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.

98% (1.1K)

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.

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Toilets

Campfires

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.

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Toilets

Campfires

12. Hendy Woods State Park

98%

(60)

90 sites · Philo, California

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

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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

Cabin 5 is the largest of our cabins with a queen and bunked twins. It’s also taller than the others.

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Ujjwal

6 days ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

Definitely one of the best places I have stayed in a while!

K

Kristi

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

The farmhouse cabin was super cute and comfortable! The property is beautiful and peaceful. It was perfect for our little weekend getaway. Thanks Erin!

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Ryan

2 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at Sustainable Ecovillage

Absolutely loved our stay! The views, surrounded by nature, the wood burning sauna, there is so much to love! I will definitely be back.

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Johnathon

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Really loved staying here, the tiny cabin was clean and had all the amenities needed for a comfortable winter stay. The outhouse was clean and the firewood was provided. Location is relatively close to downtown which was also nice

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Steve

2 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

A true gem in the forest of Mendocino. The attention to details and hospitality was amazing. The communal spaces are well thought out and create an almost hostel like experience. Being pet friendly was a huge plus. We can't wait to visit again!

Anna

2 weeks ago

3 nights at Baby Banana Slug Farm

Nathan was an incredible host and everything was better than we had imagined. This is a beautiful place and we had a great visit. Looking forward to coming back again!

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Hillary

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Baby Banana Slug Farm

I really enjoyed my time at Baby Banana Slug Farm! I stayed in the sunshine cabin and it was lovely, very cozy. I traveled on my own and I felt safe and comfortable the whole time.

Rick

3 weeks ago

4 nights at Baby Banana Slug Farm

The Redwood Retreat cabin was again an amazing stay for my friends and I. It was nice and cozy and the beds were nice and comfy. We were able to cook all different kinds of stuff and had a great time exploring more of the area.

from the driveway looking down on the cabin

Kara

3 weeks ago

1 night at South Facing Ridge With Views

The rustic cabin in the woods outside Mendocino was exactly the kind of peaceful getaway I was hoping for. The cabin itself is simple, cozy, and full of character—wood walls, a sturdy little wood burning stove that kept the space warm at night, and big windows with beautiful tree views in every direction. I also appreciated the fresh spring water on site—I was able to fill my camper easily, which was a huge plus. There are scenic views all around the property, and some fun, quirky touches too. Vintage buses, old motorcycles hanging in the trees, and other funky art pieces make wandering the land feel like a little adventure of its own. It’s a place with personality, and you can tell the host has put a lot of heart into it. Speaking of the host—super kind, welcoming, and genuinely happy to share his land. He gave great recommendations and made me feel right at home without being intrusive. If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-grid-feeling stay with charm, creativity, and forest magic, this spot is perfect. I’d absolutely stay here again.

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Taylor

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Comptche Matrix @ Sunny-land

Sunny’s disposition, dogs, and property were the perfect refreshing getaway. You can’t get what you’re getting here from anywhere else, i will be back soon! There were a lot of things, also, that I didn’t realize she provided, like blankets and cooking utensils, even wood, for the stove inside the cabin. It’s still for the best to bring your own stuff in case you like to have specific stuff, and just to lessen the load on the host because she offers the space for such a good deal, but if you forget anything she was very generous and kind. She even used her leaf blower on the fire I was struggling to start in the fire pit near the cabin. The pit toilet was clean and not too hard to get to, with a very nice view, and there is a very good park for hiking 20 minutes away, a store 20 minutes in the opposite direction, and you can get to Mendocino or the Pygmy forest with another 20 minutes or so of driving. This would be a good place to stay if you want to visit the hot spring, too, as their camping is closed after November and their hotel is a little pricey. Safe, chill, and neat.

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

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Ian

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

Amazing amenities and location—would definitely stay again!

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Jerrica

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

The cabin is so quaint and beautiful. It’s quite cold this time of year so starting a fire was imperative! The shower and outdoor space was lovely and the slugs were the sweetest visitors. Ted and Emily were responsive hosts — thanks for much for an unforgettable experience!

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Mark

3 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Sierra Sol Camp

Beautiful location! Tucked in the woods with a charming kitchen with a great bohemian feel. Owner was responsive and helpful with questions. Wish it was closer to me so I could go more often. Loved the hanging firepit. Would highly recommend

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Drew

November 2025

4 nights at Bayside Cabin

My stay at Ted and Emily’s cabin was so peaceful, exactly what I was looking for! Directions were very clear, cabin was well cared for, and boy can that wood stove heat the room!! Emily and Ted were fantastic hosts, I definitely will be back next time I’m in the area.

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Tzuni

November 2025

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

November 2025

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

November 2025

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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Zachary

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sage

Everything was excellent! It was exactly what we needed! Definitely still a work in progress but what has been completed is very cool!

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Amelia

November 2025

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!

Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

97%

100%

2 sites · Lodging · Dutch Flat, CA

Scenic 70-Acre Campsite with Forest Trails, Cliffs, Lake Access, and Historic Gold Mine Caves Welcome to your next unforgettable camping adventure! Nestled in the heart of historic Dutch Flat, California, this private 70-acre paradise offers campers a rare chance to explore rugged forests, hidden trails, rocky cliffs, and real historic gold mine caves — all in total privacy and surrounded by untouched natural beauty. Wake up to the sound of rustling pines and birdsong, spend your day hiking winding trails or exploring the old gold mine entrances tucked into the hillsides, and cool off with a swim in our private lakefront area, complete with sunny rocks perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. This is a perfect spot for campers looking to truly disconnect and experience the raw beauty of Northern California’s mountain country — without the crowds. Whether you’re pitching a tent in a shady forest clearing, setting up camp by the water, or parking your van in one of our open meadow spots, you’ll have space to roam, explore, and make your own adventure. Amenities: • 70 acres of private land to explore • Forest trails, rocky cliffs, and mining caves • Lake/swimming hole with sunny shoreline • Designated campfire rings (where permitted) • Rustic outhouse-style restrooms available • Easy vehicle access to most sites • Pet-friendly — bring your adventurous dogs! • Stargazing at night with minimal light pollution Things to Know: • This is true back-to-nature camping — no hookups • 4WD not required, but recommended for adventurous spots • Pack it in, pack it out — help us keep the land beautiful • Quiet hours after 9PM to preserve the peacefulness of nature • Families, solo adventurers, and small groups welcome Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway, a basecamp for Sierra Nevada adventures, or a unique group camping experience, our 70-acre property invites you to slow down, explore, and reconnect with nature. Book your stay with us today — your next great story starts here!

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

97%

(29)

Six Rivers National Forest

Hoopa, California

Other options in and near Northern California

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort

249 sites · Mount Shasta City, CA

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mt. Shasta and the stunning Shasta Trinity National Forest. Nestled on the southwest side of Lake Siskiyou, this campground provides a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal getaway for families and nature lovers alike. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including cozy rustic tent sites, fully equipped RV sites, retro trailers, and comfortable cabins or houses. The resort is packed with activities to keep everyone entertained, featuring scenic hiking trails, beach rentals, and a thrilling inflatable water park known as the Splash Zone. For those looking to unwind, the Lake Sis Bar & Grille offers delicious dining options. Whether you prefer quiet fishing moments on the dock, quality family time on the lake, or simply relaxing on your cabin deck, Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors.

Del Loma RV Park and Campground

102 sites · Big Bar, CA

Del Loma RV Park and Campground stands out as a unique destination nestled within Northern California’s stunning Trinity Alps Wilderness Area, the second largest of its kind in the state. This picturesque campground is situated right along the National Wild-and-Scenic Trinity River, offering guests breathtaking scenic views and a plethora of outdoor activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying fishing, rafting, and various water activities. The campground features spacious sites that provide ample shade from mature Fir, Pine, Madrone, and Oak trees, ensuring a comfortable and private camping experience. As you relax, take in the sights and sounds of the local wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Del Loma RV Park and Campground is the perfect place to connect with nature and create lasting memories in a serene and beautiful setting.

Collins Lake

32 sites · Browns Valley, CA

Collins Lake stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of lakefront RV hookups and tent camping amidst the stunning California gold country foothills. Open year-round at sunrise, this picturesque location is perfect for fishing, boating, picnicking, or simply relaxing on the beach. Renowned for its impressive bass, trophy trout, and gigantic ice cream cones, Collins Lake promises an unforgettable experience. Spanning 1,600 acres, the lake and recreation area feature 12 miles of scenic shoreline, conveniently located just over an hour northeast of Sacramento, nestled between Marysville and Grass Valley. Our campground is equipped with a variety of amenities, including RV hookups, a boat launch, marina services, and boat rentals. Families can enjoy a spacious sandy swimming beach, a children's playground, beach volleyball courts, and shaded picnic areas. Additional conveniences include a general store, laundry facilities, and hot showers. Each spring, we plant over 50,000 trout, making Collins Lake home to the largest private trout stocking program north of Sacramento. Many of these fish are trophy-sized, weighing between 3 to 8 pounds and continuing to grow. We've also created habitat areas for bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, ensuring a plentiful

Whispertree Retreat

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.

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!

Hat Creek Hereford Ranch Campground

10 sites · Hat Creek, CA

Nestled in the stunning Lassen National Forest, the Hat Creek Hereford Ranch stands out as a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This picturesque campground offers an unparalleled blend of lush green fields, towering trees, and sparkling cold streams, creating a serene environment perfect for relaxation and adventure. One of the highlights of the ranch is its private lake, which provides a tranquil setting for fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views. The fully-equipped recreational park enhances your stay, offering a range of amenities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to hike the nearby trails, explore the natural beauty of the forest, or unwind by the water, Hat Creek Hereford Ranch is the ideal vacation spot. With its combination of privacy, natural features, and recreational opportunities, this campground promises an exhilarating outdoor experience that you won't soon forget.

Lassen RV Resort

74 sites · Mc Arthur, CA

Lassen RV Resort stands out as a unique destination for nature lovers, nestled between the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta. This charming campground offers a serene escape on 68 acres of stunning wild forest, providing guests with a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. At Lassen RV Resort, you can enjoy spacious RV camping sites and tent sites, all designed to ensure your comfort and privacy. The campground is a peaceful retreat, yet conveniently located with easy access to Highway 299, making it simple to explore nearby attractions and amenities. Adventure awaits just beyond your campsite. Discover the natural wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park and the expansive Shasta-Trinity National Forest, both offering a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming. After a day of exploration, unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the resort, where the staff is dedicated to making your stay peaceful and relaxing. Experience the beauty of nature at Lassen RV Resort, your ideal getaway destination.

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.

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.