The best forest glamping in Northern California

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)

Top-rated campgrounds

93%

(255)

1382 sites · Graniteville, California

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

94%

(122)

933 sites · South Lake Tahoe, California

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

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Hendy Woods State Park

98%

(60)

90 sites · Philo, California

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

Pets

Public campgrounds in and near Northern California

100%

(1)

Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins

20 sites · in Lassen Volcanic National Park

100%

(12)

Lakeshore East Campground

18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Stories from the community

Rosa

5 days ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pickle Barrel Cabin and Camp

Very cozy little spot! Felt private and everything was great. Perfect getaway with the pup :)

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Tzuni

2 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at Bayside Cabin

So beautiful, romantic, and equipped! It really has everything you could need while remaining pretty minimalist. The steamy outdoor shower on a cold morning was healing, and the privacy of the toilet was ideal (totally worth it to walk outside the cabin for a moment, and you’re still totally protected from rain and dirt on the couple of steps it takes to reach it.) Can’t wait to come back.

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Ethan

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Comptche Matrix @ Sunny-land

I just got back from a lovely weekend at Sunny’s cabin with my two kids, and it was exactly what we needed. The cabin is tucked into the redwoods, quiet and peaceful, and it really felt like a little forest adventure for the kids. Our favorite part was sitting by the fire at night, talking and relaxing together. Sunny was a wonderful host. She was warm, responsive, and helpful whenever I had a question, but also gave us plenty of privacy. Her two friendly dogs were a huge hit with the kids and made the place feel even more welcoming. I left feeling rested, my kids had a great time, and I would happily come back. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a cozy, nature-filled getaway.

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Fiona

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

We love Ted and Emily’s place! It’s so cozy and wonderfully located. It has everything you need and is the perfect little getaway for a relaxing trip.

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Amelia

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

My husband, our dog and I enjoyed staying here in one of the cabins. The host was helpful and friendly. The cabin was clean and comfortable as well. It is situated on a lovely wooded property. We would definitely visit again!

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Ernesto

2 weeks ago

3 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

Beautiful place. The room was nice. The bed was comfy. The bathrooms were well maintained. The place had an awesome view of the night sky. Defiantly will be planning a future stay there. Mendocino is like 10 minutes away and fort brag is about 20. There’s not even a real need to bring food so long as u wanna go buy food everyday.

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Kira

3 weeks ago

4 nights at Mariposa Institute

A fun, historic and refreshing experience. I would recommend this place just for the people but the area and room are worth the visit

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Jack

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at TerraSol~ "Earth Under the Sun"

What an amazing spot! Chris and Rebecca are delightful and everything was clean and comfortable. The surrounding, Nevada city and south yuba river are also great spots that should be on anyone’s must visit list. Highly recommend staying here!

Lisa

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Coastal Ridge Cabin

Bon's place is a true delight! The cabin is cozy and comfortable and the property is filled with places to explore and be inspired. The kitchen is very well supplied with all the cookware you'll need to craft your culinary treats. This is where to come when you want space to just BE. Give yourself this gift and check out this exceptional property.

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Ross

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Pickle Barrel Cabin and Camp

Really nice and quirky small hut that was comfortable for a couple. Outdoor space was surrounded by trees and was very peaceful. Short drive to Gualala or Point Arena for food. No cooking facilities on site so bring a stove if that's your plan.

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Ray

3 weeks ago

With kids

2 nights at Root's End

Great spot, close to town and really enjoyed the space. Firewood provided was a nice touch.

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Alex

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

Cool place - was exactly as advertised! Wood fireplace kept me warm, fresh well water on tap, and an outdoor shower. Great for one or two people who plan on spending their time adventuring and not hunkering down until they have used all the daylight.

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Rola

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Roughlands

this place is really nice, quiet, and relaxing. Jo is kind and professional. I would go again.

Front deck and kitchenette of mushroom cabin

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Sara

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

This was my second visit, and it was just as enjoyable as the first. My friends and I stayed in the Sunshine and Mushroom cabins and loved how comfortable and well-set-up everything was. Nathan’s daughter helped us get the wood stove going, which made breakfast in the kitchen extra cozy. We’re already talking about coming back next year. Thank you to Nathan and his family for another great stay.

covered porch is a great place to listen to the birds and enjoy the sunlight coming through the trees

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Sara

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

This was my second stay at Baby Banana Slug Farm, and it was just as great as the first. My friends and I stayed in the Sunshine and Mushroom cabins and appreciated how cozy and convenient everything was. Nathan’s daughter kindly helped us get the wood stove going, and we used it to warm the kitchen and make a great breakfast. Next time, we’ll definitely check out his shop. We’re hoping to make this an annual trip. Thank you to Nathan + family for the warm hospitality and another wonderful stay.

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Henry

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Great little spot to stay and a really communicative and helpful host! Other reviews have mentioned that the house felt damp - hate to break it to you but thats just kinda what its like in that part of CA in late fall and over the winter. I thought it was really well looked after and nicely equipped, and comfy enough for 3 to sleep in.

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Lisa

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

This glamping situation rocks! It is unassuming, super quiet, simple, with wood and windows. The bonus is there is running water, a toilet and a shower.

