How do I reserve California state park camping?

To reserve a campsite at a California State Park, you can use the official reservation system called ReserveCalifornia. Follow these steps to book your campsite: Visit the ReserveCalifornia website. Enter your desired park, campground, or region in the search bar, or use the interactive map to find a location. Select your preferred dates and the type of camping you're interested in (tent, RV, group site, etc.). Review the available campsites and choose the one that best suits your needs. Click "Book Now" and follow the prompts to complete your reservation. Provide your personal information, payment details, and any additional information requested, then click "Submit." Once your reservation is confirmed, you'll receive an email with your confirmation number and additional details about your campsite. It's important to note that campsites at popular parks, especially during peak season, can fill up quickly. It's recommended to book your reservation as far in advance as possible, up to six months ahead of your desired dates.

What beaches allow camping in California?

Several beaches in California allow camping. Some popular options include: San Elijo State Beach : In Encinitas , this beach offers camping sites for tents and RVs. Carpinteria State Beach : Situated in Carpinteria , this beach offers camping for tents, RVs, and trailers. Point Mugu State Park : Set in Malibu , Thornhill Broome Beach Campground offers beach camping for tents and RVs. Crystal Cove State Park : Located in Laguna Beach , this park offers camping at Moro Campground, which is a short walk from the beach. Doheny State Beach : In Dana Point , this beach offers camping for tents and RVs. For more options, check out Hipcamp's beach campgrounds .

Why is it so hard to find campsites in California?

There are several reasons why it can be difficult to find campsites in California : High demand: California is a popular tourist destination with its diverse landscapes, beaches, national parks, and mild climate. This high demand for camping spots makes it challenging to find available campsites, especially during peak season. Population: California has the largest population of any state in the U.S., and many residents enjoy camping as a recreational activity. This means increased competition for campsites among both residents and visitors. Limited supply: Although California has a vast number of campgrounds, the supply of campsites may not be sufficient to meet the high demand. Some campgrounds also have a limited number of sites, making it harder to find a spot. Reservation system: Many popular campgrounds in California require reservations, which can fill up months in advance. This can make it difficult for last-minute campers to find a site. Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds in California are closed during certain seasons, such as winter, due to weather conditions or maintenance. This further limits the availability of campsites during those times. To increase your chances of finding a campsite in California , consider camping during the off-peak season, making reservations well in advance, or exploring lesser-known campgrounds. Websites like Hipcamp can help you discover alternative camping options, including private land and unique accommodations.

Where I can camp without a permit in California?

In California , you can camp without a permit in areas designated for dispersed camping, usually found on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest lands. Here are some popular locations for dispersed camping without a permit: Inyo National Forest Sequoia National Forest Angeles National Forest Stanislaus National Forest Mendocino National Forest Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect the environment, and follow any posted rules or regulations. Also, be aware that some areas may have fire restrictions or seasonal closures. It's always a good idea to check with the local ranger station for current conditions and regulations before heading out.

What are the camping rules in California?

Camping rules in California vary depending on the location and type of campground (national park, state park, national forest, private campgrounds, etc.). However, there are some general rules that apply to most camping situations in California : Choose designated campgrounds or campsites for overnight stays. Observe quiet hours, typically between 10 pm and 6 am. Keep campfires contained in designated fire rings or stoves, and never leave them unattended. Obtain a campfire permit if required. Follow fire restrictions, especially during high fire danger periods. Store food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or use proper food storage techniques in bear country. Practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and minimizing your impact on the environment. Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals. Keep pets on a leash and under control at all times. Observe posted speed limits and other traffic regulations in campgrounds. Adhere to any specific rules posted at the campground, such as maximum stay limits, check-in/check-out times, and group size restrictions. It's crucial to research the specific rules and regulations of the area where you plan to camp, as they may differ depending on the land management agency or private property rules. Check the website or contact the managing agency for the most up-to-date information.

