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The best camping in California

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Golden coasts. Redwood forests. Fiery desert canyons. Alpine lakes framed by snowy peaks. But the best memories are in the details—seeing a gray whale breach off the rugged north coast, feeling the sun on your face on a Southern California shore, or maybe enjoying s’mores beside the crystal waters of Lake Tahoe. Trails climb from campgrounds to immense granite domes in Yosemite while Joshua trees beckon for attention in the eastern deserts. The best part? There’s somewhere amazing to camp year-round.

94% (97.7K) 56,276 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in California

Splitrock Farm and Retreat

1. Splitrock Farm and Retreat

95%
(1962)
Fallbrook, CA · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
About Splitrock Farm and Retreat Far Away, Close to Home Instagram page @splitrockfarmandretreat. Tag your photos #splitrockfarmandretreat #SplitrockFAR #farawayclosetohome Or, contact the Camp Host through Hipcamp direct message. Splitrock Farm and Retreat started in January 2021 after a global search of a place to set roots, live off the land, and create an amazing place for recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Splitrock was part of a 160-acre avocado farm that prospered from 1970 to 2017, generating over 1million pounds of avocados per year until the previous owners switched off the water in 2017. Ben purchased 101 acres in 2021 with plans to harvest the dead avocado trees for firewood and replant with organic, sustainable crops such as grapes, citrus trees, and flowers. Splitrock's attraction comes from its unique groves, magnificent granite boulders, and sweeping vistas. Mixed within the avocado groves are several ancient groves and solitary trees that include 150+ foot tall pines, hundreds of old oaks, and soaring palms. Freckled throughout the hillsides are thousands of humongous granite boulders, offering a prehistoric feel to the landscape. Above all, Splitrock offers unrivaled views. Over 40 miles of coastline includes views to Point Loma, the Carlsbad power station, and the Pendleton Hospital. To the northeast are views of near 11K foot snowy peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, with rolling hills of De Luz and Fallbrook in the foreground.
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Mystic Forest Campground

2. Mystic Forest Campground

98%
(1119)
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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Kosk Creek Campgrounds

3. Kosk Creek Campgrounds

96%
(720)
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. 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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Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

93%
(259)
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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Inyo National Forest

5. Inyo National Forest

96%
(457)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
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Finnon Lake Recreation Area

6. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2530)
Placerville, CA · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
For everyone’s safety, campers under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. 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 Mosquito Fire Protection District's fire protection efforts 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 27-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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The Retreat At Redwood Shores

7. The Retreat At Redwood Shores

79%
(24)
Bayside, CA · 119 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Northern California's Redwood Coast and enjoy a family-friendly stay that perfectly blends nature and comfort. Whether you're in a cozy cabin or parked under towering redwoods, adventure and relaxation await. Amenities You Can Enjoy Whether you’re cooling off in the pool, playing a round of mini golf, or grilling at your site, our resort offers something for everyone. Tent Sites Sleep under the stars at our spacious tent sites, nestled in a quiet, wooded setting. Perfect for those wanting a true camping experience with modern conveniences nearby. RV Park Park in comfort at one of our full-hookup RV sites, some with scenic views. Pull-through options and clean, quiet surroundings ensure a relaxing stay. Cozy Cabins Enjoy rustic charm and modern amenities in our cabins. Whether you’re a couple or a family, our cozy lodging options bring the comforts of home to the Redwood Coast.
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Terwer RV Park

8. Terwer RV Park

94%
(601)
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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The Ranch at Cross Road

9. The Ranch at Cross Road

96%
(768)
Livermore, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 12 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us! We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars. Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."
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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

10. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%
(138)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
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Sierra National Forest

11. Sierra National Forest

92%
(177)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
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Electrical hookup
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Los Padres National Forest

12. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(459)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
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San Bernardino National Forest

13. San Bernardino National Forest

94%
(156)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
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Cosumnes River Ranch

14. Cosumnes River Ranch

99%
(2027)
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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Holcomb Valley Ranch

