Lake Camping in Northern California, California: Best Lake Campsites 2026

Discover your perfect camping experience in Northern California's stunning lake regions with Hipcamp. With over 1,200 options to choose from, you'll find the ideal accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a climber seeking thrilling heights, a history enthusiast exploring historic sites, or an off-roading fanatic ready to tackle the rugged terrain, there's something for everyone. Explore top-rated campsites like Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), Mill Creek Resort (638 reviews), and Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews). With popular amenities such as potable water, campfires, and pet-friendly locations, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Northern California's lake region.

98% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Discover your perfect camping experience in Northern California's stunning lake regions with Hipcamp. With over 1,200 options to choose from, you'll find the ideal accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're a climber seeking thrilling heights, a history enthusiast exploring historic sites, or an off-roading fanatic ready to tackle the rugged terrain, there's something for everyone. Explore top-rated campsites like Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), Mill Creek Resort (638 reviews), and Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden (388 reviews). With popular amenities such as potable water, campfires, and pet-friendly locations, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping experience. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Northern California's lake region.

98% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%

(2335)

39 sites · Tents, RVs · Placerville, CA

ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours are limited. Use caution - twisty, narrow country road If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand. From Sacramento on Hwy 50: At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile. Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road. Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. The DINER "Smoke on the Water" is open only Saturday and Sunday. Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe: make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions. Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area! Our lovely lake to discover. The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky. This private lake supports the fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station. The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website. Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 18-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only 530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking. Sites are from post to post. Our property is located in Placerville, California.

2. Websters Farm

91%

(234)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Orland, CA

My dad bought the farm in 1974 and it used to be a working dairy and sheep farm. My dad passed away while cutting our 6 acre oat field on mothers day 2003, our little farm started to break down. We have been working on it to bring it back to life and I hope to have it up and running strong again. Sadly I just lost my mother on Aug 6th and my father Aug 13th. Alot of loss but hopefully i can have a garden soon to offer more options for our guests. Learn more about this land: Our farm is 3miles west of town within 10 miles to Black Butte lake for fishing, boating, hiking, and even disk golf. Right off of I-5 by a Pilot travel center. 4496 county road DD and also shows as Orange grove ave on some GPS maps. Public pool 3miles(1pm-5pm, water arobics Tue and Thur 6-7pm $2, family night Tue and Thur 730-9pm June-Aug) as well as shopping and dining within 3miles. Great sunset and area to roam for a bike ride or walk in the country in our little hick town with only about 8000 population. It is very likely you will hear animals so if your a light sleeper you may want ear plugs. Chickens crow and roam, cows bellow from all sides, and dogs bark and welcome guests. No trespassing signs are for hunters and people that DO NOT have permission to be here. Driveway is rough and we are working on getting it fixed asap so please take your time coming up. There is FIELD roaches you may see soon after we irrigate, they are bigger then the nasty cockroach but harmless. The wind can be rough at times up here on our lil hill so be prepared with extra rope to tie down and secure if your in a tent, also park vehicle to help block from wind and driveway. It does get up into the high 100°s here during the summer so it would be good to have shade or plan to keep cool during the hottest parts of the day. The toilet is a outhouse with solar lights and does not flush, there is shavings to drop when done. Longer stays are best done at sites 4 and 5 further from the driveway. Quick stops just to sleep are best at 1 and 2. Rainy weather only sites 5, 6 and 1 are usable sadly.

3. Ascension Ranch

93%

(480)

11 sites · Tents, RVs · Pilot Hill, CA

Ascension Ranch is an off-grid paradise with a unique and ever growing list of features and activities. Family owned and operated, we want to be that breath of fresh air from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life that everyone needs. With a serene environment, a healthy mix of farm animals, and good old fashion ranch activities, there's a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, ranch dogs, chickens, equestrian activities, hiking, biking, camping, archery, lake activities, amazing views, access to endless trails around Folsom Lake, grass-fed meats, fresh produce and of course, good company. Staying on the ranch can be as social, or as rural as guests choose. Camp alone, or bring others, whether it be your 4-legged companions or friends and family, we welcome all campers who respect and enjoy the great outdoors as much as we do.

4. Tahoe National Forest

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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5. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%

(137)

912 sites · Junction City, California

California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.

