The best desert camping in Northern California

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in Northern California's desert terrain. With over 70 options available, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Looking for a serene spot surrounded by juniper trees? Check out Juniper Spur Ranch, which boasts 119 rave reviews. Prefer a more secluded setting? Juniper Valley Campsites, with 93 reviews, might be just what you're looking for. For those seeking panoramic views, Oak Ring Ridge, with 40 reviews, is a top choice. No matter which campsite you choose, you'll enjoy popular amenities like pet-friendly accommodations, proper waste disposal, and the ability to cozy up around a campfire. And with activities like climbing, wind sports, and visiting historic sites nearby, your camping experience will be nothing short of exciting. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the great outdoors in Northern California's desert!

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern California

Olde LYFE Alpacas Milford CA

1. Olde LYFE Alpacas Milford CA

96%
(255)
4 sites · Tents · Milford, CA
WE MOVED!! We are excited to present our new locations.... We sit on 5 beautiful acres overlooking Honey Lake in Milford CA. The property is sprinkled with oak and pine trees which make looking at the lake just wonderful. There are many elevations to choose from to pitch your tent! NOTE: Alot of the pics are of our previous location! I'm sure we will accumulate new photos now that we are open again! Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca, that you make book separately, where you’ll experience them up close. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Juniper Spur Ranch

2. Juniper Spur Ranch

98%
(447)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Weed, CA
Welcome to Juniper Spur Ranch! Directions: GPS Juniper Valley Spur....this is a short culdesac road with a road sign at the entrance off Juniper Valley Drive. There is a green pipe rail gate at the end. This gate has a combination lock. You will receive the current combination code 2 days before your arrival. If you are turning onto a dirt road without a sign....you are on the wrong road. Juniper Valley Spur is my short culdesac road with a road sign and a locked green pipe rail gate at the end. We have 3 RV sites available for campers to book. Please note that we do not have RV hookups for any of the sites. You will be parking on loose gravel and the sites are relatively flat. We can accommodate most RVs/trailers, if you are uncertain about the size just send me a message. There is a portapotty in the hay barn cleaned regularly and a water spigot for non-potable water uses. There is no shower available but you could wash off hands and feet if desired with the hose. Pets are allowed at campsites #2 and #3 only. These campsites are farthest from the horses and dogs. Please keep dogs on leash at all times. Our property offers a beautiful view of Mount Shasta. Nature lovers, extreme sports enthusiasts, family vacationers and retirees, can all enjoy the vast recreational opportunities this area has to offer. Lake Siskiyou is about 20 miles south and offers a wonderful 7-mile hiking trail around the entire lake.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$50
 / night
Juniper Valley Campsites

3. Juniper Valley Campsites

99%
(420)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Carrick, CA
 
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night
The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

4. The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Doyle, CA
This property lies at the base of the Sierra Mountains, approximately 9 miles north of Doyle, CA on the west side of US Route 395. Access to the ranch road is from US Route 395. Its elevation starts at 3800 feet and rises higher than 5,000 feet. The lower half is rolling high chaparral and the upper half is steep with forest land that was burned in the 2021 Dixie Fire. There are still plenty of live trees left. This ranch lies in Deer Hunting Zone X6b. Lassen National Forest is on the west boundary of this ranch, with a gate that allows access to the national forest. The 395 Ranch boasts incredible views for nearly 75 miles. The ground is primarily decomposed granite so mud never becomes a problem. Wind can be strong when weather systems approach. The campsites are very basic with no toilet facilities (at this time) but water is available for cooking and washing dishes. An outdoor enclosed shower is available as well. At this time (summer) the water is naturally warm from the pipe’s exposure to the sun and hot water from a flash heater will be available in the near future. Tents can be erected almost anywhere on the property, but campfires are strictly prohibited until the rainy/cold season. Water and an electric hookup is available next to the barn for RVs and travel trailers at an additional cost. Sewer service is not available. There is also an older but nice three-bedroom, one bath home that is also available for short term rentals. It is heated during the winter by two wood burning stoves and cooled comfortably during the summer with a swamp cooler. The rent for this house is based on the season, ranging from $169-$229 nightly plus extra fees for pets or more than three people. Visitors of the past have found hiking, looking for artifacts and rocks to be fun activities. It’s also been an amazing place for stargazing and using telescopes. Others simply enjoyed relaxing and enjoying the peace, quiet and views. High quality campfire wood is available for $12.00 a bundle.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$22
 / night
Oak Ring Ridge

