Best Campgrounds in California

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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.

Campground Showdown in California

Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!

Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

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Round 1 of 5

Best Camping Sites in California (3,926)

1. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
125 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."

"It’s very close to fascinating hiking trails."
2. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park
100 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."

3. 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."
4. Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
78 Reviews
Orick, CA
Website
+1 (707) 464-6101
$35 - $100 / 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."

5. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
80 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. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground
72 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."

7. Morro Bay State Park Campground
70 Reviews
Los Osos, CA
Website
+1 (805) 772-2560
$35 - $165 / night
"This is my go to spot when traveling between Northern and Southern California. Conveniently located near to the town of Morrow Bay, but just far enough to feel away from it all."

"Unlike many state campgrounds you find near the highway or railroad tracks, this one is located a nice distance from the road. Still, it is within walking distance to a small marina and restaurant."
8. Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
66 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
65 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
67 Reviews
Grover Beach, CA
Website
+1 (805) 473-7220
$35 - $50 / 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 Camping Photos in California

5924 Photos of 3926 California Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

Recent Reviews in California

10000 Reviews of 3926 California Campgrounds

G
Gazelle F.
Traveler
Sep. 7, 2026
Trailer Lane Campground
Adorable shasta sugar trailer 1961
Me and my boyfriend visited Shasta for the first time, and we stayed 3 nights at Shasta Sugar Vintage Trailer. Unfortunately, our 3 days started with rain, so we couldn’t explore nature and have as much adventure as we wanted. Heavy rain, muddy roads, and driving in the fog changed our trip plans. But when our plans changed, we had to stay in the trailer more—and we actually enjoyed it even much more! I was so glad to find this vintage cutie. When I booked it, I knew the interior was vintage, but I didn’t realize how special it would feel. Shasta Sugar is from 1961, so you really have to appreciate the vintage charm of it. We never had any issues and didn’t smell any gas or gas licking. It was pretty warm inside with the heater. I don’t know about summer without AC, but it might be enough with the fans. The profile does say there is no AC. We cooked breakfast and dinner and really enjoyed using the kitchen. We slept well, and I really appreciated the taste of the interior design. I loved all the colors, even the dishes they chose. The vintage blue and red make the place even more special if you have an artsy taste. Surprisingly, the couch that turns into a bed was so comfy to sleep on! Just keep in mind, if your boyfriend is tall and has big shoulders, it might feel a little tight. If you like this trailer, date a shorter man.😂 Everything was so clean and cute. Sitting outside by the apple tree, we never heard the noise from the highway. We enjoyed all the chicken and rooster sounds, especially in the morning—they were adorable! Honestly, hearing the rooster sound is the best first thing when you wake up. The bathroom was clean and warm, with really hot water in the shower. So convenient! Karen was the best host. She cared about our privacy, was really helpful, and always responded quickly. We really appreciated her. I also really recommend the campground if you want to experience the RV lifestyle. Overall, I really recommend this place. You’ll have such a unique experience staying in the cutest vintage trailer ever, especially if you have an artsy taste! Thank you Host. lucky to find her.
Jeffrey O.
Scout
Sep. 6, 2026
Lower Lee Vining Campground
Beautiful and big rig friendly
Was able to get me 35’ Class A all the way into the back. Super quiet here and the camp host is very friendly and helpful. I’m here Labor Day weekend and ½ the spots are empty.
D
Dennis D.
Scout
Sep. 6, 2026
Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Mill Creek
Easy to get to. I have an AWD sprinter no problem. Son has an Acura TLX made it up no issue had a few spin outs on steeper parts. Higher sites are nice and spaced.
Gina G.
Traveler
Sep. 6, 2026
Bitterbrush Campground
LDW
All spots are first come, first serve. $32 a night. Got here Saturday afternoon LDW and was able to get a spot. However, it was almost completely full by night time. Only 1 spot really has shade, the rest are all full sun. Not a bad spot to stay for the night but it is very crowded and you can hear all of your neighbors. There is a creek behind the sites which was nice to cool off in.
Michael B.
Scout
Sep. 6, 2026
Overnight Parking Near Hearst Castle
Pretty, but very bait spot....
Literally on the side of the road. I did see another RV, but not sure at all if this is okay. Very pretty with cool view.

There are no signs. Next to the 1, and cars zipping by mostly 50-60 occasionally.

Gonna sleep until sunrise then GTFO. I got caught after dark here and none of the hotels had rooms that I called. Very busy location, I gather, for visitors, so book your hotels ahead or be prepared to sleep a bit lightly.
Hans V.
Guide
Sep. 6, 2026
Mesa Campground — Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
Fine, nicely wooded
No lake view, which was a bit disappointing. Nice wooded area though with tree climbing. A bit loud music from the neighbors, not until very late so was OK. Limited amount of toilets for the amount of spots
Hans V.
Guide
Sep. 6, 2026
Tuttle Creek Campground — Alabama Hills
Windy but beautiful
Heavy winds for most of the day, but less in the evening. Beautiful views of the mountains. Well spaced spots, clean restrooms and plenty of availability even when arriving Saturday around noon of labour day weekend
Alexander K.
Scout
Sep. 5, 2026
Green Acres RV Park
Great Sites for the Price
The site itself is great. It's well kept, grass is green and watered nightly, sites are clean, and it has nearly all the amenities you need (no public restrooms/showers). The Wi-Fi is excellent - it's honestly one of the standout features. I need good internet for work and I had zero problems working and streaming video at the same time. The coin-only laundry machines are a bit cumbersome but there is a change dispenser so it's not a big deal. The pool and fish pond are nice but there's no hot tub for the winter. Neighbors and staff are great. The surrounding neighborhood is a little less welcoming but it's not a big deal considering the fair price.
N
Norman J.
Guide
Sep. 5, 2026
Rattlesnake Cr. near Hwy 36, Shasta-Trinity NF
An option where there are few along HWY 36
This dispered site is 75 miles west of I5 and Red Bluff and just north of Hwy 36 about a 1/2 mile along USFS [Shasta-Trinity] Road 30N59. It is about 7 miles west of the 36/3 junction. Also about 3-4 miles east of USFS campgrounds Forest Glen and 2-3 miles east of Hell Gate. The entrance road here (30N59) is not very well marked but there is a large road sign on the south shoulder of 36, as shown in the pics, that is directly across from the entrance. Road 30N59 was not well maintaned (as of July 2026) but passable with care even with my 2wd SUV and teardrop. Like most disperesed camping bring everything and pack it out. Note - on Google Maps forest rd 30N59 is called Lower Rattlesnake Rd. Sites are flat areas with grass along the margins of 30N59 and right along the creek which was flowing well even in July.

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.

Keep Exploring

View all California cities for camping

Best Campgrounds in California

Campground Showdown in California

Best Camping Sites in California (3,926)

1. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

2. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

3. Alabama Hills Recreation Area

4. Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

5. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

6. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

7. Morro Bay State Park Campground

8. Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park

9. Indian Cove Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

10. Oceano Campground — Pismo State Beach

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Recent Camping Photos in California

5924 Photos of 3926 California Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

Recent Reviews in California

10000 Reviews of 3926 California Campgrounds

Adorable shasta sugar trailer 1961

Beautiful and big rig friendly

Mill Creek

LDW

Pretty, but very bait spot....

Fine, nicely wooded

Windy but beautiful

Great Sites for the Price

An option where there are few along HWY 36