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6. Hidden Knoll Farm

88%

(65)

11 sites · Lodging · Hidden Valley Lake, CA

We are back on Hipcamp after a 2 year break with improvements and amenities! 🌙 5-Acre Volcanic Mountaintop Organic Farm Sanctuary 1250 feet Above Napa Valley Wine Country and Harbin Hot Springs. A breathtaking State Park level 360 degree view atop an ancient volcanic cinder cone overlooking California’s organic "Secret Wine Country.” Located just 12 miles from Napa Valley 6 miles from Harbin Hot Springs, our land sits at the crossroads of geology, history, healing, and natural beauty. From the top of the Knoll, you can see: • Mt. St. Helena • Mayacamas Mountain Range • Harbin Mountain • The Geysers, the most active geothermal energy field on Earth Every direction opens into cinematic landscapes: sunrise in the east over Angwin, sunset in the west behind volcanic ridges, moonrise over the Harbin side, and clear night skies sparkling with thousands of stars. This is a place where stressed out San Francisco and Silicon Valley professionals come to breathe, sleep and rest deeply, reconnect, see galaxies and remember what Earth 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 two years ago, and we have hosted hundreds of people on another platform where we are one of the Guest Favorite "most loved" properties. We invite you to rediscover as these reviews are for basic camping and don't reflect the fully equipped glamping we have today. Each glamping site is privately spaced over 150 feet from the main farmhouse where the caretaker and host live and with an adjacent open parcel of 6 uninhabited acres. The guests share a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with sink, grill, seasonal pool, (May-October) outdoor bathing area ("Farmhouse Spa") with DIY cowboy tub and outdoor on demand hot shower, outdoor fireplace, and organic garden with heirloom free ranging chickens. We are popular with couples and groups, but please NO CHILDREN under 18 due to rugged terrain.

7. Camp Jade River

96%

(284)

1 site · Tent, RV · Crescent City, CA

The rugged terrain of far northern California is one of the few mostly untouched places left to retreat to. Come dwarf yourself under the magnificent giant redwoods and be struck with awe by the mesmerizing jade colored Smith River. The property is a mere 20 minutes from some of the world's tallest trees. Come check out Stout Grove, a rarely crowded gem of the Redwood National and State Parks. The grove is a part of Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park which is the least developed and most impressive park of the four. From your campsite you will have a lovely view of a large bend of the Smith River. It boasts impressive runs of chinook and steelhead, and is host to many other native species. Keep an eye out for bear, mink, and otters! And secure any food or attractants at night. Our property gives you the chance to disconnect from daily life and recalibrate. Use our site as an extended getaway for some peace and quiet, or a launch point to the variety of local attractions.

8. Rollins Lake Retreats Decorated 🎄

96%

(111)

3 sites · Lodging · Colfax, CA

Our property is lakeside at Rollins Lake In Colfax. We live on over 30 private, beautiful acres with footpath access to Rollins Lake. (3 minute walk from the dome or house, and 10-15 minutes from the cabin) where most summer days here are spent swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing ect., down at the water. Please note the Cabin is set on a seasonal CANNABIS garden. All three sites are vacation spots with AC and WIFI, not just simple accommodations, but experiences. The remarkable property is very hilly with pines and oaks. You can follow our driveway to the bottom and access the beginning of The Bear River which has a nice hiking trail alongside it or drive 8 minutes to the nearest boat ramp and 10 minutes to the town of Colfax where you will find gas, groceries, and restaurants. We have a beautiful spot where you will not see any neighbors so it is peaceful and private with gorgeous 360-degree views. It is also very safe! Bask in nature, quiet, and privacy! In summer there is a 3-night minimum for the cabin and dome. Occasionally a two day midweek will pop up on the schedule last minute. To see correct pricing, enter your dates as they can fluctuate with holidays, weekends. Prices are decreased midweek. We have 3 accommodations on the property -A GUEST SUITE (lakeside), up to 5 people. -A CABIN (15 min walk or 3 min drive/5 min walk, up to 4 people. -A GLAMPING DOME with an additional teepee tent site (lakeside)! Up to 6 people. We have fishing boat, kayaks, and paddle boards for rent. If you want an epic stay in the forest, private and away from others, this is your place. Also close to Grass Valley (15min), Nevada City (20 min), Colfax (less than 10).

9. Juniper Spur Ranch

98%

(446)

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.

