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

Name: Northern California
Address: Cabins
Rating: 4.761

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.

95% (1.2K) • 54 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Northern California

Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

1. Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

95%

(700)

Somerset, CA · 11 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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Heartwood Mendocino

2. Heartwood Mendocino

99%

(613)

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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Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

3. Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

95%

(194)

Shingletown, CA · 10 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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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

4. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%

(140)

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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Oz Farm

6. Oz Farm

99%

(282)

Point Arena, CA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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

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Mariposa Institute

7. Mariposa Institute

96%

(27)

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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Lazy Bear Cabin

8. Lazy Bear Cabin

95%

(58)

Alta, CA · 1 site

Minutes from highway 80 in quietly beautiful Blue Canyon, come relax in your very own Lazy Bear Cabin. This off the grid cabin features solar power with backup power being provided by generator. Enjoy the crackle of a camp fire,, plenty of parking for a few camper vans, and a large porch for all your fresh air desires. We have equipped our small cabin with a sleeper sofa, 42” tv, wood stove, full kitchen and running water for a full bathroom. Minutes from Yuba Gap, Lake Valley Reservoir, Boreal, Donner Ski Ranch and Sugar Bowl. Enjoy a 30 minutes drive to Truckee for shops and eats. We look forward to hosting your next vacation Cabin is equipped with sofa bed along with a comfortable mattress. ***Please bring your preferred sheets, blankets, and pillows. You’ll also want to bring your own firewood, toilet tissue and paper towels . Feel free to gather wood from the forest bed through out the property while the burn ban is lifted. Places to check out. Euchra bar hiking trail in Alta(experience hiker) Steven trails in Colfax Rollin lake in Colfax. Pennyweight trail in Colfax Lake valley in Emigrant Gap Emerald Pools in Emigrant Gap

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Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids

9. Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids

99%

(36)

Mokelumne Hill, CA · 1 site

Escape to peaceful, kids and dog-friendly Sierra Foothills cabin surrounded by 5 private acres on border of Mountain Ranch and Mokelumne Hill, just a short drive to lakes, rivers, trails, and charming towns Murphys and Jackson. This cozy retreat is perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers looking to unplug, unwind, and reconnect. Spend your days by the fire, playing board games, or relaxing while your dog explores freely. Cell service is available (T-Mobile and AT&T work well), but there is no Wi-Fi, making this a true digital-detox getaway. Winter note: The closest snow play is at Bear Valley, located past Arnold, CA. Inside the rustic cabin, you’ll find: Queen bed plus queen air mattress (bedding provided) Dog bed-all dogs welcome, but please keep off the main bed, we've lost two duvet covers to long white dog hair Electric heater and wood-burning stove Wrap-around dining table kitchenette with stove, microwave, mini-fridge, and seasonal A/C TV with 1,000+ DVDs and an outdoor projector for movies under the stars Books, puzzles, and board games The cabin comfortably sleeps 2 adults and 2 smaller children indoors. Guests may also camp outside for up to 6 guests in total. Additional guests nonnegotiable. Optional Add-Ons: notice required for setup Creekside Glamping Tent (separate private area): full-size air mattress and single cot. Extra $25/night. Cozy Quarters Van (separate private area): queen bed, large deck, and seating area. Extra $45/night. Amenities & Comforts Two outhouses with hand-washing sink Outdoor hot shower (guest favorite) Weber, Traeger, or gas grill and flat top Mr. Coffee maker with filters and sugar Firepit and multiple shaded seating areas Outdoor Features Treehouse platform for coffee or stargazing 80-foot zipline swing Swings, hammocks, and outdoor games Nearby Stop at Sender’s Market in Mountain Ranch for local wine, ribeye steaks, deli sandwiches, groceries, and hardware. Nearby towns offer bars, wineries, cider houses, sports bars, farmers’ markets, and summer events. Favorite day trips New Hogan Lake (great for kids and dogs) and the Mokelumne River near Electra Rd (scenic but fast-moving; use caution). We visit often for maintenance and are happy to share our personal space. Please treat it as your own.

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Tahoe National Forest

10. Tahoe National Forest

92%

(264)

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%

(100)

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

93%

(129)

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%

(68)

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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Redwood Family Camp

14. Redwood Family Camp

90%

(64)

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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Wisdom eco-preserve

15. Wisdom eco-preserve

96%

(305)

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. 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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Canyon Creek Resort

16. Canyon Creek Resort

78%

(83)

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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Meadow Farm & Forest

17. Meadow Farm & Forest

97%

(286)

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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Mill Creek Resort

18. Mill Creek Resort

97%

(1479)

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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Cave Springs Resort

19. Cave Springs Resort

96%

(36)

Dunsmuir, CA · 36 sites

Welcome to Cave Springs, a mid-century modern resort in Dunsmuir, California. Located just off the I-5 freeway, our resort is an ideal basecamp for exploring the dynamic beauty of Northern California: nestled along the Sacramento River in premiere fly fishing territory, minutes away from countless waterfalls and hiking, and a 10 minute drive from stunning Mt. Shasta. Choose your adventure. We’ll take care of the rest. Our resort is designed with comfort and beauty in mind, and it’s this intentional atmosphere that will make your stay one to remember. Whatever brings you our way, we look forward to hosting you and yours.

