Paula P.
Guide
GuideThe Village at Highlands Ranch
This place is glamping at its best! Ample sites, close to the NP, laundry, two restaurants on site, gift shop, etc
Camping near Chico, CA
184 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Camping options around Chico, California range from developed RV parks to more rustic state recreation areas. The Sacramento River corridor features several established campgrounds including Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area and the adjacent Woodson Bridge Mobile Home & RV Park in Corning, both providing access to riverfront areas. Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, which includes Limesaddle and Bidwell Canyon campgrounds, offers both tent and RV sites approximately 30 minutes from Chico. The region also includes one free dispersed camping area at Olive Pit Dispersed Lot in Corning, though amenities are limited.
Road quality varies considerably between the established campgrounds and more remote areas. Several visitors mentioned that weather conditions impact the camping experience throughout the year. "We stayed one night on our way from southern Oregon to Fort Bragg, CA. It's clean and convenient," noted one camper about Parkway RV Resort. Many campgrounds in the Chico region remain open year-round, though summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent camping. Most established campgrounds require reservations, particularly on weekends and during peak summer months. Cell service is generally reliable near developed sites but may be limited in more remote areas around Lake Oroville.
The campgrounds near water sources receive consistently higher ratings from visitors. Limesaddle Campground at Lake Oroville is particularly appreciated for its views and quiet setting, with one visitor noting, "Love camping here when visiting my daughter who attends Chico State... the views, quiet and beauty is worth the 30 min into town." Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area provides access to the Sacramento River, though recent reviews indicate river access has been affected by erosion. Most RV parks offer full hookups and clean facilities, with several including amenities like swimming pools at Parkway RV Resort. Campers frequently mention the importance of shade during hot summer months, with oak trees at Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area providing natural cooling. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, particularly in the refuges adjacent to some campgrounds.
Best Campgrounds near Chico (184)
1. The Parkway RV Resort & Campground
"Stayed here for a second time driving from Southern California to Oregon. The sites are spacious and there is a pool to cool down during the hot summers. There is wine tasting as well."
"I have stayed here several times as a waypoint on my travels between California to Washington.  It is a nice safe quiet park that has many pull through spaces for RVs spending the night.  I have used"
2. Almond Tree RV Park
3. Lime Saddle Campground — Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
"Love camping here when visiting my daughter who attends Chico State… we could stay closer but the views, quiet and beauty is worth the 30 min into town!"
"Overall a nice campground that is on the hills and above the lake. Some sites have lake views."
from $25 - $125 / night
Check Availability4. Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot
"Casino nearby has multiple restaurants and entertainment, including golf. Cheap gas for California. Little bit of a hike to clean restrooms. Quiet. Convenient location for traveling down I-5."
"Conveniently located just off I-5, far enough away from the noise. Casino, restaurants, doggy daycare and golf just next door. Sites are level 75 ft pull through sites. We will stay again."
from $49 - $69 / night
Check Availability5. Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area
"It would have been a two-hour drive to get to this place from where we were but with all the wildfires in recent years in this part of California, many campgrounds have closed."
"The only issue we had was there was no trashcans anywhere close to us and also our campground happened to be by the entrance and by the busy street, so instead of waking up to birds and nature it was loud"
from $31 / night
Check Availability6. Woodson Bridge Mobile Home & RV Park
"There's also a fish cleaning station and a seasonal fishing dock and water access to a small beach for dipping your toes in."
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability7. Bidwell Canyon Campground — Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
"If you are looking for a small campground with full hookups, on the lake, close to Table Mountain and Feather Falls, this is for you."
"Really enjoyed this campground which is part of the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. The staff where we checked in were helpful with all of our questions about the area."
from $45 / night
Check Availability8. River Reflections RV Park
"Location is great especially if you have a boat to launch or just enjoy being at the river. Campsites were nicely laid out. Being in the summer, busy as you might expect."
9. Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA
"Right behind a casino, but a really nice park. Excellent bathrooms and showers. A pool area and dog park. Good Wi-Fi and amenities."
