Campgrounds and RV parks near Upper Lake, CA

Water activity drives most trips. Clear Lake is popular for swimming, boating, water-skiing, paddling, and fishing, and anglers commonly target largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. Bass tournaments run heavily in spring and early summer. The Blue Lakes, just west of town, are a quieter alternative. Boats with motors are not allowed, which helps maintain water clarity, but canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and electric boats are welcome. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks rainbow trout into the Blue Lakes during the cooler months, typically October through May, and Upper Blue Lake is the main trout water. North of town, the Mendocino National Forest offers hiking, OHV trails, and access toward the Snow Mountain Wilderness. Birdwatching along the Pacific Flyway is strong around the lake, and Lake County wineries and tasting rooms are within a short drive.

Summer is the busiest stretch. Daytime highs routinely push into the 90s, the lake warms up for swimming and water-skiing, and private resorts fill quickly on weekends. Wildfire and heat are real concerns: during fire season, generally late spring through fall, a California Campfire Permit is required for any open flame, including campfires, stoves, or charcoal grills in dispersed areas, and restrictions can tighten on short notice. Spring brings mild temperatures, green hills, and the strongest trout action on the Blue Lakes. Bass fishing on Clear Lake hits its stride as water temperatures climb. Fall sees fewer crowds, comfortable daytime temperatures, and the return of cool-season trout stocking. Winter is the wet season. Pacific storms can flood forest roads and trigger slides at higher elevations. At Clear Lake State Park, Kelsey Creek Campground stays open year-round, while Cole Creek, Lower Bayview, and Upper Bayview operate seasonally. Many Mendocino National Forest higher-elevation sites are effectively seasonal, with access limited by storms and the occasional snow event on Elk Mountain Road.

Upper Lake itself is a small town with a few restaurants, a market, and fuel; restock in Lakeport or Ukiah for longer trips. Cell coverage is decent along Highway 20 and weak to nonexistent up in the national forest. Clear Lake State Park has no electric or water hookups, but a dump station, flush toilets, and pay showers are available. Private resorts on Clear Lake and the Blue Lakes typically offer full hookups, boat launches, and rentals. The main way to access the Blue Lakes is through one of the four lakeside lodgings or by purchasing a day pass. For forest sites, plan to be self-contained. Vault toilets are common, and running water, electrical hookups, and shower facilities should not be assumed at remote campgrounds. Purchase firewood locally to avoid moving invasive pests, and bring shade, water, and a fire-safe setup in summer.