Discover the best campgrounds in Northern California with wildlife watching

United States
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California
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Northern California

94% (2094 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Northern California

Available this weekend

94%

(34)

Star Hosts in Northern California

98%

(2169)

Mill Creek Resort

48 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Mineral, CA

Welcome! We’re Jillian and Joe, along with our sidekicks Sonora + Ayla, 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 17 campsites, some featuring glamping tents and 8 RV spots, one 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.

98%

(65)

Corning Oaks

2 sites · RVs20 acres · Corning, CA

This particular property has been in the family for four generations now. It was in the past a producing walnut orchard that is now past its prime. The orchard is now home to a couple of horses and few wild turkeys. The property location is great for anyone traveling up or down Interstate 5 as we are located about two miles east of the interstate. The Sacramento River is five miles to the east and the Rolling Hills Casino is not too far away. The city of Chico is about 20 minutes away to the south and Lassen National Park and Shasta Lake are not too far north of the property. The site is perfectly located for numerous day long adventures. Enjoy. Learn more about this land: Bring your self contained RV or Camper to a place that is an easy on and off stay near Interstate 5 and just south of the town of Corning. Your space is near a couple of huge valley oak trees and a pasture in an older walnut orchard. You will be the only camper on the property. Every once in a while a few wild turkeys or a fox will wander through the area. The Sacramento River and the Rolling Hills Casino are 5 minutes away, not to mention Lassen National Park, Lake Shasta and the town of Chico nearby.

Trinity River FlyCamp

4 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Lewiston, CA

FlyCamp is Trinty River front property surrounded by BLM land and Salmon spawning pond, adjacent to a federally maintained drift boat launch and bathroom. This stretch of river is classified as Wild and Scenic and is legendary for its salmon, steelhead and Brown Trout fishing by drift boat starting from the Old Bridge in Lewiston or from the property ending at the Steel Bridge take out, or wading the more than 2 mile of river front. The natural beauty of the Trinity River has been one of the most popular sights for visitors to the north coast. Scenic Highway 299 makes easy access to many points of interest. Rafts, canoes and kayaks frequent the rapids in the springtime, and tubers enjoy summertime flows.

99%

(899)

Maple Creek Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Cohasset, CA

This year, the Park Fire has brought some changes to our surroundings, but we’re thrilled to share that our camp sites, pond area, and homes were miraculously untouched! 🌲✨ Here’s what you can expect during your stay: - Mud Creek Canyon: While this area was most affected by the fire, it remains a good spot for hiking and exploring. - The Pond: It’s looking beautiful, and we’re actively working to restore the stream that feeds it. Enjoy the serene environment as nature continues to flourish. - Ongoing Restoration: We’re committed to rejuvenating the land and ensuring your experience remains as wonderful as ever. ================= The Maple Creek Ranch and Tree Farm has been family owned and operated since 1934. The patriarch of the family, whose family had moved here from Sweden, had a great love of the forest and trains. The property was one of the first certified tree farms in California with the goal of nurturing a healthy forest. In the 1960’s, a mile of railroad tracks was laid and the whistle of a small, steam engine train could be heard throughout the community. Local residents and kids were treated to free train rides and special events for many years. There is a natural spring with a small creek that supplies the ponds with fresh water year around. There is also a small canyon on the property with a larger stream called Mud Creek. The land is rich in Indian history and there a artifacts and other signs on the Indians presence. The Cohasset area is relatively unknown. 15 miles from our property is Deer Creek and the Lasson National Forest is about a 2 hour drive north. While staying with us you can pitch your tent on our private 500 acres. We have 2 primitive camping spots on our property. Each spot has a picnic table and fire pit. There is a flush toilet shared for both camp sites. * During freezing weather the toilets may be closed so they don’t freeze! Please check before booking *The spots are spread out to ensure privacy. Our property is surrounded by the forest and is loaded with deer, squirrels, turkeys and other forest animals. We have numerous walking trails, a fresh water pond for fishing and swimming. Please notify us if you have an RV. Site 1 is best for RV's. Site 2 can accommodate smaller RV's.