Audrey

November 2025

3 nights at Comptche Matrix @ Sunny-land

Sunny is so sweet and this place is so charming! I had a lovely time staying here while visiting Mendocino, which is about 40 mins away. There were a couple things I was anxious about - windey roads and the steep driveway to get down to Sunny’s land - but all turned out fine and she put me right at ease. The cabin itself is very cute, outdoor kitchen and shower well functioning, and the dogs kept me company when I was by myself at night!

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Abby

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Bayside Cabin

Had a wonderful stay! Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for some glamping in the area.

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Zarah

November 2025

With kids

1 night at Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

We stayed here to celebrate my husband’s birthday with our 9-month-old, and it was such a wonderful experience. We loved that we could upgrade provisions, we used the propane tank for the fire pit and the pour-over coffee setup, which came with freshly roasted beans (amazing!). The whole place has this relaxing, no-nonsense vibe that we really appreciated. We went during the fall, and it was so beautiful seeing the vines changing color. The electric blanket made our night cozy and comfortable even when it got chilly. Aaron was outstanding. His hospitality, knowledge, and genuine passion for his craft really stood out. We enjoyed wine tasting, hanging out in the “vincade,” and my husband watched a bit of Monday Night Football! The wine was fantastic, and we were so impressed we ended up joining the wine club. The yurt was spacious and comfy, the bed was great, and there was plenty of room for our daughter to crawl around. The portapotty was clean, and everything felt thoughtfully maintained. Just an overall relaxing, memorable trip. Can’t wait to come back!

Under $50

One Thing Ranch - Alpacas & Llamas

100%

(11)

4 sites · Lodging · Lewiston, CA

Formerly used as a horse property, we bought this property in 2016 and have renovated the barn and paddocks for llamas and alpacas. We have been collecting RV trailers for the last 10 years with the dream of having this kind of opportunity, and now it is becoming a reality! Now we have 16 animals that make for a fun getaway destination for campers. Stay with us in a "Glamping Trailer" or a "Comfy Sunroom" for the night while enjoying the One Thing Ranch experience with llamas and alpacas. Visit with our animals and take a ranch tour, or just get away from it all while you enjoy the beauty of the local area of Trinity County. Explore the nearby Shasta Trinity National Forest while staying in our ranch, or make us your launching pad for a backpacking trip to the Trinity Alps Wilderness...your first (or last?) "connection with civilization" and a hot shower and comfy bed for the night.

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.

Far Out Yurt

1 site · Lodging · Taylorsville, CA

Located in remote Genesee valley. 15 miles from the small town of Taylorsville, Ca. This is a modern, newly constructed Yurt, off grid. Very private, quiet and comfortable.10 day minimum stay required due to HOA* .No cancellation fees after a 2 week stay.

Rock Farm Ranch

92%

(31)

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

IMPORTANT: I DON'T CHECK TEXTS; USE PHONE CALL: 541-301-3331 Beautiful Scott Valley, a hidden destination loved by stargazers. campers, hikers, bikers, hunters, fishers, nature lovers, rock climbers, and prospectors. Property straddles Hwy. 3 between Etna and Callahan. Hwy. 3 is not busy during the day and evening traffic drops off to almost nothing. Very rural farming/ranching area. No agricultural, ranching or spraying nearby, though. Lots of blue-green Serpentine stone here, hence the name "Rock Farm." We are an organic farm so we take care to use nontoxic agriculture. Fresh spring water provided, primitive camping and some more luxurious sites. We always make improvements. Bathroom available, haul water to flush toilet. Dark nights with no light pollution gives great sky watching. Mountain views in daytime. Very quiet at night,. Near beautiful Kangaroo Lake and Mount Shasta. Peaceful, pristine .Property for sale, all or part. Ask Nina for details. Private wooded area for primitive camping or RV. Improved sites with bathroom tables; chairs, firepit. 35 acres so you can choose the site you like. when you arrive. Mountain Views are amazing. Swimming hole nearby. Right off Hwy 3 between Etna and Callahan, California. Or, camp across the street by the old wooden mill building for company. Small wetland nearby brings lots of birds to sing you awake in the morning. Open, level space great for nighttime stargazing. Property has a gate you can close at night. One hour drive to Mt. Shasta or Ashland, Oregon. Groceries, massage, hardware store, laundry, bakery, showers, restaurants in Etna 8 miles away. Farmer's market in Etna Saturday morning. Not far from PCT trailhead outside of Callahan CA. If you need a ride from there, call and we'll pick you up if possible for $20. Firewood available, $1. a stick. Near Kangaroo lake for fishing, swimming, hiking, boating. Bicycle groups and motorcycle groups going by every summer. We're at 3000 feet, so nights are cool even in summer. Bright stars, Air fresh and clean. Minimal mosquitos due to dry climate. We call it "RockFarm" because there's Serpentine rock here and you're welcome to collect some. Even pan for gold and swim in Scott River nearby.

