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Best Campgrounds in California

10,000
Reviews

California's campgrounds span from coastal beachfront sites like South Carlsbad State Beach to high desert landscapes in Joshua Tree National Park. The range of accommodations includes tent camping in forested settings like Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, RV hookups at Pinnacles Campground, and free dispersed camping at Alabama Hills Recreation Area. Mixed-use campgrounds allow various accommodation types, with many offering both primitive tent sites and full-hookup RV spaces.

Permits and reservations are essential for many popular California camping destinations, particularly during peak summer months when demand is highest. "Nowhere else in Sierra Nevada can you get access like this," noted one visitor about dispersed camping options. Most developed campgrounds near national parks like Yosemite and Joshua Tree require advance planning, while remote dispersed camping areas along Hardin Flat Road provide more flexibility but fewer amenities. Road conditions vary significantly across the state, with some dispersed camping areas requiring high-clearance vehicles to access. Climate considerations also influence camping experiences, from coastal fog along beaches to triple-digit temperatures in desert regions during summer months.

Several campgrounds feature distinctive natural attractions, enhancing the camping experience. According to reviews from The Dyrt, waterfront sites consistently receive higher ratings, with one camper describing their experience at a creek-side location as "beautiful, downhill for the trek to the campsite but it is SO worth it." Wildlife sightings add to the experience, with visitors reporting encounters ranging from elk at Prairie Creek Redwoods to bald eagles at creek-side dispersed sites. Proximity to recreational activities emerges as another priority, with highly-rated campgrounds typically offering access to trails, swimming holes, or scenic viewpoints. For those seeking solitude, dispersed camping options on public lands provide alternatives to developed campgrounds, though these primitive sites require self-sufficiency and adherence to leave-no-trace principles.

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Best Camping Sites in California (3,735)

    1. Mackerricher State Park Campground

    1465 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA

    $45 - $260 / night

    "There are many sites next to the ocean."

    "PROS Campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground.

    → Campsites have bear lockers."

    2. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    123 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $30 / night

    "They're situated between HUGE boulders so they're nicely tucked away from high winds that can sometimes pick up."

    "The campsites are tucked between massive granite boulders, offering natural windbreaks and a sense of privacy that’s hard to find elsewhere."

    3. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    95 Reviews
    Pinnacles, CA
    Website
    +1 (831) 200-1722

    $44 - $164 / night

    "Per my rating system, this is very close to being 5 stars, meaning it's worth planning a trip from out of state just to visit this park and surrounding national/state forest for 3 days or more  The only"

    "It’s a beautiful park and has the largest population of California Condors in the world. The campground is situated about 2.3 miles from the main trailheads. There's tent and RV campsites."

    4. Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    87 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    "You can see Mount Whitney in the distance. 4 wheel drive isn’t required but definitely recommend. No bathrooms or water around. A lot of old movies were filmed in the hills."

    "Alabama Hills California presents a varied landscape. From the picture above you can plainly see the desert floor to MT. Whitney, snow capped in March of 2018."

    5. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    79 Reviews
    Carlsbad, CA
    Website
    +1 (760) 438-3143

    $50 - $650 / night

    "If you’re headed to San Diego, be sure to stop and check out Carlsbad just off of the 5. this awesome beach town is quintessential Southern California beach awesomeness and it is absolutely gorgeous."

    "One of best beach campgrounds in California. Beach is right there next to camping. Restroom and shower are clean even though too many people there"

    6. Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

    72 Reviews
    Orick, CA
    Website
    +1 (707) 464-6101

    $35 - $80 / night

    "This was my favorite campground in our northern california tour. Campimg among the redwoods, so quiet and shady we slept in late each morning."

    "There are also INCREDIBLE day trips into California’s interior, Indian history, little known parks and trails everywhere."

    7. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    69 Reviews
    Big Sur, CA
    Website
    +1 (831) 667-2315

    $50 - $75 / night

    "No other sites behind us. It felt secluded and private. Close to the bathrooms. And the bathrooms were clean. We didn’t have a river site but the river was right across from us."

    "I think it's a California State Park and Covid thing right now. There is some construction going on but it didn't effect our stay at all. We had a river site."

    8. Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park

    65 Reviews
    Yosemite Valley, CA
    Website
    +1 (209) 372-8502

    $36 / night

    "FYI, they are not joking about wildlife here, bear lockers are there for a reason and the animals are so comfortable and used to people they get close to camp."

    "Close to Happy Isles and Mirror Lake/Meadow, this campground is convenient for day hikers. it's one of the better spots in Yosemite Valley, somewhat off the beaten path, so to speak."

    9. Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    64 Reviews
    Twentynine Palms, CA
    Website
    +1 (760) 367-5554

    $55 / night

    "Cons: no park entrance from here. You have to drive 20/30 minutes out to the main road and back in to get to the main area of the park. The campsite next to us had some nasty anthills."

