll find some bohemian and downright funky, privately owned camps back in these hills.  To wake up next to clothing optional, hot spring-fed pools, check out the newly reopened Harbin Hot Springs.  Or for fresh eggs, prayer flags and backpacker vibes, post up at Golden Rocks Permaculture Farm.  

Cabins and Glamorous Tents

Those with a little more luxury in mind will want to nab a yurt at the aptly named Shangri-La near the Mendocino County line or choose between a cabin, a canvas safari tent, or tree house at Pine Grove in Cobb, a south county hamlet about 30 miles north of Calistoga.

While you will need to bring your own tent, van, or RV to Raven’s Landing, their artistic, Earthship style common buildings make this eclectic camp a must-see.

Remember Lake County, California when you’re planning your next camping adventure.  Stop in for the night if you’re a summer road tripper passing through, or disappear into the hills for a few days to get weird and reboot.