Tambo Ranch Tiny House Village

3 sites · Lodging14 acres · Paradise, CA

Welcome to our rustic retreat in rural Butte County, a haven we've called home since 1997. Nestled on 14 acres, our family farm offers a unique camping experience where you and your children can embrace the freedom to run and explore. Walk the property and connect with nature while visiting our alpaca, sheep, kittens, dog, and chickens. Take a leisurely stroll down a country road or stargaze under the clear night sky from the open circle of Adirondack chairs. Bask in the tranquility of this quiet country space, where fresh air abounds. Our location is a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures such as the Feather River, Lake Oroville, Lassen Volcanic Park and Table Mountain, and is just 22 minutes from downtown Chico and Cal State University, Chico. Discover local gems like the Bidwell Mansion, Bidwell Park, Lime Saddle Marina, Butte Creek Canyon, and the Honey Run Covered Bridge, all within a short drive. Paradise is known for its antiquing, mountain biking, and kayaking, and many enjoy its historic biking and walking trail along the old railroad line. Visit the Paradise Depot Museum, or the Gold Nugget Museum for a trip back in time. While you're surrounded by nature, enjoy the convenience of great cell service and Wi-Fi, perfect for streaming on our smart TVs with our fiber optic service. Should you need anything during your stay – be it a Band-Aid, needle and thread, or kitchen essentials – simply let us know. Our property is home to playful kittens and our friendly border collie, Caspian, who roams freely. If preferred, Caspian can be kenneled upon request. Escape to our farm stay and experience the best of rural living with modern comforts. Your adventure awaits!

12 top campgrounds in Northern California with wildlife watching

99%

(899)

Maple Creek Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Cohasset, CA

This year, the Park Fire has brought some changes to our surroundings, but we’re thrilled to share that our camp sites, pond area, and homes were miraculously untouched! 🌲✨ Here’s what you can expect during your stay: - Mud Creek Canyon: While this area was most affected by the fire, it remains a good spot for hiking and exploring. - The Pond: It’s looking beautiful, and we’re actively working to restore the stream that feeds it. Enjoy the serene environment as nature continues to flourish. - Ongoing Restoration: We’re committed to rejuvenating the land and ensuring your experience remains as wonderful as ever. ================= The Maple Creek Ranch and Tree Farm has been family owned and operated since 1934. The patriarch of the family, whose family had moved here from Sweden, had a great love of the forest and trains. The property was one of the first certified tree farms in California with the goal of nurturing a healthy forest. In the 1960’s, a mile of railroad tracks was laid and the whistle of a small, steam engine train could be heard throughout the community. Local residents and kids were treated to free train rides and special events for many years. There is a natural spring with a small creek that supplies the ponds with fresh water year around. There is also a small canyon on the property with a larger stream called Mud Creek. The land is rich in Indian history and there a artifacts and other signs on the Indians presence. The Cohasset area is relatively unknown. 15 miles from our property is Deer Creek and the Lasson National Forest is about a 2 hour drive north. While staying with us you can pitch your tent on our private 500 acres. We have 2 primitive camping spots on our property. Each spot has a picnic table and fire pit. There is a flush toilet shared for both camp sites. * During freezing weather the toilets may be closed so they don’t freeze! Please check before booking *The spots are spread out to ensure privacy. Our property is surrounded by the forest and is loaded with deer, squirrels, turkeys and other forest animals. We have numerous walking trails, a fresh water pond for fishing and swimming. Please notify us if you have an RV. Site 1 is best for RV's. Site 2 can accommodate smaller RV's.

