Putah Canyon Campground- Napa, Ca (Bor)

4.22

277 reviews

7600 Knoxville Berryessa Rd, Napa, CA 94567

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

456 ft

Price

$45 - $300/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

158 campsites

Season

Open May 1 through O...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Royal Elk Park Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

456 ft

Price

$45 - $300/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

158 campsites

Season

Open May 1 through O...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Royal Elk Park Management site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Putah Canyon Campground- Napa, Ca (Bor)

$45.00 - $300.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees vary by site type and season: $55 for standard non-electric sites, $45 for tent-only non-electric sites, $55 for RV non-electric sites, and $300...

Standard Site Fee$50.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$300.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

(701) 966-9051putah@royalelkparkmanagement.com

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What Campers Say

4.22

Satisfactory

Based on 277 reviews

197 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsspaciouswaterlake

Some mention

noise

"User reviews of Putah Canyon Campground are mixed, reflecting a balance between positive experiences and significant complaints. Many users praised the waterfront sites, fishing, and boating opportunities, while others highlighted issues such as noisy neighbors, lack of restroom cleanliness, and hidden fees."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

7600 Knoxville Berryessa Rd, Napa, CA 94567

Putah Canyon Campground- Napa, Ca (Bor)

7600 Knoxville Berryessa Rd, Napa, CA 94567

Driving directionsApproximately 1/2 mile north of Pope Canyon Road on Berryessa Knoxville Road, Napa, CA. It takes about 45 minutes from Winters and Napa. The roads are described as winding, particularly at night.

Accessible via Berryessa Knoxville Road, which has winding sections that may pose challenges for RVs or trailers. Seasonal closures or weather-related hazards are not mentioned.

Nearby places

Winters (approximately 45 minutes), Napa (approximately 45 minutes)

Nearby supplies

No nearby stores for essentials like smokes or food items. Visitors are advised to bring supplies in advance, including ice and water.

Best Time to Camp at Putah Canyon Campground- Napa, Ca (Bor)

Experience the best of California's outdoor season from May through October, when golden sunshine bathes the campground in warmth reaching a comfortable 89°F by day, perfect for water adventures and lakeside lounging. As evening falls, temperatures drop to a refreshing 60°F, ideal for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. During the quieter off-season months, you'll find peaceful solitude and moderate weather conditions, though some facilities operate on a limited schedule—a small trade-off for having this scenic wonderland nearly to yourself.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

May–Oct peak season; warm weather and water recreation make summer the highlight despite crowds.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall is noted as quieter with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring provides good weather and fewer crowds—recommended alternative to summer weekends.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Oct–Dec shifts to first-come-first-served; reduced services and cooler water lower appeal.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to October 1.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 1 through October 1 for reservations; October 2 through December 31 for first-come-first-served.

About Putah Canyon Campground- Napa, Ca (Bor)

Discover your perfect lakeside escape at Putah Canyon Campground, where the sparkling waters of Lake Berryessa meet the rolling hills of Napa County. Perched on the northwestern shore, this waterfront paradise invites you to wake up to gentle waves lapping at your doorstep and spend sun-drenched days exploring the lake by boat, paddleboard, or kayak. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, diving into refreshing waters on a summer afternoon, or simply soaking in the sunset from your waterfront site, Putah Canyon transforms every moment into a memory.

Putah Canyon Campground supports various camping experiences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Waterfront sites are particularly popular and often preferred by campers. User reviews highlight the suitability of the campground for water-based activities and family outings.

Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of California's water history at Lake Berryessa, a testament to human ingenuity and nature's adaptability. Born in 1957 through the vision of the United States Bureau of Reclamation, this magnificent reservoir has evolved from an engineering marvel into one of Northern California's most beloved recreational treasures. For over six decades, families have created lasting memories along these shores, making Putah Canyon part of a rich tapestry of outdoor traditions that continues to draw new generations of adventurers.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of California's outdoor season from May through October, when golden sunshine bathes the campground in warmth reaching a comfortable 89°F by day, perfect for water adventures and lakeside lounging. As evening falls, temperatures drop to a refreshing 60°F, ideal for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. During the quieter off-season months, you'll find peaceful solitude and moderate weather conditions, though some facilities operate on a limited schedule—a small trade-off for having this scenic wonderland nearly to yourself.

ElevationElevation details are not provided.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where water and land create an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty. With an impressive three-quarters of campsites offering direct waterfront access, you'll find yourself mere steps from Lake Berryessa's expansive waters. The reservoir's 165 miles of intricate shoreline create countless hidden coves and scenic vistas waiting to be explored. Many sites feature natural moorings where you can tie up your boat or kayak right below your tent, making spontaneous sunset paddles or early morning fishing expeditions as easy as walking out your front door.

Geological RegionCarved into the northwestern reaches of Lake Berryessa, this campground occupies a unique position where Napa County's diverse terrain meets one of California's great reservoirs. Created by the United States Bureau of Reclamation in 1957, the lake's impressive 165-mile shoreline weaves through valleys and hillsides, creating a complex ecosystem where oak-studded hills plunge into deep, fish-filled waters. This dramatic meeting of land and water forms a recreational playground that showcases both the natural beauty of the region and the transformative power of thoughtful water management.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in must be completed by 10 PM.