5. Oak Ring Ridge

100%
(102)
1 site · Lodging · Macdoel, CA
We originally purchased the 20 acres of untouched land and built our cabin, the "Snug Shack," as a getaway from the city. Fast forward a few years, and 40 acres next door with an abandoned house on the canyon ridge went up for sale. We decided to purchase it and start a homestead there. That 40 acres where we now live was badly abused, and we have been in the process of cleaning up and restoring it. Fortunate for you, the land surrounding the Snug Shack was never abused and is still pristine and beautiful. By camping at the Snug Shack, you help support us in our mission to restore this beautiful place.We named our homestead after the rings of small oak trees that grow here on the ridge.: "Oak Ring Ridge." You can learn more about our project in progress at our website and instagram account: @oak_ring_ridge
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$87
 / night
JD Hemphill Ranch Corner

6. JD Hemphill Ranch Corner

100%
(7)
1 site · Tent, RV · Janesville, CA
JD Hemphill Ranch is fourth generation cattle and hay ranch on the edge of the Great Basin. We have great views of both the Sierra and the Skedaddle Mountains. We offer a quiet campsite minutes from Highway 395 on a tranquil county road named after the family. Biking and walking is easy and can be done without fear of traffic. We are close to bike trails and the Bizz Johnson Rails to Trails project is just 17 minutes away in Susanville.
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$20
 / night
EverClear Ranch

7. EverClear Ranch

100%
(8)
3 sites · RVs · Lake City, CA
Quiet Rv lots with a fantastic view of the warner mountains! Located ten minutes north of Cedarville; this easy access lot (right off county road 1) is the perfect hitchin' post for seasonal hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or people who just want a quiet get away from the hustle and bustle of the city! By day play cornhole and explore the thousands of acres of public lands and off road trails; all within a 5 minute drive! Evenings present the perfect time to have a drink by the fire pit while enjoying the clear night sky boasting wonderful views of the stars and the milky way!!Learn more about this land:Quiet Rv lots with a fantastic view of the warner mountains! Located ten minutes north of Cedarville; this easy access lot (right off county road 1) is the perfect hitchin' post for seasonal hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or people who just want a quiet get away from the hustle and bustle of the city! By day play cornhole and explore the thousands of acres of public lands and off road trails; all within a 5 minute drive! Evenings present the perfect time to have a drink by the fire pit while enjoying the clear night sky boasting wonderful views of the stars and the milky way!!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
The Range Rural Raw Desert

8. The Range Rural Raw Desert

1 site · Tent, RV · Doyle, CA
🌵 Welcome to O’Doyle Grade! 🌵 Pitch your tent or park your RV in the raw desert beauty of Doyle—where wide-open skies meet small-town charm. Just 10 minutes from Plumas Forest (home to some of the area’s best-kept bouldering secrets) and only 30 seconds from the friendly Buck Inn Bar, you’ll be perfectly positioned for both adventure and relaxation. Enjoy a quiet rural escape just off the freeway, with endless forest fun and mountain views only moments away. Whether you’re here for climbing, exploring, or simply soaking in the peace of the high desert, O’Doyle Grade is your gateway to it all.
Pets
from 
$19
 / night
Welsh Grizzly Camp

9. Welsh Grizzly Camp

100%
(6)
3 sites · RVs · Portola, CA
Tucked in the pines, you'll easily find our 4 acre camping paradise. We offer RV parking with power and water hookups and access to an outhouse. Our sites offer plenty of shade in the trees, picnic benches, a swing set, large open graveled space with outdoor furniture to sit and relax in, play cornhole or grill. Located less than a mile from Lake Davis, for swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, etc. General Store close by, with dump station. Several hiking trails nearby. 5 minute drive to Grizzly Golf Course, 10 minute drive to Portola for Mountain Pizza, Frosty, and more, just 20 minutes to Graeeagle Shops, Breweries, Fine Dining, horseback riding and other activities. This is the perfect place to camp with your family and friends!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$75
 / night
Wine Country Huttopia