Tambo Ranch Tiny House Village

3 sites · Lodging14 acres · Paradise, CA

Welcome to our rustic retreat in rural Butte County, a haven we've called home since 1997. Nestled on 14 acres, our family farm offers a unique camping experience where you and your children can embrace the freedom to run and explore. Walk the property and connect with nature while visiting our alpaca, sheep, kittens, dog, and chickens. Take a leisurely stroll down a country road or stargaze under the clear night sky from the open circle of Adirondack chairs. Bask in the tranquility of this quiet country space, where fresh air abounds. Our location is a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures such as the Feather River, Lake Oroville, Lassen Volcanic Park and Table Mountain, and is just 22 minutes from downtown Chico and Cal State University, Chico. Discover local gems like the Bidwell Mansion, Bidwell Park, Lime Saddle Marina, Butte Creek Canyon, and the Honey Run Covered Bridge, all within a short drive. Paradise is known for its antiquing, mountain biking, and kayaking, and many enjoy its historic biking and walking trail along the old railroad line. Visit the Paradise Depot Museum, or the Gold Nugget Museum for a trip back in time. While you're surrounded by nature, enjoy the convenience of great cell service and Wi-Fi, perfect for streaming on our smart TVs with our fiber optic service. Should you need anything during your stay – be it a Band-Aid, needle and thread, or kitchen essentials – simply let us know. Our property is home to playful kittens and our friendly border collie, Caspian, who roams freely. If preferred, Caspian can be kenneled upon request. Escape to our farm stay and experience the best of rural living with modern comforts. Your adventure awaits!

Mill Creek Resort

48 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Mineral, CA

Welcome! We’re Jillian and Joe, along with our sidekicks Sonora + Ayla, 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 17 campsites, some featuring glamping tents and 8 RV spots, one 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.

98%

(440)

Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · 122.928142, CA

Private Tent Camping: under the stars. Park at your campsite! Community areas, swimming holes, creek running through ALL campsites, shared lodge & rustic accommodations. No fee for children or dogs~ Follow for update tweets @ResortTrinity Trinity Outpost Wilderness is a private campground that is committed to the land-sharing ethos of Hipcamp preserving ecology and defending habitat for wildlife and pollinators. The mineral springs and trails are open to the public during the daytime. We also host with WWOOF, we have many cultural exchange volunteers helping us bring life back to this historic land building an organic farm and sustainable inclusive community. The campground is your to book but is also surrounded by National Forest Land which belongs to everyone. We expect zero exceptions to the leave no trace standards we have put forward for our private land share. Fall asleep stargazing under a dark sky, surrounded by trees, water and wildlife. Wake up to birds chirping then a 10 min hike to visit the Cold mineral springs bubbling out of the mountainside, attracting many types of wildlife along with people seeking out the healing properties of the sulfur scented spring water. Sacred healing mineral spring "Deadshot" named by the native peoples for its ability to cure all ailments with 'one shot'. Nipisum or 'health water' was later bottled by the California Medicinal Springs Co. after the land was homesteaded in 1886. This historic retreat rests at the foot of lower Chanchelulla 'black rock' Mountain. Bordering a Wilderness Area this land is pristine and wild inhabited by many animals and incredible bio-diversity such as Pileated Woodpeckers, Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle, Blackhawk, Goshawk, Great Horned Owl, Flying Squirrel, Pacific King Snake, Salamanders and Protected Spawning Rainbow Trout. 100+ acres with private hiking trails along the stream for easy trekking, and summit trails (climbing up to almost 6,000 ft.) to the peak. Our aim is to restore the land from the last 100 years of habitation using innovation to renovate the campground and baths for the next 100 years. With your help we hope to revitalize the community of Trinity County, as well as educate and generate support for WILDERNESS, public forest lands and the agencies that manage them.

94%

(134)

Peter's Forest Vacation Rentals

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Shingletown, CA

Living Springs Resort, 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 and a year round creek with fish on the property where you can relax in the natural & peaceful wooded setting . Quiet and beautiful place to enjoy with your friends and family. Guests from all backgrounds are welcome.The "LIVE" well water is drinkable and extremely clean straight out of the volcanic ground without anything added to it, lab tested every month.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 Lassen National Volcanic Park.

Websters Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Orland, CA

My dad bought the farm in 1975 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 hope to have it up and running strong again soon. Hopefully have a produce stand or 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 sign 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. 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

Eucalyptus Forest & Mountain Views

31 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Elk Creek, CA

Eucalyptus Forest and Mountain Views on an old lumber mill property.

Trinity River FlyCamp

4 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Lewiston, CA

FlyCamp is Trinty River front property surrounded by BLM land and Salmon spawning pond, adjacent to a federally maintained drift boat launch and bathroom. This stretch of river is classified as Wild and Scenic and is legendary for its salmon, steelhead and Brown Trout fishing by drift boat starting from the Old Bridge in Lewiston or from the property ending at the Steel Bridge take out, or wading the more than 2 mile of river front. The natural beauty of the Trinity River has been one of the most popular sights for visitors to the north coast. Scenic Highway 299 makes easy access to many points of interest. Rafts, canoes and kayaks frequent the rapids in the springtime, and tubers enjoy summertime flows.

