The best private sites RV campgrounds near Chico, California

Volcanic buttes, the Sacramento River, the Sierra Nevada foothills—in Chico, scenic landscapes lie in every direction. Nestled in the fertile Sacramento Valley (the birthplace of craft breweries), it's a real California paradise. Paddling, hiking, SUP boarding, and horseback riding are never far away.

You can't miss Lake Oroville State Recreation Area—it's the second biggest reservoir in California, after all. Get ready for boating, kayaking, and world-class bass fishing. Plus, camping at Lake Oroville gives you some serious bragging rights. Imagine being rocked to sleep by the waves on a floating campsite.

Just past Orland, Black Butte Lake Recreation Area is a quieter spot to get out on the water. Here, you can enjoy fishing, water skiing, and lakeside camping beneath sweeping buttes.

Driving into the Sierra Nevada Mountains brings you to Plumas National Forest. The sprawling woods offer wilderness tent camping and cabins. You can even hike the Pacific Crest and other national trails. Want to camp by a 410-foot waterfall? Check out the forest service's Feather Falls Campground.

Believe it or not, you don't even have to venture outside Chico to find wilderness adventure. The city's Bidwell Park is one of the biggest municipal parks in the USA. Get stoked about hiking trails through canyons and bluffs, paved bike trails, and fishing on Horseshoe Lake.

Camping near Chico offers just as much variety as the landscapes that surround it. Hunker down in a foothills tent campground, relax at an RV park, or browse rolling farms where landowners invite you to pitch your tent.

Butte County is an adventurer's paradise year round. However, keep in mind the Sacramento Valley is famous for its toasty summers and cool, wet Winters. For the best camping weather, you can't beat fall or late spring.

99% (75)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you own a hammock, this is the place to bring it

Volcanic buttes, the Sacramento River, the Sierra Nevada foothills—in Chico, scenic landscapes lie in every direction. Nestled in the fertile Sacramento Valley (the birthplace of craft breweries), it's a real California paradise. Paddling, hiking, SUP boarding, and horseback riding are never far away.

You can't miss Lake Oroville State Recreation Area—it's the second biggest reservoir in California, after all. Get ready for boating, kayaking, and world-class bass fishing. Plus, camping at Lake Oroville gives you some serious bragging rights. Imagine being rocked to sleep by the waves on a floating campsite.

Just past Orland, Black Butte Lake Recreation Area is a quieter spot to get out on the water. Here, you can enjoy fishing, water skiing, and lakeside camping beneath sweeping buttes.

Driving into the Sierra Nevada Mountains brings you to Plumas National Forest. The sprawling woods offer wilderness tent camping and cabins. You can even hike the Pacific Crest and other national trails. Want to camp by a 410-foot waterfall? Check out the forest service's Feather Falls Campground.

Believe it or not, you don't even have to venture outside Chico to find wilderness adventure. The city's Bidwell Park is one of the biggest municipal parks in the USA. Get stoked about hiking trails through canyons and bluffs, paved bike trails, and fishing on Horseshoe Lake.

Camping near Chico offers just as much variety as the landscapes that surround it. Hunker down in a foothills tent campground, relax at an RV park, or browse rolling farms where landowners invite you to pitch your tent.

Butte County is an adventurer's paradise year round. However, keep in mind the Sacramento Valley is famous for its toasty summers and cool, wet Winters. For the best camping weather, you can't beat fall or late spring.

99% (75)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Maple Creek Ranch

99%

(935)

13mi from Chico · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Cohasset, CA

