The best dog-friendly cabin rentals in Northern California

Name: Northern California
Address: Cabins
Rating: 4.693

Northern California can spoil you with outdoor adventure. Here, campers have access to rugged coastlines, redwood forests, active volcanoes, granite domes, and glaciated peaks, all bathed daily in NorCal’s signature golden sunsets. The region’s major outdoor hubs include the Pacific Coast to the west (Big Sur, Wine Country), the Sierra Nevada mountain range to the east (Yosemite, Tahoe), and the Cascade mountain range to the north (Mount Shasta, Lassen Peak), each offering unique geology, climates, and fauna. Throughout each is world-class hiking, rock climbing, biking, beaches, surfing, snowsports, and—of course—camping.

94% (1.1K) • 48 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Northern California

Mystic Forest Campground

1. Mystic Forest Campground

98%

(977)

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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Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

2. Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

95%

(598)

Somerset, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

There is NOTHING like being in the wilderness of this area for a good re-centering of the soul! We have found it to be a true blessing for our family, and we hope you can experience this blessing as we share this space with you. We feel certain you will not be disappointed with our beautiful river canyon. Our property is situated right on the middle fork Cosumnes river. The swimming is awesome and the stars at night will put you into a state of awe! In the area there are many family owned wineries in the area, most of them offering free tasting! It’s a short drive to Tahoe and the Marshall gold discovery site as well as the historic hangtown Placerville. We are happy to make suggestions for local hiking areas, like the Devil's Slide "Gorge" only a 15 minute drive but like a trip to mini Yosemite. The Caldor Fire was VERY close to our property and a back burn was initiated nearby the our house (literally 200' away!). Our property became a pivotal point of fighting the fire in our community known as the “Ant Hill Army”. Ask us about the story!

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Mill Creek Resort

3. Mill Creek Resort

98%

(2300)

Mineral, CA · 32 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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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

4. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%

(137)

National forest in California · 912 sites

California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.

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Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

5. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

94%

(123)

National forest in California · 933 sites

Beautiful lakeside views and endless exploration on the Nevada/California border.

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Alexander Valley Lodge

6. Alexander Valley Lodge

Geyserville, CA · 3 sites

Welcome to Alexander Valley Lodge, a stunning wine country retreat nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, California. Set on a private hillside surrounded by rolling vineyards and forested landscape, this spacious lodge offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking panoramic views of Alexander Valley. The property is designed for comfort and group stays, featuring multiple bedrooms, expansive living spaces, and inviting indoor-outdoor areas perfect for relaxing, gathering, and enjoying the scenery. Guests can take advantage of a pool, spa, and outdoor entertaining areas while soaking in the serene surroundings of California wine country. Ideally located just minutes from renowned wineries, hiking trails, and charming towns like Healdsburg and Geyserville, the lodge is a perfect base for exploring the region. Whether you're planning a family getaway, group retreat, or special celebration, Alexander Valley Lodge offers space, privacy, and unforgettable views. This is a true wine country escape where comfort meets natural beauty—perfect for slowing down, reconnecting, and enjoying everything Sonoma has to offer.

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Baby Banana Slug Farm

7. Baby Banana Slug Farm

98%

(821)

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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Heartwood Mendocino

8. Heartwood Mendocino

99%

(551)

Mendocino, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place. Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins, camp sites and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. The redwood tree shower must not be missed! This is a very special experience for us to share with you. We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike or a beach day and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet! Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!" Please remember that we are in the woods and there is wildlife around. We don't want them to get into your food items, and recommend that you place food items in the enclosed common room or in the critter proof cupboards in the outdoor kitchen.

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Ridgetop Ranch Getaway

9. Ridgetop Ranch Getaway

99%

(359)

Nevada City, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

I’ve had the pleasure to be the “caretaker” of this special land once inhabited by the Maidu Indians for the past 43 years. This is SPECIAL ground here and I’m sure you will feel the MAGIC!!! This 40 acres sits on the Yuba River Ridgetop. At the "Platform of Pleasure" you will enjoy 100,000+ acre views of protected land looking North to the High Sierra, Just minutes away from downtown Nevada City and 15 miles from Yuba River Trailheads. Firewood bundles are $15 per bundle, about 2+hours of burn time. (when campfires 🔥 are allowed). There is a $20.00 dog fee per dog/per stay. You can add the dog fee to your booking or pay cash when you arrive. On our property like anywhere in the woods there are mosquitos, so you should bring bug spray. We offer RV sites, flat area for tents, as well as a Serenity Cabin. Guests love staying here: "From the moment we arrived Chris was nothing but amazing. He helped us get settled in and even recommended some beautiful spots to hike/sight see. They are both so generous! The campsite beautiful and they did a very nice job supplying us with any materials we may need. Definitely coming back during the summer!"

