Top Tent Camping near Chester, CA

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Chester and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Chester with tent camping. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your California tent camping excursion.

Best Tent Sites Near Chester, CA (48)

Showing results 1-10 of 48 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Chester

392 Reviews of 48 Chester Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Days End RV Park
    September 15, 2024

    Days End RV Park

    Awesome park

    One night stay. Well maintained and clean. Great landscaping and keeps it watered. Laundry just $1.50 a load and nice laundromat. Almost level site. Awesome and friendly owner...since 2022. Nice bathrooms. Great views and quiet.

  • Camper-submitted photo from North Eagle Lake Campground
    September 14, 2024

    North Eagle Lake Campground

    Right along highway

    Sites were not completely level but workable. Looked like homeless folks might have lived there at some point. We made camp 1 night before headed on towards Oregon.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Antelope Mountain Dispersed Camp
    September 14, 2024

    Antelope Mountain Dispersed Camp

    One good area

    We only found one good area and it already had 2 people at it. It had level sites and nice tall trees. It also tucked in out of the wind. We some for other sites but they were windy, rough road to reach them, and not level so we moved on

  • Camper-submitted photo from North Eagle Lake Campground
    September 12, 2024

    North Eagle Lake Campground

    Great place

    I’ve never seen cleaner pit toilets Lisa said it all almost. The toilet also have a side table with magazines. We had a good site with a distant lake view. Easy in and out. Can’t beat it for a short overnight stay. The hosts are to be commended.

  • Camper-submitted photo from North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor
    September 6, 2024

    North Shore Campground - Lake Almanor

    Filthy, Dusty, Rude, One and Done

    Booked this campground for 3 nights, in large part for the hot showers. The showers and bathroom facilities are frankly disgusting and not something we would us, nor would our friends who were there with us. The staff was rude and provided the typical"we don't provide refunds" when we told them respectfully we we're leaving after the first night. The campground was a wierd mix of what looked liked full-time campers but mostly no one was occupying the sites that there campers and belongings were left at. Post apocalyptic vibe, can you say ghost town. North Shore Campground is a dusty one and done for us. Caveat emptor.

  • Camper-submitted photo from 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping
    September 3, 2024

    31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping

    Convenient dispersed site near Lassen

    Same experience as the other reviews. Arrived late Friday night on Labor Day weekend and found a spot right at the beginning of the dirt road - coming from Redding direction, turned right off of 44 onto the dirt road then took the first right. The turnoff is on Google maps and was easy to find even in the dark. Nobody else around that we saw, even given the busy weekend! Agreed with others on the road noise but it was fine. Just a few minutes from Manzanita lake. Great find!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Antelope Lake Recreation Area
    August 28, 2024

    Antelope Lake Recreation Area

    Beautiful

    We had a great time up at Antelope Lake. It is a very pretty lake and would definitely recommend going. However, the camp host there was very rude and very unaccommodating. I booked 6 campsites for two nights, when I showed up on Friday, the campground was not full so I moved to my trailer to a different site because it was close to friends and family. The site I moved to was first come first serve. The camp host was hounding me - saying I must pay for the site I moved to even though the campground wasn't full. Originally, I paid close to $500 for all 6 sites and the camp host made me pay for the extra site that wasn't even taken/reserved. Be careful of this guy! I think this guy might be pocketing the money.

  • Camper-submitted photo from North Eagle Lake Campground
    August 21, 2024

    North Eagle Lake Campground

    Clean and spacious

    Great stop. The Most Immaculate pit toilets ever! Many pull through sites. Easy on/off Hwy 139. Trees . Quiet. Only one other camper there on a Monday . Honor federal interagency passes.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Haskins Valley Campground
    August 6, 2024

    Haskins Valley Campground

    Nice, easy access to lake

    It's along a cove in the lake. Super nice hosts and nice campers. The bathrooms are kind of gross but that's expected. Always camp here when we go to the lake.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Rocky Point Dispersed Camping
    July 23, 2024

    Rocky Point Dispersed Camping

    Suitable but barren

    There's signs acknowledging it's free camping. Large barren area with a toilet near the lake. Not great for a tent but can make it work. Good distance away from roads and houses. Lake view.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Campground
    July 18, 2024

    Merrill Campground

    Nice lakeside camp

    Large state lakeside camp, well laid out. Clean toilets but no showers. Ca, so expensive. Great bike/hiking paved path In The pines. Lake entry about 200 yards from Lowest campsites which are unpowered sites. Water and electric available on the two upper levels. We did not have reservations, 4 powered sites and many unpowered were available. We chose the basic site, closer to the lake side.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cool Springs Campground
    July 17, 2024

