Bay View Campground

4.40

19 reviews

5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,320 ft

Price

$30 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

55 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,320 ft

Price

$30 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

55 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Bay View Campground

$30.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees range from $30-$40 depending on location and amenities. Premium lakeside sites like #112 come with an additional fee of $5. Group sites...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$40.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve California

Provider

(707) 279-4293interp@parks.ca.gov

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What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 19 reviews

17 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacyspaciouslocationhiking

Some mention

bugs

"User reviews for Bay View Campground are largely positive, highlighting spacious sites, enjoyable activities, and helpful ranger-driven programs. Some concerns about restroom cleanliness and bugs are mentioned."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451

Bay View Campground

5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451

Driving directionsThe entrance to Clear Lake State Park is 3.5 miles northeast of Kelseyville on Soda Bay Road. It is north of Calistoga in California's wine country.

The campground is accessible through paved roads, with clear signage from major highways. Seasonal conditions may cause minor road surface variations.

Nearby places

Kelseyville: 3.5 miles (approximately 5 minutes)

Calistoga: 36 miles (approximately 45 minutes)

Santa Rosa: 61 miles (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes)

Sacramento: 110 miles (approximately 2 hours).

Nearby supplies

Groceries and camping supplies are available in Kelseyville (3.5 miles away). Gas stations are also located in Kelseyville and the nearby town of Lakeport.

Best Time to Camp at Bay View Campground

Experience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of Northern California's lake country. Summer days sizzle with temperatures that can soar above 100°F, but as evening falls, mountain breezes sweep across the hillside, bringing blessed relief and comfortable sleeping weather. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a wonderland where morning frost sparkles on oak leaves and occasional snowfall dusts the surrounding peaks. Temperatures can dip to a crisp 20°F on the coldest nights. From October through March, gentle rains nurture the wildflowers that will paint the hillsides come spring.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Open in summer with abundant water activities but very hot (>100°F), more crowds and bugs in late summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Shoulder season likely pleasant and less crowded; peak season ends mid-Sept.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring praised for wildflower displays, western redbud blooms and fewer bugs; positive reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round but no winter-activity draw; cooler weather and fewer visitors expected.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Mid-May through mid-September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round with peak season occurring mid-May through mid-September.
Current Alerts: Currently no alerts. Visitors are encouraged to check the Clear Lake Cyanotoxin page for updates during summer months.

About Bay View Campground

Perched on a scenic hilltop overlooking the shimmering waters of Clear Lake, Bay View Campground invites outdoor enthusiasts to discover a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquil camping. Your partially shaded campsite becomes a gateway to adventure, with the winding Dorn Nature Trail beckoning just steps away. Whether you're seeking sunrise views over California's largest natural lake or a peaceful evening under ancient oaks, this charming retreat offers an authentic camping experience with all the essentials you need for a memorable stay.

Bay View Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent, group, and cabin lodging. Sites are spacious, with some offering enhanced privacy.

Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of the Pomo people who have called this land home for thousands of years. The Dorn Nature Trail weaves through ancient gathering sites where generations of Native Americans harvested acorns, gathered medicinal plants, and fished the abundant waters of Clear Lake. As you explore these paths, you'll discover how the Pomo's deep knowledge of seasonal cycles and natural resources shaped their thriving culture in this bountiful landscape. Their legacy lives on in the careful stewardship of these lands and the stories whispered by wind through the oaks.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of Northern California's lake country. Summer days sizzle with temperatures that can soar above 100°F, but as evening falls, mountain breezes sweep across the hillside, bringing blessed relief and comfortable sleeping weather. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a wonderland where morning frost sparkles on oak leaves and occasional snowfall dusts the surrounding peaks. Temperatures can dip to a crisp 20°F on the coldest nights. From October through March, gentle rains nurture the wildflowers that will paint the hillsides come spring.

ElevationRising between 1,320 and 1,600 feet above sea level, Bay View Campground offers a refreshing escape from valley heat. This elevated perch not only provides those coveted cooler evening temperatures that make for comfortable camping, but also rewards visitors with sweeping panoramic views that stretch across Clear Lake to the distant mountains. Watch as morning mist rises from the water below while you sip coffee from your hillside haven.

Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry unfolds before you in this diverse ecosystem where oak woodlands meet chaparral-covered slopes. In spring, the hillsides burst alive with vibrant wildflower displays – magenta western redbud blooms dance in the breeze while creamy California buckeye flowers perfume the air. Ancient valley oaks provide dappled shade for your campsite, their gnarled branches home to acorn woodpeckers and western bluebirds. From various vantage points throughout the campground, Clear Lake stretches to the horizon, its waters changing from deep blue to silver as clouds drift overhead.

Geological RegionYour camping adventure unfolds in Soda Bay, a geological wonderland shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity. Clear Lake itself, California's largest natural freshwater lake, fills an ancient basin that formed during the early Pleistocene era over 2 million years ago. The dramatic silhouette of Mount Konocti, a dormant volcanic cone, dominates the eastern horizon, while hidden hot springs throughout the region hint at the geothermal forces still simmering beneath the surface. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve, creating the mineral-rich soils that support the area's incredible biodiversity and the scenic beauty that draws visitors from around the world.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 30 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 8 guests per campsite.