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Hendy Woods State Park

10. Hendy Woods State Park

98%

(60)

State park in California · 90 sites

An inland wonderland with some of California's most breathtaking redwood groves.

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Eldorado National Forest

11. Eldorado National Forest

93%

(136)

National forest in California · 980 sites

Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.

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Camp Stoney Meadows

12. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%

(355)

Big Bend, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our 220 remote acres are adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta in Northern California. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! PIease try to ignore the "car art" in the Pit River Tribe's Rancheria as you're coming here. Drive right through it, it's no reflection on us. The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

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Village Camp Truckee

13. Village Camp Truckee

89%

(105)

Truckee, CA · 114 sites · RVs, Lodging

Village Camp Truckee is nestled in the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California, offering easy access to the best outdoor activities, shopping, and dining Truckee, CA, has to offer. Situated at nearly 6,000 ft., Village Camp Truckee is open year-round, making it the perfect basecamp for winter sports enthusiasts headed to Northstar or Palisades Tahoe, and for those looking to enjoy mild summer days fishing or exploring the Truckee River. Just a short drive from the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, Village Camp Truckee also features modern cabins and RV sites surrounded by majestic redwoods, thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.

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Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge

14. Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge

97%

(19)

Dunsmuir, CA · 67 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Since 1968, we’ve been reliving the romantic days of railroading at Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge. Nestled in Northern California, our resort offers one of the most unique stays in the region. Wake up to crisp, pine-scented mountain air at Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge, where camping feels timeless. Our scenic property features 24 RV sites and 20 tent campsites, combining rustic charm with modern amenities. Jubilee Railroad is ideal for adventurers exploring Mt. Shasta or the Pacific Crest Trail. Just a short drive to Hedge Creek Falls, Dunsmuir Botanical Garden, Sacramento River, Lake Siskiyou, Shasta Caverns, and more! From caboose lodging and vintage cabins, to the RV park and campground, an unforgettable experience awaits! RV PARK &CAMPGROUND Tent campers enjoy hot showers, flush toilets, and a laundry room. All guests can access: Game room Recreation lawn & group BBQ pit Onsite store with snacks, RV supplies, &essentials Pool spa near the caboose lodging area Gift Shop with souvenirs, artisan goods, travel necessities Wi-Fi available throughout the property Laundry facilities Pet-Friendly: Pets stay free! We’re proud to welcome dogs throughout the property. Winter offers a quieter, snow-dusted beauty—but it comes with seasonal changes: Water Off in most sites to prevent frozen pipes. Restrooms Closed when water is off. Camp Store closed; please visit the Gift Shop at the caboose area. Snow Access: During heavy snow, 4WD or chains recommended. Electricity & internet remain available. Hot Tub open (pool closed). Tent camping is closed in winter, but RV guests are welcome year-round. Dine With Us: Our Dining Car Restaurant is among the most unique eateries in Dunsmuir, CA. Built inside authentic vintage railroad cars, and fresh farm-to-table ingredients! CABOOSES AND CABINS Each room offers: Smart TV Wi-Fi Dining table, microwave, mini fridge, coffee maker In-room wine service Full bathroom Heating & A/C Onsite dog park (pets welcome with a pet fee) Ice & vending machines on site GUEST SERVICES 12-hour front desk 24-hour on-site management After-hours emergency phone Contactless check-in available We’re conveniently located just off I-5 (Exit 728). Checkout our locomotive 1727: A 1901 Baldwin M-6 Mogul engine displayed at the entrance!

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Root's End

15. Root's End

96%

(335)

Mendocino, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!

