Ritchey Creek Campground

For California locals yearning for an exceptional outdoor escape that harmonizes the tranquility of nature with the refined pleasures of wine country, Ritchey Creek Campground within Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is an unparalleled destination. Situated amidst towering redwoods and lush forests in the heart of the iconic Napa Valley, this campground offers a unique opportunity to experience California's natural beauty while being just moments away from world-class wineries, exquisite dining, and charming towns. It's a truly special place where the rustle of leaves meets the allure of viticulture, creating a multi-faceted adventure for every type of outdoor enthusiast.

Ritchey Creek Campground consistently earns high praise for its meticulously maintained facilities and diverse lodging options. Visitors rave about the "Beautiful car camping spots" and the overall cleanliness, highlighting that the "campground nice and quiet, clean and well kept." The unique offerings, such as staying in a yurt, add an extra layer of adventure, as one satisfied guest noted about their #1 yurt experience: "Yurt is clean and has no smell. You can put another queen-size air mattress on the side. The bathroom and shower are in front of the yurt." While acknowledging potential construction noise at times in the nearby main street, the convenience of the location, including proximity to amenities like Safeway and readily available firewood, significantly enhances the visitor experience. Ritchey Creek Campground truly stands out as a premier destination for Californians seeking a blend of rustic charm and accessible luxury in one of the state's most coveted regions.

Ritchey Creek Campground is centrally located within Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, with its primary address being Calistoga, CA 94515, USA. More specifically, the park entrance is found at 3801 St. Helena Highway (Highway 29) in Calistoga. This advantageous position places it just a short drive—approximately 5 miles north of St. Helena and 4 miles south of Calistoga—from key towns and attractions within the renowned Napa Valley. For California residents, accessibility is a major convenience. The drive to the campground typically involves well-maintained state highways, making the journey smooth and enjoyable from major population centers like the Bay Area and Sacramento.

The ease of access to Ritchey Creek Campground is a significant benefit, ensuring that campers can quickly transition from city life to natural serenity. The park accommodates various vehicle types, including RVs and trailers (with specific length restrictions, such as 31 feet for motorhomes and 24 feet for trailers), making it a viable option for many. Furthermore, the campground's strategic location provides unparalleled access to the wider Napa Valley region. A shuttle bus service is even available to take campers to nearby towns and wineries for a nominal fee, allowing visitors to fully experience the area's culinary and cultural delights without the need for personal vehicle transport. This seamless blend of natural retreat and regional connectivity makes Ritchey Creek Campground an ideal base for any California local looking to explore one of the state's most iconic areas.

Services Offered:

• Tent and RV campsites (no hookups), including approximately 30 drive-in sites and 9 walk-in tent-only sites.
• ADA accessible drive-in/RV sites are available.
• Rustic cabins for rent, offering basic amenities like a microwave, small refrigerator, and coffee pot, with natural gas heat. Some cabins can sleep up to six people and include full kitchens and bathrooms.
• Unique yurt accommodations, providing a comfortable structured camping experience with beds (queen-sized bed and two cots), a table and chairs, keyed entry, and access to nearby restrooms and showers.
• Each campsite and accommodation type is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill.
• Restrooms with flush toilets and coin-operated showers for convenience and comfort.
• Potable water spigots located throughout the campground.
• An RV dump station is available within the state park (though not at individual campsites).
• A seasonal spring-fed swimming pool, open during summer weekends (Memorial Day to Labor Day) with an additional fee and lifeguard on duty, and a pool lift for enhanced access.
• Designated picnic areas, including a reservable large group picnic ramada.
• A camp host is typically on-site for assistance and to sell firewood (firewood bundles are available for $10).
• Pet-friendly policies: Leashed dogs are allowed in developed areas like the campground and picnic areas, but not on trails.
• Recycle bins at each campsite to support environmentally responsible practices.

Features / Highlights:

• Stunning natural environment with a diverse forest including coastal redwoods, Douglas firs, tanoaks, and madrones, offering ample shade and scenic beauty.
• Extensive network of over 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the easy Redwood Trail along Ritchey Creek and challenging climbs to Coyote Peak for panoramic views.
• Unbeatable proximity to world-renowned Napa Valley wineries, allowing for easy access to wine tasting experiences.
• The unique opportunity to stay in comfortable yurts or charming rustic cabins, providing alternatives to traditional tent or RV camping.
• A spring-fed swimming pool, a rare and welcome amenity for a state park, perfect for cooling off during warmer months.
• Historical significance with the adjacent Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, accessible via a picturesque hike on the History Trail.
• Opportunities for wildlife viewing, with various bird species (including six types of woodpeckers), raccoons, coyotes, and bobcats residing in the park.
• Good cell phone reception in most of the campground, balancing a natural escape with necessary connectivity.
• A quiet and well-maintained atmosphere, as noted by visitors who appreciate the cleanliness and spaciousness of the sites.
• Family-friendly amenities and activities suitable for all ages, fostering outdoor education and enjoyment.
• Shuttle bus service available to nearby towns and wineries for convenient exploration without driving.

Contact Information:

Address: Calistoga, CA 94515, USA (Main Park Address: 3801 St. Helena Highway, Calistoga, CA 94515)

Phone: (707) 942-4575

Mobile Phone: +1 707-942-4575

For the most current information regarding campsite availability, reservations for campsites, yurts, or cabins, and any specific park rules or alerts (such as fire restrictions or pool hours), California locals are strongly encouraged to contact Bothe-Napa Valley State Park directly at (707) 942-4575. For online reservations, visitors should use the ReserveCalifornia website or call their reservation line at (800) 444-7275. These resources provide the most up-to-date and accurate details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Ritchey Creek Campground.

Ritchey Creek Campground is truly an ideal destination for California locals, offering a compelling array of features that cater to the diverse interests of residents across the state. Its prime location in the Napa Valley provides a unique dual advantage: the serenity of a beautiful state park and immediate access to world-renowned wine country. For those in the Bay Area or Sacramento, the relatively easy drive allows for convenient weekend getaways, maximizing time spent enjoying the destination rather than commuting. The variety of accommodations, from "Beautiful car camping spots" to comfortable yurts and rustic cabins, means there's an option for every preference and budget, making quality outdoor experiences accessible to more Californians.

The campground's commitment to cleanliness, with "clean" and "well kept" facilities including flush toilets and coin-operated showers, significantly enhances comfort. While acknowledging temporary urban sounds, the fundamental peacefulness of the redwood groves remains a major draw. For families, the seasonal pool, hiking trails, and safe environment provide ample opportunities for recreation and connection with nature. Moreover, the unparalleled proximity to wineries and local towns, coupled with convenient shuttle options, offers a distinct "wine country camping" experience that is truly Californian. Ritchey Creek Campground seamlessly combines natural adventure with cultural indulgence, making it an exceptional and highly recommended retreat for locals looking to experience the best of their home state.

Ritchey Creek Campground

Calistoga, CA 94515, USA