Casini Ranch campground sprawls across 110 acres along the Russian River in Duncans Mills, about twenty minutes from the coast. A full mile of the river runs through the property, and the setting really does feel removed from everything—just rolling hills, redwoods, and water. Your dog will notice the space immediately; there’s room to move around between sites without constantly bumping into neighbors.

The swimming hole is legitimately nice, shallow and sandy in spots, so if your dog is water-shy or just wants to wade, there are options beyond the deeper channels. Canoeing happens here too, though that’s more of a human activity unless your dog’s the adventurous type. The playground keeps kids occupied, and summer hay rides are a real thing they do—actual rides through the property, not just a marketing line.

When you check in with a dog, you’ll get a welcome bag with a dog biscuit and a copy of the rules specific to traveling with dogs. It’s a small touch, but it signals they’ve thought about what dogs need on a camping trip. The RV rally areas mean the campground hosts larger groups, so weekends can get lively if that matters to you.

Getting there is straightforward from the Bay Area. Take River Road west from Highway 101 near Santa Rosa, heading toward Guerneville (about eighteen miles). Continue through Guerneville on Highway 116 toward Duncans Mills. The drive itself is scenic—you’ll pass through wine country before hitting the river towns, so it’s not a slog to get there.

The combination of river access, actual acreage to explore, and a relaxed vibe makes this feel like a real camping trip rather than parking in a lot. Dogs do well with the space, and their humans tend to relax once they see how much room everything has.