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Mendocino Magic

16. Mendocino Magic

94%

(850)

Laytonville, CA · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Mendocino Magic is a camping, fishing, wedding and outdoor events destination in inland Mendocino county, Northern California, just a few miles off Highway 101 in the heart of the Emerald Triangle. This unique sprawling 600-acre property is home to the largest privately-held reservoir in the North Coast region, perfect for swimming and catch &release fishing. We offer tent camping, RV & Car camping, luxe furnished tents, and cabins for your stay. Star gaze from the rolling hills of the Mendocino forest, kayak on our private Reservoir, and show off your BBQ skills with included campground amenities. Reserve your camp site early for the best availability. About half of our 2023 summer weekends are currently sold out. All Mendocino Magic Campers Enjoy the Following Amenities - Central Camp with tables, BBQ grills (propane provided), filtered water, and weekend propane fire dish run by staff. - Portapotty bathrooms with outdoor sinks. - Outdoor hot showers - Access to Holland Reservoir, our private lake, for swimming, boating, and catch and release fishing. Kayaks are available at the lake for no additional charge - first come, first served. No lifeguard on duty, bring your own life jackets if you need them. - Miles of hiking and biking trails through mountainous hillsides and scenic valleys. - Some of the best stargazing in Northern California with frequent meteor showers. - Camping supplies delivered to your camp site (for an additional charge), including cooler rentals, ice. Mackenzie manages the campground with a team of incredible people. In a world increasingly connected in the digital sense, we invite you to come up and get back to your roots, and connect with people the old fashioned way. Come join us for stargazing, paintball, fishing & swimming, weddings & outdoor events, and camping!

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Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

17. Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

95%

(164)

Shingletown, CA · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Bigfoot Lodging, a peaceful campground nestled in the woods with majestic tall pine and cedar trees close to Lassen Volcanic National Park. There's also a lake, a year round creek with fish and a small waterfall on the property where you can relax in the natural and peaceful wooded setting . Quiet and beautiful place to enjoy with your friends and family. Amazing attractions near by like Subway Lava Tube Cave, Burney Falls, Shasta Lake and Caverns, Whiskeytown Lake and all amazing lakes and hiking trails up on Lassen. About 15 miles from the North entrance of Lassen National Volcanic Park.

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Meadow Farm & Forest

18. Meadow Farm & Forest

98%

(237)

Fort Bragg, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.

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Redwood Family Camp

19. Redwood Family Camp

92%

(31)

Scotia, CA · 49 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Set into the beautiful and serene redwoods right at the entrance of the Ave. Of the Giants, exit 676 off Hwy. 101. We are located in the east side of Hwy. 101 at 385 North Road. We are located next to the Eel River with river access just yards down the road.

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Wisdom eco-preserve

20. Wisdom eco-preserve

97%

(274)

Nevada City, CA · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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. To ensure our cabins remain available for families and groups planning their retreats well in advance, we have updated our cancellation policy to Super Strict. This helps us protect these high-demand dates during our peak season. We appreciate your support in helping us maintain the preserve!

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

ricco

1 week ago

With pets

3 nights at Meadow Farm & Forest

Nice camping spot. Nice people Nice dogs NICE water pressure in shower. Nice fire pitt . Chill spot !

Cabin 4 has a queen bed with heated mattress, down comforter and yummy pillows and linens. The twin bed has it all, minus the heated bed.

Ben

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

Our stay was so incredible. The cabins are so cute. The tree shower is amazing. Will definitely be coming back!!!

sandeep

2 weeks ago

With kids

2 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

Nice place with redwood all round. Best place to get a break from work.

Evi

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Cosy, basic and close to Mendocino Village. Perfect for a little getaway.

Krissy Nalani

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

Heartwood Mendocino is the most adorable glamping spot I’ve ever been to. It is comfy, clean, has fantastic amenities, and is in a fantastic location close to trails but also about 10 min from town. . The redwood tree shower really is worth all the hype! I appreciated the heated mattresses on the beds and the well-stocked kitchen for cooking meals.

Christian

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

The cabin was PERFECT! The wood stove kept it nice and warm and the bed was comfy. It was the perfect weekend retreat! Great location we will definitely stay again when we're in the area.