Camping in California: Best California Campgrounds 2023

United States
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California

94% (63143 reviews)

Popular camping styles for California

Top camping destinations

Campfire serenade at Jughandle Beach, just a short walk from our campsite

Davis

603 campgrounds

Glacier point, definitely recommended! Get here EARLY in the morning for a damn good sunrise, and before the tour busses show up (or snag a wilderness permit and stay overnight!)

Yosemite National Park

629 campgrounds

Bassi Falls

666 campgrounds

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

469 campgrounds

Elk Grove

603 campgrounds

Joshua Tree National Park

12 top campgrounds in California

98%

(325)

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(325)

Glamping in the Redwoods 🐶🐕💃🕺🏼

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Occidental, Sonoma

Welcome to West Sonoma Camping in the Redwoods! We are located just a 2-minute drive or a 15-minute walk away from the quaint little hamlet of Occidental, where you'll find terrific restaurants with take-out, and two nice markets (one organic) and a liquor/convenience store. In town, you'll also find a terrific independent local meat market that has been in operation for over 100 years! 25 minutes from the ocean, 20 minutes to the Russian River and kayaking, and 30 minutes from HWY 101 or HWY 1. A perfect stop-over if you are travelling up the coast of California. We have 2 campsites to choose from. (Both are clothing optional. 😉). 1. Treehouse (glamping stay with Hot Tub, Pool and Sauna). Bring your own bedding… We supply fresh fitted top sheets on upscale memory foam mattresses. Full kitchen and bath, gas barbecue, flush toilet and hot water shower. 2. RV/tent site (bring your own camp stove, gas or charcoal barbecue, cooking utensils, tent or RV, and enjoy a Hot Tub and a heated Tiki Tent). Enjoy a real bathroom with a (short) hot shower, sink and toilet. Please see each site description below for more information. Our property is the perfect stopover in Northern California’s Redwoods and wine country. A terrific camp spot to recharge and unwind. Quiet, exclusive, secure, gated, sunny- and in a very friendly and safe forest setting. ⛺️🏕️🌲 NOTE: Although wood campfires are not allowed in our county, we have 2 wonderful gas fire pits for your year-round enjoyment. Both the Treehouse and Vancamp have their own private hot tub and gas fire pit. We are pet-friendly and LGBTQ-friendly! ALL ARE WELCOME 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️ Come and experience our little slice of heaven. We look forward to serving up a very fun and relaxing time for you and yours! Please check out our reviews and photos.

SMR Carmel Camping

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents89 acres · Del Rey Oaks, Monterey

Welcome to Saddle Mountain Ranch, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. Our glamping stays are NOT pet-friendly aside from one of our luxury tents. We charge $5 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!

Salmon Creek Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Bodega Bay, Sonoma

Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.

Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Lake Arrowhead, San Bernardino

The Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground is located on a beautiful 160-acre property known as the Bowen Ranch, amidst iconic Joshua Trees and ancient Junipers. Situated on the edge of the San Bernardino Mountains in the Mojave Desert, this rural off-the-grid property is surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine undeveloped land managed by the BLM and USFS, making it the perfect place to escape the city and appreciate nature at it's finest. Not only can you be outgoing and adventurous while staying on our property, but you can relax and recharge with us here, too! Staying on this rural 160 acre slice of nature allows one to escape the sounds and stresses of the city and become one with nature. The desert can be very peaceful and healing to the soul, and our property provides just enough privacy and plenty of nature to help you forget about all of your worries for a brief moment. This privately owned property is the closest in proximity to the Deep Creek Hot Springs and has been used as a camp and access point to the Deep Creek canyon and hot springs for nearly 100 years. The Deep Creek Canyon also offers gold panning, swimming holes and excellent fishing as it winds 12 miles through the canyon. This unique property is the perfect place for friends to gather and celebrate, or hold your special private event, either in our general camping area, glamping and recreation tent area, private group area, or at the private spring pool site located right on the property. We can accommodate approximately 300 people and 90 vehicles.All sites have a picnic table and a fire pit (grills available and firewood for sale on site), and room to set up 3-4 tents and park 3-4 cars. Large private group sites and private event venue rental available for up to 300+. Warnings: Must drive 6-mile dirt road to access, intermittent cell service, very rural area 12 miles from services, possible encounters with wild animals/insect swarms and unhospitable neighbors on occasion.