15. Holcomb Valley Ranch

98%
(1119)
Fawnskin, CA · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Holcomb Valley Ranch invites you to kick back and relax on our private, 400+ acre ranch in the San Bernardino Mountains. Centered around a 100+ acre meadow, filled with horses in summer months and surrounded by thousands of acres of mountainous National Forest. Just 15 minutes from Big Bear Lake - a large recreational, fresh-water lake for summer swimming, boating, skiing, fishing and other super fun water activities. The Ranch feels remote and private. Yet is only four miles to the town of Big Bear with shopping and restaurants. Also in close proximity to incredible rock climbing at the Pinnacles, seemingly endless hiking and biking and some pretty epic off-roading 4x4 trails. Each campsite is approximately one acre, and generously-distanced from neighboring campers. Amenities include its own fire ring with grilling grate and picnic table(s). The campsites are both cozy enough for 2 or spacious enough for large groups and can easily accommodate a mix of RVs, camper vans and tents. From June to October the 100+ area open meadow is filled with horses grazing and galloping about (please don't pet or feed!) A four-seasons destination, the Ranch has year-round experiences with warm summers and snowy winters. An excellent basecamp, within close proximity to the lake, ski slopes, Pinnacles, hiking/biking and off-roading trails. After a day filled with adventure or ultimate relaxation, be sure to enjoy the breath-taking sunsets over the meadow. The evenings blanket guests with a sea of stars. Toast up some s’mores and warm up some hot-coco over a beautiful, crackling campfire. Remember the s’mores and always follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. There are large trash bins by the entrance. We look forward to hosting you at the Ranch! Please note: OHV’s are allowed. They count as one of the allowed vehicles per campsite and must adhere to the speed limit (10mph) and remain on established camp roads while on the property. They may not be driven from 8pm to 8am. It is strictly forbidden to ride your vehicles through the forest, meadow or off any established roads on or off property. Please research which of the surrounding forestry roads allow for your vehicle type to be driven on.  Campsites on the west side of the meadow (F, G & H sites) are partially accessed by a forestry road that does not allow dirt bikes. Horses: The horses which may be roaming the meadow during your stay are not property of Holcomb Valley Ranch. When horses are present, guests and their pets are prohibited from entering the meadow. Please do not approach, interact, feed or touch the horses. This is for your safety and the safety of the horses. Do, however, take lots of photos! They make a perfect backdrop:)
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Malibu RV Park

16. Malibu RV Park

93%
(647)
Malibu, CA · 125 sites · Tents, RVs
Malibu RV is set on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California. Founded in the 1970s, Malibu RV offers RV Sites, Van Sites and Tent Camping, a communal ambiance, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of your travels along the California Coast. Whether you are a digital nomad, a surfer looking to shack up for the night, or an adventurer looking for an extended stay, we would love to have you. Guests must be a minimum of 21 years of age to book and check-in. Must present valid ID/Passport. We love dogs and welcome many breeds; however, our insurance policy does not permit Pit Bull–type breeds or mixed breeds. This is an insurance requirement beyond our control, and we appreciate your understanding. **Pets are not permitted in the tent area**
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Kings Canyon Campground

17. Kings Canyon Campground

92%
(830)
Wilsonia, CA · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
This rustic campground is located in Kings Canyon on hwy 180, 16 miles past the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Park entrance. Magnificent views of Kings Canyon from the property. Camp sites with picnic tables. Flushing toilets on site. Water and sewer hookups available at rv sites. Great base camp between both Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP. 6 miles to the mighty Kings River, 12 miles to Grant Grove and the Giant Sequoia’s, 16 miles to Cedar Grove, 22 miles to “Roads End” and trail head for the endless backcountry trails including the Pacific Crest trail. Easy access to General’s Hwy for Sequoia National Park access Google plus code for maps copy&paste “ R497+877 Hume Station, California “ Water falls https://www.travellerselixir.com/sequoia-kings-canyon-waterfall-road-trip/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASKj-9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeyJCbd_Ziq9AzEyj0hDzuuKM4SJKVN2kBn8aDVyl-i15Ss5t6P23TwnWvzGs_aem_He7KWTHRgoRPNy77SnnqUQ Please note the ice cream and gas are not part of the campground, it is generally open on weekends, however it should not be relied upon.
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Water hookup
Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

18. Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

90%
(1257)
CA · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice! About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A 35 minute drive on highway 120 will take you to the Tioga Pass Gate of Yosemite National Park. This gate is a great start to several different areas inside of the park that you may want to visit beyond that gate. Off-road enthusiasts would not have enough time in one visit to explore all of the 4x4 trails, abandoned mines, and sites in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town. Climate and Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomid are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal. Swimming in the lake is possible usually between April to July.
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Pioneertown Corrals Camping

