Austin Creek State Recreation Area RV & Campground Guide
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Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life at Austin Creek State Recreation Area, a serene spot located deep in the hills of northern California that's 24 miles east of Healdsburg and 80 miles north of San Francisco. Here, the endless rolling hills are a treasure trove of wildflower-laden meadows, bubbling streams, and foggy ravines. With more than 20 miles of trails, you can explore the park on foot or horseback. Come prepared because the landscape is rugged and isolated, and you can expect strenuous hiking to reach the best views. Summers are hot with days occasionally reaching 100 degrees or higher; if you're visiting in the winter, expect cold weather and a rare snow sighting.
Spring 40-70 F
Summer 49-84 F
Fall 44-80 F
Winter 34-58 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Given its remote location, RV camping is the perfect way to explore Austin Creek State Recreation Area; you'll be the first on the hiking trails, and you'll get to watch the sunset over the hills in peace. The weather in the park can swing dramatically throughout the day, and an RV is a comfortable spot for shade and warmth. If you don't own a motorhome, an RV rental is a great option. Choose the perfect size and select the amenities to keep your family comfortable.
Bullfrog Pond Campground
Located inside Austin Creek State Recreation Area, Bullfrog Pond Campground is the most convenient option for exploring the park. Of the 23 campsites, seven are first come, first served, and the rest can be reserved online. Every site comes with a fire ring and a picnic table, so you can enjoy meals outside on warm days. While this campground has bathrooms with flush toilets, there are no showers onsite. Keep in mind that this spot is best for pop-up trailers or very small RVs; sites can only fit vehicles up to 20 feet in length. Campsites at Bullfrog Pond are $35 per night for up to eight people per site.
Parker's Resort, LLC
Sleep on the banks of the Russian River at Parker's Resort. Here, campsites are tucked under tall redwood trees, which are a lifesaver during the steamy summers. With activities including fishing, kayaking, and biking, Parker's Resort is a great option for families. The heart of the Russian River wine country is nearby, making this a popular spot for wine tasting. Every site offers quick river access, Wi-Fi, water hookups, and 30-amp electric hookups. It's important to note that there are no sewer hookups or dumpsites. RV sites start at $55 per night in the summer and $50 per night in the winter. You can bring your dogs for an additional $5 per day per pet.
Casini Ranch Family Campground
If you're searching for a spot for a kid-friendly vacation, check out Casini Ranch Family Campground. Located about 15 miles from Austin Creek State Recreation Area, this spot is packed with activities for your whole crew. The staff host frequent events, including bonfires on the beach, ice cream socials, movie nights, and hayrides. If you prefer to explore independently, check out the hiking trails at nearby Willow Creek State Park, the jumping pillow, fishing in the Russian River, kayaking, bike rentals, playgrounds, and more. The onsite general store is perfect for snacks and last-minute necessities. With Wi-Fi and dog parks, there's something for everyone. Casini Ranch offers RV sites with full and partial hookups. Feel free to bring a big rig because sites can accommodate RVs of any length. Nightly rates start at $49 for partial hookups and $53 for full hookups.
Mirabel RV Park & Campground
Feel right at home when you're camping at Mirabel RV Park & Campground, a family-owned spot located on the Russian River. This is the perfect place to relax. Air conditioners are not permitted, so the environment is quiet and peaceful around the clock. Within the grounds, you can rent kayaks and canoes, play shuffleboard or try out the basketball and horseshoe courts. The biggest draw at Mirabel is the spectacular natural landscape: You can fall asleep to the sound of the river, hike in the nearby hills or just enjoy the breeze and the shade at your site. RV sites offer water and 20-amp power hookups, and rates start at $37 per night for two people. Additional people are $5 each per night.
What to Do at
Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Inside Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Most visitors come to Austin Creek State Recreation Area for the isolation, and with 20 miles of trails, it's easy to escape the grounds and surround yourself with the peace of nature. Hike deep into a mysterious forest on the challenging Austin Creek Trail, or hop on the East Ridge Trail to walk through the redwoods and climb to the best views in the park. If you have horses, bring them along to explore the equestrian trails. With a license, you can fish for sunfish and bass in Bullfrog Pond.