Historic Pioneertown Campground

68 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Pioneertown, San Bernardino

Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.Learn more about this land:Camp under the stars in historic Pioneertown! Pioneertown Corrals provides a unique setting for campers who want to spend their vacations or getaway weekends in this peaceful desert setting. If you like to ride the trails, barbeque, sit around a campfire, and stargaze in the evening, then you've come to the right place!Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few!Wild West re-enactment performances take place along Mane Street in Pioneertown on weekend afternoons, between early spring and late fall.

Available this weekend

98%

(25)

Mineral Spring Date Farm

3 sites · Lodging10 acres · Desert Hot Springs, Riverside

Get cozy and settle into this rustic space. This place with its own private naturally mineral spring soak tub located in a private 10-acre Date Palm Nursery with Mineral Springs. ~18 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs. * **Perfect late-night check in** If you love traveling, nature, and adventure this place has features to help you maximize your travel experiences. Comfortable and right in the middle of the desert. Experience the best of both worlds.

SMR Carmel Camping

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents89 acres · Del Rey Oaks, Monterey

Welcome to Saddle Mountain Ranch, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. Our glamping stays are NOT pet-friendly aside from one of our luxury tents. We charge $5 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!

Campo Nopalito

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Valley Center, San Diego

Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm. Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.

Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Lake Arrowhead, San Bernardino

The Deep Creek Hot Springs Campground is located on a beautiful 160-acre property known as the Bowen Ranch, amidst iconic Joshua Trees and ancient Junipers. Situated on the edge of the San Bernardino Mountains in the Mojave Desert, this rural off-the-grid property is surrounded by thousands of acres of pristine undeveloped land managed by the BLM and USFS, making it the perfect place to escape the city and appreciate nature at it's finest. Not only can you be outgoing and adventurous while staying on our property, but you can relax and recharge with us here, too! Staying on this rural 160 acre slice of nature allows one to escape the sounds and stresses of the city and become one with nature. The desert can be very peaceful and healing to the soul, and our property provides just enough privacy and plenty of nature to help you forget about all of your worries for a brief moment. This privately owned property is the closest in proximity to the Deep Creek Hot Springs and has been used as a camp and access point to the Deep Creek canyon and hot springs for nearly 100 years. The Deep Creek Canyon also offers gold panning, swimming holes and excellent fishing as it winds 12 miles through the canyon. This unique property is the perfect place for friends to gather and celebrate, or hold your special private event, either in our general camping area, glamping and recreation tent area, private group area, or at the private spring pool site located right on the property. We can accommodate approximately 300 people and 90 vehicles.All sites have a picnic table and a fire pit (grills available and firewood for sale on site), and room to set up 3-4 tents and park 3-4 cars. Large private group sites and private event venue rental available for up to 300+. Warnings: Must drive 6-mile dirt road to access, intermittent cell service, very rural area 12 miles from services, possible encounters with wild animals/insect swarms and unhospitable neighbors on occasion.

96%

(792)

Camp Arroyo Grande

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents29 acres · Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo

Welcome to Camp Arroyo Grande! Enjoy our 29-acres that feature beautiful ocean views, oak woodlands, and plenty of rustic charm. All this is conveniently tucked into the hillside just steps away from the Village of Arroyo Grande where you will find restaurants, coffee, shopping, parks and roosters. The property is home to many youth groups and local non-profits, continuing a 135-year legacy as a Community Center and Retreat Space. The historic Tabernacle building has been hosting church and schools gatherings, dinners, fundraisers, weddings, family reunions, festivals and more since 1897. Community Events are likely to be taking place but follow quiet time guidelines. *pool is seasonal and subject to availability

Star Hosts in California

98%

(325)

