Sugarloaf Ridge Campground

Things to know: Campsites here are cheek-by-jowl on top of one another. But, there are great star views in the meadow on clear nights. Campers with pets or small children should also be aware that big cats have been seen hunting here at night, so keep pets on leashes and kids close by.

This campground has some pros and cons. The pros are many - a beautiful location with great hiking and a cool observatory close by. Huge California oaks and bay laurels, the latter filling the space with a wonderful aroma. Good clean bathrooms and showers.

The major con is that the sites are jammed in close together, and, being a family campground, there are many kids. I love kids, but it can be very loud at night and early in the morning. No drinking is allowed in the park, which was fine with me!

I might not go back but I'm happy to have stayed there.

The national park is about a 10minute drive off the highway at Kenwood before you reach the entrance point.It is in fact the parking meter thing on the right as you go in.$35 for a night and go and pick your spot. The site is on a big loop where a stream wraps around it.In the middle is a large field. Campsites are large and each have benches/fire pits. Wood available from the ranger for $8 and 'hot showers' coin operated.25c for One minute !They are clean. Location wise, this is fifteen minutes from any vineyard, not walking distance. unless you are a reasonably fit cyclist the distance from the Camp on wheels is 25 mins at least. Peaceful place with only the sound of the stream running through, we had a lovely time here. Would recommend.

The non-profit Valley of the Moon Observatory Association provides year-round astronomy education and interpretation programs at the Robert Ferguson Observatory, open ~once a month for star gazing and "star parties". http://rfo.org/public-astronomy.html

Most campsites are NOT secluded and people can be heard all around. The sites are located up the hill and there's a great field/valley for star gazing. Good for families.