The best camping in Northern California

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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.

94% (2.5K) 1,552 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Northern California

Kosk Creek Campgrounds

1. Kosk Creek Campgrounds

96%
(499)
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.
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Mystic Forest Campground

2. Mystic Forest Campground

98%
(974)
Klamath, CA · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Mystic Forest is a small, family-run campground between Klamath, CA, and Crescent City. We have 50 acres of beautiful forest sprinkled with redwood trees. We have restrooms, showers, a game room, a mini golf course, horseshoes, and a half-mile trail. We are pet-friendly. At the office you can find some grocery and redwoods souvenirs. Our laundry facility will be closed indefinitely for repairs starting on August 10th.
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Finnon Lake Recreation Area

3. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2361)
Placerville, CA · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
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. STRICT CANCELLATION POLICY - CANCEL WITHIN 8 DAYS TO RECEIVE A REFUND. OR CONTACT HIPCAMP TO CHANGE YOUR DATES. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060. Hours Change. 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. Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe: Make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions. Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area! 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.
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Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

93%
(255)
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%
(137)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
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Harvest Moon Homestead

6. Harvest Moon Homestead

Willow Creek, CA · 2 sites
Nestled on 4 peaceful acres in the heart of the mountains, our farm offers a quiet, immersive stay surrounded by natural beauty and working land. Three acres are dedicated to our vineyard, with the remaining space home to our cut-flower farm, fruit and food production. Guests can stay in our cozy 12-ft yurt, a charming rustic cabin, or choose from open sites for RVs and tent camping - each offering a slightly different way to experience the landscape. Wake up to birdsong, wander through the grape vines and flower field, and take in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and nearby national forest. Our small boutique winery and farm is located right on the property, offering a unique opportunity to experience a farm and vineyard in one place. Depending on the season, guests may catch a glimpse of harvest, floral design work, or everyday farm life in motion. Just a short walk away, you’ll find access to the river - perfect for cooling off on hot days, relaxing by the water, or enjoying a slow morning with coffee in hand. The area is rich with opportunities for hiking, exploring, and reconnecting with nature. This is a working farm, so you can expect a lived-in, authentic experience -complete with changing seasons, active growing spaces, and the occasional farm dog passing by. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, a romantic getaway, or a basecamp for outdoor adventure, our farm offers a grounded, beautiful place to land. The yurt and cabin both have electricity for lighting and basic needs, offering a comfortable stay while still feeling connected to the outdoors. The bathroom is a short walk away in a detached outdoor half bath with a flushing toilet and sink please note there is no shower, so plan accordingly for your stay. Guests are welcome to use our shared workspace kitchen with a refrigerator, as well as an outdoor kitchen with a propane stovetop for simple cooking. There is also an outdoor dining space to enjoy your meals, including a shaded spot beneath our table grape trellis, one of our favorite places to gather and relax. We also share the space with three friendly farm dogs and a cat who roam the property and love meeting guests. For the safety of our animals, we’re not able to accommodate guest pets.
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Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

7. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

96%
(5361)
Caspar, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on 33 acres of coastal meadows and forest, Jug Handle Creek Nature Center is a peaceful, nature-centered campground with a rich history and a truly unique landscape. Saved from development in the 1970s, Jug Handle now stands as a thriving nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to education, restoration, and connection with the natural world. Just a five-minute walk from Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle Beach, and the renowned Ecological Staircase Trail - a rare geological formation that reveals 500,000 years of coastal history - you’ll find yourself immersed in one of Mendocino County’s most remarkable environments. We offer 11 spacious campsites, each with two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two vehicles, and plenty of room for tents. Spread out across open meadows and forest edges, the sites offer privacy, quiet, and the soothing sounds of nature. Explore on-site nature trails, a native plant nursery, and beautiful woodlands, or simply relax beneath the stars. A few important things to note: Due to the close proximity of neighboring livestock, as well as the bountiful wildlife that call this special place home, PETS ARE NO LONGER PERMITTED on the premises. Firewood is not provided, though there are several roadside stands nearby where it is available for purchase. You'll be pretty independent here. We provide self-check-in for your convenience. Directions and access information (including the bathroom code!) will be messaged to you prior to your stay. Jug Handle is the perfect place to unplug. There is NO WIFI and LIMITED/NO CELL SERVICE.
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Cosumnes River Ranch

8. Cosumnes River Ranch

99%
(1922)
Plymouth, CA · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California. As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed. Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit! Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore. *Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*
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Feather River Hot Springs

