Private Camping in California, California: Best California Private Campsites 2026

Looking for a camping experience that's as unique as you are? Look no further than Hipcamp, the go-to website for private campsites in the United States. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, Hipcamp has over 900 options to choose from in California alone. From the stunning Cuyama Badlands with its 1681 rave reviews, to the eco-friendly Down-to-Earth Ecoshire with 552 reviews, and the picturesque Cosumnes River Ranch with 382 reviews, you'll find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. With popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly sites, and modern toilets, and activities ranging from fishing and hiking to boating, your camping adventure awaits. And with prices starting as low as $15 and an average of $59 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience with Hipcamp.

99% (5.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

$113

/ night

Camper favorites in California

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Painted Lake

97%

(132)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Angels Camp, CA

A Unique Mountain Retreat

99%

(288)

12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tehachapi, CA

The title says it all this property is truly A Unique Mountain Retreat that will give you the peace, quiet and tranquility you are looking for. An energy efficient Uniquely designed home that is off the grid and has a very green footprint with solar and windmill to charge batteries. Oak and pine tree covered acres with fitness and nature trails around the property. Each level campsite with picnic table is designed for privacy with plenty of distance between sites and mountain views in every direction, along with an optional gas log fire pit and BBQ. There is plenty of clean, non potable drinking water, custom built toilets and optional hot showers, limited electrical use, cell phone charging and low power use devices as I am off grid. There is a fitness and nature trail on the property and Pacific Crest trail is approx 20 to 30 min drive, Mountain park which has many miles of hiking trails and an Indian reservation with hikes to many petroglphs. Things to see are the World famous Tehachapi railway loop, historic downtown, vineyards, mountain spirit center a Buddhist temple, glider rides, bicycle riding and fishing. There is cell service around the property but intermittent at the campsites.

Moon Bear Lodge

98%

(45)

3 sites · Lodging · Occidental, CA

Sacred redwood sanctuary located just 90 minutes from the SF Bay Area. Ideal for large glamping groups up to 15 guests! A truly magical and relaxing yet adventurous getaway with outrageous views of Mount Saint Helena and the Russian River Valley. With over 100 flowering plants, Hiking trails, Hot tub, Redwood Fairy Ring, outdoor soaking tub, Artisanal well, Yoga classes, certified massage, sound healing, Mushroom foraging, and three glamping units! Including a Tahoe style tree cabin that's 30 feet high in the redwoods, accessed only by ladder. A truly magical getaway perched on a coastal ridge in a fairy forest, on the edge of the Russian river, beach and Wine country! Truly ideal for groups of six, plus space for tent camping! We also have kayaks and mountain bikes available (2 of each) for rent.

Squirrel Rock RV Campground

100%

(171)

2 sites · RVs · Columbia, CA

Private gated RV campground in the Gold Country. Located in the historic townsite of Columbia known as the "Gem of the Southern Mines". There is 1 site so you'll have the campground to yourselves. There are 2 electrical panels so you can bring your family or friends if you like. If there are 2 RV's you can reserve the campground as a double site. WE ONLY ACCEPT FULLY SELF CONTAINED RV'S ONLY. NO TENTS NO LONG TERM STAYS. Campsite has 2 electric pedestals 50/30/110. Water hookups at each site. NO SEWER. NO DUMP NO RESTROOMS AVAILABLE. Includes picnic table, camp fire ring, Weber BBQ, doggie station, horseshoe pit, corn hole, walking trails, and garbage/recycle bins. Winter camping dates subject to weather conditions. Located 0.6 mile to Columbia State Historic Park, parking and entrance is free and open year around. It is about a 15 minute walk. Close to Murphys, New Melones lake and Tuttletown recreation area, Moaning Caverns, Downtown Sonora, Mother Lode Escape Rooms, Columbia Airport, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Black Oak Casino, Chicken Ranch Casino, Indigeny Reserve, Inner Sanctum Cellars Basecamp with other wineries and breweries nearby. About a 50 minute drive to Big Trees State Park and Pinecrest Lake. Yosemite National Park is about 1-1/2 hour drive to the Yosemite valley floor. Check for YARTS for transportation from downtown Sonora to Yosemite valley. There are several rafting outfitters in the area. Restaurants in the immediate vicinity include Mandy's Breakfast-Lunch, Columbia Frosty, El Jardin, St. Charles Saloon Pizza. Gas, diesel mini mart, market store nearby.

