Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe
93% (74.1K) • 43,117 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in California
Kosk Creek Campgrounds
1. Kosk Creek Campgrounds
96%
(756)
Big Bend, CA · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 400 acre ranch nestled in the mountains of Shasta County. There is a mile long creek that runs through the property. We have multiple hot spring pools ranging in various temperatures. Dry and overland campsites available. Activities: Boating, hiking, kayaking, 4x4, mountain bike, and fishing.
Iron Canyon Reservoir is a lake located 2 miles behind campground, fishing is great and you can go boating, jet skiing, or stand up paddling / kayaking, it has mountain biking trails around it.
NOTE From June 10th thru September or October, Shasta County and Dept of Forestry DOES NOT ALLOW WOOD OR CHARCOAL FIRES. We are a high risk fire zone. We hope you understand. WE kARE PACK IT IN / PACK IT OUT trash
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Campfires
Splitrock Farm and Retreat
2. Splitrock Farm and Retreat
95%
(1993)
Fallbrook, CA · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About Splitrock Farm and Retreat
Far Away, Close to Home
Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome
Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message.
Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers.
Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 150+ foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.
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Mystic Forest Campground
3. Mystic Forest Campground
98%
(1161)
Klamath, CA · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Mystic Forest is a small, family-run campground between Klamath, CA, and Crescent City. We have 50 acres of beautiful forest sprinkled with redwood trees. We have restrooms, showers, a game room, a mini golf course, horseshoes, and a half-mile trail. We are pet-friendly. At the office you can find some grocery and redwoods souvenirs. Our laundry facility will be closed indefinitely for repairs starting on August 10th.
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Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(260)
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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Campfires
Sierra National Forest
5. Sierra National Forest
92%
(177)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
6. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(2554)
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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Campfires
Bridgeport Reservoir Campground
7. Bridgeport Reservoir Campground
90%
(1264)
CA · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice!
About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A 35 minute drive on highway 120 will take you to the Tioga Pass Gate of Yosemite National Park. This gate is a great start to several different areas inside of the park that you may want to visit beyond that gate. Off-road enthusiasts would not have enough time in one visit to explore all of the 4x4 trails, abandoned mines, and sites in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town.
Climate and Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomid are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal.
Swimming in the lake is possible usually between April to July.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Jug Handle Creek Nature Center
8. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center
96%
(5482)
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.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Pioneertown Corrals Camping
9. Pioneertown Corrals Camping
94%
(1189)
Pioneertown, CA · 63 sites · Tents, RVs
The Pioneertown Corrals is no-hook up back lot style camping located on Mane St in the middle of Pioneertown. We are within walking distance of all restaurants, shops and attractions. Campers can Tent, Car, Horse, RV or Trailer camp. There are 2 sinks and 2 flushing toilets, 1 out house, a designated area for charcoal grilling - NO woodfires but propane can be used at your site. Generator hours are 8am-8pm.
There are 7 locally operated shops on the south side of camp on Mane St that offer campers a variety of unique items to shop for.
Open daily:
General Mercantile: Family Friendly Gift Shop and Camper Check in Location. Pioneertown General Store: New Western Ware and Vintage Clothing store.
Xeba Botanica: Locally made Personal care, Skincare, Candles & Perfume.
Soukie Modern: Moroccan Inspired Vintage Rugs, Clothing and Home Goods
MazAmar Art Pottery: Open Production Ceramics Studio
Open on weekends
Goats & Soap: Hand spun wool clothing and soap made from local goats.
Land Office Art Studio: Jessie Keylons locally made Art
The Pioneertown Corrals also has 2 attractions open daily.
Pioneertown Film Museum: shows the history of filming in Pioneertown from 1946 to today.
Pioneertown Petting Zoo: For 25 cents campers can feed miniature farm animals like goats, sheep, pig, chickens, ducks and turkeys. Fresh eggs for sale in the General Mercantile.
Pioneertown has 2 Restaurant/bars located at both ends of camp.
Pappy and Harriet's: Open Wed-Mon BBQ Food and live music.
Red Dog Saloon: Open every day Mexican food and live music
Learn more about this land:
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!
The corrals is back lot style/tail gate style camping. There are 3 bars with 2 music venues within walking distance and some shows will go till midnight or later.
**Camp is used for additional parking for Pappys larger outdoor shows and special events, it is highly recommended to check in before 6pm on outdoor show days or you may need to wait till after the show is over to get into camp and set up.**
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Picnic table
Inyo National Forest
10. Inyo National Forest
96%
(457)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
11. Shasta-Trinity National Forest
93%
(138)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
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Campfires
Stanislaus National Forest
12. Stanislaus National Forest
93%
(177)
National forest in California · 1529 sites
An extensive network of lakes, rivers, streams, and trails delight at this Yosemite neighbor.