Glamping in the Redwoods 🐶🐕💃🕺🏼

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Occidental, Sonoma

Welcome to West Sonoma Camping in the Redwoods! We are located just a 2-minute drive or a 15-minute walk away from the quaint little hamlet of Occidental, where you'll find terrific restaurants with take-out, and two nice markets (one organic) and a liquor/convenience store. In town, you'll also find a terrific independent local meat market that has been in operation for over 100 years! 25 minutes from the ocean, 20 minutes to the Russian River and kayaking, and 30 minutes from HWY 101 or HWY 1. A perfect stop-over if you are travelling up the coast of California. We have 2 campsites to choose from. (Both are clothing optional. 😉). 1. Treehouse (glamping stay with Hot Tub, Pool and Sauna). Bring your own bedding… We supply fresh fitted top sheets on upscale memory foam mattresses. Full kitchen and bath, gas barbecue, flush toilet and hot water shower. 2. RV/tent site (bring your own camp stove, gas or charcoal barbecue, cooking utensils, tent or RV, and enjoy a Hot Tub and a heated Tiki Tent). Enjoy a real bathroom with a (short) hot shower, sink and toilet. Please see each site description below for more information. Our property is the perfect stopover in Northern California’s Redwoods and wine country. A terrific camp spot to recharge and unwind. Quiet, exclusive, secure, gated, sunny- and in a very friendly and safe forest setting. ⛺️🏕️🌲 NOTE: Although wood campfires are not allowed in our county, we have 2 wonderful gas fire pits for your year-round enjoyment. Both the Treehouse and Vancamp have their own private hot tub and gas fire pit. We are pet-friendly and LGBTQ-friendly! ALL ARE WELCOME 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️ Come and experience our little slice of heaven. We look forward to serving up a very fun and relaxing time for you and yours! Please check out our reviews and photos.

Campo Nopalito

5 sites · Lodging15 acres · Valley Center, San Diego

Welcome to Nopalito Farm! We’re so happy you’ve decided to spend some time on this beautiful property! In case you’re interested, here are a few interesting things about our farm. Nopalito Farm has been in operation since late 2014, but the property itself has been a working farm for over 50 years. Lemons and avocados were the primary crops from the 70’s through the 00’s, and are still prominent throughout our 15 acres. Our predecessors then diversified the growing operation by planting a wide range of fruit trees ranging from guavas and passion fruit to peaches and figs. For a decade, hops were grown on 2 acres and were sold to breweries throughout southern California. We’ve since replaced the hop yard with perennial flowers, but continue to cultivate a wide variety of delicious fruits.

Salmon Creek Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Bodega Bay, Sonoma

Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.

The Desert Rose Collective

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Morongo Valley, San Bernardino

Dear Guests,As the COVID-19 situation continues to unfold, we are taking all precautionary measures with respect to protecting common areas in the camp. All common facilities, bathroom, kitchen area, bar area, etc. are being cleaned and disinfected constantly. Our tent cabins are being disinfected in between each check-in and check-out.At this time we do not require masks and do not inspect vaccine cards. You may self certify that you have received your vaccine by not wearing a mask or continue to do so, if you wish._____________________________________The Desert Rose Collective is a work in progress! This unique property is being transformed into a truly 'hip' camp. It features a sun shade structure with a bar, an outdoor kitchen, a semi-outdoor bathroom, plenty of seating and shaded areas to relax and enjoy the fabulous views. Both days and nights are amazing from the location of this unforgettable property in the canyon.Check out additional information under our Tent Cabin, Camping, and RV listings.We look forward to your booking and to meeting you at The Desert Rose Collective!

98%

(32)

Sahara House

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Joshua Tree, San Bernardino

Relaxation awaits you at this 100% off the grid Sahara House. Watch the sun rise and set from your private deck equipped with lounge chairs . Stargaze while getting close to nature in the outdoor shower, or curl up on the couch and watch your favorite on demand movies in this modern desert home. Enjoy the seclusion that 5 acres has to offer with just a short drive to the beauties of Joshua Tree and the surrounding cities. Enjoy the outdoors but all the amenities of home.