    "Indian Cove is on the Northern side of the park, and you will use a different entrance than the main park entrance."

    10. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

    66 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    Website
    +1 (805) 473-7220

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Popular with families and groups Grass around tent sites still green. Most parking spots close to level but bring some blocks. Individual large restrooms with flush toilets and sinks."

    "Tucked behind the dunes (and you definitely want a site next to the dunes!)"

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Recent Reviews in California

10000 Reviews of 3735 California Campgrounds

  • David S.
    Jan. 1, 2026

    Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground

    Amazing place to camp and relax

    Already been here twice once in 01/25 and 11/25 great campsite some have access to running water facet if not there are some that are close by, have also close by trash bins, has a little shop near by sells wood fire starter batteries and other things you might need.

  • g
    Dec. 31, 2025

    Ricardo Campground — Red Rock Canyon State Park

    Favorite Stopover Spot

    If you are coming from the Bay Area, and traveling anywhere in the southwest or eastern Sierras, this is a great spot to stop for a night or two. The campsites are fairly spread apart, clean, mostly flat. The natural beauty of camping against the rock cliffs, watching the swallows fly in and out all day can't be beat. There is a large meadow with Joshua trees and, in the right season, wildflowers. 

    Some of the pit-toilet houses are pretty beat up, have wasp nests. But it seems they are rebuilding them one by one. And the newer ones are as good as an outhouse gets: clean, sturdy, bug-free. There is potable water. There is dump station, but they charge for it, and it is a pain to get it unlocked. Don't count on it.

    We have stopped here ~4 times in the spring, came in in daylight, and have always found a spot.

  • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 31, 2025

    Disp. Camping

    Did it’s job

    We found a dirt dispersed camping spot tucked behind the Love’s gas station late at night. The lot itself was rough (due to the recent storms), so we parked on the street next to it, where the ground was flatter. A couple of other cars and a few big rigs were already settled in, engines long silent.

    We arrived around 1:30 a.m., slept a few solid hours, then continued north at first light. It wasn’t scenic or remote, but it was free, felt safe enough, and gave us exactly what we needed—a place to rest and reset before traveling again.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 31, 2025

    Placerita Canyon Los Pineros Trail Sites

    For group camping

    I have not stayed at this site yet, but discovered it recently, and so I am adding it for people who are looking for group camping options in the Los Angeles area/ San Fernando Valley area. These sites can only be reserved by groups if you call the park office in advance.

    It’s a short hike in from one trail that connects to Placerita Canyon Rd, or a ~1 mile hike from the Nature Center.

    Picnic tables and water spigots are available in the group sites, with a port-o-potty nearby.

    Beautiful stream/waterfall trail directly from the sites

    More park camping info: https://www.pcnca.org/park-rules.html

    “ 17.04.390 Overnight camping restrictions -- Permit issuance conditions. A. A person shall not camp or sleep overnight in any park except where a family-type camping area is so designated, and then only in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the use of such area. The director may issue a permit to any youth group of a character-building nature and to any special-interest group permitting its members as a group to camp overnight at a designated location in a park.”

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 31, 2025

    Big Lagoon County Park

    Nice but

    Open year round. Good quiet site. $30 per car so you'd think you'd get facilities.

  • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 30, 2025

    Trona Pinnacles Camp

    Dispersed Camping – Trona Pinnacles

    The Trona Pinnacles are always a stunning and otherworldly place to camp—there’s truly nowhere else like it. The tufa formations look like something straight out of a movie set or a moon landing, and they never disappoint.

    That said, road conditions are something to seriously consider, especially after rain. When we visited, recent rainfall made the dirt road leading to the pinnacles very rough in several spots. High clearance is absolutely required, and 4x4 is strongly recommended. We saw two trucks towing trailers that ended up camping earlier along the road because the conditions ahead were too poor to continue safely.

    We were able to reach our campsite in a 4x4 Sprinter and definitely needed the four-wheel drive in a few sections. Because of the road conditions, it wasn’t surprising that we only saw two other vehicles camping far off in the distance, which made for a quiet and remote experience.

    Despite the challenging access, the reward is worth it. The tufa formations are breathtaking, especially at sunrise and sunset, and the vast, open landscape feels completely unreal. If you’re properly equipped and prepared for rough roads, Trona Pinnacles offers a truly unforgettable dispersed camping experience.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 29, 2025

    Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    Great Campground, trails easily accessible

    We have been here several times, and each time is great. Good access to trails. Staff in office are helpful. Looks like some of the roads in the campsite have been recently improved. Note this place gets very busy at the weekends (we avoid the weekends). 

    Restrooms are cleaned regularly.

    Sites are level-ish

  • Jimmy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 29, 2025

    Heart of the Redwoods Cottages & RV

    Nice for a pause, but not much else.

