Kelsey Creek Campground
4.3657 reviews5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451
Kelsey Creek Campground
$30.00 - $30.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard fee for a tent site is $30 per night, with $8 charged for each additional vehicle. Shower tokens cost $1 for 4 minutes.
About this campground
Discover the only lakeside escape in Clear Lake State Park at Kelsey Creek Campground, where 65 thoughtfully designed sites nestle between the shimmering waters of Clear Lake and the tranquil Kelsey Slough. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for the perfect outdoor experience: crackling fire rings for evening gatherings, sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals under the stars, and secure food storage boxes to keep your provisions safe from curious wildlife.
Kelsey Creek Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping (without hookups), and cabin stays. Group camping sites are also available.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with thousands of years of human history, where the Pomo people once thrived along these shores, skillfully weaving intricate baskets from native plants and harvesting the lake's abundant fish. Their deep connection to this land continues today, as modern Pomo tribes lead inspiring land reclamation projects, working to restore and preserve their ancestral home for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of California's seasons at Clear Lake, where summer days can soar above 100°F, creating perfect conditions for swimming and water activities, while evenings bring refreshing coolness ideal for campfire conversations. Winter transforms the landscape with crisp mornings that can dip to 20°F and occasional dustings of snow that create picture-perfect scenes across the hills. As the seasons change, so does the lake itself, with warm weather bringing natural algal blooms that paint the water in varying shades of green and blue.
ElevationPerched at 1,320 feet above sea level, Kelsey Creek Campground offers a perfect vantage point for breathtaking panoramic views. From your campsite, watch as morning mist rises from the lake's surface, revealing the rolling hills that embrace this natural wonder in a scenic amphitheater of green and gold.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a photographer's paradise where Clear Lake meets Kelsey Slough, creating a vibrant wetland ecosystem teeming with life. Watch majestic great blue herons wade through shallow waters, elegant egrets take flight at sunset, and osprey dive for fish with spectacular precision. Dominating the horizon, the ancient volcanic cone of Mount Konocti stands as a silent guardian, its dormant peaks telling the story of the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Geological RegionWelcome to California's crown jewel of freshwater lakes, where ancient volcanic forces created a geological wonderland that continues to fascinate visitors and scientists alike. The dormant Mount Konocti rises dramatically from the shoreline, a testament to the area's fiery past, while hidden hot springs and mineral springs bubble up from deep within the earth, offering glimpses into the dynamic geological processes still at work beneath your feet in this unique volcanic landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include parking, routes, restrooms with showers, cabins, picnic areas, and trails like the Kelsey Creek Trail and Dorn Nature Trail.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some reviews mentioning smaller lakeside sites and others noting spacious shaded sites. Specific campsite numbers such as 59, 64, 72, and 73 were highlighted for their size and shade.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with lakeside sites noted for being smaller and less secluded. Campsites in circles were praised for being more spacious and shaded.
Total Campsites65 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites early in the year for better water quality and less algae. Sites in shaded circles are recommended for summer.
Best CampsitesPreferred sites include #59, #72, and #73 for views and shade, while #64 and #60 were noted for convenience but had some drawbacks.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group campsites can accommodate up to 40 people and 8 vehicles. These sites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and barbecue facilities, and are near restrooms with showers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in circles or rows, with lakeside sites providing premium views. Accessible sites include #38, #50, #65, #86, and #89.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites available year-round, but may fill quickly during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance to avoid penalties. Reservations can be modified up to six months in advance.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Kelsey Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The nearby trails and lake provide opportunities for both relaxation and active exploration.
HikingHiking trails such as the Kelsey Creek Trail and Dorn Nature Trail are accessible and provide opportunities to explore local flora and fauna. The trails vary in difficulty, with the Kelsey Creek Trail being flat and accessible, and the Dorn Nature Trail offering a loop through oak woodlands with moderate inclines.