This year, the Park Fire has brought some changes to our surroundings, but we’re thrilled to share that our camp sites, pond area, and homes were miraculously untouched! 🌲✨ Here’s what you can expect during your stay: - Mud Creek Canyon: While this area was most affected by the fire, it remains a good spot for hiking and exploring. - The Pond: It’s looking beautiful, and we have completed restoring the stream that feeds it. Enjoy the serene environment as nature continues to flourish. - Ongoing Restoration: We’re committed to rejuvenating the land and ensuring your experience remains as wonderful as ever. ================= The Maple Creek Ranch and Tree Farm has been family owned and operated since 1934. The patriarch of the family, whose family had moved here from Sweden, had a great love of the forest and trains. The property was one of the first certified tree farms in California with the goal of nurturing a healthy forest. In the 1960’s, a mile of railroad tracks was laid and the whistle of a small, steam engine train could be heard throughout the community. Local residents and kids were treated to free train rides and special events for many years. There is a natural spring with a small creek that supplies the ponds with fresh water year around. There is also a small canyon on the property with a larger stream called Mud Creek. The land is rich in Indian history and there a artifacts and other signs on the Indians presence. The Cohasset area is relatively unknown. 15 miles from our property is Deer Creek and the Lasson National Forest is about a 2 hour drive north. While staying with us you can pitch your tent on our private 500 acres. We have 2 primitive camping spots on our property. Each spot has a picnic table and fire pit. There is a flush toilet shared for both camp sites. * During freezing weather the toilets may be closed so they don’t freeze! Please check before booking *The spots are spread out to ensure privacy. Our property is surrounded by the forest and is loaded with deer, squirrels, turkeys and other forest animals. We have numerous walking trails, a fresh water pond for fishing and swimming. Please notify us if you have an RV. Site 1 is best for RV's. Site 2 can accommodate smaller RV's.

2. Falling Rock Lodging and RV

100%

(4)

25mi from Chico · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Oroville, CA

Nestled in the heart of Northern California’s Gold Country, Falling Rock RV & Lodging offers a peaceful and laid-back escape surrounded by nature, history, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to rest during a road trip, explore Lake Oroville, or reconnect with the great outdoors, our quiet and friendly park is the perfect basecamp. We offer spacious RV sites with full hook-ups, shaded by mature trees and framed by the rolling Sierra Nevada foothills. Wake up to birdsong, enjoy a morning coffee under the pines, and end your day stargazing by your campfire. Our lodging options include cozy cabins and rustic accommodations ideal for travelers seeking comfort with a touch of country charm. Conveniently located just off Highway 70, we’re minutes from: • Lake Oroville and its boating, fishing, and hiking trails • Feather Falls Scenic Trail and Table Mountain wildflower walks • Downtown Oroville’s antique shops, local restaurants, and Gold Rush history • Local vineyards, hot springs, and hidden swimming holes Amenities include: • Full hook-up RV sites • Clean restrooms and showers • On-site laundry (under construction) • Pet-friendly spaces • Wi-Fi access (Free) • Onsite management for peace of mind Whether you’re an RVer, tent camper, or in search of a quiet cabin hideaway, Falling Rock RV & Lodging welcomes you to slow down, settle in, and soak up the natural beauty of Oroville. Book your stay today and experience the warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere that makes Falling Rock a hidden gem in Butte County.

3. YUBA RIVER Group Lodging & Camping

98%

(20)

46mi from Chico · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · North San Juan, CA

Willow Springs is all about hosting GROUPS, large and small. We cater to family reunions, group gatherings of all kinds, workshops, seminars and church groups. Nestled in the foothills of the Tahoe National Forest, our Retreat Center offers a variety of accommodations to suit your needs, from 10 to 60. (SEE BELOW.) We are six minutes to several locations on the Yuba River and twenty minutes to Bullard’s Bar. Located just 15 short miles from the historic communities of Nevada City and Grass Valley, Willow Springs is a place to escape and re-connect with what is important, creating memories. We also incorporate principles of sustainability at Willow Springs, with an on-site educational herb and permaculture garden for which a self-tour is available (free) and a guided tour upon request. Fresh produce possible depending upon season and availability. We operate ala carte with our accommodations so we can customize your experience to meet your needs. You can choose one or more of the following: GROUP CAMPGROUND: This one-acre fenced in area allows for guests (Max 30) to bring their dogs and pitch tents in a protected area with an expansive view. Camp cooking has never been easier, as the community kitchen is well equipped with 2 full-sized refrigerators, gas stove/oven, pots and pans, dishware, silverware, triple sink, and two outdoor barbeques. The cooks will especially appreciate our unique outdoor “dishwashing station” for each individual (even kids!) to efficiently wash their own dishes instead of using throw-away plastic for each meal. Our bathhouse has two private toilets, two private showers with hot water and a double sink. Bring your own towels and toiletries. ADDITIONAL LODGING & AMENTITIES: YURT: A 20’ yurt (sleeps 4) is equipped with a full bed and queen sofa for members of your camping group that would like greater comfort. Limited electricity is available. BUNK HOUSE: This bunk house has 3 twin bunkbeds (sleeps 6) with a 12x14 covered deck. Limited electricity is available. RV SITES: Ranging from no services to full service. More information is available for other AMENITIES, including LODGE, YOGA STUDIO, PAVILION, EVENT TERRACE, MEDIA CENTER, and more, visit www.WillowSpringsLodge.com/blogs.