Ariana Acres

94%

3 sites · Lodging · Ukiah, CA

Reconnect with nature, learn homesteading skills, and unwind by the river—just minutes from Montgomery Woods and the majestic Mendocino Coast. Welcome to Marggie’s Sanctuary Farm, a peaceful working homestead nestled 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. Stay & Relax Private campsites in a serene, rustic setting Wake up to birdsong, goats calling, and fresh country air Easy access to Montgomery Redwoods State Park (10 min), Orr Hot Springs (15 min), and the Mendocino Coast (1 hour) Experience Farm Life Marggie has over 60 years of farming and gardening experience—and she loves to share it! Guests can explore: A lush vegetable garden 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, and more 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.

Cabin Hideaway

93%

(73)

3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Dunsmuir, CA

This little cabin is located in Cedar Pines Rv Resort.

Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

11 sites · Lodging · Hidden Valley Lake, CA

We are back on Hipcamp after a 2 year hiatus with new improvements and amenities! 🌙 A Private 5-Acre Volcanic Mountaintop Farm Sanctuary 1250 feet Above Napa Valley Wine Country and Harbin Hot Springs. Our 5 acre property is a breathtaking 360 degree view atop an ancient volcanic cinder cone overlooking California’s “Secret Wine Country.” Located just 12 miles from Napa Valley and 6 miles from Harbin Hot Springs, this land sits at the crossroads of geology, history, healing, and natural beauty. From the top of the Knoll, you can see: • Mt. St. Helena • The Mayacamas Mountain Range • Harbin Mountain • The Geysers, the most active geothermal field on Earth Every direction opens into wide, cinematic landscapes: sunrise in the east over Angwin, sunset in the west behind volcanic ridges, moonrise drifting over the Harbin side, and clear night skies sparkling with thousands of stars. This is a place where people come to breathe, rest, reconnect, and remember what quiet feels like. 🌋 A VOLCANIC POWERPOINT IN THE PACIFIC RING OF FIRE The Hidden Knoll sits on a dormant volcanic ridge within the Pacific Ring of Fire, which Lake County embodies. The barren and rocky land is composed of red volcanic soil, ancient lava rock, and mineral-rich ash that gives this mountain a unique energy signature. Our shared amenities improved significantly since these reviews were written, and we have hosted hundreds of people on another platform where we are one of the "most loved" properties we invite you to rediscover as these reviews are for basic camping and don't reflect the glamping we have on the property today. Each glamping accommodation is privately spaced about 150 feet from the main farmhouse and with an adjacent open parcel of about 5 inhabited acres in front of your space. The guests share an outdoor kitchen, seasonal pool, bathing area ("Farmhouse Spa") with cowboy tub and outdoor hot shower, outdoor fireplace, and garden with chickens.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

93%

(137)

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Junction City, California

97%

(18)

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

Cassel, California

93%

(255)

Tahoe National Forest

Graniteville, California

94%

(122)

Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit

South Lake Tahoe, California

98%

(60)

Hendy Woods State Park

Philo, California

97%

(83)

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mineral, California

95%

(67)

Plumas National Forest

Little Grass Valley, California

93%

(136)

Eldorado National Forest

Kirkwood, California

100%

(3)

23 sites · Boonville, CA

Welcome to Whispertree, home to the historic 1912 Toll House of Boonville, CA. Nestled in a protected watershed, Bell Valley offers a refuge from the bustle of daily life, providing retreats for groups working on social change and personal growth, as well as businesses deepening their strategies and team dynamics. Also available for weddings and restorative vacations, guests can enjoy the uniquely crafted accommodations and explore the interwoven trails through the oak hills and expansive meadows. Most cell phones have limited service at the ranch and free wireless internet is available at all spaces including the tents.

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Coloma Resort

32 sites · Coloma, CA

Coloma Resort stands out as a premier family camping destination, offering an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Nestled in the heart of California's historic gold country and bordered by the scenic Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park at Sutter's Mill, our pet-friendly, family-owned resort features nearly half a mile of picturesque riverfront camping sites. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including fully furnished riverfront cabins, spacious RV sites, or cozy tent spots shaded by majestic oak trees. Our gated grounds ensure privacy and comfort, making it easy for families to unwind and enjoy their surroundings. Open year-round, Coloma Resort is the perfect venue for family reunions, group camping adventures, corporate retreats, and even weddings. With a wealth of nearby attractions, including swimming holes and outdoor activities, as well as local restaurants and shops, Coloma Resort provides an ideal setting for creating lasting memories with loved ones. Experience the charm and excitement of camping in a truly unique environment!

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The Yubaverse

41 sites · Downieville, CA

Discover the Yubaverse, a one-of-a-kind campground that offers a harmonious blend of outdoor adventures, community engagement, and serene relaxation. Nestled in a stunning natural landscape, this unique destination invites everyone and from avid hikers and bikers to climbers and casual nature lovers and to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With expansive acreage that ensures privacy and tranquility, the Yubaverse is designed for those seeking both adventure and peace. Explore nearby attractions such as pristine swimming holes, scenic trails, and breathtaking vistas that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. After a day of exploration, unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the charm of the surrounding community. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself with thrilling activities or simply want to bask in nature's splendor, the Yubaverse is the ultimate escape for reconnecting with the wilderness and making lasting memories.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest glamping 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.