10. Wine Country Huttopia

100%
(1)
2 sites · Lodging · Lower Lake, CA
French below - At Huttopia Wine Country, our unique “terroir” is all about reconnecting with nature—through stylish, ready-to-camp accommodations nestled on a breathtaking 4,300-acre ranch and working winery. It’s a sensory escape like no other, just two hours from downtown San Francisco, under two from Sacramento, and less than an hour from the heart of Napa—yet it feels worlds away from the everyday. Soak in sweeping views of rolling valleys from our welcoming central lodge as you savor freshly prepared meals and treats served from our one-of-a-kind, custom Airstream food truck. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, challenge friends to a game, or simply unwind beneath the californian sky. Our camp store, stocked with local and French wines, gourmet snacks, and essentials with a French twist, has everything you need to plan the perfect day. At Huttopia Wine Country, nature, comfort, and culture come together for an unforgettable escape. -- À Huttopia Wine Country, notre “terroir” unique réside dans l’art de se reconnecter à la nature — grâce à des hébergements tout confort, prêts-à-camper, nichés au cœur d’un magnifique domaine viticole et ranch de 1 700 hectares. Une escapade sensorielle hors du commun, à seulement deux heures de San Francisco, moins de deux heures de Sacramento, et à moins d’une heure du cœur de la Napa Valley — mais à des années-lumière du quotidien. Admirez les vues panoramiques sur les vallées environnantes depuis notre chaleureux lodge central, tout en savourant des plats et douceurs préparés à la minute dans notre food truck Airstream sur mesure. Profitez d’un bain rafraîchissant dans la piscine, lancez une partie entre amis, ou détendez-vous simplement sous le ciel californien. Notre boutique-camping propose vins locaux et français, gourmandises et essentiels revisités à la française — tout ce qu’il vous faut pour bien organiser votre journée. À Huttopia Wine Country, nature, confort et culture s’unissent pour une escapade inoubliable.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$236
 / night
Jackson Rancheria Casino & RV Resort

11. Jackson Rancheria Casino & RV Resort

101 sites · Jackson, CA
Jackson Rancheria RV Park stands out as one of the premier RV destinations in Northern California, offering a unique blend of outdoor leisure and resort-style luxury. With 100 spacious sites featuring level cement pads and beautifully manicured lawns, this park is designed for comfort and relaxation. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including a refreshing pool and spa, a 9-hole putting green, a dog park, and scenic walking trails. Laundry facilities and a welcoming clubhouse add to the convenience, making it an ideal spot for both short and extended stays. For those seeking excitement, the park is just a quick 5-minute shuttle ride away from the vibrant casino, where you can enjoy non-stop entertainment. Whether you prefer to unwind in nature or indulge in nearby attractions, Jackson Rancheria RV Park offers the perfect setting for your next getaway. Experience the tranquility and adventure that awaits you in this beautiful corner of Northern California.

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in Northern California's desert terrain. With over 70 options available, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Looking for a serene spot surrounded by juniper trees? Check out Juniper Spur Ranch, which boasts 119 rave reviews. Prefer a more secluded setting? Juniper Valley Campsites, with 93 reviews, might be just what you're looking for. For those seeking panoramic views, Oak Ring Ridge, with 40 reviews, is a top choice. No matter which campsite you choose, you'll enjoy popular amenities like pet-friendly accommodations, proper waste disposal, and the ability to cozy up around a campfire. And with activities like climbing, wind sports, and visiting historic sites nearby, your camping experience will be nothing short of exciting. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the great outdoors in Northern California's desert!

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern California

Olde LYFE Alpacas Milford CA

1. Olde LYFE Alpacas Milford CA

96%
(255)
4 sites · Tents · Milford, CA
WE MOVED!! We are excited to present our new locations.... We sit on 5 beautiful acres overlooking Honey Lake in Milford CA. The property is sprinkled with oak and pine trees which make looking at the lake just wonderful. There are many elevations to choose from to pitch your tent! NOTE: Alot of the pics are of our previous location! I'm sure we will accumulate new photos now that we are open again! Olde LYFE Alpacas offers visits with the animals, including an organized 60 min Peaceful Walk with an alpaca, that you make book separately, where you’ll experience them up close. There is a small retail store on site with a variety of products made with alpaca fiber, including the most delightful alpaca socks!! The ranch store is self serve mostly. There are price sheets and payment methods listed!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Juniper Spur Ranch

2. Juniper Spur Ranch

98%
(447)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Weed, CA
Welcome to Juniper Spur Ranch! Directions: GPS Juniper Valley Spur....this is a short culdesac road with a road sign at the entrance off Juniper Valley Drive. There is a green pipe rail gate at the end. This gate has a combination lock. You will receive the current combination code 2 days before your arrival. If you are turning onto a dirt road without a sign....you are on the wrong road. Juniper Valley Spur is my short culdesac road with a road sign and a locked green pipe rail gate at the end. We have 3 RV sites available for campers to book. Please note that we do not have RV hookups for any of the sites. You will be parking on loose gravel and the sites are relatively flat. We can accommodate most RVs/trailers, if you are uncertain about the size just send me a message. There is a portapotty in the hay barn cleaned regularly and a water spigot for non-potable water uses. There is no shower available but you could wash off hands and feet if desired with the hose. Pets are allowed at campsites #2 and #3 only. These campsites are farthest from the horses and dogs. Please keep dogs on leash at all times. Our property offers a beautiful view of Mount Shasta. Nature lovers, extreme sports enthusiasts, family vacationers and retirees, can all enjoy the vast recreational opportunities this area has to offer. Lake Siskiyou is about 20 miles south and offers a wonderful 7-mile hiking trail around the entire lake.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$50
 / night
Juniper Valley Campsites