Stories from the community

A

Ada

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

My family and I had the best time camping at Maple Creek Ranch. We stayed at Site 2, which was privately nestled among the trees—clean, flat, and perfectly peaceful. The site included a deep firepit and a sturdy picnic table, making it easy to relax and cook meals together. The amenities were fantastic. There was a spotless outhouse just about a hundred feet away (with a flushing toilet!), and a hot shower next to the pond. The pond itself was stocked with bluegill and bass, and my family caught their first-ever fish there—an unforgettable memory! But the highlight of our stay was Ron, the host. He’s an absolute gem—so kind, genuine, and full of great stories. He brought us firewood and water and when my car battery died on our last day, he didn’t hesitate to drive over with his truck and give me a jump. His hospitality truly made our trip special. We’ll absolutely be coming back and can’t recommend Maple Creek Ranch enough to anyone visiting the Cohasset/Chico area!

Long legs come in handy in a lot of situations, but this isn't one of them

A

Amanda

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Maple Creek Ranch

This is our 5th trip to Maple Creek. We’ r gone in summer, fall & winter and the location is always beautiful. Ron & Kristen are great hosts. They are present but not overbearing. They’re proud of their land and genuinely enjoying sharing it.

Ivy

October 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Falling Rock Lodging and RV

Oroville Lodging and RV was a wonderful stop during our travels. The staff was incredibly friendly, and Emmanuel, our host, went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. From the moment we arrived, we felt safe, comfortable, and well cared for. The facilities were clean, well-maintained, and convenient for both lodging and RV stays. We truly appreciated the warm, personal touch and would highly recommend Oroville Lodging and RV to anyone passing through. We look forward to returning on our next trip!

T

Toni

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

Maple Creek was awesome! Very peaceful and Ron was super helpful and friendly. Despite the fact that there was an event taking place on the property the same weekend, I felt like I had the whole place to myself. The flush toilet is also a gem! I will definitely be staying at Maple Creek again.

A

Amber

October 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Falling Rock Lodging and RV

Great place. Was quiet at night. Hosts were helpful. Great location and dog friendly. Will definitely return

Tent sites are grouped so you can cluster your tents.

J

Jordan

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to YUBA RIVER Group Lodging & Camping

Great facilities - with everything you could need and more. Awesome location and wonderful hosts. Will be coming back again.

B

Bonnie

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

Maple Creek Ranch is so magical. The pond and surrounding area have everything you could want for a relaxing family vacay -- the outdoor kitchen and flush toilet and hot shower, the sandy little beach and every kind of boat to paddle around in, and the lovely forest shade and breezes keeping it comfortable at the ranch even when the weather is absolutely broiling just down the hill in Chico. The surrounding areas burned in a fire recently, but nature is already rebounding, and we enjoyed hiking through the burned areas to see the baby trees starting to re-green the landscape.

Kaili

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Maple Creek Ranch

I loved camping here! I've done a lot of camping this summer and this was one of my favorites. We met the owner, Ron, and he is very cool and helpful. Told us about the property, where to go on a hike, brought us a firewood. Very honored to be able to stay here. We stayed at campsite #2 and it was huge, plenty of space and far away from campsite #1 and the AirB&B. Felt very private and secluded, which is a big deal. I don't always want to camp where it's super crowded and campsites are on top of each other. There is a walk to the swimming area from the campsite, but it was so nice. The water felt great in the heat. We saw deer, dragonflies, hummingbirds, butterflies. Bathrooms were the nicest bathrooms ever! So clean, flushable. Outside shower is also very nice. We want to come here every summer!

