Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe

The best forest camping in California

·

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 5500 options in California, specifically in forest terrain, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park your RV, or rent a cabin, we have the ideal accommodation for you. When it comes to activities, you can enjoy boating, hiking, and even snow sports. And if you're worried about amenities, don't be - trash, campfires, and pets are all popular options. Looking for the best campsites? Check out Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), and Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews). With an average price per night of $60 and options as low as $10, you'll find the perfect camping experience at a price that suits your budget.

95% (59.3K) 28,021 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in California

Splitrock Farm and Retreat

1. Splitrock Farm and Retreat

95%
(2006)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kosk Creek Campgrounds

2. Kosk Creek Campgrounds

96%
(768)
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mystic Forest Campground

3. Mystic Forest Campground

98%
(1177)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Inyo National Forest

5. 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
Diamond Gulch

6. Diamond Gulch

96%
(1293)
Groveland, CA · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Groups of 15 or more use this code for 15% off your stay! ADMXESCZ Check out this sweet YouTube video of the property! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEvKF5nqcUM Early and late check-out available on tent/rv sites, free of charge. Just message me if you need an earlier check in! Free firewood! We are 30 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. Be near the park, but feel that complete privacy. These sites are very spaced out from each other and are large. No need to cram together! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch! We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite. We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite. There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour. We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport. When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful! This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds. Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite. A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

7. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

96%
(5490)
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
Finnon Lake Recreation Area

8. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2571)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Saddle Mountain Carmel

9. Saddle Mountain Carmel

92%
(708)
Carmel, CA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, 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, all our sites are pet friendly, but there are additional fees and size limitations depending on the type of site. Please add to the reservation or message us. On site seasonally heated pool (Memorial Day weekend in May through October). 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, ping pong 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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Shasta-Trinity National Forest

10. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sierra National Forest

11. 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
Los Padres National Forest

12. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
San Bernardino National Forest

13. San Bernardino National Forest

94%
(156)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

14. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

96%
(81)
Ben Lomond, CA · 4 sites
For over 40 years, Sacred Earth has been cherished by many as an example of sustainable off-grid living immersed in nature. While it is just 12 minutes drive from the village of Ben Lomond, 30 from Santa Cruz beaches, and 90 minutes to Berkeley, this valley feels as though you are deep in the wilds, complete with old growth Redwoods you can stand inside and far- reaching majestic Madrones. The land is home to the headwaters of Love Creek, with springs to be found in fern gullies and gentle babbling brooks. The breathtaking ridgetop has expansive views down the San Lorenzo Valley southeast and westerly views to Ben Lomond Mountain, the final hill between this place and the Pacific. Don’t miss the sunrise with meandering mist rising off the valley. Large sites allow for family and group gatherings/activities, while small tucked in tent sites provide hidden nooks. Hiking trails (open in dry season only) encircle the land and allow for moderate walks throughout its mostly vertical terrain. What is truly dynamic about Sacred Earth is the sheer diversity of plant and animal species combined with its proximity to world-class surfing, sailing, scuba, mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching, etc. Make your stay in Santa Cruz Mountains at SER.
Toilets
Picnic table
Yosemite Colfax Spring

15. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%
(1122)
Groveland, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Your Basecamp for Yosemite Adventure 🌲⛰ Just 15–20 minutes from the entrance of Yosemite National Park and about an hour from the Yosemite Valley floor, our camp offers the perfect location to recharge after exploring one of the most iconic natural landscapes on Earth. We’re also about 1.5 hours from the high-country beauty of Tuolumne Meadows, making this a great launchpad for day trips in every direction. Perched in the scenic Sierra foothills, our dry camping sites are celebrated for breathtaking panoramic views, open skies, and unforgettable sunrises and starry nights. It’s an ideal place to unwind, reconnect, and experience the outdoors in its raw beauty — without giving up the comfort of flushing toilets and hot, on-demand showers. Most of our sites are best suited for those who plan to explore during the day and return in the evening, as they receive full sun and have limited shade throughout the midday hours (during the summer months). For those looking to hang around camp during the day, we recommend bringing a shade canopy or pop-up to make your stay more comfortable. Whether you’re here for epic hikes, rock climbs, or peaceful views, our camp is a restful and rustic homebase nestled close to the wonders of Yosemite.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Terwer RV Park