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Campfires
Los Padres National Forest
13. Los Padres National Forest
95%
(462)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
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Campfires
Finley Camp
14. Finley Camp
99%
(2012)
Bodega Bay, CA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Finley Camp is nestled along Finley Creek in West Sonoma County. Campsites are located in open flats surrounded by Coast Doug Fir, Alder, and California Bay forests. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate, and access to a porta potty and hand washing station. The campsites are located past the end of the county road allowing for a quiet peaceful experience. Enjoy a quiet stroll on site, the surrounding communities of Bodega, Bodega Bay, Valley Ford, and Tomales, or just enjoy a quiet day in camp. Our sites are located approximately 20 minutes from Bodega Bay. The campsites are 2.5 miles from the coast and the weather can be unpredictable. As a general rule, it is very similar to that of San Francisco.
All camp sites are situated in a valley that offers protection from the coastal winds. The have both morning and evening shade. Sites #2, #6, #7, and #11 have the most space, while sites #4, #7, #8, #9 and #11 offer the most privacy. Sites 1-3, any combination of 5-7, and 12-13 are well suited for groups. Other site groupings work well depending on the number of sites being reserved. Site #8 is unique in that it has a wood deck/platform for tents. There are also NO wood fires allowed at site #8 as it is under the tree canopy. A propane firepit is provided for your use. You can bring a 5 gallon propane tank from home, or a full one is available for rent on site.
Well behaved dogs are welcome at Finley Camp. All dogs must be kept on leash at all times while on the property. There are no exceptions to this. Finley Camp is located on an active cattle ranch and directly adjacent to a neighboring ranch with cattle.
WE HAVE BEEF AGAIN! Beef is free range grass fed and all naturally raised. Please contact camp host for a price sheet or review price sheet attached to the firewood stand near Site #1.
Also be sure to check out our orchard tours! The apples are ripe now and our verities will continue to ripen thru late November. We'll take you to our family orchard where you can pick apples, pears, or blueberries in season and taste yummy treats out of our family garden.
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Campfires
Cosumnes River Ranch
15. Cosumnes River Ranch
99%
(2055)
Plymouth, CA · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California.
As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed.
Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors.
Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit!
Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore.
*Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*
Pets
Toilets
The Ranch at Cross Road
16. The Ranch at Cross Road
96%
(786)
Livermore, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 12 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us!
We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars.
Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Malibu RV Park
17. Malibu RV Park
93%
(653)
Malibu, CA · 125 sites · Tents, RVs
Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites, Van Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambiance, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast.
Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you.
Guests must be a minimum of 21 years of age to book and check-in. Must present valid ID/Passport.
We love dogs and welcome many breeds; however, our insurance policy does not permit Pit Bull–type breeds or mixed breeds. This is an insurance requirement beyond our control, and we appreciate your understanding.
**Pets are not permitted in the tent area**
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Terwer RV Park
18. Terwer RV Park
95%
(613)
Klamath, CA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Terwer RV Park, a family-owned campground tucked near Klamath Glen on California’s beautiful North Coast. This little park has been welcoming campers for more than 40 years, and our family is honored to help carry it into its next chapter. My husband and I, along with our two young children, are working to keep the simple charm of Terwer alive while making thoughtful improvements along the way. Around here, we like to call it Klamath’s Best Kept Secret.
Terwer RV Park is the kind of place that is getting harder to find. It is simple, peaceful, and full of old-fashioned campground charm. We are not a luxury resort, and we do not try to be. What makes this place special is the open space, the quiet mornings, the scattered trees, the fresh coastal air, and the slower pace that makes you want to sit outside just a little longer.
The Klamath River is just over the levee, only a short walk from camp. It is a beautiful place to fish, swim, explore, or simply sit and enjoy the water. The river is known for salmon and steelhead fishing, and a valid fishing license is required. During peak fishing season, especially in August and September, you may hear early morning activity from guests heading out to the river.
We are located about 4 miles off Highway 101, close enough to be convenient but far enough away to feel tucked away from the rush. Wildlife is common in the area, so please secure your food and trash at night.
There is so much to explore nearby. Guests love visiting Redwood National and State Parks, Trees of Mystery, Klamath River Jet Boat Tours, coastal viewpoints, hiking trails, biking routes, and quiet places to wander among the redwoods.
A few things to know before you book:
* Firewood is available on site.
* Cell service can be spotty depending on your carrier. Free Wi-Fi is available and reaches most of the campground.
* Electric vehicle charging is $20 per charge and must be arranged ahead of time. 50 amp service is limited, and guests must provide their own adapters.
* Well-behaved pets are welcome.
* Kids, laughter, bikes, campfires, and simple outdoor fun are always welcome.
* We offer dry camping, 30 amp sites, and 50 amp pull-through sites.
* Late arrivals are okay. If you plan to arrive after 10:00 p.m., please text us before 9:00 p.m. so we can send check-in instructions.
Terwer RV Park is rustic, peaceful, and easygoing. It is a place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, walk to the river, and enjoy the kind of camping that feels simple in the best way. We look forward to welcoming you.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Felton Open Space Camp Sites
19. Felton Open Space Camp Sites
95%
(653)
Felton, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Next to Historic Winery in the heart of Santa Cruz Mountains in the quaint town of Felton. Located between two state parks, Henry Cowell and Fall Creek. Just 6 miles, up in the mountains, from the Pacific Ocean and the Monterey Bay. Half a mile from the famous Roaring Camp Railway. Wine & Cider tasting next door at Hallcrest Vineyards; Dine in Felton, hiking, biking and local shops to explore. Please note when booking that each of the sites are limited up to 4 adults only. PET POLICY: Aggressive dogs, Pitbulls and pitbull mixes are not allowed. Rescue dogs that have issues with people or other dogs are not allowed. Children are welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Yosemite Westlake Camp
20. Yosemite Westlake Camp
89%
(718)
Coulterville, CA · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite.
Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Misty
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful ocean view. Friendly camp neighbors. Sleeping to the ocean sounds was awesome.
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Kim
2 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
Loved it ! Perfect way to see a show and enjoy Pioneertown. Can’t wait for the next time! Thank you .
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J
Jamie
3 weeks ago
19 ft pop-up camper
Fantastic views. Friendly staff. Great proximity to LA. Would highly recommend
See moreT
T
July 2026
24 ft Class B
The view was priceless. Check out the spot number before you get set up to make sure that you have an unforgettable experience.
See moret
tommy
July 2026
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
We payed a little extra to be right on the cliff and let me tell you it was worth it! Listening to the waves crash day and night and having an unobstructed ocean view our whole stay was amazing. Highly recommend
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B
Bill
July 2026
24 ft travel trailer
With pets
Fantastic view above the Pacific Ocean. Very friendly staff.
See mores
sarah
July 2026
20 ft campervan
With pets
Such a cute little town I had a nice big spot. The bathrooms were clean. The people were very nice. And most of all I lost my wallet and somebody turned it in and I ended up getting it back. I would definitely stay there again.!
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R
Renick
July 2026
20 ft travel trailer
Beautiful space near the beach, amazing people, staff was lovely & helpful, nearby gas & mechanic, they have a top notch store, & they held a taco stand & concert. We were able to secure a last minute booking & felt it was beautiful.
See moreO
Oliver
July 2026
25 ft Class C
Sehr schöner Campingplatz mit einer traumhaften Sicht auf den Pazifik.
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Fred & Arlene
June 2026
30 ft fifth wheel
With pets
We enjoyed staying at Bridgeport Reservoir Campground Site#21. Other than the mosquitos (we understood that it was that time of the year), we loved the view from our 5th wheel. We enjoyed watching the trout jumping out of the water - it was pretty cool to watch! It was nice and quiet there. Even though we only stayed one night, we would stay there again when we pass through. Next time we'll remember to bring our fishing poles!
See moreS
Scott
June 2026
29 ft travel trailer
Group trip
The park is located in a great location looking out over the Pacific Ocean. Both nights we enjoyed the Moon Beaming over the ocean.
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J
Joseph
June 2026
25 ft travel trailer
Camp hosts were very cool and attentive. It’s practically on the little Main Street. The bars were rocking. Cool alternative to the normal camping experience. Weird and fun!
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N
Nick
June 2026
20 ft campervan
Stunning view of the reservoir and the Sierra's. Very relaxed and laid back.
See moreR
Ray
June 2026
24 ft travel trailer
Very nice, smaller campground. Full hookups was nice and dump station was very helpful.
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Sonia
June 2026
25 ft campervan
With pets
We had a great time! Definitely recommend bringing a car to hit up different beaches along the coast. Even though our site was “no view” we still had a beautiful view with less the cost. We were site 68 and it was awesome! Loved the hike down to the sea food restaurant! Staff was very sweet and accommodating. Absolutely loved our stay! Showers were so clean and bathrooms the same. Thank you for everything!
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M
Michelle
June 2026
20 ft campervan
Beautiful sites. Friendly staff. Great location.
See moreK
Kelly
June 2026
D
Dean
June 2026
25 ft Class C
With pets
Great location, really nice outpost store, excellent service.
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J
Jason
May 2026
21 ft toy hauler
The place was great. We were there on a memorial day weekend so it was packed! All the other campers were polite, and the owner John, was great. He was a great host and he stopped by to make sure we had everything we needed. The accommodations were a bit rustic, but we had every thing we needed. We did RV camping, and although there aren’t very many RV spots, we were quite comfortable. The RV camping there is what you’d call Boondocking. So there are no service. However, there is access to water, porta potty and showers on the property that are quite comfortable. Our friends did the tent camping that include well stocked campground and tent. They felt like they didn’t need to bring anything, but Food clothes and toiletries. It was a good deal! There’s a well stock shopping center with high-quality foods within 10 minutes. And a few restaurants that make it really easy to pack light!
See moreD
Dave
May 2026
18 ft travel trailer
Group trip
So long as you are aware that it's dry camping and you come prepared. There are clean bathrooms but no showers. We are well set up for dry camping and have all the right gear so it was a great time. Get there early and get one of the better shaded spots, no shade could put a damper on your stay. They regularly clean the bathrooms and empty the trash barrels and keep the site well maintained, kudos to the staff. We were there for a show at Pappy and Harriet's and honestly nothing is better than not having to worry about a designated driver or Uber plus it's a cool venue, good food and drinks at normal prices. It was super nice to just stumble a hundred yards or so and plop straight down into bed after the show.
See moreCalifornia camping guide
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.