Groups

Group campsites A and B, located along Cole Creek, accommodate up to 40 people each. These sites include picnic tables, food lockers, fire rings, and barbecue facilities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized in loops with sites distributed along shaded and partially shaded areas. Includes Upper Bayview and Lower Bayview loops.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at www.reservecalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; reservations are strongly recommended during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance to avoid penalty; specifics are not provided.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites are located at Bay View Campground, while accessible restrooms and showers are nearby. Trails such as the Dorn Nature Trail feature accessible routes for visitors with disabilities.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious in user reviews. "Nice spacious campsite," noted one camper about Upper Bayview sites.

PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. User reviews highlight secluded spots such as campsite 121: "The location was very private in mid-May with only a few other campers around.

Total Campsites55 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites #112 for lake views or #121 for privacy. Upper Bayview is preferred for spaciousness and proximity to trails.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Bay View Campground provides opportunities for a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, and Junior Ranger programs, among others. The campground's proximity to Clear Lake makes it ideal for water-based recreation, while trails offer scenic routes and educational insights into the natural and cultural history of the area.

HikingHiking trails such as the Dorn Nature Trail and Indian Nature Trail offer enjoyable routes around the campground. Dorn Nature Trail provides moderate terrain and scenic overlooks, while the Indian Nature Trail showcases cultural historical insights. "Local trails were easy and enjoyable," stated one user.

FishingFishing opportunities include catching largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Clear Lake is ranked the nation’s number one bass fishing lake by professional organizations. "Professional bass fishing organization such as the U.S. Bass, Cal Bass, and Western Bass, have designated Clear Lake as the nation’s number one bass fishing lake."

SwimmingA designated swimming beach is available north of the Lower Bayview Campground. Restrooms and outdoor rinsing showers are nearby. "The swim beach is open sunrise to sunset. It offers shade Ramada’s and tables, with restrooms and showers nearby."

BoatingBoating options include a year-round boat launch and marina. Mooring slips are available on a first-come, first-served basis. "We offer a boat launch for day use and campers. Boat slips for our locked marina are available for registered campers."

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include deer, ground squirrels, minks, and muskrats. "Enjoyed multiple deer sightings," stated a user review.

Beach activitiesBeach activities include swimming and picnicking. The swim beach features shade structures and accessible facilities.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential cyanobacteria blooms in the lake during warm seasons; visitors are advised to avoid discolored or foul-smelling water to prevent exposure to toxins.

Active AlertsCurrently no alerts. Visitors are encouraged to check the Clear Lake Cyanotoxin page for updates during summer months.

Food Storage RequiredAll campsites come with food storage lockers to prevent wildlife issues.

Fire PolicyFires are only allowed in designated stoves or fireplaces. Firewood is available for purchase at the park entrance.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services include Sutter Lakeside Hospital (approximately 7 miles away in Lakeport), Lake County Sheriff’s Office (approximately 8 miles away), and Clear Lake State Park administrative office for minor issues.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins and recycling facilities are placed throughout the park. Blue recycling bags are available at the entrance station.

Water FeaturesClose proximity to Clear Lake and Dorn Cove. Swimming beach is a short walk from Lower Bayview campground.

Camp HostCamp hosts are available and described as "very nice and helpful."

Weather at Bay View Campground

Reviews

4.4

19 reviews

Recommended

Bay View Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Bay View Campground are largely positive, highlighting spacious sites, enjoyable activities, and helpful ranger-driven programs. Some concerns about restroom cleanliness and bugs are mentioned.

Review Summaries

Based on 19 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include privacy, spacious sites, and enjoyable activities like hiking, Junior Ranger programs, and fishing. "We enjoyed our stay on lot 121. The location was very private in mid-May...

Based on 19 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues raised by users include bugs in restrooms and the height of fire pits: "Central bathroom had a lot of bugs. Fire pit height hindered our ability to enjoy sitting around a campfire."

Based on 19 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray and consider campsites with enhanced privacy, such as lot 121. Make use of ranger-driven activities and Junior Ranger programs for kids.

Based on 19 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and early summer receive positive reviews for fewer bugs and privacy, while late summer may see an increase in campers and bugs. "Enjoying having a spot on the outskirts of the campgrounds....

Based on 19 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Excellent ranger driven program along with junior ranger programs. The park host was very nice and helpful." "My first time camping and both myself and my daughter had a blast!" "Love it Friday...

Based on 19 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight sites 121, 123, and 112. Site 121 offers enhanced privacy: "We enjoyed our stay on lot 121. The location was very private in mid-May with only a few other campers...

Based on 19 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features such as campsites and trails are mentioned positively, but detailed user reviews specifically about accessibility are not provided.

Based on 19 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are remarked upon, including leash requirements and restrictions in certain areas. "Dogs must be kept on a six-foot-maximum leash and may not be left unattended at any time."

Based on 19 reviews

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