The best beach camping in California

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With more than 800 miles of coast, choosing a beach in California is no easy feat. Pitching a tent on the sand is not legal, but there are many campsites (usually at state parks and beaches), RV parks, and glampsites off Highway 1 that offer either beach camping or coastal perches with sweeping Pacific Ocean views. In Northern California, north of Mendocino, the rugged Lost Coast is a backpacker’s off-the-grid dream, while Bodega Bay offers wild scenery and whale-watching. South of San Francisco, the Central Coast shows off its diverse beauty, from Santa Cruz’s surf and beach boardwalk to Monterey’s marine life and golf courses to Big Sur’s combination of dramatic bluffs and sandy beaches next to coastal Redwood forests. In Ventura, you can hop on a boat to Channel Islands National Park to find a remote beach campground, or enjoy the vibes of Southern California at San Onofre State Beach between LA and San Diego.

93% (18.1K) • 23,817 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in California

Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

1. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

96%
(3333)
Caspar, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on 33 acres of coastal meadows and forest, Jug Handle Creek Nature Center is a peaceful, nature-centered campground with a rich history and a truly unique landscape. Saved from development in the 1970s, Jug Handle now stands as a thriving nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to education, restoration, and connection with the natural world. Just a five-minute walk from Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle Beach, and the renowned Ecological Staircase Trail - a rare geological formation that reveals 500,000 years of coastal history - you’ll find yourself immersed in one of Mendocino County’s most remarkable environments. We offer 11 spacious campsites, each with two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two vehicles, and plenty of room for tents. Spread out across open meadows and forest edges, the sites offer privacy, quiet, and the soothing sounds of nature. Explore on-site nature trails, a native plant nursery, and beautiful woodlands, or simply relax beneath the stars. A few important things to note: Due to the close proximity of neighboring livestock, as well as the bountiful wildlife that call this special place home, PETS ARE NO LONGER PERMITTED on the premises. Firewood is not provided, though there are several roadside stands nearby where it is available for purchase. You'll be pretty independent here. We provide self-check-in for your convenience. Directions and access information (including the bathroom code!) will be messaged to you prior to your stay. Jug Handle is the perfect place to unplug. There is NO WIFI and LIMITED/NO CELL SERVICE. Weather and wind can kick up suddenly on the coast. It is your personal responsibility to be prepared and use caution. We reserve the right to ban campfires at any time. We reserve the right to close the campground at any time if conditions are unsafe. Let's work together to stay safe, protect this special place, and enjoy everything the Mendocino Coast has to offer.
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Finnon Lake Recreation Area

2. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2499)
Placerville, CA · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
For everyone’s safety, campers under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. STRICT CANCELLATION POLICY - CANCEL WITHIN 8 DAYS TO RECEIVE A REFUND. OR CONTACT HIPCAMP TO CHANGE YOUR DATES. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060—hours change. Use caution - twisty, narrow country road. If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand. From Sacramento on Hwy 50: At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile. Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road. Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe: Make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions. Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area! The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky. This private lake supports the Mosquito Fire Protection District's fire protection efforts and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station. The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website. Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 27-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only. 530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking. Sites are from post to post. Our property is located in Placerville, California.
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Timber Cove Campground

3. Timber Cove Campground

94%
(500)
Jenner, CA · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Located right off coastal US highway 1, Timber Cove campground sits right at the edge of breathtaking, oceanside cliffs. We are situated on roughly two acres of land, with multiple campsites for tent/car camping or RV’s. Each bluff campsite has a picnic table, fire pit and water. Electricity is available to use for an extra fee. The beach and waterfall campsites do not have picnic tables so you might want to bring one if you’ve booked there. There is no garbage service so please pack your own garbage home with you. We have separate men’s and women’s flush bathrooms, with coin-operated hot showers. We have firewood with kindling for sale on site, payable with cash or Venmo.. Please take note of local fire bans, when in effect. Dog friendly, though be advised a leash is recommended as we are close to the road, but they can run leash-free down at the beach. We are located 30 minutes north of the town of Jenner, with Gualala 30 minutes to the north. Gualala has grocery stores, a post office, and some shops. Fort Ross Store is located one mile down the road, just before Timber Cove, and sells basic food necessities, drinks, sandwiches, ice and gas. Internet cell service can be spotty in our area, depending on your provider, so bring your own Starlink services if you have them. We also have access to the beach below, and offer beach camping as well. Take note that the road down to the beach is steep with uneven terrain. The weather can vary quickly here, so be sure to bring multiple layers of clothing and camp gear for various types of weather, and headlamps are useful for getting around the property at night! We hope you’ll come visit our little slice of heaven on the ocean cliffs, gaze at the stars, marvel at the sunsets, watch the harbor seals dozing on their rocks and the many bird species that inhabit our property. Bring your binoculars and watch out for whales too! We look forward to hosting you at Timber Cove. Please email with any questions about camping with us. Address: 21350 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450
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Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

92%
(264)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
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Inyo National Forest

