The best river, stream, or creek camping in Northern California

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Looking for a camping experience by the river in Northern California? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 2400 options available in Northern California alone, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventurous trip, our top campsites like Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), and Mill Creek Resort (638 reviews) will exceed your expectations. Enjoy popular amenities such as campfires, pet-friendly sites, and trash services. Explore historic sites, go hiking, or try your hand at climbing. With an average price per night of $70 and options starting as low as $10, camping by the river has never been more affordable!

93% (2.3K) • 917 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Northern California

Kosk Creek Campgrounds

1. Kosk Creek Campgrounds

96%
(858)
Big Bend, CA · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 400 acre ranch nestled in the mountains of Shasta County. There is a mile long creek that runs through the property. We have multiple hot spring pools ranging in various temperatures. Dry and overland campsites available. Activities: Boating, hiking, kayaking, 4x4, mountain bike, and fishing. Notice we are first come first serve campground currently. there are NO numbered sites, camp wherever you feel comfortable. Iron Canyon Reservoir is a lake located 2 miles behind campground, fishing is great and you can go boating, jet skiing, or stand up paddling / kayaking, it has mountain biking trails around it. NOTE From June 10th thru September or October, Shasta County and Dept of Forestry DOES NOT ALLOW WOOD OR CHARCOAL FIRES. We are a high risk fire zone. We hope you understand. WE kARE PACK IT IN / PACK IT OUT trash
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Timber Cove Campground

2. Timber Cove Campground

94%
(500)
Jenner, CA · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Located right off coastal US highway 1, Timber Cove campground sits right at the edge of breathtaking, oceanside cliffs. We are situated on roughly two acres of land, with multiple campsites for tent/car camping or RV’s. Each bluff campsite has a picnic table, fire pit and water. Electricity is available to use for an extra fee. The beach and waterfall campsites do not have picnic tables so you might want to bring one if you’ve booked there. There is no garbage service so please pack your own garbage home with you. We have separate men’s and women’s flush bathrooms, with coin-operated hot showers. We have firewood with kindling for sale on site, payable with cash or Venmo.. Please take note of local fire bans, when in effect. Dog friendly, though be advised a leash is recommended as we are close to the road, but they can run leash-free down at the beach. We are located 30 minutes north of the town of Jenner, with Gualala 30 minutes to the north. Gualala has grocery stores, a post office, and some shops. Fort Ross Store is located one mile down the road, just before Timber Cove, and sells basic food necessities, drinks, sandwiches, ice and gas. Internet cell service can be spotty in our area, depending on your provider, so bring your own Starlink services if you have them. We also have access to the beach below, and offer beach camping as well. Take note that the road down to the beach is steep with uneven terrain. The weather can vary quickly here, so be sure to bring multiple layers of clothing and camp gear for various types of weather, and headlamps are useful for getting around the property at night! We hope you’ll come visit our little slice of heaven on the ocean cliffs, gaze at the stars, marvel at the sunsets, watch the harbor seals dozing on their rocks and the many bird species that inhabit our property. Bring your binoculars and watch out for whales too! We look forward to hosting you at Timber Cove. Please email with any questions about camping with us. Address: 21350 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450
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Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

3. Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

95%
(699)
Somerset, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
There is NOTHING like being in the wilderness of this area for a good re-centering of the soul! We have found it to be a true blessing for our family, and we hope you can experience this blessing as we share this space with you. We feel certain you will not be disappointed with our beautiful river canyon. Our property is situated right on the middle fork Cosumnes river. The swimming is awesome and the stars at night will put you into a state of awe! In the area there are many family owned wineries in the area, most of them offering free tasting! It’s a short drive to Tahoe and the Marshall gold discovery site as well as the historic hangtown Placerville. We are happy to make suggestions for local hiking areas, like the Devil's Slide "Gorge" only a 15 minute drive but like a trip to mini Yosemite. The Caldor Fire was VERY close to our property and a back burn was initiated nearby the our house (literally 200' away!). Our property became a pivotal point of fighting the fire in our community known as the “Ant Hill Army”. Ask us about the story!
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Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