"Every time we’ve been into the store the customer service was superb and security drives around at all time to check the place out. 🤩 The amenities were great but some surprise bonus’ were the big game"
10. Horse Camp
Drive Time
- 52 min from Yuba City, CA
- 1 hr 6 min from Redding, CA
- 1 hr 24 min from Sacramento, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Chico, CA
165 Photos of 184 Chico Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Woodson Bridge Mobile Home & RV Park
The Parkway RV Resort & Campground
The Parkway RV Resort & Campground
River Reflections RV ParkE
Bidwell Canyon Campground — Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
Loafer Creek Horse Campground — Lake Oroville State Recreation Area
Soda Springs
Buckhorn Recreation AreaT
Black Rock Campground (Lassen NF)
Lower Bucks Campground
Haskins Valley Campgroundj
Loveys Landing RV Park and Marina
Recent Reviews near Chico, CA
373 Reviews of 184 Chico Campgrounds
- JJacqueline S.
TravelerThe Village at Highlands Ranch
Friendly and clean
I used this RV park while roadtripping in a van. The people were friendly and the bathroom was super clean. I would stay here for tent camping too.
- RRobert M.
ScoutMendocino National Forest Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area
Overnight stay was good
This was a fairly nice campground in the sycamore grove. Mix of pull through and back in spots. Bathroom had showers that looked a bit old but did not use them. Bathroom door code was in the reservation receipt email. Fairly quiet and hosts were available and kind.
Ray D.
RangerThousand Trails Lake of the Springs
Lake of the Springs
Very nice 1970 style park most spots only has water and electricity. Section X is full hook ups and close to all amenities. Lots of deers and gray squirrels playing about the park. Nice beach area with rental boats. Restrooms and laundry areas in good shape. This is a nice area to camp.
- MMrs. S.Traveler
Indian Valley
Gorgeous campground
Incredible campground! All campers were super respectful of the quiet hours and the campground hosts were great. They work very hard to keep the campground clean. The river isn’t super easy to access but there’s a rope to help you down to the river access spot. The section of the river throughout the campground is claimed so no panning. We loved our stay and can’t wait to go back.
- JJeff H.Ranger
Dingerville USA
Looks great and friendly
I didn't stay here but I went to buy a camper shell. All the management were very friendly and cheerful. They went it off their way to be helpful. As we left we saw some people passing and the place looked well kept.
Cynthia E.ScoutPonderosa Flat Campground
Horrible Experience
We paid for 5 nights, and left after four. The first day we were immediately approached by the host who rudely lectured about us leaving a phone number off of the pay envelope. The envelope had no designated spot for a phone number. She then handed us a list off rules: No dogs of leash, no generator off the blacktop, no outdoor showers, no chainsaw, and on and on. We were the only ones who kept our dog on a leash. She sold us two bundles of pine firewood the first night then proceeded to tell us the next day the water would be off and we couldn’t have a campfire. Friday night comes around and starting at 11 pm a woman is screaming and our tent is lit up by spotlights. She continues her drunken screams until 12:30 which we figure out she is calling a dog. The spotlights stayed on until 2am. The host lives way above the campground and there is no possible way she can hear the goings on at night. We also have no way of contacting her. Saturday morning we are told the water will be off and this time we are not allowed to use our stove or lanterns. We were forced to cut our trip short because we had no way to cook our meals or have adequate lighting once it got dark. I initially planned to stop payment on the check I wrote but felt that wouldn’t be right because we had a few good days. I contacted them and was told we were not forced to leave left on our own so we wouldn’t be getting a refund. The host was very overbearing she even knocked on our neighbors camper door accusing him of leaving the toilet seat up in the outhouse. Our vacation was ruined
Kurt T.TravelerAlmanor
Not a positive review
SAFETY HAZARDS: So many trees cut down with branches and debris left over and not picked up by the contractor or the USFS that could cause injury or death. Imagine tripping or falling in a hole and being punctured by pointy branches. I am sure this was not inspected after the contractor left or prior to departure.
HEALTH: Womens bathroom was open on Saturday 12 Sep 26, but then it was locked on Sunday 13 Sep 26. Water spigots were also turned off outside. The RV dump station down the street was also closed too. Not sure what happening here as it is not the end of the season yet.