Outside Austin Creek State Recreation Area
With its location near the Russian River Valley, Austin Creek State Recreation Area is perfectly positioned for a fun, busy vacation. Whether you're bringing kids or coming with friends, you'll find plenty to do outside the park.
Restaurants
Betty Spaghetti
Fill up after a day of hiking at Betty Spaghetti, a friendly Italian restaurant that specializes in comfort food. Don't miss the pasta dishes; the noodles are made in-house.
Type: Italian
Location: 16390 4th St, Guerneville, CA 95446
Agriculture Public House
Located on the grounds of Dawn Ranch, this restaurant offers upscale comfort food in a lovely natural setting. Enjoy farm-to-table meals on the outdoor deck, and be sure to try one of the locally made Russian River wines.
Type: American, farm to table
Location: 16467 CA-116, Guerneville, CA 95446
Timberline
Feel like you're dining in your grandmother's kitchen at Timberline where the chefs prepare modern spins on classic dishes. Food here is simple but hearty, making it the perfect choice after a day of adventure.
Type: Contemporary comfort food
Location: 16440 4th St, Guerneville, CA 95446
La Bodeguita Mexican Restaurant
From burritos to fajitas, this spot offers filling Mexican and Southwestern dishes. Bring the family; the low-key atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
Type: Mexican
Location: 16380 Mill St, Guerneville, CA 95446
Rio Nido Roadhouse
Listen to live music and sip a craft beer at this casual spot, which is known for its relaxed vibe. The menu features American classics, and the full bar offers a wide range of drinks.
Type: Pub food
Location: 14540 Canyon 2 Rd, Rio Nido, CA 95471
Shopping
Jam Jar
Pick up a souvenir or a locally made craft at this small gift shop.
Location: 16290 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446
Sonoma Nesting Co.
Known for its unique antiques and furniture, this store is a fascinating place to spend an hour or two.
Location: 16151 Main St, Guerneville, CA 95446
Sightseeing
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Located just south of Austin Creek State Recreation Area, this spot is known for its spectacular hiking trails. Be sure to check the schedule at the onsite Redwood Forest Theater.
Wine tasting
Just to the south, the Russian River Valley is home to a variety of wineries. Stop in for a wine tasting or a tour.
Russian River kayaking
Paddle down the Russian River on a kayak or canoe; you'll find outfitters scattered along the banks south of Austin Creek.
Bruno Farnocchia Memorial Park
Bring the kids to this park, which features playgrounds, a tennis court and a dog park.
Cycling
Take a bike tour around the hills and wineries in nearby Healdsburg. Go on your own with a bike rental or join a tour.
How to Get to
Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Austin Creek State Recreation Area is located deep in the hills; the best way to get there is by Highway 116. At Guerneville, take Armstrong Woods Road north. If you're coming from Healdsburg, you can also reach the Guerneville turnoff via River Road for a scenic drive along the Russian River.
By Car
Entering Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Austin Creek State Recreation Area is open year-round. If you're coming in for the day, the park is open at 8 a.m.; it closes one hour past sunset.
Austin Creek State Recreation Area Per vehicle : $10.0
Austin Creek State Recreation Area Per vehicle : $9.0
Seniors
Is Austin Creek State Recreation Area on your list of places to visit? Our team would love to hear your impressions of the park! When you're posting vacation photos on social media, tag RVshare or send your favorite snapshots and stories about your trip to [email protected] We may feature them on our company blog or social media profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Creek State Recreation Area
Austin Creek State Recreation Area contains a small campground with 23 campsites. These sites can be used for RV camping, but they're primitive and don't come equipped with any hookups.
Austin Creek State Recreation Area is an excellent park to visit with your pets, but you'll need to clean up any messes they make. You should also bring water for them as there is none offered at the park.
The temperatures at the park are typically mild, but it can get very wet between November and March. The temperatures range from 35 to 59 degrees during winter and from 49 to 85 during summer.
You can't go wrong by visiting Austin Creek State Recreation Area between May and September. In addition to providing the warmest conditions, these months will almost always be free of rain.
Wildlife viewing and bird-watching are popular activities at the park. The area is home to skunks, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, mountain lions, deer, black bears, great blue herons, spotted owls, woodpeckers, hawks, and other unique species.