Clear Lake Campground

Are you a California local seeking a refreshingly clean, organized, and welcoming campground that offers both the convenience of modern amenities and direct access to fantastic water-based activities? Clear Lake Campground, nestled along Cache Creek in Clearlake, is precisely that destination. This comprehensive guide is tailored specifically for residents of California, providing an in-depth look at what makes this vintage campground a highly recommended choice for your next family getaway, fishing trip, or paddling adventure. We'll explore its charming location, the impressive services and features it provides, and why it consistently exceeds visitor expectations, helping you plan your perfect Northern California outdoor experience.

California, with its diverse geography, boasts an abundance of incredible outdoor spaces, and Clear Lake Campground stands out as a true gem. Established in the 1950s, it offers a rustic charm combined with modern comforts that resonate with both seasoned campers and those new to the outdoor lifestyle. Whether you're an avid paddler eager to explore Cache Creek, a birder hoping to spot diverse species, a family looking for a comfortable stay with amenities like a pool, or someone simply seeking a quiet and well-maintained base for exploring the largest freshwater lake in California, Clear Lake Campground aims to deliver a memorable experience. Our goal is to present a factual, engaging, and informative overview to assist you in discovering why Clear Lake Campground should be at the top of your list for your next California outdoor escape.

Clear Lake Campground is conveniently located at 7805 Cache Creek Way, Clearlake, CA 95422, USA. This prime address places it directly on Cache Creek, which serves as the only outlet of Clear Lake. While the campground is on Cache Creek, it's just a short car or boat ride away to access the vast expanse of Clear Lake itself, the largest freshwater lake entirely within California. Its accessibility is a major plus for residents across Northern California.

Directions to the campground are straightforward: From Hwy 53, turn right onto Old Hwy 53 (a lighted intersection) then take an immediate left onto Cache Creek Way, and continue to the end of the road and down the driveway. For those coming from Hwy 29, go 1.8 miles north on Hwy 53 and turn left on Old Hwy 53, then an immediate left onto Cache Creek Way. This ease of access ensures that your journey to the campground is smooth, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The campground welcomes travel trailers, campers, tents, and small RVs. Most sites can accommodate a 30-foot RV/motorhome or a total tow package length of up to 35 feet (tow vehicle + trailer). This makes it a feasible destination for a wide range of camping setups.

Services Offered at Clear Lake Campground:

• Full Hookups: Most RV sites offer water, electricity (30 amp), and sewer hookups, providing maximum convenience for campers.
• Spotless Bathrooms and Showers: Consistently praised in reviews for being "spotless" and "amazingly clean," with hot showers included in the camp fee and flush toilets.
• Convenience Store/Camp Office: Stocked with essentials like ice cream, snacks, light fishing supplies, beer, wine, and champagne, providing convenience without leaving the campground.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: Available directly at the campground's boat launch, making it easy to explore Cache Creek and nearby Clear Lake. Rental options include 2-hour and 3-hour durations.
• Boat Launch: A private boat launch is available for kayaks, canoes, or small motorboats, offering direct water access.
• Glamping Sites: The campground offers partially-furnished Canvas Bell Tents for those seeking a more luxurious camping experience.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/BBQs: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a barbecue or fire ring for outdoor cooking and campfires.
• Limited WiFi: Available for basic connectivity needs, though it's a good opportunity to disconnect.
• Playground: A dedicated area for kids to play.
• Seasonal Kiddie Pool: A small pool for cooling off during warmer months.
• Corn Toss Game: Available for recreational fun.
• Ping Pong Table: Another on-site game option for campers.

Features and Highlights of Clear Lake Campground:

• Exceeds Expectations: Described by visitors as a place that "exceeded every expectation," highlighting its high quality and pleasant surprises.
• Clean, Organized, and Welcoming: Campers rave about how "clean, organized, and welcoming everything was" from the moment they arrive.
• Spacious and Well-Maintained Sites: Campsites are "spacious, beautifully maintained, and offered the perfect mix of shade and sun," ensuring comfort.
• Direct Cache Creek Access: Camp right on Cache Creek, the only outlet of Clear Lake, providing a unique riparian environment.
• Peaceful Paddling: "Water current was calm and still. Very easy to paddle this creek," making it ideal for leisurely canoe and kayak trips.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see "many species of birds and even a river otter along the paddle," enhancing the nature experience.
• Rustic Charm with Modern Comforts: A "small vintage campground, established in the 1950s," offering a nostalgic feel with essential modern amenities.
• World-Class Fishing: Known for "great fishing and bird watching right from your campsite" on Cache Creek. For lake fishing, nearby Redbud Park, Highlands Park, and Austin Park are within a ten-minute drive.
• Stunning Vistas and Clean Air: Lake County is celebrated for its "stunning vistas, world-class wines, the largest freshwater lake in California, the cleanest air in the US," enriching the overall experience.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome, though leash rules and waste cleanup are expected.
• Friendly and Accommodating Staff: Reviewers praise the "super friendly staff" and owners who are "so nice and happy to help."

Contact Information:

Address: 7805 Cache Creek Way, Clearlake, CA 95422, USA

Phone: (707) 994-2236

Mobile Phone: +1 707-994-2236

Email: hello@campclearlake.com

Website: www.campclearlake.com

These direct contact options make it incredibly easy for prospective campers to get in touch for inquiries, reservations (which are highly recommended, especially for rentals), and any specific needs. The ability to contact the office via phone or email, and the presence of a camp host on-site, ensures that assistance is readily available. It's always a good idea to check their website or call ahead for the most current information on site availability, rental rates, specific rules (like those regarding Apple Pay or booking office hours), and any advisories, such as the noted "algae and cyano-bacteria" in the water, which impacts water contact activities. The friendly owner's advice about booking online for seamless check-in at the boat launch highlights their commitment to customer service.

Conclusion: Why Clear Lake Campground is Suitable for California Locals:

For California residents, Clear Lake Campground presents an outstanding opportunity for a truly enjoyable and hassle-free outdoor experience. Its prime location on Cache Creek, with easy access to Clear Lake, means that a wealth of water-based activities is right at your fingertips. This convenience, combined with the campground's reputation for being "clean, organized, and welcoming," makes it an ideal choice for families and individuals seeking a comfortable yet authentic connection with nature.

The extensive amenities, including full hookups for RVs, remarkably spotless bathrooms and showers, and even glamping tents, cater to a wide range of camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. The on-site availability of canoe and kayak rentals, coupled with the "calm and still" waters of Cache Creek, offers a perfect opportunity for leisurely paddles and wildlife viewing, including "many species of birds and even a river otter." This hands-on outdoor experience is something Californians cherish, and Clear Lake Campground facilitates it beautifully.

While a review did mention the presence of "algae and cyano-bacteria" in the water, advising against touching it, this information is crucial for informed decision-making and highlights the importance of checking current conditions. Despite this, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with visitors highly recommending the campground for its "very fun adventure," "awesome camp," and its status as a "true hidden gem." For California locals looking for a well-maintained, amenity-rich campground that offers a peaceful setting and ample recreational opportunities on and near the water, Clear Lake Campground is undoubtedly a top-tier destination that promises to exceed expectations.

Clear Lake Campground

7805 Cache Creek Way, Clearlake, CA 95422, USA