3. Juniper Valley Campsites

99%
(420)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Carrick, CA
 
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
$50
 / night
The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

4. The 395 Ranch, Seclusion & Views!

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Doyle, CA
This property lies at the base of the Sierra Mountains, approximately 9 miles north of Doyle, CA on the west side of US Route 395. Access to the ranch road is from US Route 395. Its elevation starts at 3800 feet and rises higher than 5,000 feet. The lower half is rolling high chaparral and the upper half is steep with forest land that was burned in the 2021 Dixie Fire. There are still plenty of live trees left. This ranch lies in Deer Hunting Zone X6b. Lassen National Forest is on the west boundary of this ranch, with a gate that allows access to the national forest. The 395 Ranch boasts incredible views for nearly 75 miles. The ground is primarily decomposed granite so mud never becomes a problem. Wind can be strong when weather systems approach. The campsites are very basic with no toilet facilities (at this time) but water is available for cooking and washing dishes. An outdoor enclosed shower is available as well. At this time (summer) the water is naturally warm from the pipe’s exposure to the sun and hot water from a flash heater will be available in the near future. Tents can be erected almost anywhere on the property, but campfires are strictly prohibited until the rainy/cold season. Water and an electric hookup is available next to the barn for RVs and travel trailers at an additional cost. Sewer service is not available. There is also an older but nice three-bedroom, one bath home that is also available for short term rentals. It is heated during the winter by two wood burning stoves and cooled comfortably during the summer with a swamp cooler. The rent for this house is based on the season, ranging from $169-$229 nightly plus extra fees for pets or more than three people. Visitors of the past have found hiking, looking for artifacts and rocks to be fun activities. It’s also been an amazing place for stargazing and using telescopes. Others simply enjoyed relaxing and enjoying the peace, quiet and views. High quality campfire wood is available for $12.00 a bundle.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$22
 / night
Oak Ring Ridge

5. Oak Ring Ridge

100%
(102)
1 site · Lodging · Macdoel, CA
We originally purchased the 20 acres of untouched land and built our cabin, the "Snug Shack," as a getaway from the city. Fast forward a few years, and 40 acres next door with an abandoned house on the canyon ridge went up for sale. We decided to purchase it and start a homestead there. That 40 acres where we now live was badly abused, and we have been in the process of cleaning up and restoring it. Fortunate for you, the land surrounding the Snug Shack was never abused and is still pristine and beautiful. By camping at the Snug Shack, you help support us in our mission to restore this beautiful place.We named our homestead after the rings of small oak trees that grow here on the ridge.: "Oak Ring Ridge." You can learn more about our project in progress at our website and instagram account: @oak_ring_ridge
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$87
 / night
JD Hemphill Ranch Corner

6. JD Hemphill Ranch Corner

100%
(7)
1 site · Tent, RV · Janesville, CA
JD Hemphill Ranch is fourth generation cattle and hay ranch on the edge of the Great Basin. We have great views of both the Sierra and the Skedaddle Mountains. We offer a quiet campsite minutes from Highway 395 on a tranquil county road named after the family. Biking and walking is easy and can be done without fear of traffic. We are close to bike trails and the Bizz Johnson Rails to Trails project is just 17 minutes away in Susanville.
Pets
Picnic table
from 
$20
 / night
EverClear Ranch

7. EverClear Ranch

100%
(8)
3 sites · RVs · Lake City, CA
Quiet Rv lots with a fantastic view of the warner mountains! Located ten minutes north of Cedarville; this easy access lot (right off county road 1) is the perfect hitchin' post for seasonal hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or people who just want a quiet get away from the hustle and bustle of the city! By day play cornhole and explore the thousands of acres of public lands and off road trails; all within a 5 minute drive! Evenings present the perfect time to have a drink by the fire pit while enjoying the clear night sky boasting wonderful views of the stars and the milky way!!Learn more about this land:Quiet Rv lots with a fantastic view of the warner mountains! Located ten minutes north of Cedarville; this easy access lot (right off county road 1) is the perfect hitchin' post for seasonal hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or people who just want a quiet get away from the hustle and bustle of the city! By day play cornhole and explore the thousands of acres of public lands and off road trails; all within a 5 minute drive! Evenings present the perfect time to have a drink by the fire pit while enjoying the clear night sky boasting wonderful views of the stars and the milky way!!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
The Range Rural Raw Desert

