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The best river, stream, or creek cabin rentals in Northern California

Name: Northern California
Address: Cabins
Rating: 4.9275

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.

99% (1.2K) • 54 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Northern California

Cosumnes River Ranch

1. Cosumnes River Ranch

99%

(2064)

Plymouth, CA · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California. As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed. Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit! Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore. *Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*

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Canyon Creek Resort

2. Canyon Creek Resort

77%

(73)

Winters, CA · 118 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Discover Canyon Creek Resort, a scenic riverside escape nestled on Putah Creek just below Lake Berryessa in Winters, CA. Located 40 miles west of Sacramento and 30 miles east of Napa Valley, this all‑ages resort offers a welcoming blend of outdoor recreation and comfort. From full‑hookup RV pads to cozy cabins, yurts, and tent sites, there’s something for every camping style—and yes, furry friends are welcome! On-site amenities include: Two swimming pools (one family + one adults), spa & entertainment deck Two clubhouses, bocce, horseshoes & children’s playground Market & Grill On-Site, camp store, laundry, restrooms & showers Nature trails along Putah Creek, on-site fishing & nearby boating 24/7 security, gated access, dog-friendly grounds Nearby attractions: Lake Berryessa for water sports & boating Napa Valley & Winters wine trails & downtown tastings Hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic riverbanks House Highlights: Check‑in: 3 PM | Check‑out: 11 AM Quiet hours after 10 PM Pets OK (leashed)

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Mill Creek Resort

3. Mill Creek Resort

97%

(2396)

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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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

4. 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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McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

5. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

97%

(18)

State park in California · 186 sites

Hike to magnificent waterfalls or spend the night in a cabin in this Redding-area park.

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Redwood Family Camp

6. Redwood Family Camp

90%

(60)

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 on 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. We have a small store, laundry room, playground and hot showers.

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Mariposa Institute

7. Mariposa Institute

100%

(20)

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

The land spans 115 acres of mixed oak woodlands with a seasonal creek running through it. Formerly an alternative school, the property features several unique buildings, including two indoor sleeping spaces (with a combination of single and bunk beds), a fully functional kitchen, and two full bathrooms. Guests can stay indoors or camp and will enjoy hiking to the upper meadow, dipping in the creek, and soaking in the peace and quiet.

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Camp Stoney Meadows

8. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%

(412)

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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Sanctuary Farm

9. Sanctuary Farm

97%

(15)

Ukiah, CA · 3 sites

Reconnect with nature, learn homesteading skills, and unwind by the river—just minutes from Montgomery Woods and an hour from the majestic Mendocino Coast. Welcome to Marggie’s Sanctuary Farm, a peaceful off-grid homestead nestled in the Redwood Forest along the upper fork of Big River in Northern California. Surrounded by swimming holes, hiking trails, and wild beauty, this special land is an invitation to slow down, get your hands in the soil, and learn the timeless rhythms of nature. We are an off-grid homestead about 15~20 minutes out of service range. No cell phone reception makes space for deep relaxation and presence amongst the sights and sounds of the forest. Wake up to birdsongs, goats calling, and fresh country air. Our farm is very dark at night, which means the stargazing is otherworldy. With that said, please come prepared with headlamps or flashlights to safely find your way around after dark. No candles or open flames are permitted on the property. Here at Sanctuary Farm you will find an array of campsites from private cozy cabins, to tent spots nestled among the trees. Fun activities nearby include: -Montgomery Redwoods State Park -Orr Hot Springs (Be sure to book a day pass in advance!) -Mendocino Coast (1 hour away) Marggie has over 60 years of farming and gardening experience—and she loves to share it! Guests can seasonally explore: -Lush gardens and fruit orchards -Friendly goats, chickens, ducks, dogs, and cats (plus the occasional wild visitor!) -Hands-on opportunities to milk goats, make cheese, gather eggs (Spring-Fall) Learn & Create Want to take home more than memories? Marggie offers *seasonal*, hands-on learning in: Organic gardening: composting, planting, seed saving, mulching Preserving the harvest: canning, drying, fermenting, freezing Wild food foraging: mushrooms, sea salt, seaweed, bay nuts Artisanal skills: basket weaving, wool felting, loom weaving, bread baking, salve making, fire cider, and kimchi ~ Whether you’re here to camp under the stars, dip in the river, or dive deep into homesteading life, you’ll leave grounded, inspired, and full of good food and stories. 📅 Now booking year-round! Ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, or anyone craving a nature-rich, hands-on getaway.