5. Inyo National Forest

96%
(460)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Salmon Creek Ranch

6. Salmon Creek Ranch

97%
(2368)
Bodega Bay, CA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Meadow camping in Bolinas

7. Meadow camping in Bolinas

97%
(648)
Bolinas, CA · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Blackberry Farm, a rustic retreat in Bolinas on the western slope of Mount Tamalpais. Set on historic Peter’s Dairy Ranch, our farm offers a grassy meadow with 4 walk-in tent sites, plus two rustic sheds. Wake to songbirds, hens, and sheep, and fall asleep under the stars. Amenities include an outdoor shower and hot tub, a covered cooking area, hangout space, tree swings, and redwood grove seating. Just a 15-minute walk to downtown Bolinas and the beach. Group camping welcome—please self-book all sites and sheds for private gatherings (max 20 people). Reservations open 3 months in advance. Sites book out fast. Closed seasonally from Thanksgiving to early March. BYO Tent Campsites Site 1: Left meadow, near kitchen + hot tub Site 2: Center, by the bee garden and apiary Site 3: Right, under cypress trees by the orchard Site 4: Near pasture gate + parking (best for car/van campers) Book Sites 1–3 for the back half of the meadow, or all 4 tent sites (2 tents per site) plus the rustic sheds to reserve the entire camp for privacy. Amenities at a Glance: 4 walk-in meadow campsites, 2 rustic sheds Communal camping (shared amenities) Outdoor shower & hot tub Covered cook area with a propane camp stove Weather-protected hangout space Tree swings & redwood grove seating Wheelbarrow for hauling gear Recycling & compost bins (pack out your trash) 15-min walk to Bolinas + beach House Rules at a Glance Seasonal: Closed Thanksgiving–early March Booking: Reservations open 3 months in advance Groups: Self-book all sites for family/friends gatherings. No amplified music or loud behavior. Sound carries further than you'd think. Please respect our neighbors. Pets: 1 well-behaved, leashed dog per site (no chasing animals or disturbing guests) Families: Mind your children. (no harassing farm animals or moving farm stuff) Parking: 1 car per site (max 18' L × 7' W × 10' H). No RVs, trailers, or meadow parking Gear: Campsites are walk-in; wheelbarrow provided Waste: Pack it in, pack it out. Recycling + food-scrap compost available
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Estero San Antonio Wonderland

8. Estero San Antonio Wonderland

97%
(827)
Petaluma, CA · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Enjoy access to our open pastures for picnics and educational self guided and in-person guided tours. At check-in, we will provide you with arrival instructions, guiding you towards a few special places around the ranch and nearby areas to learn about our watershed, our farming practices and regenerative agriculture. We also offer a variety of grass-finished beef, lamb, pork, eggs, and vegetables grown and raised right here on the ranch at our farm shop. The fees listed on this site are for the educational tours. By supporting us through our educational tours you also reserve a camping spot for FREE if you wish to stay with us overnight and enjoy your agricultural products from the farm. Primitive sites are back-to-basics: no hookups, no structures, no potable water. There is non-potable water available for washing—please bring your own drinking water. A shared composting toilet is available to all campers. Winds can be strong in spring and summer, but sites are placed on the leeward side for protection. Fires are permitted when conditions allow—check with us on arrival. We’re just 10 minutes from Tomales, 15 from Valley Ford, and 3.5 miles from Dillon Beach. Bring a kayak or canoe and paddle from camp to the Pacific via the Estero. Primitive and RV Sites with sweeping views of West Marin pastureland at True Grass Farms, a working ranch along the Estero San Antonio. Our campsites are well spaced for privacy and quiet, surrounded by birdsong, grazing animals, and the rhythms of ranch life. Each primitive site overlooks the Estero and is near a mowed grass road for easy access. It’s peaceful here at night—other campers may be nearby, but you’ll feel immersed in nature. Looking for more comfort? We offer two RV sites: The Heron’s Nest is a cozy trailer tucked under a large willow, just 10 feet from the water. It includes a queen bed, kitchenette, indoor composting toilet, outdoor shower, firepit, and direct Estero access—perfect for two guests. The Badger’s Den is a private full trailer with a queen bed, kitchen, dining area, indoor shower, and composting toilet—plus a private wood fired sauna, firepit, and peaceful surroundings. We care deeply for this land and invite guests who feel the same. Visit True Grass Farms online to learn more.
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Heartwood Mendocino

9. Heartwood Mendocino

99%
(613)
Mendocino, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place. Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins, camp sites and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. The redwood tree shower must not be missed! This is a very special experience for us to share with you. We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike or a beach day and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet! Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!" Please remember that we are in the woods and there is wildlife around. We don't want them to get into your food items, and recommend that you place food items in the enclosed common room or in the critter proof cupboards in the outdoor kitchen.
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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

10. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%
(140)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
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Sierra National Forest

11. Sierra National Forest

92%
(182)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
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Electrical hookup
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Los Padres National Forest

12. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(466)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
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Sequoia National Forest

13. Sequoia National Forest

97%
(280)
National forest in California · 905 sites
Astonishing natural diversity and the biggest trees on earth! Plan to be awed.
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The Ranch at Lake Sonoma