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Camping in California guide

Golden coasts. Redwood forests. Fiery desert canyons. Alpine lakes framed by snowy peaks. But the best memories are in the details—seeing a gray whale breach off the rugged north coast, feeling the sun on your face on a Southern California shore, or maybe enjoying s’mores beside the crystal waters of Lake Tahoe. Trails climb from campgrounds to immense granite domes in Yosemite while Joshua trees beckon for attention in the eastern deserts. The best part? There’s somewhere amazing to camp year-round.

Where to Go

North Coast

Camping beneath redwoods—the tallest trees in the world—is a hard-to-beat highlight of the north coast. The majestic groves scattered across Redwood National & State Parks are an excellent choice for first-timers. Further south, from Eureka to Mendocino and eventually San Francisco, you’ll find a string of private and state park campgrounds tucked along rugged coastlines marked by bluffs, coves, dunes, and tidepools.

Central Coast

Stretching from Monterey south to Santa Barbara, the Central Coast scores points for scenery and variety. Plus, it’s a convenient escape from the urban hassles of San Francisco and Los Angeles. Redwoods, waterfalls, and windswept bluffs border Highway 1 in Big Sur, while waves crash beside state parks north of Santa Barbara. For a remote camping experience, campsites at Channel Islands National Park off the coast of Santa Barbara can oblige.

SoCal Beaches: Los Angeles to San Diego

The golden beaches of Southern California are the stuff of lazy days and pop songs. And fantastic camping for those inclined. The best campsites line-up beside the coast between Newport Beach and Dana Point in Orange County, with a few more perched on coastal bluffs north of San Diego. Not surprisingly, these oceanfront sites fill fast, so book early.

Sierra Nevada Mountains

Granite domes and lush Alpine meadows border campgrounds in Yosemite National Park, while enormous sequoias are the draw in Kings Canyon and Sequoia national parks. Campgrounds beside alpine lakes and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe are always postcard-pretty.

Southern Deserts

For surreal sunsets, striking rock formations, restless sand dunes, and spring wildflowers, head east. Nine campgrounds and plenty more right outside await at Death Valley National Park, home to the lowest spot in the U.S. Joshua trees and picturesque boulders keep Hipcampers happy at Joshua Tree National Park while Anza-Borrego Desert State Park serves up fantastic desert hiking outside San Diego. High season is late fall through spring, when temperatures are pleasant.

Frequently Asked Questions

To reserve a campsite at a California State Park, you can use the official reservation system called ReserveCalifornia. Follow these steps to book your campsite:

Visit the ReserveCalifornia website.
Enter your desired park, campground, or region in the search bar, or use the interactive map to find a location.
Select your preferred dates and the type of camping you're interested in (tent, RV, group site, etc.).
Review the available campsites and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Click "Book Now" and follow the prompts to complete your reservation.
Provide your personal information, payment details, and any additional information requested, then click "Submit."
Once your reservation is confirmed, you'll receive an email with your confirmation number and additional details about your campsite.

It's important to note that campsites at popular parks, especially during peak season, can fill up quickly. It's recommended to book your reservation as far in advance as possible, up to six months ahead of your desired dates.

Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is legal in many areas of California, particularly on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and in National Forests. Here are some popular areas for boondocking in California: 1. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: This park allows dispersed camping in designated areas. 2. Alabama Hills Recreation Area: Managed by the BLM, this area offers boondocking with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. 3. Joshua Tree National Park: Outside the park boundaries, you can find BLM land where boondocking is allowed. 4. Inyo National Forest: Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas, but be sure to check with the local ranger station for any restrictions. When boondocking, always practice Leave No Trace principles, and make sure to follow any posted rules and regulations. Additionally, consider checking out Hipcamp for unique boondocking and camping locations in California: California Stars and Valley Boondock Campsite.

Yes, camping at Trona Pinnacles is generally safe, but campers should be prepared for the remote and rugged conditions. The area is known for its unique geological formations and offers dispersed camping with no established campgrounds or facilities. Be sure to bring plenty of water, food, and supplies, as the nearest services are located in the town of Trona, 20 miles away. Keep an eye on the weather, as temperatures can be extreme, and flash floods can occur during heavy rains. As always, practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the fragile desert environment.