Corning Oaks

2 sites · RVs20 acres · Corning, CA

This particular property has been in the family for four generations now. It was in the past a producing walnut orchard that is now past its prime. The orchard is now home to a couple of horses and few wild turkeys. The property location is great for anyone traveling up or down Interstate 5 as we are located about two miles east of the interstate. The Sacramento River is five miles to the east and the Rolling Hills Casino is not too far away. The city of Chico is about 20 minutes away to the south and Lassen National Park and Shasta Lake are not too far north of the property. The site is perfectly located for numerous day long adventures. Enjoy. Learn more about this land: Bring your self contained RV or Camper to a place that is an easy on and off stay near Interstate 5 and just south of the town of Corning. Your space is near a couple of huge valley oak trees and a pasture in an older walnut orchard. You will be the only camper on the property. Every once in a while a few wild turkeys or a fox will wander through the area. The Sacramento River and the Rolling Hills Casino are 5 minutes away, not to mention Lassen National Park, Lake Shasta and the town of Chico nearby.

95%

(184)

Grub CSA Farm

2 sites · Tents16 acres · Chico, CA

Grub Farm is a magical place. Come camp on the edge of our organic vegetable farm and sleep under the walnut grove next to river bottom wild land.

94%

(9)

Island Warriors Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Shingletown, CA

Our Hipcamp is nestled in a forest of Pine and Cedar trees on over an acre of land. You'll be surrounded by the sights, smell, and sounds of nature making for a very relaxing getaway. The property is near lakes (Lake McCumber is half a mile away), Lassen Volcanic National Park and Burney Falls, the Eighth Wonder of the World only 45 minutes away. There are neighbors on one side so be courteous and observe the quite hours. Shingletown is a ten minute drive up Highway 44 for all you grocery needs, eating out, and gasoline. Currently we have a portable toilet and shower until a permanent one is built.

95%

(39)

Blue Belly Cabin

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Manton, CA

We found our happy place and want to share it on HipCamp.Blue Belly Cabin is a contactless cabin on 12 acres of land that sleeps 4 comfortably. 1 bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and great room with sleeper sofa. There are fabulous sunrises, sunsets and panoramic mountain views for you to enjoy. It snows sometimes at our cabin but usually stays only a day. Many campers come to our cabin to work while simultaneously enjoying nature right outside the cabin. For the hot days we have a swamp cooler and portable A/C unit so you stay comfortable. For the cold days we have a wood burning stove that heats the big room and keeps you toasty and portable electric heaters for the bedroom and bathroom. We have a heated mattress pad on the bed and an electric blanket for the sleeper sofa and extra comforters. There is a propane fire pit and propane bbq outside for you to enjoy. Blue Belly Cabin is a huge slice of peace. There's a large area outside the cabin where you can pitch tent(s) for more people. Nearby, there are premier fishing spots, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, swimming, waterfalls, national forests, trails to hike, 6 wineries and much more. We are 35 mins from Lassen National Park, 45 mins from Shasta Lake and dam. MacCumber reservoir is 25 mins away. We are 30 mins east of Redbluff and the nearest small town with gas stations, grocery and hardware stores is 17 mins away.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

93%

(32)

Mendocino National Forest

Elk Creek, California

100%

(2)

Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Junction City, California

96%

(67)

Lassen National Forest

Old Station, California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Northern California with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping adventures in Northern California! Whether you're an avid wildlife watcher or just looking for a serene escape, we've got you covered. With over 3,100 camping options in Northern California alone, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your outdoor getaway. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Jug Handle Creek Farm with 1,479 reviews, Finnon Lake Recreation Area with 780 reviews, or Mill Creek Resort with 638 reviews. Our campsites offer popular amenities like trash service, showers, and campfires, so you can enjoy all the comforts of home while immersed in nature. And with activities like exploring historic sites, wind sports, and whitewater paddling, there's never a dull moment. Plus, with prices starting as low as $5 per night and an average price of $65 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Get ready to embark on your next great adventure with Hipcamp!