19. Pioneertown Corrals Camping

94%
(1183)
Pioneertown, CA · 63 sites · Tents, RVs
The Pioneertown Corrals is no-hook up back lot style camping located on Mane St in the middle of Pioneertown. We are within walking distance of all restaurants, shops and attractions. Campers can Tent, Car, Horse, RV or Trailer camp. There are 2 sinks and 2 flushing toilets, 1 out house, a designated area for charcoal grilling - NO woodfires but propane can be used at your site. Generator hours are 8am-8pm. There are 7 locally operated shops on the south side of camp on Mane St that offer campers a variety of unique items to shop for. Open daily: General Mercantile: Family Friendly Gift Shop and Camper Check in Location. Pioneertown General Store: New Western Ware and Vintage Clothing store. Xeba Botanica: Locally made Personal care, Skincare, Candles & Perfume. Soukie Modern: Moroccan Inspired Vintage Rugs, Clothing and Home Goods MazAmar Art Pottery: Open Production Ceramics Studio Open on weekends Goats & Soap: Hand spun wool clothing and soap made from local goats. Land Office Art Studio: Jessie Keylons locally made Art The Pioneertown Corrals also has 2 attractions open daily. Pioneertown Film Museum: shows the history of filming in Pioneertown from 1946 to today. Pioneertown Petting Zoo: For 25 cents campers can feed miniature farm animals like goats, sheep, pig, chickens, ducks and turkeys. Fresh eggs for sale in the General Mercantile. Pioneertown has 2 Restaurant/bars located at both ends of camp. Pappy and Harriet's: Open Wed-Mon BBQ Food and live music. Red Dog Saloon: Open every day Mexican food and live music Learn more about this land: Pioneertown was built in 1946 as a movie set for Western movies, including the movies of Gene Autry, The Cisco Kid, Annie Oakley, Judge Roy Bean, and Buffalo Bill, just to name a few! The corrals is back lot style/tail gate style camping. There are 3 bars with 2 music venues within walking distance and some shows will go till midnight or later. **Camp is used for additional parking for Pappys larger outdoor shows and special events, it is highly recommended to check in before 6pm on outdoor show days or you may need to wait till after the show is over to get into camp and set up.**
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Timber Cove Campground

20. Timber Cove Campground

94%
(439)
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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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

California camping guide

Where to go

North Coast

Camping beneath redwoods—the tallest trees in the world—is a hard-to-beat highlight of the north coast. The majestic groves scattered across Redwood National & State Parks are an excellent choice for first-timers. Further south, from Eureka to Mendocino and eventually San Francisco, you’ll find a string of private and state park campgrounds tucked along rugged coastlines marked by bluffs, coves, dunes, and tidepools.

Central Coast

Stretching from Monterey south to Santa Barbara, the Central Coast scores points for scenery and variety. Plus, it’s a convenient escape from the urban hassles of San Francisco and Los Angeles. Redwoods, waterfalls, and windswept bluffs border Highway 1 in Big Sur, while waves crash beside state parks north of Santa Barbara. For a remote camping experience, campsites at Channel Islands National Park off the coast of Santa Barbara can oblige.

SoCal Beaches: Los Angeles to San Diego

The golden beaches of Southern California are the stuff of lazy days and pop songs. And fantastic camping for those inclined. The best campsites line-up beside the coast between Newport Beach and Dana Point in Orange County, with a few more perched on coastal bluffs north of San Diego. Not surprisingly, these oceanfront sites fill fast, so book early.

Sierra Nevada Mountains

Granite domes and lush Alpine meadows border campgrounds in Yosemite National Park, while enormous sequoias are the draw in Kings Canyon and Sequoia national parks. Campgrounds beside alpine lakes and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe are always postcard-pretty.

Southern Deserts

For surreal sunsets, striking rock formations, restless sand dunes, and spring wildflowers, head east. Nine campgrounds and plenty more right outside await at Death Valley National Park, home to the lowest spot in the U.S. Joshua trees and picturesque boulders keep Hipcampers happy at Joshua Tree National Park while Anza-Borrego Desert State Park serves up fantastic desert hiking outside San Diego. High season is late fall through spring, when temperatures are pleasant.

Frequently Asked Questions

To reserve a campsite at a California State Park, you can use the official reservation system called ReserveCalifornia. Follow these steps to book your campsite:

  1. Visit the ReserveCalifornia website.
  2. Enter your desired park, campground, or region in the search bar, or use the interactive map to find a location.
  3. Select your preferred dates and the type of camping you're interested in (tent, RV, group site, etc.).
  4. Review the available campsites and choose the one that best suits your needs.
  5. Click "Book Now" and follow the prompts to complete your reservation.
  6. Provide your personal information, payment details, and any additional information requested, then click "Submit."
  7. Once your reservation is confirmed, you'll receive an email with your confirmation number and additional details about your campsite.
It's important to note that campsites at popular parks, especially during peak season, can fill up quickly. It's recommended to book your reservation as far in advance as possible, up to six months ahead of your desired dates.