Cabin 5 is the largest of our cabins with a queen and bunked twins. It’s also taller than the others.

Shilpa

3 weeks ago

Group trip

2 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

Heartwood Mendocino was a dream! what a slice of heaven. we were so impressed by all the details and thoughtful considerations. It was raining a lot of our time here and we still had such an amazing time. Khamoor had amazing communication prior to the visit to work out all the details (i had a few questions and needed to add another night). Very grateful and will absolutely be back!

Amelia

3 weeks ago

4 nights at Bayside Cabin

It was such a lovely stay! Plenty of firewood to keep the space warm. I was expecting more banana slugs but there were more spiders! They didn’t bother me, there were two in the sink that were just chilling. The shower got warm probably faster than my shower back at home and the last day it rained which was super cozy

Fanny

3 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

Nous avons adoré notre nuit dans la cabane en pleine nature! L’équipe est très sympa et l’environnement très agréable! Merci pour l’accueil!

The cabin in spring. Bench with garden view right in front of it.

Anne

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Meadow Farm & Forest

The cozy cabin is just as described, cozy! It has everything one needs- a fridge, kettle, bed inside, plus a picnic table outside. The community house had plenty of cookware for my (vegan) cooking needs and a full bathroom. The cabin is the first building as you turn at the Hipcamp sign and there are other residences past the farm on the other side of the property, and campsites across the adjacent meadow. The property itself is surrounded by trees, and less than 10 mins driving to downtown Fort Bragg or MacKerricher SP. Even though it’s close to town, it feels very peaceful. During my stay I was pretty much the only one there once folks finished up for the day at the farm. You can hear the train at night but also frogs, crickets, and owls. Sojo and everyone I met there were very nice and helpful! I’d recommend for anyone looking for a relaxing and convenient spot near Fort Bragg.

Anila

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

We had the best time here! so cozy and the heated beds really tied all that together !!

Front deck and kitchenette of mushroom cabin

Daniel

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

Super well kept grounds, with a really quaint cabin that contained just a bed and electricity. Kitchen and shower facilities have everything you’d ever need. 10/10, highly recommend.

Madison

April 2026

1 night at Bayside Cabin

Super awesome stay! Very private! So cute and cozy. One thing that would complete this stay would be a place on the porch for dry firewood year round and/or a dry firewood storage spot by the outdoor fire pit! Thanks again so much! What a beautiful home you guys have. Hope to come back again!

Deborah

April 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

What a stunning glamping experience! We’ve never “glamped” before, and this was a great introduction. Firstly, that bed was 100000000/10 INCREDIBLE!!! More comfortable than our bed at home! It was a complete surprise that the bed was heated, and even better that we could each control the heat on our separate sides of the bed. We visited during very cold, rainy weather, and that heat came in clutch! Second, huge surprise that our door could lock, we felt very safe at night. Third, bathrooms were well kept and versatile. We were provided towels in our campsite, which was super helpful. We didn’t get a chance to cook so the communal kitchen was not used by us. However, we noticed the “common space” was well equipped and had a toaster oven, tea kettle, and coffee machine, there were blankets and games too. Across the way was firewood, as well. Only negative note… READ THE DIRECTIONS FROM THE HOST!!!! Drive very slowly and follow the directions very carefully. We were naive to think it wouldn’t be that hard, and missed it completely. You truly have no service. Do not arrive in the dark, it will terrify you. Plan to arrive in the daylight so if you miss it, you’re not scared… Despite this, would still recommend this place in a heartbeat. The proximity to Mendocino is chef’s kiss. Great listing!

Mandi

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

I was so happy to return to heartwood this time with my sister. We stayed in the cabin this time and it was so cozy during the rainy weekend. We got to shower in the outdoor tree shower that was magical. We already have plans to bring my sisters baby next time :). This place is truly one of a kind.

Solveig

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

The Mushroom Cabin was tiny and lovely! It was just me traveling from far away, and I very much appreciated the front porch kitchen. The property is beautiful and remote, the cabin is private, and the central wash house has all of the amenities (shower, toilet, sink for dishes, and a well-appointed communal kitchen). And the name of this place is no joke - there are banana slugs all over (as a UCSC grad I felt right at home).