92%
(264)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

5. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%
(140)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
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RockNWater Cove Camping

6. RockNWater Cove Camping

98%
(792)
Lotus, CA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway with a few close friends or your family, this option is for you. Tucked in along the South Fork of the American River, this beautiful campsite features picnic benches, a propane fire pit with propane included (fire pits help prevent wildfires), and a prep table for fixing up those tasty fireside meals in group sites. Guests also have access to shared bathroom facilities (and yes, there are showers!), volleyball, ping pong, communal benches, a sink and dishwashing station, and a common swimming area along the river. Most sites are within a very short walking distance to the banks of the South Fork of the American River, this place is ideal for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty of the foothills and the rush of the river. We offer both tent and RV sites. Each RV site includes its own picnic table, water and 30Amp power hookups. Guests will also have access to our volleyball court, ping pong, communal benches, and a common area with a sink and dishwashing station. Additionally, you can access the swim area and go for a dip to cool off on a hot day. We offer toilets, showers, trash disposal, potable water and more depending on the site you chose. Leashed pets 40 pounds or less are allowed as well. Enjoy biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, climbing, swimming, whitewater rafting, and wildlife watching all nearby, or on site. **Please read rules: 1. Use of or participation in any of the following while on camp grounds is prohibited during your stay: ● Illegal drugs ● Smoking ● Public intoxication ● Fireworks ● No Charcoal 2. Pets/Animals: Guests at our RV sites are permitted to have up to 1 small dog (under 40lbs). Dogs must be leashed at all times when outside the RV. As a courtesy to both staff and fellow guests, please pick up after your pets. 3. Noise Restrictions: Due to policies that govern campgrounds guests are asked to refrain from playing amplified music or running generators. 10PM-8AM quiet hours. 4. Please refrain from cursing or using obscene language, particularly while in the presence of minors. 5. Water Safety: There is no lifeguard on duty. Minors must be supervised by an adult AT ALL TIMES when near the water.
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Heartwood Mendocino

7. Heartwood Mendocino

99%
(613)
Mendocino, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place. Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins, camp sites and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. The redwood tree shower must not be missed! This is a very special experience for us to share with you. We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike or a beach day and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet! Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!" Please remember that we are in the woods and there is wildlife around. We don't want them to get into your food items, and recommend that you place food items in the enclosed common room or in the critter proof cupboards in the outdoor kitchen.
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Chinook RV Resort

8. Chinook RV Resort

82%
(129)
Klamath, CA · 43 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
“Welcome to Chinook RV Resort” We would like to welcome you to Chinook RV Resort. We would like to invite you to come and stay with us as you travel along the famous Highway 101 through the Redwood Forest. There are warm lake-front fires in the evenings where we would like to meet you and welcome you to our park.
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Terwer RV Park

