The best dog-friendly 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.

95% (1.1K) • 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern California

Love Creek Sanctuary!

1. Love Creek Sanctuary!

98%

(787)

Grass Valley, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Love creek sanctuary was founded in 2016. It all started with Stu the steer and his best friend Petey the goat, from there we have rescued over 90 animals, 45 make their home here at the sanctuary. Our camping areas are fenced from the animals but you are free to explore our 12 acres and interact with the animals during your stay here. We ask that children under 10 stay outside the animal areas and children over 10 are accompanied by a grownup. We have plenty of art and child friendly activities, just ask and we can set you up. We have a no dog policy because the chickens and birds are free ranging, unfortunately we have had several bad experiences with dogs attacking the birds and other animals. If you have a dog that has been around farm animals and is well behaved, let's talk about it. We have 5 dogs so the birds have NO FEAR of them. ---- We are a working farm - PLEASE READ----- There are donkeys, roosters, dogs and peacocks that make noise, sometimes at night and always early in the morning. Please be aware that you may hear the donkeys bray (usually lasts about 30 seconds), roosters crow, guinea fowl chirp. It is startling and will wake you up. We do our best to keep the dogs hushed but we cannot stop the donkeys, roosters and peacocks from doing their thing. If you are a light sleeper, please bring earplugs or select another wonderful Hipcamp in our area, thank you! In addition to the interesting sounds you will hear, you will encounter dirt, poop and spiders. Since we are a working farm, things get dirty. We spray all high traffic surfaces twice a day but things get dirty and when it rains it is muddy. Please plan accordingly. We are centrally located between Grass Valley and Auburn, giving you access to endless recreational activities, wineries, breweries and restaurants. We have 50 or so rescued farm animals, you can interact with our pig Hank, Mojo the goat or Teddy the alpaca. NOTE: Starting Memorial Day each year, we have replaced all of our wood fire pits with gas fire pits. We have increased our prices to help cover the costs of propane. Thank you for choosing us!

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

CAMP CAZ

2. CAMP CAZ

100%

(235)

Cazadero, CA · 1 site

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.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$195

/ night

Thanktuary Retreat

3. Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

Gualala, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: The winds whisper through the redwood trees and provide respite from the hot sun. Here on the ridge above Gualala, lies nestled a lovely and serene campground called Thanktuary Retreat. Skunks, jackrabbits, deer, foxes and very rarely a mountain lion or bear can be found on our 5 acres of forested land. There is a fishpond with water lilies, mini golf course and pétanque court (both with equipment in a useful shed close by), a horse shoe ring and beautiful, natural secluded spots in the redwoods perfect for meditation and vision questing. Huckleberry bushes and ferns grow abundantly. The place lends itself to self-reflection and introspection. There is space for 1 RV with a patio table and chairs and some sun loungers. There are also 2 tent sites available on the property, located in one large area, further away from the RV sites. Barely 7 minutes away is downtown Gualala, with amenities such as 2 supermarkets, pharmacy, bakery, restaurants and more. There is a beautiful holistic gift store, The Sea Trader, Four Eyed Frog Bookstore, and some lovely art galleries in town.   Kayaking is available at the Gualala River. Hiking at Gualala Regional Park, the Bluff Trail, The Sea Ranch public access beaches, Stump Beach, Salt Point Park with a petrified forest, Bowling Ball Beach with its amazing natural formations (can only be seen fully at low tide of more than -0.2m), Manchester State Beach, Elk Beach, and more. Swimming at the Navarro River, and various bays. It is a place of incredible scenic beauty all along CA 1. Watch whales spouting during whale season. (Gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay between July and October). Bower Park, just 0.5 miles away with a lovely lake, tennis courts, a baseball field, a basketball court, and two separate playgrounds. Play disc golf or hike along the nature trail/fitness course. Anchor Bay is 5 miles up CA 1, with a supermarket, a few cafes, restaurants (including a great Thai place!) laundromat, hair salon, and more. The quaint town of Point Arena is 12 miles north, with a supermarket, Frannie's Cup And Saucer, The Bird Cafe, a beautiful historic lighthouse, a theater, a pier, a mini-safari park (B Bryan Preserve with zebras, giraffes and more. Tours need to be booked in advance). Also visit Roots, a natural pharmacy for herbs, teas and supplements.  There are also spots like Occidental, Bodega Bay, Jenner (with the Russian River to kayak and swim) and Timber Cove, all on the way to Gualala from the south. Bodega Bay has lovely spots to eat, with clam chowder, fish and chips. Enjoy wind and water sports, and walk on the pier.