Dusty

April 2026

With kids

3 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

Heartwood Mendocino completely blew us away. From the moment we arrived it felt like stepping into a peaceful, thoughtfully designed escape that somehow balances comfort, nature and community all at once. The cabin was incredible. Cozy, nicely set up and the heated sheets were next level, especially after a cool and rainy evening. The outdoor tree shower was an experience, equal parts relaxing and unique. The property is perfectly set up for both adults and kids. Our 6 year old son loved the wide open space to run around and the hiking trails right nearby made it easy to stay active without having to go anywhere. One of the unexpected highlights was hunting for banana slugs which turned into a full on adventure and kept him entertained for hours (nice break for mom and dad). The communal vibe at Heartwood is something special. The shared space feels welcoming without being intrusive and the hosts are genuinely kind, thoughtful people who clearly care about the experience they’re creating. You can feel it in every detail. Evenings around the fire pit making s’mores were a perfect way to wind down and the peace sign meadow is great for relaxing or playing tag. If you’re looking for a place that feels peaceful, connected to nature, family friendly and still elevated and unique, Heartwood Mendocino absolutely delivers. We’ll be back without question!

Bryce

April 2026

With pets

1 night at Bayside Cabin

Ted and Emily’s cabin was the perfect fit for my wife and I, plus our two dogs, on our west coast road trip. The cabin is well tucked away and located away from busy roads for a peaceful setting. The outdoor kitchen and supplies were very convenient and made cooking a breeze. The outdoor shower quickly warmed and the hot water was much appreciated. While we didn’t use it due to arriving a bit late and the temperature not being too low, the fireplace and provided firewood was a nice touch to make for a cozy cabin on a cold night. With all of the windows it was so nice to wake up surrounded by greenery and the morning light. We will definitely be back again next time we pass through the area.

lily

April 2026

With pets

4 nights at Wisdom eco-preserve

Great location! Just as listed- Adam is a great host with wonderful recommendations! Such a beautiful retreat! Great for families with any size! Best place if you would like to unplug and be with nature.

James

April 2026

Group trip

1 night at Root's End

Sunset Cabin is sooooo great we loved it and can't wait to go back!

Northern California camping guide

Where to go

Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada mountain range is where you’ll find granite peaks, ancient sequoia trees, and the world-famous Yosemite National Park. From its towering valley and sprawling backcountry to its curious black bear population, Yosemite constantly engages and excites. Rock climbers take on bouldering and multi-pitch routes, hikers enter the lottery for a chance to scale the cables of Half Dome, and most visitors delight in Yosemite Falls and Mariposa Grove. Further north are Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear blue and teal waters. Boating, swimming, and paddling are popular Tahoe pastimes, and thanks to numerous hiking trails and a big mountain biking scene, visits can be as action-packed or as relaxing as you want. Classic Tahoe campgrounds like the lakeshore D.L. Bliss State Park are perfect for summer visits, while cozy cabins and glamping sites are ideal for winter getaways and ski trips.

The Cascades

The Cascade Range starts in Northern California and stretches all the way north to British Columbia. Characterized by snowy, pyramid-shaped peaks, volcanic activity, dense pine forests, and the numerous waterfalls that gave the range its name, the Cascades are home to two major NorCal destinations: Lassen Peak in Lassen National Park and Mount Shasta, a glaciated fourteener in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Another highlight of this region is Lava Beds National Monument, where spelunkers explore underground lava tubes before settling into a campsite near the California-Oregon border.

Big Sur

Big Sur is best known for its iconic cliff-hugging Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), but the real fun comes when you get out of the car to enjoy the area’s hidden beaches and bluffside wildflower blooms. Beach camping in Big Sur is as wild and rugged as it gets on the California Coast, making it extremely popular year-round. We recommend Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park as a starting point, but if you’re unable to secure a campsite months in advance as is required, look for private Hipcamps in the area.

Bay Area

North of San Francisco is California wine country, where the rolling hills of Napa host a variety of camping and glamping getaways for campers to escape the city. You’ll also find beach parks, redwood groves, and vineyards to visit in Marin, Sonoma, and Mendocino, also ripe with tent and RV camping. South of San Francisco are the Santa Cruz Mountains, famous for old growth redwoods and deep forest campsites.