    There are no toilets or showers at this site. You must use whatever you have in your vehicle. There is water and electric, and the spots are level. Parks and trails all require a vehicle to get to, walking along the very narrow high-traffic road can be dangerous.

  • Pretty D.
    Dec. 29, 2025

    Island Park

    Island lake campground

    The view is amazing and beautiful but the road coming in the park is a bit to small its a 2 way road but it only fits one big rig, Very quiet but no wifi/service

Guide to California

Camping in California offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and diverse experiences. From the towering trees of Yosemite to the serene lakes of Inyo National Forest, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore Yosemite National Park: Hike the trails, take in breathtaking views, and enjoy the natural beauty. One camper mentioned, “We camped here late February to capture the firefall. Mission accomplished!”
  • Visit June Lake: Perfect for water activities, one reviewer said, “The lake was beautiful and the campground was nice with very close water spigots.”
  • Check out Kings Canyon: A camper shared, “A place where you are surrounded by beautiful nature. Deer pass by your camper in the morning.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views. One said, “We stayed in spot 91 with our 32’ Imagine travel trailer. Beautiful views and we could see Half Dome directly from our picnic tables.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness. A reviewer noted, “It was very quiet and peaceful. You wouldn’t really notice other people were there unless you looked around.”
  • Convenient Locations: Campgrounds like Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes are close to the park, making it easy to explore. One camper mentioned, “Huge but peaceful camping 15 mins from the entrance.”

What you should know

  • Booking Challenges: Reservations can be tough. One camper said, “Great place, amazing position with astonishing views, but almost impossible to book.”
  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds lack showers and hookups. A reviewer pointed out, “There are zero hookups and you can use a generator 3 times per day.”
  • Wildlife Safety: Be cautious about food storage. A camper warned, “The rangers are very serious about bear/wildlife safety in Yosemite. All scented items must be placed inside the bear lockers.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Upper Pines Campground that allow pets and have amenities. One family shared, “We camped here late February to capture the firefall. I was very happy to be able to book spots within 2 weeks of the date.”
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. A camper mentioned, “With my family, I may come here and play games.”
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially near water. One reviewer noted, “The river water felt extremely clean to take a dip in since there are no showers.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One camper said, “Our Ram 2500 did not fit in the site with us, so a few of us booked an extra spot to park our vehicles.”
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t have electric hookups. A reviewer pointed out, “There are zero hookups and you can use a generator 3 times per day.”
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Campgrounds like Wawona Campground offer access to hiking trails and scenic drives. One camper noted, “The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities.”

Camping in California can be an unforgettable experience if you plan ahead and know what to expect. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the ideal season to camp in Northern California?

The ideal season for Northern California camping is late spring through early fall (May-October), when weather conditions are most predictable. Fall offers fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground provides a shaded retreat amongst towering redwoods with hiking trails and basic amenities, making it perfect for summer visits when the shade is welcome. Winter camping can be challenging in higher elevations due to snow and cold temperatures. For year-round options, consider Laguna Mountain Campground, a BLM gem, though be cautious of muddy conditions after rain. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, as Northern California's diverse microclimates can vary significantly.

What are the best campgrounds in California for first-time visitors?

For first-time visitors to California, Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park offers an iconic experience with GIGANTIC trees, numerous trails, and both cabin and tent camping options. It's an excellent year-round destination that showcases California's natural beauty. Another great option is Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, which provides beachfront camping with gorgeous coastal views. First-timers should also consider Upper Pines in Yosemite for its accessibility and amenities, or Joshua Tree National Park campgrounds for a desert experience. Many of these popular destinations require reservations weeks or months in advance, especially during peak seasons.

How much do popular California campgrounds typically cost?

California campground costs vary widely based on location, amenities, and season. Laguna Seca Recreation Area charges $40-50 for dry camping (no hookups), while Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground offers beachfront sites with water and electric hookups at premium prices. State park campgrounds typically range from $25-45 per night for basic sites, with additional fees for hookups or premium locations. National park campgrounds generally charge $20-35 per night. For budget options, BLM dispersed camping sites like Trona Pinnacles or Alabama Hills Recreation Area are often free or have minimal fees ($5-15). Reserve America handles bookings for many California state parks with a reservation fee of $7.99 in addition to the camping fee.

What amenities are available at top-rated California RV campgrounds?

Top-rated California RV campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities to accommodate different camping styles. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park provides water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly sites with electrical hookups, though no sewer connections. For beachfront luxury, South Carlsbad State Beach Campground offers water and electric hookups, restrooms with showers, and direct beach access. Many premium RV parks include full hookups (water, electric, sewer), WiFi, cable TV, swimming pools, laundry facilities, and camp stores. State park campgrounds typically provide more basic amenities like potable water, flush toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Dump stations are common at larger facilities, though not always included in the camping fee. Most popular RV destinations require reservations, especially during peak seasons.

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