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Tahoe National Forest

10. Tahoe National Forest

93%

(260)

National forest in California · 1382 sites

Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.

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Lassen Volcanic National Park

11. Lassen Volcanic National Park

97%

(96)

National park in California · 336 sites

Find solitude and adventure in a surreal landscape of lakes, forests, and volcanic terrain.

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Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

12. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

94%

(128)

National forest in California · 933 sites

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

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Plumas National Forest

13. Plumas National Forest

95%

(67)

National forest in California · 821 sites

Hike, cross-country ski, or even drive into the deep wilderness of this Sierra Nevada forest.

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Heartwood Mendocino

14. Heartwood Mendocino

99%

(603)

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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Meadow Farm & Forest

15. Meadow Farm & Forest

97%

(287)

Fort Bragg, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Meadow Farm and Forest is a quiet 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 and 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 (gentle with children) 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 bag dog 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 with a solar pump and is cold and delicious. New are ozone and UV treatment in our storage tanks. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Please be sure to fully turn off the valve, timer and hose lever or we could lose hundreds of gallons in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shuts levers 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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Gomde Buddhist Meditation Center

16. Gomde Buddhist Meditation Center

99%

(35)

Leggett, CA · 13 sites · RVs, Lodging

Gomde Buddhist Retreat Center wifi available showers available filtered water available no campfires no pets allowed toilet available Quiet hours from 9pm - 7am Gomde California is a 260 acre Tibetan Buddhist meditation retreat center in Leggett, CA. We are located near the junction of Highway 1 and 101 in Mendocino County. Our guests enjoy a peaceful stay in a redwood forest and along the Eel River, with the convenience of being just seconds off Highway 101. We are 1 mile from the famous Drive-Through Tree, 5 minutes to the Peg House (Never Don’t Stop!) and 1 hour to the Mendocino Coast. The property contains a developed campground with a modern bathhouse, Eel River beaches and swimming holes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. The property is mostly used for small private meditation retreats and is only open for general camping on a small scale. We offer self-contained RV and trailer camping, tiny homes, and cottages for your stay.

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Private River Oasis

17. Private River Oasis

95%

(92)

Lake Of The Pines, CA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

If you're looking for a quiet and peaceful retreat, "Private River Oasis" is the perfect place for you. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo trip, this property offers everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. With its stunning natural surroundings and modern convenient amenities "Private River Oasis" promises to be your perfect camping experience! So why wait? Book your stay today and start planning your dream vacation! The Space: A 13 ft Bell tent is setup for you with one queen bed and one single bed inside (beds are made with sheets and comforters). The tent sits approximately 75 ft above the river with breathtaking views of the river and canyon. If you are coming with a group, there is over an acre of flat land which is perfect for any type of tent setup. At the tent site you’ll have access to a table and chairs, lounge chairs, picnic table, gas BBQ, basketball hoop and balls, rock campfire, kayaks, and a porta potty. A short 3-minute walk away from the tent you’ll find the shore of the Bear River. Guest access: The tent site is only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles. If you do not have a 4-wheel drive vehicle there is parking for up to four vehicles at the house. The tent site is less than a quarter mile walk downhill from the house. River access: If you’d like to visit the river to hang out, swim, or fish you can follow the dirt road next to the tent down to the river (3-minute walk). The riverfront has lounge chairs, a picnic table, and kayak's. The riverbank has small pebbles and rocks so water shoes are highly suggested for comfort when going into the water (recommended but not needed). Come and enjoy the views of the river, forest, and wildlife! This is a private tent site with one other listing on the property which is located at the house. You may rarely see other guests during your stay. Check out is at 12pm. If you or anyone in your party stays past 12:30pm you will be charged for an extra night for your full party. For guests that come for the day but do not stay the night there is a $25 fee per guest(s). If your vehicle gets stuck on the property and you need a tow we may be able to accommodate for a $350 tow fee per vehicle.

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Golden Pine Campground, Paxton, Ca

18. Golden Pine Campground, Paxton, Ca

100%

(21)

Paxton, CA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Campground has 3 all weather enclosed coverings, plus two raised wood platforms for tents, 12x12. Kitchen area with bar stools countertop, barbeque, and griddle. Two bathrooms, two cold water showers, picnic tables outside of each camping area overlooking the Feather River.