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Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping

20. Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping

96%

(108)

Healdsburg, CA · 42 sites

Wildhaven Sonoma is the top-rated glamping spot in the Bay Area. Our glamping experience was designed to provide guests with comfort, warmth, and cleanliness, while still maintaining a close connection to Sonoma County’s stunning natural beauty. Guests check in to extra-large, safari-style tents or cozy cabins, both with comfortable beds (with linens and heated mattress pads), electricity and heaters, WiFi, and all the furnishings needed for a memorable night outdoors. Outside, guests have a personal fire pit, a covered porch with patio furniture, and a large picnic table. Those seeking a tent with more comfort and features can book our Riverside tents with 2-person hammocks, festive string lights, and improved nature views, just a few steps from the Russian River. Then there are the amenities, which are not typically found at traditional campgrounds. These include a clean, central bathroom building, hot showers, an outdoor kitchen with dish-washing sinks and gas BBQs, a store with local treats, and summer activities such as yoga classes, wine tastings, and live music. The highlight of the 10-acre property is the private river access for guests. Wildhaven’s section of the Russian River is calm yet clean and perfect for innertubes from May-Oct. Wildhaven is surrounded by vineyards on 3 sides and is in the middle of the famous Alexander Valley wine-growing region. When it's time to venture out, Wildhaven is just 5 miles from the charming small town of Healdsburg, with its picture-perfect town plaza filled with palm and redwood trees and surrounded by 30+ tasting rooms, book and cooking stores, and ice cream shops. We hope you'll consider trying out a unique night of wine country glamping with us on the Russian River. We're dog friendly! There is a limit of 2 dogs per tent. Please be sure to add the dog fee in extras upon check out.

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Cabin 2 has a Dutch door and recycled redwood paneling on one exterior wall.

Sarah

1 week ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

A wonderful and beautiful location and perfect combo of camping but without having to bring a carload of camping stuff! Thank you!

Joe

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to CAMP CAZ

Very quiet and private- easy drive out to Jenner and Goat Rock. Sat down by the creek and relaxed. Nice having internet-wifi access as well.

Kamela

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve

Amazing cabin! Beautiful fireplace, ample amenities for a lovely stay on the woods. Highly recommend

The "front" of the cabin, which faces the pine tree view

Taylor

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Lazy Bear Cabin

Very cute and quaint. Great for relaxation, and it’s very open but also pretty secluded.

Eric

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve

This was a great place, well equipped and a great experience. We hope to come back again.

Nik

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sanctuary Farm

Sweet little cabin that was perfect for our trip to Orr hot springs. Marggie is a dream!

Chance

September 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve

Serenity Cabin was exactly the reset we needed. The cabin is roomy and comfortable, and having no cell reception made it easy to unplug and recharge away from the city. The road in is a little overgrown, though we made it fine in our minivan. If you have a high-clearance vehicle, bring it. It'll make the drive easier and is handy for exploring the surrounding area, since most of the roads out there are unpaved. We stayed during mid-September and the weather was perfect. Would happily stay again!

Crystin

September 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserve

Always love staying here. It’s a perfect balance of creature comforts and a little rustic cabin vibes. The host is very gracious and kind.

Andria

September 2026

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sanctuary Farm

The river cabin was lovely. It was a great spot for an overnight on our trip. The beds were comfortable and the cabin was cozy!

Communal kitchen and bar open till 10 on school nights:)

Jennifer

September 2026

With pets

5 nights at Sierra Sol Camp

Deja has an incredible space! I spent six days here with my dog, and it was lovely in every way. The kitchen is fully equipped, and my lodging was clean and comfy!

Melissa

September 2026

Group trip

Weekend Trip to CAMP CAZ

Had the best time at Camp Caz, as always. My friends and I love this special place so much! 💖

Griffin

September 2026

1 night at Sanctuary Farm

We had such an incredible stay with Marggie. The farm is so lovely and she gave us a full tour. The cabin is great and has so much character, very comfortable beds as well. We’d love to come back and take some of her workshops.

Catalily

September 2026

With pets

4 nights at Sierra Sol Camp

Sierra Sol Camp is such a special spot! A group of us rented a handful of the sleep spaces, including the main house, which was a nice home base/extension from the beautiful common area. We had everything we needed to make food together after sunny days at the river. We loved the fire pit, thoughtful touches to encourage community, while also providing privacy/space. Everyone (dogs included!) agreed that the property felt magical and we were so happy to have had the opportunity to enjoy it for a weekend. Thank you, Deja and crew!

Evan

September 2026

Weekend Trip to Golden Pine Campground, Paxton, Ca

Doug was a fantastic host. The accommodations were better than expected! What a nice tranquil spot with all the amenities you can think of for a camping spot. The bathrooms and showers were really nice. We stayed in site 3 and it was very cozy. Especially loved the grill/bar area it made cooking and cleaning a breeze. I would definitely recommend this spot!

Marie

September 2026

With pets

3 nights at Wisdom eco-preserve

I only have good things to say about Radiance Cabin and the land! The cabin is spacious, lots of light and beautifully built. Nice bedrooms, outdoor shower, large kitchen. We sat around the fire every night and watched stars on the deck. Hiked around the property multiple times and especially loved the lookout at Dragon's Nest. Adam was so kind to give us tips of where to hike and swim close by that were fantastic. We're already talking about staying here again. Highly recommend staying here. Thanks Adam!

Nathan

August 2026

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.

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.

Weijia

August 2026

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

The facilities on-site were all great. The room is not big but cozy to fit three people and a puppy. Good for family trip. And the heated pad in bed is super helpful for cold evenings.

Roban

August 2026

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!

Cabin 6 has two luxurious queen beds with heated bed pads, cozy bedding, stunning woodwork, electricity and even a heater for the cold nights.

moga

August 2026

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

What a lovely stay we had! The accommodations were wonderful...exactly as pictured. Our host Kamoor was very kind, attentive and interested in making our stay the best it could be. Would definitely stay again.

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

Ann

August 2026

3 nights at Meadow Farm & Forest

this is a lovely spot. close to town. quiet at night. moon and owls in the meadow.

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.