8. The Range Rural Raw Desert

1 site · Tent, RV · Doyle, CA
🌵 Welcome to O’Doyle Grade! 🌵 Pitch your tent or park your RV in the raw desert beauty of Doyle—where wide-open skies meet small-town charm. Just 10 minutes from Plumas Forest (home to some of the area’s best-kept bouldering secrets) and only 30 seconds from the friendly Buck Inn Bar, you’ll be perfectly positioned for both adventure and relaxation. Enjoy a quiet rural escape just off the freeway, with endless forest fun and mountain views only moments away. Whether you’re here for climbing, exploring, or simply soaking in the peace of the high desert, O’Doyle Grade is your gateway to it all.
Pets
from 
$19
 / night
Welsh Grizzly Camp

9. Welsh Grizzly Camp

100%
(6)
3 sites · RVs · Portola, CA
Tucked in the pines, you'll easily find our 4 acre camping paradise. We offer RV parking with power and water hookups and access to an outhouse. Our sites offer plenty of shade in the trees, picnic benches, a swing set, large open graveled space with outdoor furniture to sit and relax in, play cornhole or grill. Located less than a mile from Lake Davis, for swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, etc. General Store close by, with dump station. Several hiking trails nearby. 5 minute drive to Grizzly Golf Course, 10 minute drive to Portola for Mountain Pizza, Frosty, and more, just 20 minutes to Graeeagle Shops, Breweries, Fine Dining, horseback riding and other activities. This is the perfect place to camp with your family and friends!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$75
 / night
Wine Country Huttopia

10. Wine Country Huttopia

100%
(1)
2 sites · Lodging · Lower Lake, CA
French below - At Huttopia Wine Country, our unique “terroir” is all about reconnecting with nature—through stylish, ready-to-camp accommodations nestled on a breathtaking 4,300-acre ranch and working winery. It’s a sensory escape like no other, just two hours from downtown San Francisco, under two from Sacramento, and less than an hour from the heart of Napa—yet it feels worlds away from the everyday. Soak in sweeping views of rolling valleys from our welcoming central lodge as you savor freshly prepared meals and treats served from our one-of-a-kind, custom Airstream food truck. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, challenge friends to a game, or simply unwind beneath the californian sky. Our camp store, stocked with local and French wines, gourmet snacks, and essentials with a French twist, has everything you need to plan the perfect day. At Huttopia Wine Country, nature, comfort, and culture come together for an unforgettable escape. -- À Huttopia Wine Country, notre “terroir” unique réside dans l’art de se reconnecter à la nature — grâce à des hébergements tout confort, prêts-à-camper, nichés au cœur d’un magnifique domaine viticole et ranch de 1 700 hectares. Une escapade sensorielle hors du commun, à seulement deux heures de San Francisco, moins de deux heures de Sacramento, et à moins d’une heure du cœur de la Napa Valley — mais à des années-lumière du quotidien. Admirez les vues panoramiques sur les vallées environnantes depuis notre chaleureux lodge central, tout en savourant des plats et douceurs préparés à la minute dans notre food truck Airstream sur mesure. Profitez d’un bain rafraîchissant dans la piscine, lancez une partie entre amis, ou détendez-vous simplement sous le ciel californien. Notre boutique-camping propose vins locaux et français, gourmandises et essentiels revisités à la française — tout ce qu’il vous faut pour bien organiser votre journée. À Huttopia Wine Country, nature, confort et culture s’unissent pour une escapade inoubliable.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$236
 / night
Jackson Rancheria Casino & RV Resort

11. Jackson Rancheria Casino & RV Resort

101 sites · Jackson, CA
Jackson Rancheria RV Park stands out as one of the premier RV destinations in Northern California, offering a unique blend of outdoor leisure and resort-style luxury. With 100 spacious sites featuring level cement pads and beautifully manicured lawns, this park is designed for comfort and relaxation. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including a refreshing pool and spa, a 9-hole putting green, a dog park, and scenic walking trails. Laundry facilities and a welcoming clubhouse add to the convenience, making it an ideal spot for both short and extended stays. For those seeking excitement, the park is just a quick 5-minute shuttle ride away from the vibrant casino, where you can enjoy non-stop entertainment. Whether you prefer to unwind in nature or indulge in nearby attractions, Jackson Rancheria RV Park offers the perfect setting for your next getaway. Experience the tranquility and adventure that awaits you in this beautiful corner of Northern California.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field