14. The Ranch at Lake Sonoma

91%
(165)
Geyserville, CA · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camping and Glamping inside the park at Lake Sonoma. Campsites overlooking the lake under the stars. Walk to The Ranch at Lake Sonoma barn for beer and wine, music events, and horseback tours. Walk to Lake Sonoma Marina for boat rentals, swimming beaches, and picnic areas. Centralized campground for all Lake Sonoma has to offer!
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dabudage Big Sur

15. dabudage Big Sur

96%
(824)
CA · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
⭐DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. 🌈🌊***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *. ⭐ 🌲Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. 🌪️*The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes a 15% cut from hosts. Guests are also charged an additional 20+%. 🌖 for more information on discounts / avoid fees, you can visit our site direct on the web at dabudage 💸 *We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site. There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity. There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers. 🪨A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come. Great for families with children. Dogs are welcome off-leash. Alcohol is discouraged. No electronic music devices. Fires in designated pits only. Pack out trash. TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from. ⚡️*YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED⚡️ Requests are usually checked once daily.🏄‍♂️
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Slide Ranch

16. Slide Ranch

95%
(321)
Muir Beach, CA · 16 sites
Slide Ranch is a nonprofit organization established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Coast Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development. Slide Ranch camping fees directly fund scholarships for youth programs throughout the year. Slide Ranch is an unpaved ranch environment. Our trails and garden paths all consist of uneven, sloping terrain, often muddy or soft ground during the winter season, and may be challenging to access for visitors with significant mobility restrictions. Minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed; service animals are permitted. We do not have showering facilities or flush toilets. Water in all Slide Ranch taps is potable for refilling water bottles/jugs. Soap is provided for hand washing. Slide Ranch does not have any concessions on site. Camping is not supported by the on-site staff. Per current GGNRA regulations, campfires and open flames of any kind are not allowed.
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Picnic table
Arber-Moore's Ranch

17. Arber-Moore's Ranch

92%
(593)
Oak View, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands. Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land. That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite. We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink. Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites. The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area. Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more. We offer both tent and RV camping. The Majority of our Guests love it here: "Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts! Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area. The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly. Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"
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Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

18. Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

95%
(194)
Shingletown, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bigfoot Lodging, a peaceful campground nestled in the woods with majestic tall pine and cedar trees close to Lassen Volcanic National Park. There's also a lake, a year round creek with fish and a small waterfall on the property where you can relax in the natural and peaceful wooded setting . Quiet and beautiful place to enjoy with your friends and family. Amazing attractions near by like Subway Lava Tube Cave, Burney Falls, Shasta Lake and Caverns, Whiskeytown Lake and all amazing lakes and hiking trails up on Lassen. About 15 miles from the North entrance of Lassen National Volcanic Park.
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Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

19. Sun/Moon Rise Camp W/ Valley View

94%
(380)
Day Valley, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
We created this space for everyone to enjoy.
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Water hookup
Strange Ranch - River and Gold

20. Strange Ranch - River and Gold

99%
(196)
Wilseyville, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded private river and forest camping on the South Fork Mokelumne River. The site has incredible views and a pristine private gold-bearing trout stream with Native American and gold mining history located in the Sierra Nevada foothills of northern Calaveras County. This unique property is adjacent to over 900 acres of public land and 2 miles of private stream for exploring. With a total of only 6 campsites, it is a great location for larger groups as well. All campsites have potable water spigots, 20 amps of electricity, and access to the river and cold/cool shower. Guests enjoy the ranch while swimming, floating, snorkeling, stream exploring, hiking, gold mine spelunking, forest immersion, birding, catch-and-release fishing for wild trout (excluding warmer water season from late June to mid-August), gold panning, or simply relaxing in a breathtaking environment – come fall in love with this special private ranch. After one stay, you will be a repeat guest. PLEASE NOTE: A 4-Wheel Drive vehicle or high clearance All-Wheel Drive vehicle is MANDATORY to access campsites 1, 2, 3, and 5 - while strictly 4-wd vehicles are MANDATORY to access site 6 due to the road incline and rock and gravel road surface. PLEASE PREPARE ACCORDINGLY. Campsite 4 is accessible with a 2-wd vehicle, but the steep and longer walk to the river and shower typically required an All-WD or 4-WD vehicle. Sites have beautiful open views of the property and river canyon with natural shade in the morning and late afternoon. Although shade structures have been constructed at Campsites 1, 3, and 4, the other sites are partially shaded by trees during portions of the day. Consider providing your own additional shade structure(s) as the direct sun can be an inconvenience at each site. Pets are limited to one large dog OR two small to medium sized dogs per campsite. There is a strict policy that all pet owners pick up waste from their dogs and that dogs be quiet, well-mannered, and under immediate control at all times so as not to disturb other campers. Please be aware that some wildlife species including rattlesnakes, skunks, mountain lions, and bears (very seldom) have been observed on the 117-acre property and could potentially be observed near the campsites. Manage your waste responsibly.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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