Boondocking, also known as dispersed camping, is legal in many areas of California, particularly on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and in National Forests. Here are some popular areas for boondocking in California:

1. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: This park allows dispersed camping in designated areas.

2. Alabama Hills: Managed by the BLM, this area offers boondocking with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

3. Joshua Tree National Park: Outside the park boundaries, you can find BLM land where boondocking is allowed.

4. Inyo National Forest: Dispersed camping is permitted in most areas, but be sure to check with the local ranger station for any restrictions.

When boondocking, always practice Leave No Trace principles, and make sure to follow any posted rules and regulations. Additionally, consider checking out Hipcamp for unique boondocking and camping locations in California.

Yes, camping at Trona Pinnacles is generally safe, but campers should be prepared for the remote and rugged conditions. The area is known for its unique geological formations and offers dispersed camping with no established campgrounds or facilities. Be sure to bring plenty of water, food, and supplies, as the nearest services are located in the town of Trona, 20 miles away. Keep an eye on the weather, as temperatures can be extreme, and flash floods can occur during heavy rains. As always, practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the fragile desert environment.

Free beach camping in California is quite rare, as most beach campgrounds are managed by state parks or other organizations that charge fees. However, you can find some dispersed camping areas along the coast in certain parts of the state, such as on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land or in National Forests. Keep in mind that these free camping spots usually have limited facilities and are often located in more remote areas. It's essential to follow the Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these locations. Always check the specific regulations and restrictions for the area you plan to visit.

Several beaches in California allow camping. Some popular options include:

For more options, check out Hipcamp's beach campgrounds.

There are several reasons why it can be difficult to find campsites in California:

  1. High demand: California is a popular tourist destination with its diverse landscapes, beaches, national parks, and mild climate. This high demand for camping spots makes it challenging to find available campsites, especially during peak season.
  2. Population: California has the largest population of any state in the U.S., and many residents enjoy camping as a recreational activity. This means increased competition for campsites among both residents and visitors.
  3. Limited supply: Although California has a vast number of campgrounds, the supply of campsites may not be sufficient to meet the high demand. Some campgrounds also have a limited number of sites, making it harder to find a spot.
  4. Reservation system: Many popular campgrounds in California require reservations, which can fill up months in advance. This can make it difficult for last-minute campers to find a site.
  5. Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds in California are closed during certain seasons, such as winter, due to weather conditions or maintenance. This further limits the availability of campsites during those times.

To increase your chances of finding a campsite in California, consider camping during the off-peak season, making reservations well in advance, or exploring lesser-known campgrounds. Websites like Hipcamp can help you discover alternative camping options, including private land and unique accommodations.

Boondocking, or dispersed camping, is not illegal in California as long as it is done on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the United States Forest Service (USFS). However, it is essential to follow specific rules and regulations, including staying within designated areas, adhering to stay limits (usually 14 days), and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Keep in mind that boondocking is not allowed in all areas, and it's crucial to research the specific location before setting up camp.

In California, you can camp without a permit in areas designated for dispersed camping, usually found on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest lands. Here are some popular locations for dispersed camping without a permit:

Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect the environment, and follow any posted rules or regulations. Also, be aware that some areas may have fire restrictions or seasonal closures. It's always a good idea to check with the local ranger station for current conditions and regulations before heading out.

Camping rules in California vary depending on the location and type of campground (national park, state park, national forest, private campgrounds, etc.). However, there are some general rules that apply to most camping situations in California:

  1. Choose designated campgrounds or campsites for overnight stays.
  2. Observe quiet hours, typically between 10 pm and 6 am.
  3. Keep campfires contained in designated fire rings or stoves, and never leave them unattended. Obtain a campfire permit if required.
  4. Follow fire restrictions, especially during high fire danger periods.
  5. Store food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or use proper food storage techniques in bear country.
  6. Practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and minimizing your impact on the environment.
  7. Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals.
  8. Keep pets on a leash and under control at all times.
  9. Observe posted speed limits and other traffic regulations in campgrounds.
  10. Adhere to any specific rules posted at the campground, such as maximum stay limits, check-in/check-out times, and group size restrictions.

It's crucial to research the specific rules and regulations of the area where you plan to camp, as they may differ depending on the land management agency or private property rules. Check the website or contact the managing agency for the most up-to-date information.

Camping costs in California can vary greatly depending on the location, amenities, and type of campsite. Prices can range from free for dispersed camping in some national forests or BLM land to over $100 per night for a glamping experience or a cabin rental. On average, you can expect to pay around $20 to $50 per night for a basic tent or RV camping site in a state park or campground. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season, availability, and any additional fees such as reservation or vehicle entry fees.

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