10. Plumas National Forest

95%

(67)

821 sites · Little Grass Valley, California

Hike, cross-country ski, or even drive into the deep wilderness of this Sierra Nevada forest.

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11. Klamath National Forest

91%

(28)

288 sites · Greenview, California

Explore the pristine wilderness bordering California and Oregon among the Klamath Mountains.

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Potable water

12. Eldorado National Forest

93%

(136)

980 sites · Kirkwood, California

Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.

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13. Six Rivers National Forest

97%

(29)

281 sites · Hoopa, California

This park gets its rather self-descriptive name from the six beautiful rivers that flow through its borders, but don’t the name fool you. There is a lot more than just rivers to check out here. More than a million rambling acres of forest take you through foggy and mystical redwood landscapes. Further inland, miles of towering Douglas firs, glacial peaks, and hidden pools just wait to be discovered. Of course, the rivers are the main attraction. You can’t go two feet without tripping over a perfect swimming hole. After your dip, there are plenty of warm rocks to lay out on. Oh, and if the natural beauty doesn’t get you: this was the place where they first spotted Bigfoot. Yeah, the original footage that basically made everyone believe in the hairy bi-ped. That, on its own, is reason enough to check it out

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14. 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.

15. The Ranch at Lake Sonoma

89%

(85)

17 sites · Tents, RVs · Geyserville, CA

Camping inside the park at Lake Sonoma. Campsites overlooking the lake under the stars. Walk to The Ranch at Lake Sonoma barn for beer and wine, music events, and horseback tours. Walk to Lake Sonoma Marina for boat rentals, swimming beaches, and picnic areas. Centralized campground for all Lake Sonoma has to offer!

16. Wisdom eco-preserv

97%

(265)

39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nevada City, CA

This extraordinary 200 acres is magical and host a wildness which feels peaceful and secure. It is also the home of the developing Wisdom Retreat Center eco-preserve noted for quality of beauty and silence. Many Indian arrow heads have been found here indicating former residences of indigenous tribes. There are many open meadows and old growth forest to hike and explore.

17. Shangri-La

97%

(512)

8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Upper Lake, CA

For 21 years, we have worked on keeping this property as a Sacred Space. There's a meadow with an Indian artifact and amazing views. We are a team, husband and wife, this is off-the-grid and we raise our children here. At the same time, we grow organic food and work on our crafts and spiritual practice, never using chemical fertilizers, and keeping all of the groundwater clear and clean with an abundance of spring water for drinking. This is a magical forest retreat and we love to share it with others who are like-minded. Right out of the Mendocino National Forest, 100-Acre Forest and Meadow Retreat is just minutes to the Eel River out of the small town of Potter Valley and 15 minutes to Lake Pillsbury. Private views, fresh spring water and endless possibilities. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******We have 2 campsites currently with fresh spring water, and fire pits. Private and in the woods. Lots of hiking on the land, with stunning views. Bring your own tent, hammock, food whatever you need to be a happy camper!! In the spring of 2019 we added in 2 new yurt sites, with soaking tubs, filled with hot spring water. We have 2 campsites to book for regular camping tents and we just added a community bathroom . Nestled away in the forest very private queen size bed natural spring water for soaking in the tub on your porch. In addition for comfort and convenience we have a nice bathroom with hand-washing station. Each yurt can come with propane heat in winter time you need to request it, in the Extras. making it cozy all year long. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******.

18. TerraSol~ "Earth Under the Sun"

99%

(355)

3 sites · Lodging · Nevada City, CA

I’ve had the pleasure to be the “caretaker” of this special land once inhabited by the Maidu Indians for the past 43 years. This is SPECIAL ground here and I’m sure you will feel the MAGIC!!! This 40 acres sits on the Yuba River Ridgetop. At the "Platform of Pleasure" you will enjoy 100,000+ acre views of protected land looking North to the High Sierra, minutes away from downtown Nevada City and 15 miles from Yuba River Trailheads. Firewood bundles are $1 per stick per stick, (when campfires 🔥 are allowed). There is a $15.00 dog fee per dog/per stay. You can add the dog fee to your booking or pay cash when you arrive. On our property like anywhere in the woods there are mosquitos, so you should bring bug spray. We offer a tent platform, as well as a canvas tent listing. Guests love staying here: "From the moment we arrived Chris was nothing but amazing. He helped us get settled in and even recommended some beautiful spots to hike/sight see. They are both so generous! The campsite beautiful and they did a very nice job supplying us with any materials we may need. Definitely coming back during the summer!"

19. Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

94%

(153)

10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shingletown, CA

Bigfoot Lodging, a peaceful campground nestled in the woods with majestic tall pine and cedar trees close to Lassen Volcanic National Park. There's also a lake, a year round creek with fish and a small waterfall on the property where you can relax in the natural and peaceful wooded setting . Quiet and beautiful place to enjoy with your friends and family. Amazing attractions near by like Subway Lava Tube Cave, Burney Falls, Shasta Lake and Caverns, Whiskeytown Lake and all amazing lakes and hiking trails up on Lassen. About 15 miles from the North entrance of Lassen National Volcanic Park.

20. Ariana Acres

94%

(69)

4 sites · Lodging · Willits, CA

Welcome to Ariana Acres 💛 💛 Conveniently located two hours north of San Francisco, and six minutes off the US 101. Our location is ideal for people traveling up and down this historic highway in search of a comfortable and peaceful night's rest. Golden Bowl is located at the far end of the property in its own private nook. Take the first driveway down the grade, and cross the seasonal creek. Follow the meandering path to your tent site. Golden Bowl is becoming a private resort destination. Equipped with a King Sealy Serta Mattress for ultimate sleep comfort. A new deck adjacent to Golden Bowl is home to a firepit, two outdoor lounge chairs, a propane grill, and outdoor kitchen. When the sun sets and hits the mountain at your camp, it looks like you are in a golden bowl. We welcome good stewards of the earth to come and enjoy this majestic mountain. Ariana Acres is located on Ridgewood Summitt, the highest mountain pass along this historic highway before descending into the town of Willits. Located at near 3000 feet elevation, the mountain air is brisk, clean and refreshing. Hiking trails surround you. Walk the ridge at sunset, or find a place to sit and watch it in awe and wonder. As we Fall into Winter, it's time for warm fires under the stars in the firepit, and in Golden Bowl tent. Golden Bowl has a cool coal stove inside with coal provided. We are so excited for this new edition, and experience into the past! Willits is named the heart of Mendocino County. Gateway to the Redwoods. This region is truly a hidden gem. The Skunk Train is world famous, and named one of the top 10 attractions in the United States by The NY Times. It's an open air steam locomotive, and it passes the world's largest Redwood tree. Guests at Ariana Acres receive a 50% discount! Whether you purchase tickets online, or in person. Ariana Acres is a place to come to feel away from it all, while only being a ten minute drive to town. You get the best of both worlds! Cheers to you hipcampers and many happy trails ahead 👣 😀

Camper favorites in and near Northern California

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

94%

(153)

10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shingletown, CA

Bigfoot Lodging, a peaceful campground nestled in the woods with majestic tall pine and cedar trees close to Lassen Volcanic National Park. There's also a lake, a year round creek with fish and a small waterfall on the property where you can relax in the natural and peaceful wooded setting . Quiet and beautiful place to enjoy with your friends and family. Amazing attractions near by like Subway Lava Tube Cave, Burney Falls, Shasta Lake and Caverns, Whiskeytown Lake and all amazing lakes and hiking trails up on Lassen. About 15 miles from the North entrance of Lassen National Volcanic Park.

Ariana Acres

94%

(69)

4 sites · Lodging · Willits, CA

Welcome to Ariana Acres 💛 💛 Conveniently located two hours north of San Francisco, and six minutes off the US 101. Our location is ideal for people traveling up and down this historic highway in search of a comfortable and peaceful night's rest. Golden Bowl is located at the far end of the property in its own private nook. Take the first driveway down the grade, and cross the seasonal creek. Follow the meandering path to your tent site. Golden Bowl is becoming a private resort destination. Equipped with a King Sealy Serta Mattress for ultimate sleep comfort. A new deck adjacent to Golden Bowl is home to a firepit, two outdoor lounge chairs, a propane grill, and outdoor kitchen. When the sun sets and hits the mountain at your camp, it looks like you are in a golden bowl. We welcome good stewards of the earth to come and enjoy this majestic mountain. Ariana Acres is located on Ridgewood Summitt, the highest mountain pass along this historic highway before descending into the town of Willits. Located at near 3000 feet elevation, the mountain air is brisk, clean and refreshing. Hiking trails surround you. Walk the ridge at sunset, or find a place to sit and watch it in awe and wonder. As we Fall into Winter, it's time for warm fires under the stars in the firepit, and in Golden Bowl tent. Golden Bowl has a cool coal stove inside with coal provided. We are so excited for this new edition, and experience into the past! Willits is named the heart of Mendocino County. Gateway to the Redwoods. This region is truly a hidden gem. The Skunk Train is world famous, and named one of the top 10 attractions in the United States by The NY Times. It's an open air steam locomotive, and it passes the world's largest Redwood tree. Guests at Ariana Acres receive a 50% discount! Whether you purchase tickets online, or in person. Ariana Acres is a place to come to feel away from it all, while only being a ten minute drive to town. You get the best of both worlds! Cheers to you hipcampers and many happy trails ahead 👣 😀

Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

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

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.

Bliss Mountain

96%

(81)

9 sites · Lodging · Middletown, CA

This is country living at its best! We live in the main house at the top of the hill and we look forward to sharing the magic of Bliss Mountain aka Jerusalem Ranch with our guests. We are 20 minutes from Harbin Hot Springs or Clearlake resort area. Our listings range from a Country Home,Bliss Mountain Studio apt to Teepee and Trailer. Read each description for information on amenities. An optional workshop/performance space and additional lodging is available on the property for larger groups – including 2600 ft Country Home and Bliss Mountain Studio Apt. Perfect for a family reunion, destination wedding, filming your YouTube video with spectacular scenery, a personal healing journey or yoga/meditation workshop/retreat. It’s also wonderful for getting creative, focused artistic or creative projects done . The Tepee is also an inspiring place to record or play music. Many vocalists, performers, sound healers and painters have been inspired to create magic here. Hike our trails scattered with sparkling Lake County “diamonds” – explore an old vineyard, mossy oak forest and sweeping views of Hidden Valley Lake, snow capped mountains and the mysterious, mystical dormant volcano Mt. Konocti. We invite all guest to visit The Bliss Mountain Temple. The Temple space is a world of its own. It has clouds painted on all the walls and ceiling and is home to an amazing art Gallery that feature the works of Karma Moffet the famous Marin County Area Artist and others. Karma is also a life Musician well known for Healing Sound Journey Sessions. Optional Offerings and events that can be arranged in the Temple are: Therapeutic Sound Journeys, musical performances with Karma, Taressa Bell, Halle Blessing and other artist. Also: Dance Gatherings, Yoga Sessions, Creative Art Sessions,receptions etc.

Sierra Sol Camp

96%

(480)

12 sites · Lodging · Camptonville, CA

Welcome to Sierra Sol Camp! We have 9 different sites available to book as well as the option to book the entire property. Please scroll down to see all of the available options. The sauna has just been remodeled with a shower and bathtub right outside the sauna house. Here are the sites we offer: -Sierra Sol Diva Den (cabin) -Water Tower (cabin) -Daisy Belle (canvas tent) -Rise and Shine (canvas tent) -Sierra Sol Camp Lotus (cabin) -Sierra Sol Vintage Trailer (onsite trailer) -Sierra Shipping Container Retreat (cabin) -Sierra Sol Main Cabin (cabin) -Sierra Sol Camp Whole Property (all sites) The Sierra Sol Camp project has been hosting community events and friend gathering for years. We take great pride in extending a warm and welcoming space for all our visitors and extending the invitation to campers was a great next step. We have listings ranging from yurts to shipping containers, an old water tower converted to a vintage trailer and canvas tents. We are based in between the middle fork of the Yuba river right where it meets up with Oregon Creek. If you like a long walk it is 2.5 miles down the dirt road to Oregon Creek and the middle fork of the Yuba. Driving takes 5 to 10 mins. The other direction is the largest lake in our county Bullards Bar Reservoir and Emerald Cove Marina. We are 1 mile down Marysville Rd. from a launch called dark day. There is a trailhead at the top of overflow boat parking for a public swimming hole on the lake. On our property, we have a main house with its own private facilities such as a kitchen, shower, and bath. On the land, we have 9 total unique cabin and canvas tent structures converted into boutique-like campsites. We have an epic outdoor entertaining kitchen and patio with an outdoor pizza oven and a little dog rinse behind the outdoor shower. The bathhouse is right across the way and provides a private but shared guest shower house, tub and sink. Like anywhere in the woods there is an hour at sunset when you may have mosquitoes down near the sites in the spring and some of the summers depending on the year. We have a natural spray for that or fans in the kitchen. Off the path, you may find poison oak in the thick of the woods. So please stay on the marked trails.

Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF

98%

(139)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nevada City, CA

Bright Bear Camp is a private two-acre property bordering Tahoe National Forest. We are located at 4300' elevation down a mostly dirt road along the beautiful Bear River and Bear Valley. This is a very peaceful spot among the trees with a small meadow and creek on the property. As our name suggests, bears are occasionally in the area so keep an eye out. You may also see the spotted owls that live nearby - listen closely for their calls (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Owl/overview). There is much to explore in the area and more with only a short drive to the South Yuba River, Emerald Pools, Lake Spaulding, Donner Pass, Donner Lake, and Truckee.

Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

97%

(358)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Somerset, CA

A six acre organic vineyard & natural winery on 21 acres awaits you at Gold Dust Vineyard. A working natural winery and cidery, come enjoy a glass, relax in the breezes at 2’700 feet. Decomposed granite soils and high elevation make for sweeping views and even better natural wine and cider! We welcome guests year round! Surrounded by nature, there is so much to do! Up in the Foothills, we experience all four seasons! Come relax☮️ March - May 🌸Don’t miss the wildflowers & babbling brooks, steams & rivers June - September 🏞Swimming in the Consumnes River or paddle boarding at Jenkinson Lake September - December 🍂🍁Fall foliage, wine harvest, apple picking and alpaca petting December - March ❄️⛷Snowy hikes, mushroom hunting and quick trips to South Lake Tahoe We accept reservations for wine and cider tastings and typically host guests between the hours of 11 am and 5 pm. Occasionally, during very hot and busy holiday weekends, we will host an evening tasting. We have running water on the side of the winery building. Please note, we are a mom and pop shop with just two of us and our young son running the show. We live on site in a tiny house and use the tasting area as our 'back yard' during off hours. We ask that guests please respect our area and off hours requests. We do not permit live fires or generators.

King Madrone

96%

(28)

4 sites · Tents · Placerville, CA

Learn more about this land: Tent sites are next to the pear orchard. Choose any site. There is no need to meet with the host when you arrive. Follow the red arrows. Do not proceed the home located at 1071 Fruitridge. Look for the Hipcamp sign and red arrow markers and turn left into the orchard lane. Location: Use google maps and locate 1071 Fruitridge Rd in Placerville, CA. When you get to 1071, which is a house on the right side of the paved driveway, look for our Hipcamp sign in red, turn hard right into the orchard and follow the red arrows past a wood barn, and up to a small red shed. At this point you may camp in the meadow next to the shed or you may proceed to the next meadow over to the left (follow red arrows and look for umbrellas). We normally only have one site occupied per evening. Ocaisonally two sites will be occupied. The sites are very private and quiet as this is a large, private ranch. You can park close to your tent site. 2WD / 4WD access weather permitting. We offer 3 sites in a large meadow area. Max of 4 persons per site. RV's welcome but we do not have hookups. RV's will be parked next to our barns surrounded by pear orchards. Fresh drinking water is available in the tent meadow area. Hot showers are now available at $10 extra per nite per site. A gas BBQ is now available at a common area. Please don't move the BBQ. Deer, wild turkeys, geese aplenty. Ample walking opportunities on our ranch and wild forestlands and amazing granite rock outcrops. Visit the South Fork of the American River (you can raft in summer!) Hunt for old gold mines on our place and, maybe, find some new ones! Go wine tasting very close by (Lava Cap, Madrone, Boeger) and visit Sutter's Mill in Coloma, where gold was discovered back in 1848.

Public campgrounds in and near Northern California

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(1)

Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

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Stories from the community

B

Benjamin

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Wisdom eco-preserv

Awesome property. Serene cabin with beautiful wood framing. Host is very hospitable and interesting.

K

Kristi

2 weeks 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!

t

tony

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Ascension Ranch

When you just want to get away from it all, this is it. Green spaces , clean air, lake access, and a bunch of animals on the farm. Trust the process getting there, it’s worth it. Thanks.

I

Inice

2 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

1 night at Websters Farm

Beautiful sunset view and easy access for a safe friendly overnight stopover. Two cute friendly dogs greeted us.