Free beach camping in California is quite rare, as most beach campgrounds are managed by state parks or other organizations that charge fees. However, you can find some dispersed camping areas along the coast in certain parts of the state, such as on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land or in National Forests. Keep in mind that these free camping spots usually have limited facilities and are often located in more remote areas. It's essential to follow the Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these locations. Always check the specific regulations and restrictions for the area you plan to visit.

Several beaches in California allow camping. Some popular options include:

San Elijo State Beach: In Encinitas, this beach offers camping sites for tents and RVs.
Carpinteria State Beach: Situated in Carpinteria, this beach offers camping for tents, RVs, and trailers.
Point Mugu State Park: Set in Malibu, Thornhill Broome Beach Campground offers beach camping for tents and RVs.
Crystal Cove State Park: Located in Laguna Beach, this park offers camping at Moro Campground, which is a short walk from the beach.
Doheny State Beach: In Dana Point, this beach offers camping for tents and RVs.

For more options, check out Hipcamp's beach campgrounds.

There are several reasons why it can be difficult to find campsites in California:

High demand: California is a popular tourist destination with its diverse landscapes, beaches, national parks, and mild climate. This high demand for camping spots makes it challenging to find available campsites, especially during peak season.
Population: California has the largest population of any state in the U.S., and many residents enjoy camping as a recreational activity. This means increased competition for campsites among both residents and visitors.
Limited supply: Although California has a vast number of campgrounds, the supply of campsites may not be sufficient to meet the high demand. Some campgrounds also have a limited number of sites, making it harder to find a spot.
Reservation system: Many popular campgrounds in California require reservations, which can fill up months in advance. This can make it difficult for last-minute campers to find a site.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds in California are closed during certain seasons, such as winter, due to weather conditions or maintenance. This further limits the availability of campsites during those times.

To increase your chances of finding a campsite in California, consider camping during the off-peak season, making reservations well in advance, or exploring lesser-known campgrounds. Websites like Hipcamp can help you discover alternative camping options, including private land and unique accommodations.

Boondocking, or dispersed camping, is not illegal in California as long as it is done on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the United States Forest Service (USFS). However, it is essential to follow specific rules and regulations, including staying within designated areas, adhering to stay limits (usually 14 days), and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Keep in mind that boondocking is not allowed in all areas, and it's crucial to research the specific location before setting up camp.

In California, you can camp without a permit in areas designated for dispersed camping, usually found on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest lands. Here are some popular locations for dispersed camping without a permit:

Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect the environment, and follow any posted rules or regulations. Also, be aware that some areas may have fire restrictions or seasonal closures. It's always a good idea to check with the local ranger station for current conditions and regulations before heading out.

Camping rules in California vary depending on the location and type of campground (national park, state park, national forest, private campgrounds, etc.). However, there are some general rules that apply to most camping situations in California:

Choose designated campgrounds or campsites for overnight stays.
Observe quiet hours, typically between 10 pm and 6 am.
Keep campfires contained in designated fire rings or stoves, and never leave them unattended. Obtain a campfire permit if required.
Follow fire restrictions, especially during high fire danger periods.
Store food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or use proper food storage techniques in bear country.
Practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and minimizing your impact on the environment.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Keep pets on a leash and under control at all times.
Observe posted speed limits and other traffic regulations in campgrounds.
Adhere to any specific rules posted at the campground, such as maximum stay limits, check-in/check-out times, and group size restrictions.

It's crucial to research the specific rules and regulations of the area where you plan to camp, as they may differ depending on the land management agency or private property rules. Check the website or contact the managing agency for the most up-to-date information.

Camping costs in California can vary greatly depending on the location, amenities, and type of campsite. Prices can range from free for dispersed camping in some national forests or BLM land to over $100 per night for a glamping experience or a cabin rental. On average, you can expect to pay around $20 to $50 per night for a basic tent or RV camping site in a state park or campground. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season, availability, and any additional fees such as reservation or vehicle entry fees.