9. Terwer RV Park

95%
(638)
Klamath, CA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Terwer RV Park, a family-owned campground tucked near Klamath Glen on California’s beautiful North Coast. This little park has been welcoming campers for more than 40 years, and our family is honored to help carry it into its next chapter. My husband and I, along with our two young children, are working to keep the simple charm of Terwer alive while making thoughtful improvements along the way. Around here, we like to call it Klamath’s Best Kept Secret. Terwer RV Park is the kind of place that is getting harder to find. It is simple, peaceful, and full of old-fashioned campground charm. We are not a luxury resort, and we do not try to be. What makes this place special is the open space, the quiet mornings, the scattered trees, the fresh coastal air, and the slower pace that makes you want to sit outside just a little longer. The Klamath River is just over the levee, only a short walk from camp. It is a beautiful place to fish, swim, explore, or simply sit and enjoy the water. The river is known for salmon and steelhead fishing, and a valid fishing license is required. During peak fishing season, especially in August and September, you may hear early morning activity from guests heading out to the river. We are located about 4 miles off Highway 101, close enough to be convenient but far enough away to feel tucked away from the rush. Wildlife is common in the area, so please secure your food and trash at night. There is so much to explore nearby. Guests love visiting Redwood National and State Parks, Trees of Mystery, Klamath River Jet Boat Tours, coastal viewpoints, hiking trails, biking routes, and quiet places to wander among the redwoods. A few things to know before you book: * Firewood is available on site. * Cell service can be spotty depending on your carrier. Free Wi-Fi is available and reaches most of the campground. * Electric vehicle charging is $20 per charge and must be arranged ahead of time. 50 amp service is limited, and guests must provide their own adapters. * Well-behaved pets are welcome. * Kids, laughter, bikes, campfires, and simple outdoor fun are always welcome. * We offer dry camping, 30 amp sites, and 50 amp pull-through sites. * Late arrivals are okay. If you plan to arrive after 10:00 p.m., please text us before 9:00 p.m. so we can send check-in instructions. Terwer RV Park is rustic, peaceful, and easygoing. It is a place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, walk to the river, and enjoy the kind of camping that feels simple in the best way. We look forward to welcoming you.
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Plumas National Forest

10. Plumas National Forest

95%
(68)
National forest in California · 821 sites
Hike, cross-country ski, or even drive into the deep wilderness of this Sierra Nevada forest.
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Klamath National Forest

11. Klamath National Forest

91%
(28)
National forest in California · 288 sites
Explore the pristine wilderness bordering California and Oregon among the Klamath Mountains.
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Eldorado National Forest

12. Eldorado National Forest

92%
(141)
National forest in California · 980 sites
Sierra Nevada gem offers lush forests, lakes, rivers, and peaks for year-round outdoor adventures.
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Six Rivers National Forest

13. Six Rivers National Forest

94%
(31)
National forest in California · 281 sites
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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Mariposa Institute

14. Mariposa Institute

100%
(23)
Ukiah, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The land spans 115 acres of mixed oak woodlands with a seasonal creek running through it. Formerly an alternative school, the property features several unique buildings, including two indoor sleeping spaces (with a combination of single and bunk beds), a fully functional kitchen, and two full bathrooms. Guests can stay indoors or camp and will enjoy hiking to the upper meadow, dipping in the creek, and soaking in the peace and quiet.
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Redwood Family Camp

15. Redwood Family Camp

90%
(64)
Scotia, CA · 49 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Set into the beautiful and serene redwoods right at the entrance of the Ave. Of the Giants, exit 676 off Hwy. 101. We are located on the east side of Hwy. 101 at 385 North Road. We are located next to the Eel River with river access just yards down the road. We have a small store, laundry room, playground and hot showers.
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Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

16. Camp Electra in Mokelumne Hill

93%
(45)
Mokelumne Hill, CA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Meander through Historic Mokelumne Hill also known as Moke Hill to locals. Listen to music and have a drink on weekends at the Renegade Winery. Explore the Mokelumne river up Electra road. Plenty to see and experience all within walking distance. Mokelumne Hill is a quant town with lots of charm in the heart of the Gold Country. Bring your own tent or your small RV and campout at our rig site or "glamp" in our vintage VW "Choncho".
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Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

17. Bigfoot Lodging Vacation Rentals

95%
(194)
Shingletown, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Wendy & John Farm