Check-out

Check-out time not explicitly mentioned.

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Tent sites allow up to 4 people, RV sites up to 8 people.

Groups

Group sites accommodate up to 41 people, and fees for additional guests over this limit apply ($5 per person per night).

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are described as spacious but close together, with a mix of waterfront and inland sites. Some loops provide more privacy.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at recreation.gov or via the app and contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during the first-come, first-served season from October 2 to December 31. Popularity during peak season may limit availability.

Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies if the reservation is canceled within the 4-day window prior to arrival. Late cancellations incur the first night's camping fees in addition to the $10 fee. Requested changes to reservation dates are not guaranteed.

AccessibilityAccessibility features include porta-potties located near most campsites and water spigots for drinking water. No specific accommodations for disabilities are mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious and level, with some accommodating large RVs or travel trailers. A user noted, 'We had a very big site for our 30’ travel trailer.

PrivacyPrivacy at sites varies greatly, with many users commenting that campsites are close together. One reviewer stated, 'Sites are very close together, but if you get a block of them, it’s not too bad.

Total Campsites158 campsites

Recommended SitesSites 4, 5, and 6 are recommended for lake views; sites 95 and 158 are noted for their size and level ground; sites 124, 150, and 160 offer proximity to amenities.

Amenities available

Potable water

Dump station

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Putah Canyon Campground offers a variety of activities suited to water enthusiasts and nature lovers. Popular recreational options include boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing. The campground’s proximity to Lake Berryessa provides easy access to waterfront activities. Many reviewers appreciated the fishing opportunities, stating, 'Great fishing and bass fishing. The lake itself is pretty great.' Wildlife, such as raccoons and squirrels, adds to the natural experience, although some reviews mentioned these animals as nuisances.

FishingFishing is a highlighted activity at Putah Canyon, with abundant opportunities for bass and catfish. One user shared, 'Caught a 24lb panhead catfish right near the water by my site.' Shore fishing is available from many campsites.

SwimmingSwimming is a popular activity at the campground, especially during summer months. Reviews highlight the water’s warm temperature and cleanliness, but some noted muddy conditions near the shore.

BoatingBoating is a key attraction, with a well-maintained boat ramp and mooring facilities. Many campers bring their own watercraft, while kayak and paddleboard rentals are available.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include raccoons and squirrels. A user shared, 'Watch your food; the squirrels are real brave, and the raccoons come at night.'

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSeveral reviewers mention raccoons and squirrels as common food scavengers. Yellow jackets may be present, and winding roads can be hazardous for large RVs.

Fire PolicyCampfires may be restricted seasonally. Firewood is sold on-site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not strongly enforced, according to user reviews.

Emergency ServicesStaffed location with emergency services available. Contact local staff at (701) 966-9051.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available throughout the campground, while recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. One user review suggested hiring crews for shoreline cleanup due to littering concerns.

Water FeaturesWaterfront campsites with direct access to Lake Berryessa. A boat ramp is available for launching watercraft.

Camp HostStaff are described as friendly and helpful, with services provided such as wood and ice sales.

Weather at Putah Canyon Campground- Napa, Ca (Bor)

Reviews

4.2

277 reviews

Satisfactory

Putah Canyon Campground- Napa, Ca (Bor) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Putah Canyon Campground are mixed, reflecting a balance between positive experiences and significant complaints. Many users praised the waterfront sites, fishing, and boating opportunities, while others highlighted issues such as noisy neighbors, lack of restroom cleanliness, and hidden fees.

Review Summaries

Based on 277 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects often mentioned include beautiful lake views, convenient access to water for recreational activities, friendly staff, and spacious campsites. One reviewer stated, 'Waterfront sites...

Based on 277 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include noise from other campers, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, poor bathroom maintenance, and unexpected fees. A review noted, 'No enforcement of quiet rules; people party...

Based on 277 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from users include bringing earplugs to cope with noise, securing food to prevent wildlife interference, and preparing for high temperatures with sufficient ice and water. One reviewer advised,...

Based on 277 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that the campground experiences high activity and noise during peak summer months, particularly on weekends. Fall and spring are noted as quieter times for camping, with fewer crowds...

Based on 277 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Beautiful lakeside sites and friendly staff made this our favorite campground.' 'No enforcement of quiet hours; it’s more of a party environment.' 'Clean sites and warm water, but porta-potties need...

Based on 277 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight certain campsites for their excellent waterfront access and size, particularly sites 126, 150, 158, 124, and 121. Users recommended these for tent camping and family...

Based on 277 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews addressing accessibility for campers with disabilities were provided.

Based on 277 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Many users brought pets and appreciated the pet-friendly environment. One reviewer noted, 'Spent the weekend camping here with our dog and couldn’t have been more pleased.' Pet fees are $5 per night...

Based on 277 reviews

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