16. Terwer RV Park

95%
(617)
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
Holcomb Valley Ranch

17. Holcomb Valley Ranch

98%
(1131)
Fawnskin, CA · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Holcomb Valley Ranch invites you to kick back and relax on our private, 400+ acre ranch in the San Bernardino Mountains. Centered around a 100+ acre meadow, filled with horses in summer months and surrounded by thousands of acres of mountainous National Forest. Just 15 minutes from Big Bear Lake - a large recreational, fresh-water lake for summer swimming, boating, skiing, fishing and other super fun water activities. The Ranch feels remote and private. Yet is only four miles to the town of Big Bear with shopping and restaurants. Also in close proximity to incredible rock climbing at the Pinnacles, seemingly endless hiking and biking and some pretty epic off-roading 4x4 trails. Each campsite is approximately one acre, and generously-distanced from neighboring campers. Amenities include its own fire ring with grilling grate and picnic table(s). The campsites are both cozy enough for 2 or spacious enough for large groups and can easily accommodate a mix of RVs, camper vans and tents. From June to October the 100+ area open meadow is filled with horses grazing and galloping about (please don't pet or feed!) A four-seasons destination, the Ranch has year-round experiences with warm summers and snowy winters. An excellent basecamp, within close proximity to the lake, ski slopes, Pinnacles, hiking/biking and off-roading trails. After a day filled with adventure or ultimate relaxation, be sure to enjoy the breath-taking sunsets over the meadow. The evenings blanket guests with a sea of stars. Toast up some s’mores and warm up some hot-coco over a beautiful, crackling campfire. Remember the s’mores and always follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. There are large trash bins by the entrance. We look forward to hosting you at the Ranch! Please note: OHV’s are allowed. They count as one of the allowed vehicles per campsite and must adhere to the speed limit (10mph) and remain on established camp roads while on the property. They may not be driven from 8pm to 8am. It is strictly forbidden to ride your vehicles through the forest, meadow or off any established roads on or off property. Please research which of the surrounding forestry roads allow for your vehicle type to be driven on.  Campsites on the west side of the meadow (F, G & H sites) are partially accessed by a forestry road that does not allow dirt bikes. Horses: The horses which may be roaming the meadow during your stay are not property of Holcomb Valley Ranch. When horses are present, guests and their pets are prohibited from entering the meadow. Please do not approach, interact, feed or touch the horses. This is for your safety and the safety of the horses. Do, however, take lots of photos! They make a perfect backdrop:)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bear Gulch Hide Out

18. Bear Gulch Hide Out

99%
(206)
La Honda, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This 60 acre property is located approximately 3 miles east of San Gregorio Beach in the San Gregorio area. There is no home here, only a travel trailer on the Upper Meadow. It is very peaceful, quiet and beautiful throughout the seasons. We are 5 minutes away from the San Gregorio General Store and cafe and 20 minutes from Alice's Restaurant. We have great cell coverage for Verizon, AT&T and Visible. Experience shows that T-Mobile does not work here and I don't know about the other internet providers. There are four campsites, each with easy 4WD access. Two of the sites offer total isolation with amazing views while the third site, while in a nice setting, is more useful for a quick overnight stay with no views of the ocean or canyon. Please note that five easy-going cows (no bulls) reside on this property. Dear winter and spring campers, please consider using "Sensible Weather" for your trip protection in the event of heavy rain or even high temperatures in the summer and fall. I have not used this insurance feature but the description makes it look worth considering, available when reserving on Hipcamp.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

19. Magical Harrison Serenity Ranch

94%
(1403)
Palomar Mountain, CA · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This land has been a community gathering space for the Native's Ceremony and Healing Space for over a 15 thousand years. Feast your eyes upon the Matates and traces of the people that once gathered here so long ago. Upon the mid 1800's we had a Settler named Nate Harrison find this to be the ideal space, and he set up homestead here, and lived an amazing full life. He was to become the first African to aquire land here in San Diego County, and his homestead remains to this day; studied by archaeology students to this day. Sensitive habitat and magic lies within our gates, and we must approach the mountain as we would any Sacred space; with RESPECT. We welcome you to enjoy Nate's land and inspire who you are deep inside your heart.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Yosemite Westlake Camp

20. Yosemite Westlake Camp

89%
(721)
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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field