Upper Bayview Campground

Hello, fellow California outdoor enthusiasts! Are you searching for a memorable camping experience that combines stunning natural beauty with essential comforts? Look no further than Upper Bayview Campground, a cherished section within Clear Lake State Park in Kelseyville. This campground offers a unique opportunity to connect with California's largest freshwater lake, providing serene lake views and a welcoming atmosphere for both seasoned campers and those looking for a relaxing escape.

Upper Bayview Campground is one of the four distinct camping areas within Clear Lake State Park, each offering its own charm. What sets Upper Bayview apart is its elevated position, which, for some campsites, provides spectacular "window of lake view" opportunities. Imagine waking up to the gentle glow of sunrise over Clear Lake, or perhaps even catching a dazzling fireworks display right from your campsite on special occasions. It’s a truly Californian experience, blending picturesque landscapes with convenient amenities.

For us Californians, finding a well-maintained campground that offers both scenic beauty and practical facilities is a true win. Upper Bayview aims to deliver just that, providing clean restrooms, hot showers, and a sense of tranquility despite its popularity. This article is crafted specifically for you, the local user, to give you a detailed and engaging overview of what makes Upper Bayview Campground such an appealing choice for your next adventure. We'll dive into its precise location, the services designed to enhance your stay, its unique features and highlights, and how you can get in touch to plan your visit. Prepare to discover your new favorite lakeside retreat in beautiful Lake County!

Location and Accessibility

Upper Bayview Campground is located within Clear Lake State Park at 5300 Soda Bay Rd, Kelseyville, CA 95451, USA. This places it on the shores of Clear Lake, California's largest natural freshwater lake entirely within the state. The park entrance is approximately 3.5 miles northeast of Kelseyville on Soda Bay Road.

Accessibility to Upper Bayview is generally straightforward, being located within a well-established state park. From various points in Northern California, such as the Bay Area or Sacramento, the drive to Kelseyville offers scenic routes through wine country and rolling hills. While the area can experience warm temperatures, particularly in summer afternoons (with reviews noting 99-110°F), the nights at the campground are often described as "nice and cool," making for comfortable sleeping. The mornings are "super nice," inviting campers to enjoy the serene environment until midday.

The campground's position within Clear Lake State Park means it benefits from well-maintained park roads, making it accessible for a variety of vehicles, including RVs (up to 35 feet maximum length) and cars pulling trailers. While some campsites may have a slight slope, many offer flat enough areas for tent setup, as noted by campers. The ease of access combined with the stunning lake environment makes Upper Bayview a highly convenient and desirable camping destination for local Californians seeking a refreshing getaway.

Services Offered

• 33 Campsites: Upper Bayview Campground features 33 partially shaded campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, RVs, and motorhomes (with a maximum length of 35 feet).
• Scenic Views: Specific campsites, like #136 and #138, offer highly sought-after "window of lake view" opportunities, allowing campers to enjoy the beautiful scenery directly from their site.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings are provided at each site, perfect for campfires (always check for fire restrictions, especially in California's dry seasons). Some campers have noted that the "Fire pit height hindered our ability to enjoy sitting around a campfire," suggesting the design may vary.
• Running Faucets: Some campsites, such as those in front of sites 136, 138, and 140, have running faucets, providing convenient access to water.
• Clean Restrooms: The campground offers clean restroom facilities. One reviewer specifically noted that the "Bathroom with shower is Much nicer" compared to other central bathrooms with more bugs, suggesting a preference for the shower-equipped facilities.
• Pay Showers with Strong Water Pressure: Showers are available via a token system, with tokens needing to be exchanged near the visitor center (not at the visitor center itself). The token machine accepts cash but does not give change. Campers have praised the "strong" shower water pressure, with only "2-3 tokens" needed for a good shower.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for registered campers, making it convenient for RVs.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available throughout the campground.
• Parking: Campsites generally have parking areas that can fit two cars. While some sites might be sloped, limiting suitability for SUV tent camping, standard car camping is feasible.
• Staff and Rangers: Reviewers consistently mention that the "Staffs and rangers were nice and the rangers do their rounds," contributing to a well-managed and safe environment.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed (check for specific restrictions and fees).
• Year-Round Camping: Clear Lake State Park offers camping year-round, although reservations are highly recommended during peak season (mid-May through mid-September).

Features / Highlights

• Stunning Lake Views: The primary highlight is the breathtaking views of Clear Lake, particularly from elevated sites within Upper Bayview. The opportunity to "wake up facing the lake when walking out of our tent" or watch "July 4th fireworks" directly from a campsite is a significant draw.
• Proximity to Clear Lake: Being on the shores of California's largest freshwater lake means direct access to a wide array of water-based activities, including fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Excellent Fishing: Clear Lake is renowned as a top bass fishing lake, but also offers great opportunities for catching crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish, making it a paradise for anglers.
• Designated Swim Beach: The park features a sandy swim beach, offering a refreshing spot to cool off during warm California days.
• Wildlife Sightings: Visitors frequently report seeing local wildlife, with "multiple deer sightings" mentioned, adding to the natural immersion. Be sure to bring bug spray for evenings, as advised by previous campers.
• Local Trails: The campground offers access to enjoyable and "easy" local trails, including the Dorn Nature Trail, perfect for leisurely walks and connecting with nature.
• Shade from Trees: Many campsites offer natural shade from trees, providing welcome relief from the summer sun, as campers note "there are shades from the trees."
• Quiet and Private Sites: While popular, some sites, especially "on the outskirts of the campgrounds," offer a great degree of privacy, with only a few other campers around, particularly in mid-May.
• Nearby Visitor Center and Amenities: The presence of a visitor center (where shower tokens can be exchanged) ensures access to park information and assistance.

Contact Information

Address: Upper Bayview Campground, Clear Lake State Park, Kelseyville, CA 95451, USA

Phone: (707) 279-4293 (Clear Lake State Park)

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For us Californians, Upper Bayview Campground at Clear Lake State Park is an exceptional choice for a local getaway that combines the beauty of a major freshwater lake with the convenience of a well-equipped state park campground. Its location in Kelseyville, nestled in Lake County, makes it an accessible escape for many in Northern California, offering a refreshing change of scenery without requiring an overly extensive journey.

The ability to secure a campsite with a "window of lake view" is a significant draw, providing immediate and constant immersion in the serene lake environment. This intimate connection to the water, coupled with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and simply relaxing by the shore, makes it an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. The balance between the potential for warm daytime temperatures and the reliably "nice and cool" nights ensures a comfortable stay, even during the peak summer months.

Furthermore, the provision of clean restrooms and, notably, "free hot showers" (with tokens easily obtained nearby) elevates the camping experience beyond the rustic, making it more appealing for those who appreciate modern comforts. The friendly and attentive staff and rangers, who "do their rounds," contribute to a safe and welcoming atmosphere, giving campers peace of mind.

Whether you're planning a trip around a special event like July 4th fireworks, looking for a prime fishing spot, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat where deer sightings are common and easy trails await, Upper Bayview Campground delivers. It represents the best of California's accessible outdoor recreation, inviting locals to create lasting memories amidst the stunning beauty of Clear Lake.

For a visual overview of Clear Lake State Park, you can check out this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSb1d6HIBOw). This video offers a glimpse into the park's atmosphere and general layout, including views of its various campgrounds.

Upper Bayview Campground

Kelseyville, CA 95451, USA