Olivia

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Maple Creek Ranch

We love this spot and it’s now on our annual list! The camp site was so beautiful with trees all around. You felt like the only ones out there. Camp had plenty of shade spots throughout the day plus we brought a pop up tent for extra chill zones. The site had one of the best fire rings I’ve had at any camp site. Perfect sizing and nice and deep. If fires are an important part of your experience, remember to check on fire restrictions! Ron is the best!! He made sure to come meet us and give a full run down of the property to make sure we were comfortable. We even pinged him a couple times throughout the weekend and he was just so kind and wonderful to talk to. The pond and common area are just a 5 min walk from camp and it’s such a cute vibe with dragonflies all around, lush green plants, and gorgeous trees. There are fish and turtles in the pond too! There’s bathroom and outdoor shower near the pond as well. WiFi works at the pond but not really at the camp site (if that’s important to you). We hiked the trail that leads down to the creek which is so serene with wild flowers and dappled sunlight. We sat, enjoyed the sounds of the creek and watched the butterflies and hummingbirds do their thing. We had such a magical time. 10/10 recommend.

L

Lindsey

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

It was nice. Dog friendly. Ron was welcoming and had potable water ready for our use. Camp sight was clean and nice. Despite everything in the surrounding area being burnt by a devastating fire, the camp was still beautiful. It was wonderful to see all the new life starting to peek through the forest floor. The pond was nice, tons of fish. Our six year old was tickled at how easy it was to catch a fish and it was really difficult to get him to leave the pond. The turtles were super curious and adorable. We really enjoyed ourselves. The shower says not to touch the knobs just push the button, which resulted in a very cold shower for myself. . . My husband turned the knob and got a hot shower for himself to which the kids then benefited from his defiance as well. We would for sure come back. It was nice to have a toilet within walking distance as well. It’s worth it, so book now.

C

Cristy

August 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

We had a great time fishing and boating on the pond. We’re looking forward to returning!

N

Nikolas

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

My friends and I had an incredible experience at Site 1 - Forest Camping in Maple Creek Ranch, California. The location was easy to find, and the host was exceptionally kind, welcoming, and generous—personally guiding us to our campsite. Our spot was perfect: spacious, private, and ideal for stargazing at night. The entire campground was expansive and fun to explore, offering plenty of space to roam and enjoy nature. This is an ideal getaway, especially for first-time campers looking for a comfortable and memorable introduction to the outdoors.

C

Cassandra

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

Had an excellent trip here, hosts were very friendly and helpful. Firewood available to purchase. Shower and bathroom were great.

J

Jakob

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Maple Creek Ranch

Very hospitable! Ron and Kristin have a beautiful quiet property with tons of things to do from boating, to fishing, to corn hole. 10/10 highly recommend!

D

Dan

July 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

Great get away. So quiet and peaceful. The pond was great.

C

Christine

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

We absolutely loved our stay. The kids kept asking to come back before we even left. There were clean flush toilets and a hot shower. The only thing we would do differently next time is to bring our bicycles to bike down to the pond.

R

Rebecca

July 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at YUBA RIVER Group Lodging & Camping

Great location with a variety of activities nearby. Because we also stayed at the lodge we didn’t use the kitchen at the campground, but it was well-stocked. Bathrooms were a nice bonus. Wood chip base made for flat tent setup. Excellent hosts! Attending promptly to our family.

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Drew

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Maple Creek Ranch

Wow I loved tent camping at Maple Creek. I came for a long weekend with my friends and we were all blown away at the cleanliness of the campsite, the abundance of amenities, and the kindness of the hosts! Ron went out of his way to make sure our group felt comfortable, he dropped off potable water, took the time to show us to our site and explain the property, helped us locate a fun hiking trail, and was so welcoming! They allowed us to use the pond on their property which was equipped with water rafts, stocked with fish, and so clean for swimming! We really cannot recommend this place more, the whole experience was so relaxing, we would definitely want to come back!

T

Tania

July 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Maple Creek Ranch

My partner and I enjoyed tent camping on Ron and Kirstin’s land. There were only two camping sites that had a good distance away from each other so everyone had ample of space and privacy. I appreciate the flushing toilet and amazing well water provided. We enjoyed the pond very much. We used one of the boats and swam a little with the fish 🙂. I had my Notebook moment while he paddled for us both lol. Showering as also amazing as the outside shower among the trees was super nice view and the heated shower was a plus. I would say that the one who loved it the most was my puppy Ellie. She enjoyed the woods with ample space to run around and explore. It was so nice being able to have a wonderful time without being overcrowd. What’s best is that it was dog friendly.

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David

July 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Maple Creek Ranch

Site #2 was clean and quiet nestled with a great stand of trees. Pond was walking distance and offered a great dock to start the day.