Location location location…. The Schoolhouse Canyon Campground is located about 400 yards off the Russian River / 1/2 mile down the road from the Korbel Winery (amazing deli!!!) and about 5 miles from the town of Gurneville (Safeway + bakery's etc.). Chris the owner runs the site and his family has had the propety for about 160 years starting when his ggg grandfather arrived during the gold rush of 1849.
Many lessons were learned over the years and Chris' attention to detail and meticulos vetting of potential disruptive guests make for a wonderful experience. The campsite is divided into two areas, an adults area (higher up the road) and a family area (just inside the gate when you first arrive) both areas allow for a adult friendly & a family safe visit to this canyon, which is located under a 100 foot + high canopy of trees (see my photo below).
The campsites are large and include a fire ring with a flip down grill (see photo) a standard sized picnic table and most important - it is very clean. It is primarily designed for tent camping, but I did see several pop-up trailers. With in a very short walking distance are hot showers ($1.25 for 6 minutes) and a place to wash your pots and pans. Also near by are spigots with fresh well water that you can safely drink and/or fill up your canister when ever you need water. Chris has fire wood onsite ($5 a bundle) and loads of inner tubes for use on the river ($5 a day). The beach along the river is for the camps private use and their is a company the will rent you stand up paddle boards ($50 for two hours or $100 per day).
Chris can be difficult to reach by phone, but he will call you back - and if you don't answer his call you lose your opportunity to make a reservation as he does not have the time to call you again.
