ResortRussian River Valley · Sonoma4.3 · 269
River Bend Resort
River Bend Resort in Forestville puts cabins, RV hookups, and tent sites between towering redwoods and a private beach.
Dog OKKid FriendlyWine EnthusiastsNature Lovers
★★
Russian River Valley · Sonoma County · and
Johnson's Beach - Cabins and Campground
2-star hotelWine LoversNature Retreat
4.4(39 reviews)
Known forRiver ViewsCampingCanoeingHistoricFamily-FriendlyGlamping
Why Stay Here
The Historic Bungalows, timber-framed structures that have stood since the 1920s, line a meadow where Sycamores filter afternoon light. Canoes stack up by the water each morning, and you can hear kids splashing from your cabin porch. Johnson's Beach has been in the same spot since Gertie and Ernie Johnson opened it in 1918.
- Historic Bungalows built in the 1920s with timber frames and local art
- Canvas Cabanas set on wooden slats milled from local Redwood
- Beach Lodge sleeps up to nine guests in four bedrooms
- Founded by Gertie and Ernie Johnson in 1918
- Canoe and pedal boat rentals launch from the white pebble beach
The Experience
Guests rent canoes and pedal boats by the hour, launching directly from the beach into the current. The Tiny Cabins come with hardwood floors and king beds, while the Canvas Cabanas rest on wooden slats milled from local Redwood. Camping spots in the Sycamore-shaded meadow include picnic tables, and the bungalows display local art on their walls. Mornings tend toward coffee on the porch, afternoons toward floating downriver.
The Setting
Johnson's Beach sits on white pebble shores where the Russian River bends near Main Street Guerneville. Redwoods, Black Walnut, and Sycamore trees rise above the property, which has operated as a summertime destination since 1918. The meadow spreads out between the cabins and the riverbank, and the Beach Lodge—a four-bedroom retreat that sleeps up to nine—anchors the property's north end. First Street runs just beyond the entrance, putting downtown Guerneville within walking distance.
Rooms & Suites
Historic Bungalows
Built in the 1920s, the historic bungalows at Johnson's Beach exude iconic charm with their timber-framed structures and local art. Each bungalow features a private deck and bathroom, with options for queen beds or two doubles, making them a cozy retreat for those seeking a touch of nostalgia.
Tiny Cabins
Designed with simplicity in mind, the Tiny Cabins provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including hardwood floors and a king bed. Each cabin comes equipped with a tiny kitchen, a bathroom with a shower, and outdoor amenities like a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Canvas Cabanas
The Canvas Cabanas offer a unique glamping experience, nestled on wooden slats milled from local Redwood. Each cabana features a queen bed with luxury linens, a charming front porch, and outdoor amenities including a fire pit and picnic table, all while surrounded by the soothing sounds of the river.
Camping
Set amidst a serene meadow shaded by Sycamore trees, the camping spots at Johnson's Beach provide a perfect escape into nature. Each site includes picnic tables, firepits, and access to communal facilities, allowing guests to enjoy both the river by day and the stars by night.
The Beach Lodge
Ideal for larger groups, the historic Beach Lodge accommodates up to nine guests with its four bedrooms and two bathrooms. This spacious retreat, rich in art and character, features a full kitchen and lovely views of the surrounding old-growth trees, making it a perfect gathering place for families and friends.
Activities & Experiences
Canoeing and Pedal Boating
Guests at Johnson's Beach can enjoy a variety of water activities, including canoeing and pedal boating, perfect for a day of adventure on the Russian River. With easy access to the water, it's an ideal way to soak up the sun and explore the scenic surroundings.
Insider Tips
Opt for the historic bungalows if you're after a touch of nostalgia, or choose a Canvas Cabana for a more adventurous glamping experience. For larger gatherings, the Beach Lodge provides ample space and a communal atmosphere that's perfect for family reunions.
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Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping
Safari tents and lofted cabins sit steps from where the Russian River curves through Healdsburg.
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Dog OK*Wine LoversCouples Retreat
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Wineries Nearby
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.6 · 481
Korbel Champagne Cellars
Korbel has produced California sparkling wine by méthode champenoise since 1882.
Dog OKKid Friendly*
$From $15
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.6 · 64
Hartford Family Winery
Don and Jennifer Hartford founded this winery in 1994 to produce single-vineyard Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and old vine Zinfandel.
ReservationDog OKKid Friendly
$$$From $60
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.8 · 126
Gary Farrell Vineyards
Single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from named Russian River Valley growers.
Reservation
$$From $35
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.6 · 266
Iron Horse Vineyards
Founded in 1976, Iron Horse serves its sparkling wines outdoors with vineyard views to Mt. St. Helena.
ReservationKid FriendlyPicnic
$From $25
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.6 · 321
Russian River Vineyards
Giovanni Balistreri, a fourth-generation farmer, runs this 1890s property.
Dog OK
$From $20
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.7 · 111
Williams Selyem
Williams Selyem's list-member-only appointments pour from Rochioli, Allen, and Hirsch vineyards.
Reservation
$$$From $75
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.7 · 336
MacRostie Winery Estate House
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame Russian River Valley from a ridgetop Estate House.
ReservationDog OKKid Friendly
$$From $50
Russian River Valley · Sonoma4.3 · 129
Flowers Vineyards & Winery
Flowers farms Camp Meeting Ridge and Sea View Ridge on the far Sonoma Coast for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
$$$From $75
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