Camping near Clearlake means exploring Lake County, Mount Konocti, and wine country.
Clearlake is set on the banks of Clear Lake, a vast freshwater lake just north of Napa County with a unique volcanic history. The town makes a perfect basecamp for bass fishing, boating, and swimming on the lake, which, at 2.5 million years, is the oldest in North America. You can also explore nearby Mount Konocti, the prominent volcano on the lake’s south shore, or enter the Mendocino National Forest just north of town. The Clearlake area also has a variety of wineries and hot springs, making for a fun and relaxing camping getaway from the Bay Area.
Redbud Park offers a boat launch and fishing pier right in Clearlake. There are additional parks and marinas surrounding the lake, including those with boat, jet ski, and kayak rentals. RV travelers will find a good selection of RV parks near Clearlake, many with full hookups.
Clear Lake State Park makes a great camping or day-trip destination on the lake’s south shore. Set 30 minutes from Clearlake, the campgrounds here have tent and RV sites with picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Cabins are available too. The park features hiking and biking trails, as well as a designated lake swimming area.
The distinctive peak seen looming over Clear Lake is Mount Konocti, a 4,305-foot volcano. Summit its various crater peaks at Mount Konocti County Park—just come with lots of water and sun protection, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Clear Lake and the surrounding region. Further south, more adventure can be found at Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument.
For deep nature immersion, check out the Mendocino National Forest, which starts just north of Clearlake. The Snow Mountain Wilderness section has many trailheads and campgrounds to explore.
You can camp out at Clearlake year-round. Summer is the busy season, when temperatures can reach the mid-90s and campsite shade is a must. Moderate weather makes spring and fall especially nice, as spring visitors can enjoy greener terrain and wildflowers, while fall visitors can watch the area’s oak trees change colors and visit wineries during harvest.