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

from

$56

/ night

gold country camping

4. gold country camping

Jackson, CA · 2 sites

This site is situated at the base of sinal mountain in Jackson Ca, just 3 miles off highway 88 and 49. It’s feels like it’s miles away from civilization, with a beautiful country road that meanders through gold country. Raley’s , tractor supply and lake tabeaud are only 3 miles away. We personally live here on 5 acres and have one acre dedicated to RV camping. Kirkwood ski resort is a 40 minute drive and South Lake Tahoe is 1.5 hours up 88. There are wonderful wineries in the Shenandoah Valley about 25 minutes away and the beautiful town of Sutter creek with shops, antiques and restaurants. The camp site is surrounded by oak trees and has a gravel ground to help keep dust down.

Toilets

Showers

Wifi

from

$60

/ night

Locus Solus

5. Locus Solus

96%

(81)

Point Arena, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Tired of the scorching heat? Come chill out on the coast where it's always 20 degrees cooler than everywhere else. Located in the coastal prairie minutes from the Pacific Ocean and the town of Point Arena. Plenty of privacy to launch into day trips and other adventures in this special corner of the world. The Octagon and the campsite offer solitude, stunning views, bird watching, and walking trails on the property. We're 5 mins from town, the cove, various beaches, tide pools, the historic lighthouse, fishing spots, and the B Bryan Animal Preserve where you can view African animals and hand feed giraffes. Come find what you've been missing!

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

from

$55

/ 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.

95% (1.1K) • 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Northern California

Love Creek Sanctuary!

1. Love Creek Sanctuary!

98%

(787)

Grass Valley, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Love creek sanctuary was founded in 2016. It all started with Stu the steer and his best friend Petey the goat, from there we have rescued over 90 animals, 45 make their home here at the sanctuary. Our camping areas are fenced from the animals but you are free to explore our 12 acres and interact with the animals during your stay here. We ask that children under 10 stay outside the animal areas and children over 10 are accompanied by a grownup. We have plenty of art and child friendly activities, just ask and we can set you up. We have a no dog policy because the chickens and birds are free ranging, unfortunately we have had several bad experiences with dogs attacking the birds and other animals. If you have a dog that has been around farm animals and is well behaved, let's talk about it. We have 5 dogs so the birds have NO FEAR of them. ---- We are a working farm - PLEASE READ----- There are donkeys, roosters, dogs and peacocks that make noise, sometimes at night and always early in the morning. Please be aware that you may hear the donkeys bray (usually lasts about 30 seconds), roosters crow, guinea fowl chirp. It is startling and will wake you up. We do our best to keep the dogs hushed but we cannot stop the donkeys, roosters and peacocks from doing their thing. If you are a light sleeper, please bring earplugs or select another wonderful Hipcamp in our area, thank you! In addition to the interesting sounds you will hear, you will encounter dirt, poop and spiders. Since we are a working farm, things get dirty. We spray all high traffic surfaces twice a day but things get dirty and when it rains it is muddy. Please plan accordingly. We are centrally located between Grass Valley and Auburn, giving you access to endless recreational activities, wineries, breweries and restaurants. We have 50 or so rescued farm animals, you can interact with our pig Hank, Mojo the goat or Teddy the alpaca. NOTE: Starting Memorial Day each year, we have replaced all of our wood fire pits with gas fire pits. We have increased our prices to help cover the costs of propane. Thank you for choosing us!