    Cool Springs Campground

    Secret Place Near Lake Almanor

    Just try to get a last minute camp spot on Memorial Day weekend most places.  We were fortunate to discover Butt Lake near Lake Almanor.  Only one small burn area far from the campgrounds.  Friday was opening day for Cool Springs campground.  A PG&E operated facility, it was in great shape and ready for the season.  We did three nights, departing on Monday.  On Friday night we were one of only a few guests.  Saturday and Sunday were full, but the feeling was vary spacious.  The lake is a reservoir with no actual inlet.  Rather it is fed by a pipe from Lake Almanor with a hydroelectric plant just prior to the water entering Butt Lake.  Oddly for a PG&E lake there is not hydroelectric plant at the outlet dam.  Did some bike riding to check out the dam, Ponderosa Flat campground, Pioneer cemetery, and east shore of the lake.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Movin' West RV Park
    July 14, 2024

    Movin' West RV Park

    A great place to stay in Graeagle, CA

    It was a great RV park to stay at in Graeagle, California. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The atmosphere is great. The town is only 1 mile from the RV park and you can easily walk there. I highly recommend the Graeagle Outpost for coffee, ice cream, and more.

    It would be even better if there was more space between each RV spot. It feels like your neighbor is right there in your business all the time. They put up fences to give some semblance of privacy but it doesn't really help because they are only partial fences.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Campground
    July 14, 2024

    Merrill Campground

    Rare USDA camp with power and water

    Stayed one night and loved Eagle Lake. Rare USDA campground with power and water. Lovely forest area shades the camp. Lots of families with bikes and dogs all on leashes. Great bike paths to ride or walk right next to the lake.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Almanor
    June 24, 2024

    Almanor

    North is open, South is closed for Summer 2024

    North is open, South is closed for Summer 2024.

    It took some digging on this information as the USFS website is wrong.  

    I camp here on the South campground at least once every year.  For the 2024 season, they CLOSED it at the last second.  

    The North campground is OPEN, but you cannot reserve it.  First Come First Served (FCFS).

    Boat ramp is at the North campground, but if you just have a paddleboard or kayak, you can just walk to the water by just waking down the road and launch at the edge of the lake.  

    There is a General Store within walking distance and restaurant/bar right on the lake too.  I highly advise reservations for dinner on the deck.

  • Camper-submitted photo from 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping
    June 20, 2024

    31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping

    Exactly what we needed

    About one mile south of the northwest entrance, so it’s convenient. Follow the instructions from other campers as they’re spot on. We camped to the right of the road, as we saw another camp site that was filled to the right. Tent campers will have no issues finding a spot. We didn’t venture too far down the road due to having a lower car, but we had plenty of options.

    Although you feel secluded, the highway isn’t too far, so you’ll have some road noise (nothing crazy). We did hear coyotes off in the distance, which is so cool and spooky at the same time. Bear activity was reported in the area before we arrived, so keep that in mind. Make sure to bring your buh spray!

    Will definitely stay here again if we visit the park again. Arrived June 19, left June 20.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    June 20, 2024

    Volcanic Country Camping & RV

    Close to Lassen NP - time capsule!

    This place is cool - the Mineral Lodge and Restaurant is where we checked in for campground. We needed a place to stay before heading into Lassen Volcanic NP. The Mineral Lodge and campground next door are family owned and have a community feel. No frill campground, does have hookups.

    $35 per night plus $2 pet fee

    Sites very close together. Bathroom old but works. Poor T Mobile service. No wifi.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Honn Creek Campground
    June 19, 2024

    Honn Creek Campground

    Great for an overnight stop

    We were looking for a nice Forest Service campground somewhere between Susanville and Weed, CA to stop for the night on our way home and came across this little gem situated on Hat Creek. There are 5 sites. Three are on the creek. One of the other sites has a big lava formation near it. The sites all have fire rings and tables. No water, there are two very clean vault toilets, and although there is road noise from Hwy 89, after dark it dies down and it was very quiet. We stayed there on a Thursday night and no one else was in the campground.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    June 15, 2024

    Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    Busy campground!

    This campground is huge and busy, but I was able to get a first come, first serve camp site last minute on a weekday. The lake is incredible and Lassen national park is a really special place so it’s a great spot to check out the rest of the park! The hiking is incredible and there is a trail that goes around the lake.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Butte Meadows Campground
    June 15, 2024

    Butte Meadows Campground

    Great location near Chico

    This site is awesome, right on the river, close to the cal fire station and walking distance to the local Butte Meadows businesses. So many great hiking trails near by and it is about an hour from lake Almanor.

