The best river, stream, or creek cabins in Northern California

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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.

98% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern California

1. Heartwood Mendocino

99%
(502)
12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mendocino, CA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$76
 / night

2. Cosumnes River Ranch

99%
(1896)
27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Plymouth, CA
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)*
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night

3. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%
(353)
13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Big Bend, CA
Our 120 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

8. CAMP CAZ

100%
(232)
1 site · Lodging · Cazadero, CA
Discover a hidden gem in Cazadero- a cabin on a private 18-acre creekside property just 2 hours from the Bay Area. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this 60s era cabin surrounded by a 400-year old redwood forest. Unwind in an outdoor clawfoot tub or gather around the fire pit for S’mores. With central heating, a grill, and a wood-burning fireplace, this cozy forest glamping retreat is your ideal destination for a family vacation or group getaway. The cabin sleeps up to four guests with a private bedroom that has two trundle beds, and a king-sized sleeper couch in the open living room. Enjoy waking up to birdsong and misty forest views before preparing breakfast in the fully-equipped kitchen. Spin some vinyl on the turntable, seamlessly connected via Bluetooth. Relax on the wraparound deck for afternoon naps or nights under the stars. Camp Caz is kid-friendly, with innertubes for supervised creek fun and endless hours of exploring. For those seeking adventure beyond our haven, the Russian River in Monte Rio is a scenic 20-minute drive away. Parking is a breeze with the driveway accommodating 5-7 cars comfortably for day guests (please consult with the host). The Cazadero General Store is a quick five minutes away, ensuring extra beers or veggies for the grill are never in short supply.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$195
 / night

9. Lazy Bear Cabin

94%
(39)
1 site · Lodging · Alta, CA
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$139
 / night

14. Oz Farm

99%
(283)
77 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Point Arena, CA
Originally purchased in the late 60's by "Redwood and Savatri", Oz Farm was initially a commune of sorts and is no doubt a very special place...heck, its even got it's own comic book! Here you can pick your poison, as the property is comprised of 7 rustic cabins, redwood campsites, and geodesic domes that would make Buckminster Fuller proud. The working farm is comprised of over 230 accessible acres of flowing meadows, redwood groves, prime agriculture, and is intersected by the beautiful Garcia River, which flows into the mighty pacific. One thing that is very apparent, is how clearly passionate the community at Oz Farm is about ecology and agriculture. Once you step foot onto Oz Farm, you'll begin to understand why. The property is open seasonally and frequently rented by full-camp retreats and events throughout the summer. Individual cabins open to rent one month in advance and are advertised through instagram @villageozfarm
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night

18. Pine Grove Cobb Resort

94%
(370)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cobb, CA
The historic Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers a unique lodging and event location in the beautiful Northern California Mountains, 30 minutes from California’s wine country. Ideal for family reunions, group retreats and relaxing private getaways, we offer sleeping accommodations for up to 30 people and room for many more to camp, gather and celebrate. Commune with nature at Pine Grove Cobb Resort, nestled in 30 acres of the Northern California Mayacamas Mountain Range. Take a walk through the property, cool off in the year-round Cobb Creek or take a dip in the Mountain Spring water, non-chlorinated pool. Get ready to enjoy wood fired pizza and other delectable treats from our Cob Pizza Oven which is the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy evening with family and friends. The property also offers a large chlorinated swimming pool with diving board, water slide and kiddy pools. In summer season a poolside grill serves up yummy food. We have cabins, glamping and group tent camping available - as well as our Sanctuary Treehouse, a Hipcamp favorite.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

19. Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping

97%
(101)
122 sites · Lodging · Healdsburg, CA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night

20. Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids

98%
(26)
3 sites · Lodging · Mokelumne Hill, CA
Do you love nature and need a peaceful getaway? Love hanging out with family and friends, watching the kids run around and being free? Or how about letting your fur babies sniff their hearts out in a private but still close-to-everything setting? Group camping or Solo glamping Retreat property … Located in Calaveras County, just outside Mokelumne Hill and Mountain Ranch, gold country, our Cozy Cabin offers 5.5 acres of outdoor escape. Enjoy your drink of choice next to a warm campfire or inside next to the wood-burning stove. Private cabin: Inside there is one comfy queen bed, a full kitchen, wrap wrap-around table, bench seat, TV cabinet and wood burning stove. There is also a blowup mattress for small kids, or one adult inside. Others can tent camp outside. Maximum of 6 people per booking per insurance requirements. Unplug from the screen and enjoy family time over a board game or a hand in cards. Cell towers provide internet access, but there is No WIFI (on purpose). The property has multiple sitting areas to just hang out and listen to nature. There is a treehouse platform to sit and hang out or pitch a tent on. There is also an 80 ft zip line and multiple hammocks depending on the season to enjoy. Close by River Day use at Vox Beach on Electra Rd. or in Clements on N Mcintire Rd. Both provide bathrooms, parking, picnic options, and access to the Mokelumne River for lounging, kayaking, rafting, and water play. GoCalaveras . com will give you more info on local events, hiking trails, outdoor recreation, wineries, shopping, festivals, events, and attractions to do while visiting. Add-on options: $15 per night: extra supplies chair, tent and air mattress $25 per night Summer Only Creekside tent with full-size air mattress and single-person cot, with bedding. $48 per night for Van sleeping quarters, queen-size bed, large deck with sitting area. Needs advance notice for setup Bring your own firewood or gather up fallen sticks.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$84
 / night

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.

98% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern California

1. Heartwood Mendocino

99%
(502)
12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mendocino, CA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$76
 / night

2. Cosumnes River Ranch

99%
(1896)
27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Plymouth, CA
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)*
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$90
 / night

3. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%
(353)
13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Big Bend, CA
Our 120 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

8. CAMP CAZ

100%
(232)
1 site · Lodging · Cazadero, CA
Discover a hidden gem in Cazadero- a cabin on a private 18-acre creekside property just 2 hours from the Bay Area. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this 60s era cabin surrounded by a 400-year old redwood forest. Unwind in an outdoor clawfoot tub or gather around the fire pit for S’mores. With central heating, a grill, and a wood-burning fireplace, this cozy forest glamping retreat is your ideal destination for a family vacation or group getaway. The cabin sleeps up to four guests with a private bedroom that has two trundle beds, and a king-sized sleeper couch in the open living room. Enjoy waking up to birdsong and misty forest views before preparing breakfast in the fully-equipped kitchen. Spin some vinyl on the turntable, seamlessly connected via Bluetooth. Relax on the wraparound deck for afternoon naps or nights under the stars. Camp Caz is kid-friendly, with innertubes for supervised creek fun and endless hours of exploring. For those seeking adventure beyond our haven, the Russian River in Monte Rio is a scenic 20-minute drive away. Parking is a breeze with the driveway accommodating 5-7 cars comfortably for day guests (please consult with the host). The Cazadero General Store is a quick five minutes away, ensuring extra beers or veggies for the grill are never in short supply.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$195
 / night

9. Lazy Bear Cabin

94%
(39)
1 site · Lodging · Alta, CA
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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$139
 / night

14. Oz Farm

99%
(283)
77 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Point Arena, CA
Originally purchased in the late 60's by "Redwood and Savatri", Oz Farm was initially a commune of sorts and is no doubt a very special place...heck, its even got it's own comic book! Here you can pick your poison, as the property is comprised of 7 rustic cabins, redwood campsites, and geodesic domes that would make Buckminster Fuller proud. The working farm is comprised of over 230 accessible acres of flowing meadows, redwood groves, prime agriculture, and is intersected by the beautiful Garcia River, which flows into the mighty pacific. One thing that is very apparent, is how clearly passionate the community at Oz Farm is about ecology and agriculture. Once you step foot onto Oz Farm, you'll begin to understand why. The property is open seasonally and frequently rented by full-camp retreats and events throughout the summer. Individual cabins open to rent one month in advance and are advertised through instagram @villageozfarm
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$65
 / night

18. Pine Grove Cobb Resort

94%
(370)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cobb, CA
The historic Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers a unique lodging and event location in the beautiful Northern California Mountains, 30 minutes from California’s wine country. Ideal for family reunions, group retreats and relaxing private getaways, we offer sleeping accommodations for up to 30 people and room for many more to camp, gather and celebrate. Commune with nature at Pine Grove Cobb Resort, nestled in 30 acres of the Northern California Mayacamas Mountain Range. Take a walk through the property, cool off in the year-round Cobb Creek or take a dip in the Mountain Spring water, non-chlorinated pool. Get ready to enjoy wood fired pizza and other delectable treats from our Cob Pizza Oven which is the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy evening with family and friends. The property also offers a large chlorinated swimming pool with diving board, water slide and kiddy pools. In summer season a poolside grill serves up yummy food. We have cabins, glamping and group tent camping available - as well as our Sanctuary Treehouse, a Hipcamp favorite.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

19. Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping

97%
(101)
122 sites · Lodging · Healdsburg, CA
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$99
 / night

20. Unplug for nature, dogs, and kids

98%
(26)
3 sites · Lodging · Mokelumne Hill, CA
Do you love nature and need a peaceful getaway? Love hanging out with family and friends, watching the kids run around and being free? Or how about letting your fur babies sniff their hearts out in a private but still close-to-everything setting? Group camping or Solo glamping Retreat property … Located in Calaveras County, just outside Mokelumne Hill and Mountain Ranch, gold country, our Cozy Cabin offers 5.5 acres of outdoor escape. Enjoy your drink of choice next to a warm campfire or inside next to the wood-burning stove. Private cabin: Inside there is one comfy queen bed, a full kitchen, wrap wrap-around table, bench seat, TV cabinet and wood burning stove. There is also a blowup mattress for small kids, or one adult inside. Others can tent camp outside. Maximum of 6 people per booking per insurance requirements. Unplug from the screen and enjoy family time over a board game or a hand in cards. Cell towers provide internet access, but there is No WIFI (on purpose). The property has multiple sitting areas to just hang out and listen to nature. There is a treehouse platform to sit and hang out or pitch a tent on. There is also an 80 ft zip line and multiple hammocks depending on the season to enjoy. Close by River Day use at Vox Beach on Electra Rd. or in Clements on N Mcintire Rd. Both provide bathrooms, parking, picnic options, and access to the Mokelumne River for lounging, kayaking, rafting, and water play. GoCalaveras . com will give you more info on local events, hiking trails, outdoor recreation, wineries, shopping, festivals, events, and attractions to do while visiting. Add-on options: $15 per night: extra supplies chair, tent and air mattress $25 per night Summer Only Creekside tent with full-size air mattress and single-person cot, with bedding. $48 per night for Van sleeping quarters, queen-size bed, large deck with sitting area. Needs advance notice for setup Bring your own firewood or gather up fallen sticks.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$84
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Northern California

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek cabins in Northern California 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.

Top cities in and near Northern California