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

from

$50

/ night

CAMP CAZ

2. CAMP CAZ

100%

(235)

Cazadero, CA · 1 site

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.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$195

/ night

Thanktuary Retreat

3. Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

Gualala, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: The winds whisper through the redwood trees and provide respite from the hot sun. Here on the ridge above Gualala, lies nestled a lovely and serene campground called Thanktuary Retreat. Skunks, jackrabbits, deer, foxes and very rarely a mountain lion or bear can be found on our 5 acres of forested land. There is a fishpond with water lilies, mini golf course and pétanque court (both with equipment in a useful shed close by), a horse shoe ring and beautiful, natural secluded spots in the redwoods perfect for meditation and vision questing. Huckleberry bushes and ferns grow abundantly. The place lends itself to self-reflection and introspection. There is space for 1 RV with a patio table and chairs and some sun loungers. There are also 2 tent sites available on the property, located in one large area, further away from the RV sites. Barely 7 minutes away is downtown Gualala, with amenities such as 2 supermarkets, pharmacy, bakery, restaurants and more. There is a beautiful holistic gift store, The Sea Trader, Four Eyed Frog Bookstore, and some lovely art galleries in town.   Kayaking is available at the Gualala River. Hiking at Gualala Regional Park, the Bluff Trail, The Sea Ranch public access beaches, Stump Beach, Salt Point Park with a petrified forest, Bowling Ball Beach with its amazing natural formations (can only be seen fully at low tide of more than -0.2m), Manchester State Beach, Elk Beach, and more. Swimming at the Navarro River, and various bays. It is a place of incredible scenic beauty all along CA 1. Watch whales spouting during whale season. (Gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay between July and October). Bower Park, just 0.5 miles away with a lovely lake, tennis courts, a baseball field, a basketball court, and two separate playgrounds. Play disc golf or hike along the nature trail/fitness course. Anchor Bay is 5 miles up CA 1, with a supermarket, a few cafes, restaurants (including a great Thai place!) laundromat, hair salon, and more. The quaint town of Point Arena is 12 miles north, with a supermarket, Frannie's Cup And Saucer, The Bird Cafe, a beautiful historic lighthouse, a theater, a pier, a mini-safari park (B Bryan Preserve with zebras, giraffes and more. Tours need to be booked in advance). Also visit Roots, a natural pharmacy for herbs, teas and supplements.  There are also spots like Occidental, Bodega Bay, Jenner (with the Russian River to kayak and swim) and Timber Cove, all on the way to Gualala from the south. Bodega Bay has lovely spots to eat, with clam chowder, fish and chips. Enjoy wind and water sports, and walk on the pier.

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

from

$56

/ night

gold country camping

4. gold country camping

Jackson, CA · 2 sites

This site is situated at the base of sinal mountain in Jackson Ca, just 3 miles off highway 88 and 49. It’s feels like it’s miles away from civilization, with a beautiful country road that meanders through gold country. Raley’s , tractor supply and lake tabeaud are only 3 miles away. We personally live here on 5 acres and have one acre dedicated to RV camping. Kirkwood ski resort is a 40 minute drive and South Lake Tahoe is 1.5 hours up 88. There are wonderful wineries in the Shenandoah Valley about 25 minutes away and the beautiful town of Sutter creek with shops, antiques and restaurants. The camp site is surrounded by oak trees and has a gravel ground to help keep dust down.

Toilets

Showers

Wifi

from

$60

/ night

Locus Solus

5. Locus Solus

96%

(81)

Point Arena, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Tired of the scorching heat? Come chill out on the coast where it's always 20 degrees cooler than everywhere else. Located in the coastal prairie minutes from the Pacific Ocean and the town of Point Arena. Plenty of privacy to launch into day trips and other adventures in this special corner of the world. The Octagon and the campsite offer solitude, stunning views, bird watching, and walking trails on the property. We're 5 mins from town, the cove, various beaches, tide pools, the historic lighthouse, fishing spots, and the B Bryan Animal Preserve where you can view African animals and hand feed giraffes. Come find what you've been missing!

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

from

$55

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

綾子

3 weeks ago

With kids

3 nights at CAMP CAZ

I know that Camp Caz is amazing in the summer but there is something special about the beauty of the cabin in the winter. We discussed when we should come back here for the next time, in the summer or the winter? My kids exclaimed “Both!”

a

ana lynn

December 2025

2 nights at Love Creek Sanctuary!