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Wisdom eco-preserve

19. Wisdom eco-preserve

96%

(299)

Nevada City, CA · 28 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. There is also wilderness Campground with 20 sites a short distance from the Geronimo Lodge. Where's our nearest neighbors being approximately three quarters of a mile away your privacy is secure. 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! Planning a larger gathering, family reunion, or workshop? The Geronimo Lodge can be booked in tandem with our neighboring All 5 Cabins of the The Wisdom Eco-Preserve and the Maidu Park Campground to seamlessly accommodate massive groups of 30, 40, or 50+ people across the preserve. Simply check availability and submit a separate request for each space to lock in the entire property for your dates!

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Sierra Sol Camp

20. Sierra Sol Camp

96%

(506)

Camptonville, CA · 11 sites

Welcome to Sierra Sol Camp! We have 9 different sites available to book as well as the option to book the entire property. Please scroll down to see all of the available options. The sauna has just been remodeled with a shower and bathtub right outside the sauna house. Here are the sites we offer: -Sierra Sol Diva Den (cabin) -Water Tower (cabin) -Daisy Belle (canvas tent) -Rise and Shine (canvas tent) -Sierra Sol Camp Lotus (cabin) -Sierra Sol Vintage Trailer (onsite trailer) -Sierra Shipping Container Retreat (cabin) -Sierra Sol Main Cabin (cabin) -Sierra Sol Camp Whole Property (all sites) The Sierra Sol Camp project has been hosting community events and friend gathering for years. We take great pride in extending a warm and welcoming space for all our visitors and extending the invitation to campers was a great next step. We have listings ranging from yurts to shipping containers, an old water tower converted to a vintage trailer and canvas tents. We are based in between the middle fork of the Yuba river right where it meets up with Oregon Creek. If you like a long walk it is 2.5 miles down the dirt road to Oregon Creek and the middle fork of the Yuba. Driving takes 5 to 10 mins. The other direction is the largest lake in our county Bullards Bar Reservoir and Emerald Cove Marina. We are 1 mile down Marysville Rd. from a launch called dark day. There is a trailhead at the top of overflow boat parking for a public swimming hole on the lake. On our property, we have a main house with its own private facilities such as a kitchen, shower, and bath. On the land, we have 9 total unique cabin and canvas tent structures converted into boutique-like campsites. We have an epic outdoor entertaining kitchen and patio with an outdoor pizza oven and a little dog rinse behind the outdoor shower. The bathhouse is right across the way and provides a private but shared guest shower house, tub and sink. Like anywhere in the woods there is an hour at sunset when you may have mosquitoes down near the sites in the spring and some of the summers depending on the year. We have a natural spray for that or fans in the kitchen. Off the path, you may find poison oak in the thick of the woods. So please stay on the marked trails.

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Nathan

5 days ago

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve

Beautiful remote cabins out in the woods as advertised. The lodging is well stocked with kitchen supplies and the beds were comfortable. We enjoyed our stay.

Roban

5 days ago

3 nights at Wisdom eco-preserve

What a special and amazing find nestled in the Sierra Foothills, just north of the Yuba River and the wonderful Nevada City. The cabins are (enchantingly, rustically) fabulous... Adam (and company) are an utter delight... the trails are beautiful (and plentiful)... the views are majestic... and the peace, privacy, and serenity uplift the body, mind, soul, and spirit. Highly (highly) recommended!

Ingrid

1 week ago

4 nights at Sanctuary Farm

We had a great time at Marggies place. She is a lovely host with a lit of knowledge about gardening.

2 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Sanctuary Farm

We had such a magical stay at Sanctuary Farm. Marggie is the best host! She taught our son so much about the garden, the animals, and homesteading, and he absolutely adores her. The room was just perfect, cozy, thoughtful, exactly what we hoped for. This is the kind of place that stays with you, and we left already planning our return! I would recommend at least a night, but if you can, stay longer. We highly recommend you do the add ons! We did the goat cheese and it was so much fun and tasted amazing!!

Yalith

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sanctuary Farm

It was beautiful and peaceful. The River cabin was very comfortable. We had a wonderful time.

Clare

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sanctuary Farm

The land is beautiful and the cabins are comfy. Rustic, off grid, amazing to unwind and disconnect.