In-Ko-Pah Spirit Retreat

99%

(117)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jacumba Hot Springs, CA

Property is located in the High Desert area of E. San Diego County in the In-Ko-)Pah Mountains. 5 camp sites to choose from and one (1) glamping unit "Casa Agave" which is a small home the sleeps four (4). One queen bed, 1 single and a sofa bed that sleeps one. To the west is Table Mountain a sacred Native American Ceremonial Ground that is on BLM land. The Northern boundary is the beginning Anza Borrego State Park. The East and South borders are private land. There is much evidence of campsites and artifacts that the land used to be inhabited by the Kumeyaay Nation. Mica and Garnets used to be mined in this area as well. The property is a transitional area where agave, juniper and scrub oak thrive. Wildlife in the area includes: Quail, Rattle Snakes, Lizards, Ravens, Roadrunners, Tarantulas, Rosy Boa, Mule Deer, Pack Rats, Bob Cats, Coyotes and at times Bighorn Sheep are spotted by Table Mountain. I have 10 chickens, 2 cats and my dog Bosco.

Wisdom eco-preserv

97%

(265)

39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nevada City, CA

This extraordinary 200 acres is magical and host a wildness which feels peaceful and secure. It is also the home of the developing Wisdom Retreat Center eco-preserve noted for quality of beauty and silence. Many Indian arrow heads have been found here indicating former residences of indigenous tribes. There are many open meadows and old growth forest to hike and explore.

Oz Farm

99%

(283)

77 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Point Arena, CA

Originally purchased in the late 60's by "Redwood and Savatri", Oz Farm was initially a commune of sorts and is no doubt a very special place...heck, its even got it's own comic book! Here you can pick your poison, as the property is comprised of 7 rustic cabins, redwood campsites, and geodesic domes that would make Buckminster Fuller proud. The working farm is comprised of over 230 accessible acres of flowing meadows, redwood groves, prime agriculture, and is intersected by the beautiful Garcia River, which flows into the mighty pacific. One thing that is very apparent, is how clearly passionate the community at Oz Farm is about ecology and agriculture. Once you step foot onto Oz Farm, you'll begin to understand why. The property is open seasonally and frequently rented by full-camp retreats and events throughout the summer. Individual cabins open to rent one month in advance and are advertised through instagram @villageozfarm

Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

96%

(111)

3 sites · Lodging · Colfax, CA

Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax. We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences. The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants. We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy! In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek. We have 3 accommodations on the property -A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people. -A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people. -A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people. We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent. If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place. Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10).

Stories from the community

Enjoy the loft twin bed and the reading couch next to the view.

S

Sen

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to The Painted Lake

Really really nice place and nice hosts! Enjoyed staying in the tree house and all of the animals are so friendly (especially the 17 cute puppies!!!). There are a lot of things to explore and would definitely love to visit again

J

Janell

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Zephyr Mountain Avocado Grove

Found another cool camp spot! We enjoyed how secluded it was and the view was amazing! The farm animals were fun to see! Will definitely come back.

M

Maziyar

1 week ago

23 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

We stayed at the range campsite. That was one of our best camping experiences. 360 degree view, top of hill. Karina was great host, very responsive. Highly recommend it.

B

Benjamin

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

Awesome property. Serene cabin with beautiful wood framing. Host is very hospitable and interesting.

Ax

1 week ago

16 ft car

With pets

2 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

The Range was perfect, with beautiful views and a really peaceful feel. It was great meeting their dog Ria and saying hi to the farm animals. My dogs were so happy to have space to run around and just be dogs. Karina was very accommodating and easy to talk to, which made everything even better. It was pretty windy during my stay, but overall a really nice experience and a place I’d happily return to!