  • Camper-submitted photo from 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping
    June 5, 2024

    31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping

    Very much a Nike camp area, "Just Do It

    Immediately prior to turning down road to Lassen turn in to dirt road. Again less than 50 yards on right is area to camp. Could also turn a big rig.

    A 4 wheel drive is not required, it's just a dusty road. About 100 yards further, you could walk up the road and grab some water from the stream.

    No Verizon phone or internet reception

  • Camper-submitted photo from Honey Lake Campground
    January 1, 2024

    Honey Lake Campground

    Saving Grace

    I drove way to long and when this campground showed up I was so relieved I would have stopped no matter what but to find out it’s charming clean and the manager a dear showers laundry and lots of space. The rv spaces look out over the lake tent camping in the back but you still have lake views

  • Camper-submitted photo from Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    November 25, 2023

    Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    Campground - Meh; Lassen - Gorgeous!

    General: Four loops plus a cabin loop, however, after September 5 at noon, the only loops open are A, B, and cabins. 

    Site Quality: Some pull-throughs and some back-in. The back-in sites were, for the most part, better suited for tent camping as the camper pads were quite short and many were not level. We lucked out in that our camper pad was only slightly unlevel and we could make it work with our camper van. Some sites were close together with minimal separation while others had more trees separating them. 

    Bath/Shower house: There were several toilet options ranging from vault toilets to basic bathrooms with flush toilets, to larger restrooms with dishwashing sinks. Although there was a soap dispenser in the two closest to our site, there was no soap. The very cold water was oh-so refreshing on a cold September morning! The dishwashing sink in the A loop was locked but we did see campers using the one in the B Loop.

    Activities/Amenities: There is a camper store with food, showers, gas, and laundry available. You can access both Manzanita and Reflection Lakes (1.5 and.5 miles respectively) from the campground. The Chaos Crags trailhead is approximately a half mile from the A Loop. There are kayak, cataraft, and SUP rentals available for Manzanita Lake but it was a bit chilly when we were there. There is zero cell service in the campground but it is noted there is a milepost where you can grab a signal. On our Chaos Crags hike, however, we got a strong signal on Verizon!

    The campground was okay but worth it as a base camp for exploring the northwest part of the park. Happy this one has not been outsourced to a vendor and the price is still reasonable ($26 or$13 with the senior pass).

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Dispersed
    October 27, 2023

    Hat Creek Dispersed

    Great Camping

    As one reviewer wrote, just a short run of slightly rough road to get to expansive meadows of boondocking.



Guide to Chester

Camping near Chester, California, offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails in Lassen Volcanic National Park. One camper mentioned, “The hiking is incredible and there is a trail that goes around the lake” at Manzanita Lake Campground.
  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Manzanita Lake for a fun day on the water. A visitor noted, “There are kayak, cataraft, and SUP rentals available for Manzanita Lake.”
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at nearby lakes like Eagle Lake. One reviewer at Merrill Campground said, “Great bike/hiking paved path In The pines. Lake entry about 200 yards from the lowest campsites.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Butte Lake Campground said, “The lake is close to the campground, quiet and peaceful.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Summit Lake North mentioned, “This is a smaller campground... We could see a bit of the lake from our site through the trees.”
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: Campgrounds like Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA are noted for their family-friendly environment. A reviewer said, “It’s a great family spot and there were lots of dogs and kids running around.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Services: Some campgrounds, like Butte Creek Campground, have no water or trash services. A camper noted, “Had bathrooms. No water.”
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Campgrounds can get busy, especially during weekends. One visitor at Manzanita Lake Campground said, “This campground is huge and busy.”
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Butte Lake Campground, require driving on gravel roads. A camper warned, “Just beware of the 5-mile gravel road into camp.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Amenities: Look for campgrounds that offer facilities like showers and stores. A family at Merrill Campground appreciated the “camper store with food, showers, gas, and laundry available.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep kids entertained. One camper at Summit Lake North mentioned, “There’s a couple of pull-through spots for RVs and trailers and a decent mixture of small and medium RVs and tents.”
  • Pack for Bugs: Be prepared for insects, especially in summer. A visitor at California Butte Creek Campground noted, “It was very buggy, really horribly buggy on Labor Day 2022.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Make sure to check the level of your campsite, especially if you have a van or RV. A camper at Summit Lake South advised, “Cannot pay at site.”
  • Look for Big Rig Friendly Spots: Some campgrounds are more accommodating for larger RVs. A reviewer at Merrill Campground mentioned, “Big rig friendly, drinking water, electric hookups.”
  • Be Ready for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Butte Lake Campground said, “There is zero cell service in the campground.”

Camping around Chester, California, has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Chester, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Chester, CA is High Bridge Campground with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Chester, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 48 tent camping locations near Chester, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.