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The best forest camping in California

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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% (58.5K) 28,005 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in California

Splitrock Farm and Retreat

1. Splitrock Farm and Retreat

95%
(1950)
Fallbrook, CA · 36 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

2. Mystic Forest Campground

98%
(1117)
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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Terwer RV Park

3. Terwer RV Park

94%
(601)
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.
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Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

93%
(259)
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%
(457)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
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Kosk Creek Campgrounds

6. Kosk Creek Campgrounds

96%
(710)
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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Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

7. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

96%
(5461)
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

8. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2530)
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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Elk Country RV Resort & Campground

9. Elk Country RV Resort & Campground

89%
(49)
Trinidad, CA · 131 sites · Tents, RVs
Elk Country Resort and Campground stands out as a unique destination, nestled within nearly 200 acres of Northern California's breathtaking coastal landscape. This serene retreat features its own private lake, scenic hiking trails, and a year-round creek, all surrounded by majestic old-growth trees in a park-like setting that invites relaxation and adventure. Previously known as Redwood Lake Resort and Stone Lagoon Campground, Elk Country RV Resort is conveniently located along the renowned Redwood Highway (Hwy 101), just a short 35-minute drive south of Eureka, CA. Visitors can easily spot the local elk herd or the charming little Red School House and Barn nearby. The area offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, agate hunting, and bird watching—all within a quick five-minute drive from the resort. Plus, an awe-inspiring ocean beach is just one mile away. Home to a large herd of Roosevelt elk, the resort provides guests with the incredible opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, often seen grazing in the meadows and fields. With its stunning surroundings and abundant recreational options, Elk Country Resort and Campground is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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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.
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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.
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Los Padres National Forest

12. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(459)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
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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.
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Saddle Mountain Carmel

14. Saddle Mountain Carmel

91%
(687)
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!
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Yosemite Westlake Camp

15. Yosemite Westlake Camp

89%
(709)
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.
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Mill Creek Resort

16. Mill Creek Resort

98%
(2364)
Mineral, CA · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome! We’re Jillian and Joe, along with our sidekicks Sonora, Ayla and Rosalyn the brains and the brawn behind Mill Creek Resort. Since 2017, we have been pouring every ounce of our love and energy into this landmark 1930’s resort. We take great pride in honoring it's rich history while creating a space for the next generation of mountain adventurers. Nestled in 12 acres of cedars and towering pines on the south side of Lassen Volcanic National Park, we offer 9 cabins open year-round, along with 20 campsites, some featuring glamping tents and 8 RV spots, two featuring a vintage 70's trailer and 2015 modern RV. We hope your path leads you here to experience all that Lassen has to offer. Miles of trails, pristine waters, dark skies, and wildlife abound, all awaiting to be discovered. Find your Wild, be kind, and leave no trace.
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Holcomb Valley Ranch

17. Holcomb Valley Ranch

98%
(1112)
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:)
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Kings Canyon Campground

18. Kings Canyon Campground

92%
(826)
Wilsonia, CA · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
This rustic campground is located in Kings Canyon on hwy 180, 16 miles past the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Park entrance. Magnificent views of Kings Canyon from the property. Camp sites with picnic tables. Flushing toilets on site. Water and sewer hookups available at rv sites. Great base camp between both Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP. 6 miles to the mighty Kings River, 12 miles to Grant Grove and the Giant Sequoia’s, 16 miles to Cedar Grove, 22 miles to “Roads End” and trail head for the endless backcountry trails including the Pacific Crest trail. Easy access to General’s Hwy for Sequoia National Park access Google plus code for maps copy&paste “ R497+877 Hume Station, California “ Water falls https://www.travellerselixir.com/sequoia-kings-canyon-waterfall-road-trip/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASKj-9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeyJCbd_Ziq9AzEyj0hDzuuKM4SJKVN2kBn8aDVyl-i15Ss5t6P23TwnWvzGs_aem_He7KWTHRgoRPNy77SnnqUQ Please note the ice cream and gas are not part of the campground, it is generally open on weekends, however it should not be relied upon.
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Salmon Creek Ranch

19. Salmon Creek Ranch

97%
(3631)
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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Baby Banana Slug Farm

20. Baby Banana Slug Farm

98%
(880)
Albion, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Private camping, glamping, and retreats in the redwood forest. Our two tent camping sites are tucked in the trees offering a very peaceful and private way to connect to nature with the family. Our three small cabins are perfect for anyone looking to escape from the hustle of daily life, and redwood retreat is the perfect size for the whole family. This property is hosted by a three generational family who live on-site and are available for any questions and concerns as they may arise. Pets welcome.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field