18. Wendy & John Farm

100%
(677)
Ferndale, CA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
My aunt and uncle bought the property in 1947 from its first European settler, Paolo Gabrielli, who immigrated in early 1914 from northern Italy with slips of his grapevine in the lining of his coat. (The grapevine still grows over the back deck.) What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping). Free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit. Or total solitude. Bring your (most non-cattle-chasing breeds) dogs if you wish (males must be neutered). Starlink internet. Walk to the beach of our wild ocean along a no-shoulder country road. We have no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites and no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.) We offer homemade soup, cobbler, fresh bread, morning coffee as extras; you can order with the booking. The Victorian village of Ferndale is three miles east, as is a beautifully maintained 110-acre town wilderness with hiking trails called Russ Park. A 150-year-old cemetery slopes down a hillside & is filled with 19th century charm and history. Shops and restaurants welcome visitors. There are several bars/a wine bar/and a historic saloon that's as old boy as it was in 1890. A music venue in a restored 19th century church has amazing acoustics and attracts international talent as a top-notch venue (sessions are filmed for PBS) midway between Portland and San Francisco. So, it's a mix of town and country, village and farm, wilderness and bewilderedness. Safe, safe, safe, meaning: you can leave your belongings in your site and when you come back... they're still there :) One caveat: please arrive before dark. There is no electricity in the campgrounds, and no generators are allowed. You will not be able to reach (or maybe even locate) your site without disturbing others. This is a place of beauty, love, and laughter; we welcome the world.
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Mill Creek Resort

19. Mill Creek Resort

97%
(1475)
Mineral, CA · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome! We’re Jillian and Joe, along with our sidekicks Sonora, Ayla and Rosalyn the brains and the brawn behind Mill Creek Resort. Since 2017, we have been pouring every ounce of our love and energy into this landmark 1930’s resort. We take great pride in honoring it's rich history while creating a space for the next generation of mountain adventurers. Nestled in 12 acres of cedars and towering pines on the south side of Lassen Volcanic National Park, we offer 9 cabins open year-round, along with 20 campsites, some featuring glamping tents and 8 RV spots, two featuring a vintage 70's trailer and 2015 modern RV. We hope your path leads you here to experience all that Lassen has to offer. Miles of trails, pristine waters, dark skies, and wildlife abound, all awaiting to be discovered. Find your Wild, be kind, and leave no trace.
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Strange Ranch - River and Gold

20. Strange Ranch - River and Gold

99%
(196)
Wilseyville, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Secluded private river and forest camping on the South Fork Mokelumne River. The site has incredible views and a pristine private gold-bearing trout stream with Native American and gold mining history located in the Sierra Nevada foothills of northern Calaveras County. This unique property is adjacent to over 900 acres of public land and 2 miles of private stream for exploring. With a total of only 6 campsites, it is a great location for larger groups as well. All campsites have potable water spigots, 20 amps of electricity, and access to the river and cold/cool shower. Guests enjoy the ranch while swimming, floating, snorkeling, stream exploring, hiking, gold mine spelunking, forest immersion, birding, catch-and-release fishing for wild trout (excluding warmer water season from late June to mid-August), gold panning, or simply relaxing in a breathtaking environment – come fall in love with this special private ranch. After one stay, you will be a repeat guest. PLEASE NOTE: A 4-Wheel Drive vehicle or high clearance All-Wheel Drive vehicle is MANDATORY to access campsites 1, 2, 3, and 5 - while strictly 4-wd vehicles are MANDATORY to access site 6 due to the road incline and rock and gravel road surface. PLEASE PREPARE ACCORDINGLY. Campsite 4 is accessible with a 2-wd vehicle, but the steep and longer walk to the river and shower typically required an All-WD or 4-WD vehicle. Sites have beautiful open views of the property and river canyon with natural shade in the morning and late afternoon. Although shade structures have been constructed at Campsites 1, 3, and 4, the other sites are partially shaded by trees during portions of the day. Consider providing your own additional shade structure(s) as the direct sun can be an inconvenience at each site. Pets are limited to one large dog OR two small to medium sized dogs per campsite. There is a strict policy that all pet owners pick up waste from their dogs and that dogs be quiet, well-mannered, and under immediate control at all times so as not to disturb other campers. Please be aware that some wildlife species including rattlesnakes, skunks, mountain lions, and bears (very seldom) have been observed on the 117-acre property and could potentially be observed near the campsites. Manage your waste responsibly.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field