Me and my husband David really like camping but we get tired of building the tent so I thank Sarah for letting us stayed in her trailer with her free range animals. Feel so away from the stress and keep silent for a while. See you next time.

N

Nikola

November 2025

With pets

4 nights at CAMP CAZ

Beautiful location! Carrie’s cabin has everything we needed. We felt very comfortable there and would definitely come back.

J

Jessica

November 2025

4 nights at CAMP CAZ

Love the property! Had a peaceful and relaxing time. Would come back again!

Beautiful and comfortable room with a double bed, 2 nightstands, desk and armchair. Linens and towels are provided.

J

Jacob

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Thanktuary Retreat

We had a great stay! Peaceful, relaxing, and the soaking tub was phenomenal!

D

Don

October 2025

1 night at Thanktuary Retreat

Great location amongst the trees but only minutes from town. The room, showers and bathrooms were super clean. The outdoor shower and hot tub were so very nice, soaking at night below the stars doesn’t get much better. Everything about this was a 10/10, communication and directions were spot on. Didn’t get to meet Veena and David but highly recommend their place and will definitely stay again when in the area.

I

Isaak

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Thanktuary Retreat

Stayed at the Treehouse. Very nice room with everything as described. Hot tub was a major bonus - what a treat. Incredible stars out. Spacious land. Would definitely visit again.

I

Ida

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to CAMP CAZ

This place is incredible, we’ve been here multiple times and every time it’s magical. I recommend reading the guide the host sends to you very carefully as it’s super detailed and helpful!

M

Melissa

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to CAMP CAZ

Our annual long weekend at Camp Caz is something we look forward to all year, and this one didn't disappoint! Relaxation, rejuvenation, beauty...it's all here! Thanks as always, Carrie!

Eldon

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to CAMP CAZ

We (family of 4) absolutely enjoyed our weekend getaway at Camp Caz! What a beautiful setting and cozy cabin- and Carrie has thought of everything you might need during your stay. We appreciated the downloadable and detailed app-handbook that answered any and every question, the well-equipped kitchen, the variety of board games, exploring the creek, and all the nice details. Wish we could have stayed longer!

C

Chris

September 2025

3 nights at CAMP CAZ

This is a lovely spot. Private and peaceful and comfortable. Lots of nice details while remaining a “cabin.” Highly recommended.

K

Keri

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to CAMP CAZ

We had such a peaceful stay. The cabin had everything we needed for cooking, sleeping, games, hanging out and relaxing. The river was a treat with its clear water and amazing scenery. We are definitely going to come back and stay longer!

N

Nicole

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Love Creek Sanctuary!

Amazing stay! Shanna & Garth were incredible hosts, so kind and accommodating. The farm animals were the highlight and there’s lots of freedom to roam and feed them. Highly recommend for anyone needing a reset, the perfect peaceful getaway

B

Bradley

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Locus Solus

Absolutely incredible experience. Such a unique and peaceful stay. It was exactly what we needed at exactly the right time. And we can't wait to go back soon! If you want to take a moment to slow down to be present, this is the place for you.

L

Laura

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Locus Solus

Everything was perfect, so quiet and relaxing. Great to have the little "bath house" with toilet and shower to use. Hosts were pleasant and helpful but not intrusive. My favorite part was my private yoga session with Kimberly.

A

Alanna

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Love Creek Sanctuary!

We love Shanna's friendly laid back vibe. The animals are always a big hit with my kids but the best part is just watching them frolic about in nature.

E

Emily

August 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Locus Solus

Incredibly beautiful place to spend the night! We had everything that we needed for a perfect night in Point Arena. The land is incredibly beautiful and the place especially clean. Will be recommending this place to all of my close friends!

L

Lowell

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Locus Solus

What a stunning stay. I loved everything about this (especially the bed! One of the most comfortable I’ve slept in in recent memory). The views, the vibes, everything about the octagon was out of a dream.

Marsha

August 2025

2 nights at Thanktuary Retreat

Beautiful little retreat with an amazing soaking tub! Would definitely stay again 😉

Allison

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to CAMP CAZ

Beautiful cabin with stream. Fire pit for s'mores and great hangs. This is an amazing spot. 5/5 stars and highly recommended !

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best dog-friendly 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.