E

Eden

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ariana Acres

Even though the temps were a bit chilly at night, we stayed warm and comfortable! Kristina's communication was excellent and everything was as it was described. We ended up just getting dinner in town since it's so close and direct more time exploring the area.

J

John

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

It's a nice place with beautiful views. The campsites are pretty close together, with many being both RV and car sites. It's not a recipe for a quiet environment, but that's really not expected in these type of campgrounds. I saw several families there, and everyone was having fun (responsibly) and a good time was had by all. The bathroom was clean, as were the campsites. Wildlife was nice in the way of ducks, geese, and very vocal (as always) blue jays. Plenty of woodpeckers as well. My only wildlife complaint might be they have a pretty serious issue with moles tearing up the sites, but it's nothing a fox or coyote couldn't fix.

I

Isaiah

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF

Super awesome site! Kelley greeted us and prepped us with all knowledge of the property. The property itself is gorgeous. Tucked away from everything else and equipped with the basic amenities any site should have. We will definitely be visiting again.

Tianna

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Lake Sonoma

A beautiful spot to land just a short drive from the Bay Area. The views of the lake were mostly obstructed by low lying fog save for a few moments of sun during our stay. But all good...love the fog too. And during a holiday weekend in November, it was sparse with visitors. Just perfect. This site is one of the more private and larger, level sites. Clean porta potties. Few short hikes right from the site. And a short walk/drive to the marina. We decided not to kayak this time but it was so peaceful on the lake. Probably a rare moment. Not sure I would stay here in the prime camping season as the sites seem very close with little privacy and imagine the lake gets busy with boats and jet skis. But we'll surely be back again for late November through winter camping.

Martha

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Camp 🏕 Gold Dust Vineyard

What a BEAUTIFUL property! We loved our stay here and can't wait to come back. Huge recommendation to try the wine and cider tasting while you're there!

Sara

3 weeks ago

14 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Amazing gem! Beautiful. We loved our stay on Finnon’s Lake. The only neighbors we had were the birds and deer.

M

Margaret

3 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at The Ranch at Lake Sonoma

Gorgeous spot! You go to sleep on top of the world and wake up in the clouds. I’ve switched from the site I reserved, 23, to site 9 as all of them were available, lol. The host was very attentive and checked on me a couple of times. Accommodated a late checkout, too. Would return and highly recommend it to anyone looking for neat places to stay.

r

3 weeks ago

19 ft travel trailer

1 night at Websters Farm

Rolled in just as the sun was setting, it was gorgeous. The space was so green, surprising for late fall, and my dogs loved the pup greetings! Easy to find, not far from the freeway, very clean set up, and perfectly quiet, aside from the occasional rooster crowing.

There's a fire pit right outside the yurt :)

m

mary

3 weeks ago

Group trip

1 night at Shangri-La

gorgeous spot and gorgeous tub. thank you andrea! it’s was extremely private and the tub leveled up our experience, now it will feel hard to go camping without one! :P if you’re going in the fall or winter, do NOT skip out on the heater add on. i figured since it was an insulated yurt we would be fine, but we were extremely cold when going to bed! luckily, the water was nice and hot all night in the tub, which was incredible. hope to come back here one day.

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

15 ft Class B

1 night at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Amazing scenery, well kept, and the drive was breathtaking. If you’re not good with narrow roads and tight turns, I would suggest look at the maps before you make your choice. I loved it tho!

M

Mark

November 2025

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

C

Craig

November 2025

19 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Lake Sonoma

The Ranch is amazing! We had a spectacular view of the lake. Nikki was so kind in stopping by to check on us. Location is perfect!

M

Michael

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Beautiful. Clean restrooms. Perfect for families. Perfect size grounds. Easy bookings. Can even have a hammock.

F

Frankenstein

November 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Finnon Lake Recreation Area

Amazing! My stay was so relaxing, pretty much no one else at the lake. There were deer that came through camp once in a while. The bathroom was clean and a great amenity to have, water spigots all over the property. Self check in type situation, easy to find my spot and get myself situated even arriving after dark!

Deborah

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Thanktuary Retreat

The “Thanktuary “was a peaceful place. Our campsite was soft. Had water and a table with umbrella which was helpful due to the rain. We enjoyed walking the grounds, sitting in the hot tub and enjoying the woods.

J

Jack

November 2025

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!