FishingFishing is a popular activity at Clear Lake, known for species like largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. Some reviews noted fishing was more pleasant earlier in the day due to water quality concerns.
SwimmingSwimming is available at designated beach areas, but concerns about water quality (murkiness and algae) were frequently mentioned in reviews. The swim beach is open sunrise to sunset.
BikingBike trails are available, and some user reviews recommend bringing bikes for children.
BoatingBoating facilities include a boat launch and marina. Mooring slips are available for registered campers. Canoeing and kayaking on the lake and nearby sloughs were recommended by user reviews.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as deer, raccoons, turtles, herons, and minks can be observed. Some reviews praised the wildlife viewing opportunities directly from campsites.
Beach activitiesBeach activities may be limited at certain times due to water quality concerns. Sunbathing and fishing were mentioned as alternatives.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsPrograms at the Visitor Center focus on the area's natural and cultural history. Interpretive exhibits and guided tours are available.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire pits. Firewood available for purchase at the entrance.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include cyanobacteria in the lake water during warm months, mosquitoes, poison oak, raccoons, and occasional wildlife such as bobcats.
Active alertsCyanobacteria blooms may occur during summer months, impacting swimming and fishing.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 3
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Lake County Sheriff's Office (approx. 15 min drive), Sutter Lakeside Hospital in Lakeport (~20 min drive).
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May through mid-September.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available throughout the park. Blue plastic bags for recycling are provided at the park entrance.
Proximity to water featuresLocated between Clear Lake and Kelsey Slough, offering fishing and limited swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints from user reviews include mosquitoes, algae-related water issues, and noise disturbances during crowded seasons.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and knowledgeable, assisting with reservations and firewood sales.
Campground Map
5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451
Driving directionsThe entrance is 3.5 miles northeast of Kelseyville on Soda Bay Road, accessible via Highway 29. It is north of Calistoga in the wine country.
The campground is accessible year-round with paved roads leading to it. It is well-marked and offers straightforward navigation for most vehicles.Nearby places
Kelseyville (~3.5 miles, ~10 minutes), Lakeport (~15 miles, ~20 minutes), Calistoga (~60 miles, ~1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Grocery Outlet (~15 min drive), Chase bank for quarters (~15 min drive), local stores in Kelseyville (~10 min drive).
Camper Reviews
4.4
57 reviews
Kelsey Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Kelsey Creek Campground are mixed, highlighting the beautiful lakeside location, friendly staff, and amenities like clean showers and flush toilets. However, complaints include water quality issues, mosquitoes, and campsite privacy.
Review Summaries
Positive reviews frequently mention the cleanliness of facilities, the friendliness of staff, and the beauty of the lakeside setting. Many users praised the accessibility features and spacious...
Show more
Issues include murky lake water, limited shade at certain campsites, lack of restroom availability during sewer problems, and the prevalence of mosquitoes. Some reviews noted noisy neighbors and lack...
Show more
Tips from users include bringing bug spray, quarters for showers, and locking food storage to deter raccoons. Users also recommend choosing shaded campsites and avoiding swimming during algae blooms.
Reviews indicate spring and early summer as the best times for camping, with fewer bugs and better water quality. Late summer and fall experience high mosquito activity and algae bloom concerns.
"The Clear Lake is delightful... near the lake... awesome." "Beautiful, shaded, spacious campground." "Wonderful campground with kid-friendly campsite circles." "Cabins are great... clean... peaceful...
Show more
Specific campsite reviews include: 59 (lakeside but small and less shaded), 72 and 73 (shaded and spacious), 64 (close to lake but murky water), 78 (too small, switched to 79, which was roomier).
Reviews often highlight the accessibility features of cabins, trails, and restrooms, though one user noted some raised walkways are too narrow for wheelchairs to pass.
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Dogs are not allowed on trails or day-use areas; some users appreciated the pet-friendly camping areas.
Last updated July 31, 2025