Chuck

2 weeks ago

26 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Thompson Palms Campground

If you read any review let it be this one. It was an absolutely gorgeous property very easily marked spots. Awesome hosts very good produce and maintained property. The spot is right in front of a cow enclosure they are very friendly. There is a beautiful koi pond. My only grievence is that we didn't stay longer. 10/10 property.

K

Kristi

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

The farmhouse cabin was super cute and comfortable! The property is beautiful and peaceful. It was perfect for our little weekend getaway. Thanks Erin!

J

Jessica

2 weeks ago

40 ft Class A

20 nights at Thompson Palms Campground

The property is beautiful. Bernie and Hoa were both super nice and social. Fresh eggs, fruit trees, palm, wild bunnies and cows. We were there for 3 weeks, and had plans been different we would have loved to stay longer. We will be back when we are in the area.

K

2 weeks ago

1 night at A Unique Mountain Retreat

This cabin, location & host, John, all were truly such a treat! John is an absolutely wonderful human. He went above and beyond as a host to ensure we got in, settled and enjoyed ourselves. It’s clear the love and care he’s put into this property and for his guests. The cabin was comfortable, beautifully designed & the morning views were stunning. Thank you for having us!

Lisa

2 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

9 nights at Thompson Palms Campground

What a slice of paradise Bernard and Hoa share with the campers. They are friendly, generous, and accommodating. Their property is just a few blocks away from the cute town of Ramona, CA! Marinade on Main is a favorite restaurant nearby. Their property is secluded, secure, and peaceful behind a coded gate. There are three camping sites that are quite large, and several tent sites. The grounds are well maintained. We enjoyed the proximity to downtown San Diego, La Mesa, Santee, and our son’s home nearby. We were able to stay at Thompson’s Palm Farm quite a few days as there is water, electric, and septic. We will return again and again!

M

Michael

2 weeks ago

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Squirrel Rock RV Campground

Our stay at Squirrel Rock was absolutely fantastic. Julie was super nice and gave us the perfect balance of attention and privacy. The campground is beautiful and so well maintained plus there are lots of things to see in the Columbia area. We will definitely be coming back and recommend Squirrel Rock to everyone else looking for a quiet getaway in the gold country.

N

Nadine

2 weeks ago

25 ft Class A

With pets

3 nights at Mineral Spring Date Farm

The hot mineral water is incredible! We go to a lot of mineral Springs and they all have different minerals and benefits, but we found that Ron’s Hot Springs gave us the most relief out of any hot spring. My husband and I are nearly 70 with lots and lots of aches and pains, and it was amazing how it Soothe them all away. Ron is a very gracious host, very prompt and accommodating if you contact him for anything. Since you’re away from the road, it was very, very quiet and peaceful. We’re already planning our next day there.

Sierra and Bandit Doing Perimeter Check.

F

Francisco

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

What an awesome place, and the hosts were amazing. So much more than the pictures can do justice.

CRISTIAN

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Freedog Farms @ Cactus Flower Ranch

Darin was the most welcoming and genuinely great host I’ve ever had the pleasure to deal with on HipCamp. Their property is beautiful and it was exciting seeing all of the farm animals, especially for my two year old. The fresh chicken and duck eggs were better than you could buy anywhere and the ribeye steak that Darin was so generous to grill and share with the rest of the guests was to die for. I will never forget this experience and sure to come back next spring.

C

Carolyn

3 weeks ago

16 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Mt Rancho (FKA La Montaña Ranch)

Beautiful property! Amazing views and super quiet. Felt far away, but there is a lot nearby. Will definitely rebook!

A

Angel

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

Great place to chill and take in the view. Relax and unwind

C

Cara

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

We loved camping at SongDog Ranch. Our family stayed in the Glamptank. It was so private, we felt like we were the only ones on the ranch. We'll be back to explore more of the camping/lodging options at SongDog!

c

chelsea

3 weeks ago

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cuyama Badlands

I don’t want people to know how amazing this place is because I don’t want it to be booked!! But this is the best spot ever. Close to LA, firewood store and general store on site. Great hosts and even better experience

R

Robyn Sue

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Moon Bear Lodge

What a special hidden gem! This place is magical and surprisingly fancy in the inside. Super impressive spot. The hosts were the sweetest and most thoughtful. Huge success!