9. Feather River Hot Springs

100%
(8)
Twain, CA · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Feather River Hot Springs offers you a stunning and serene mountain getaway. We are located on State Highway 70 along the East Branch of the North Fork of the Feather River in the canyon. There are 5 tent sites and 5 RV sites, as well as 3 cabins available for your stay. All very close to the river. Overnight stays include the use of a natural sulphur hot springs beside the Feather River. It is small, accommodating six persons max at one time. Guests are able to book a private reservation for two or more for $120. Young children are not allowed in or at the Springs, must be teens and up. There is a sign up board for shared soaks at check in cabin. The Springs are a short walk from the RV sites and camping. Swimsuits required, no glass containers, smoking or pets. There are three cabins that sleep max of two adults. Pets are not allowed. They are nonsmoking cabins. The cabins are very close to one another. There is a shared outdoor cooking area. Five tent sites of different sizes are all along the river. Five RV sites as well to accommodate from small trailers to 40’ . Please check accommodations size before booking. Pets are welcome in RV and camping areas but must be on a leash at all times. Limit one pet per site. Aggressive dogs or excessive barking is not permitted and you will be asked to leave. Pets are not allowed down at the tubs. Campfires are by request, weather permitting. Quiet time is from 10pm to 9am. Excessively loud music not allowed. This is a very small resort, a mutual respect for all guests and the property is a top priority. This has been my home for over 15 years, it’s not a facility. Campfires are allowed by request and are dependent on weather conditions. You must bring your own cut wood, no bigger than 24” or purchase wood here. Foraging for firewood is not allowed. Campfires cannot be left unattended and must be out completely before you check out. Quaint and rustic but often referred to as magical. Not just a stopover on your way to somewhere else but hopefully a destination that you will want to return to again and again. Spring, summer or fall there’s always something new to experience on the Feather River!
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Full hookups
Plumas National Forest

10. Plumas National Forest

95%
(67)
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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Potable water
Eldorado National Forest

12. Eldorado National Forest

93%
(136)
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

97%
(29)
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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Klamath’s Best Kept Secret

14. Klamath’s Best Kept Secret

94%
(500)
Klamath, CA · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Tucked away at the edge of the Klamath Glen neighborhood, our family-owned campground has been welcoming guests for over 40 years. Surrounded by towering trees in the heart of Redwood National Forest and just a few minutes from the Pacific Ocean, this is a true hidden gem on California’s North Coast. We offer a rustic, old-fashioned camping experience. It’s a mix of open field and scattered trees, with both RVs and tent campers on site. Neighbors will be nearby, but the vibe is quiet and relaxed—especially in the off-season, when you might have the place nearly to yourself. The Klamath River is just over the levee—a short walk from your site—with great access for fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water. The river is world-famous for salmon and steelhead fishing (license required). August and September are peak fishing months, so expect a few early morning engines from folks heading out. We’re only 4 miles off Highway 101, far enough to enjoy peace and quiet without traffic noise. Wildlife is part of the experience here, so please stash your food at night to keep critters out of camp. Outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore nearby—hiking and biking trails, the Trees of Mystery, Jet Boat Tours, and, of course, miles of redwood forest to get lost in. A few things to note: We are curruntly doing renovations at the far side of the park . it is done on the weekends , except on Holidays ,from 9am til 5pm ,because that is the only time my son gets off work from his job, sorry for any inconvenience. We are hoping to be done before August 2026. Firewood available Cell service can be spotty, depending on your carrier. Free Wi-Fi is available and reaches most of the campground. Electric car charging is $10 per charge. Please arrange ahead of time—50 amp service is limited, and you’ll need your own adapters. Well-behaved pets are welcome. Kids and laughter are always welcome. Dry camping, 30 Amp and 50 Amp pull-through sites available if you are going to be coming in after 10pm , just shoot me a text and let me know and I will give you instructions as long as you send me the text before 9:00 PM
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Mill Creek Resort

15. Mill Creek Resort

98%
(2300)
Mineral, CA · 32 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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Full hookups
Ascension Ranch

16. Ascension Ranch

93%
(506)
Pilot Hill, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Root's End

17. Root's End

96%
(331)
Mendocino, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!
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Heartwood Mendocino

18. Heartwood Mendocino

99%
(547)
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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Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

19. Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

95%
(595)
Somerset, CA · 10 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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Timber Cove Campground

20. Timber Cove Campground

94%
(333)
Jenner, CA · 15 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. 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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Northern California camping 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can camp along the Sacramento River at various designated campgrounds and parks. Remember to follow all rules and regulations at each campground, and make reservations if required. Additionally, always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the environment and maintain the beauty of the Sacramento River.

The best time of year to go camping in Northern California is typically during the late spring, summer, and early fall months. More specifically, May through October offers the most favorable weather conditions for camping, with temperatures ranging from mild to warm and a lower likelihood of rain. During these months, you can enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and wildlife spotting. However, it's essential to consider that popular campgrounds may be more crowded during the peak summer months of June, July, and August. To avoid crowds, consider camping during the shoulder seasons of May and September.

For more information on camping in Northern California, visit Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field