Steffani

2 weeks ago

3 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

Beautifully done, high quality tent accommodations! Lovely common areas and incredible setting among a redwood grove! We hope to be back

Davis

3 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Heartwood Mendocino

Heartwood was amazing!! We are not seasoned campers so we needed a place with lots of comforts compared to many of the camping options we looked at. This was perfect! Our entire family loved it and even agreed it was better than a hotel or any airbnb we could book. Truly a great place to stay and enjoy the great outdoors wish we’d had more than the one night.

Maggie

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Camp Stoney Meadows

This is the best camp I have ever been to! The owner was really nice to stop by and make sure we knew where everything was. Highly recommend. We will be sure to come again. Thank you for creating such a wonderful space.

Virginia

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Stoney Meadows

This is our second time staying and it's great! Love the communal kitchen, great access to creek, and friendly atmosphere. He lets us lick from the garden and last year set up the whole pizza oven for us even bringing dough! It was too hot this year but still a perfect get away from technology!

Victoria

August 2026

With kids

3 nights at Cosumnes River Ranch

Paradise. A perfect spot for seclusion and resetting ✨

Robert

August 2026

2 nights at Camp Stoney Meadows

Staying here was a great experience! The facilities were clean and the creek was fun to swim in. The cabin had much needed air cooling and a mini fridge as well. The kitchen was well furnished. I would definitely recommend staying here!

Heather

August 2026

Weekend Trip to Golden Pine Campground, Paxton, Ca

This place a is new gem in the area. Nice facilities- showers, kitchen area, and great river access. Cool view of a small waterfall on the river from the room #1. Caught 3 Pike minnow in the river and paddle boarded it and saw dozens of Good sized fish in the private beach area. Got up to 97 degrees so it was hot, luckily we set up a shade tent right on the water and enjoyed it. Was glad it cooled off to the 50s at night. Would absolutely recommend this place!

Michelle

August 2026

Weekend Trip to Camp Stoney Meadows

Outdoor kitchen so good Swimmable creek epic Sweet slice of heaven

Nathaniel

July 2026

With kids

1 night at Sanctuary Farm

Our family had an amazing time at Sanctuary Farm! The space was very comfortable with lots of interesting things to see and do. Our kids loved petting the farm dogs and learning to milk a goat, and we loved getting to relax and read some of awesome books in the cabin.

Ramada in the Trees. Screen porch with 28' trailer inside. Communal kitchen, bath, picnic area in the back.

Makenna

July 2026

Weekend Trip to Camp Stoney Meadows

Scott was so kind and helpful during our stay! What a little slice of heaven Scott and Nora have. We enjoyed hearing the creek throughout our stay and had the swimming hole all to ourselves. Be prepared for a (somewhat) treacherous drive in, but once you are at the campgrounds it’s nothing but relaxation!

Natural stairs up to the Pumpkin Cottage

Danial

July 2026

With kids

Weekend Trip to Redwoods Bend Retreat

Lovely place; the cabin, the meadow, the river beach, all the wild blackberries, the orchards, the deer grazing before sunset. We got there late at night and left two days later with beautiful memories. I should also thank the generous host for apples and peaches, and for his guidance

Rachel

July 2026

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

We loved Heartwood and would stay there again in a heartbeat. The cabins are comfortable and perfect for when you don't want to bother with a tent. The entire place was thoughtfully created making our stay easy. The outdoor seating, kitchen, and shower were clean and adorned with special touches of art. The on-site bathrooms and showers were always clean and available. Meeting the owners and their pup Lola was an added bonus.

Alexander

July 2026

4 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

I loved Heartwood Mendocino! My dad and I had a blast. It was super relaxing, the tents were cozy, and we ended up meeting a lot of friends each night at the campfire. I’ll be back for sure and it’s really inspiring what they built. PS there’s mosquitos. So just be prepared. ☺️

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

Susan

July 2026

Weekend Trip to Meadow Farm & Forest

Cute and tranquil getaway! We stayed at the Cozy Cabin and it matched our expectations from the reviews and descriptions - small (but not tight), clean and tidy, and quiet. Easy access to the flush toilet and shower in the community house (less than a minute walk away). Facilities were clean. No biting bugs. If you do need absolute darkness to sleep, be sure to bring a sleep mask - the curtains are sheer. Really neat to learn about Meadow farm from the bits of info throughout the property. Sojourna stopped by to say hi — she was very responsive over message (esp because we were rolling in late and was concerned about finding the cabin in the dark) and lovely to meet in person.

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.