SITES: Images online are not current/out-of-date, don't trust it. Many sites including mine had a lot of trees and now it has 1 or 2, with many stumps and debris left behind. Many sites have zero trees now. Our 20ft campervan barely fit on the asphalt pad and many were only about 10-15 feet long and then others were over 50. I guess you take a chance on what is real and what is not.
SIDEBAR: Over at the North campground, I saw cleanup crews with chainsaws doing work within 10-15 feet of a family who was camping and eating breakfast at the table. I would think this would be a not only a noise issue but also flying debris issue. I guess the USFS does not care about safety of the paying public.
OVERALL: I understand fire prevention, but when you cut down living trees and leave behind the branches and such to dry out, now that is a new fire hazard along with the safety hazard. So sad to see such nice campgrounds being turned into such eyesores and hazards. If you have small children, senior citizens or pets, I would strongly urge you not to make a reservation here. If you just need to a place to park your camper(not tent) then it would be okay as long as you are away during the day as there is very limited shade now. Oh, I forget to say my parents raised me here and they lived here after I went in the Navy and this is an embarrassment to the Almanor Ranger District in Chester.
Betsy A.TravelerSycamore Grove (red Bluff) Campground
Spacious campsite!
We are only staying one night but this campground was simple to book online, easy to get to, and each campsite has plenty of space. An electric hook-up, a flush toilet and quarter-operated showers — you can’t beat that anywhere for this price!
Guide to Chico
Camping options near Chico, California extend beyond developed facilities to include river access points, mountain retreats, and casino-adjacent campgrounds. The region sits at approximately 200 feet elevation within the Sacramento Valley, where summer temperatures regularly reach 90-105°F from June through September. Winter camping is possible with temperatures ranging from 30-60°F, and spring brings wildflower displays at higher elevations around Lake Oroville.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Limesaddle - Lake Oroville State Rec Area maintains boat launch access when lake levels permit. "Had a blast it was perfect weather day or night didnt see no wild animals which was good loved all the stars at night also it was my first time camping but definitly going back," noted a camper about their experience at the lake.
Casino entertainment: Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA offers direct access to gambling and dining options adjacent to the campground. A recent visitor mentioned the diverse amenities: "Electric hookups, sewer, clean grounds, playground, swimming pool, club house with bar and pool tables, and the casino and brewery are right there."
River activities: Sacramento River access points near several campgrounds allow for swimming, fishing and wildlife viewing. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting accessibility. "The campsite we had was feet from the feather River. Who wouldn't be able to relax and enjoy with this as a background," reported one camper at River Reflections RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The Parkway RV Resort & Campground receives high marks for maintenance standards. "The sites are spacious and there is a pool to cool down during the hot summers. There is wine tasting as well. Management kept in communication with us through text (my preferred method)," noted one visitor.
Shade availability: Oak trees at several campgrounds provide crucial relief during hot summer days. "Green & leafy campground right on the Sacramento River! Full hookups (30 amp), with very clean bathhouse and a community lodge available during the day and also picnic and grill area," reported a visitor at Woodson Bridge Mobile Home & RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Beautifully kept... well maintained grounds friendly and helpful," observed a camper at River Reflections RV Park, while another visitor to Limesaddle mentioned "the views, quiet and beauty is worth the 30 min into town."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for extreme heat, while spring brings more moderate temperatures. "We enjoyed an overnight stay here. Clean facilities, well maintained grounds and friendly neighbors. Conveniently located just off I-5, far enough away from the noise," mentioned a visitor at Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. Many campgrounds use online reservation systems with after-hours check-in options. "Made a reservation 44 minutes before arriving. Quick check in. Great for overnight. Or casino patronage. No frills, but full hookups," noted one RVer.
Free camping options: Limited free dispersed camping exists in the area, primarily for self-contained vehicles. "Just a small parking lot with 8 or 9 pull through sites in the middle of a small downtown commercial area. The parking lot is next to two restaurants and a bar," reported a visitor at Olive Pit Dispersed Lot in Corning.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Look for campgrounds with maintained beach or pool facilities during summer months. "We enjoyed a pull thru full hookup spot. We had our dogs and 5 year old with us. There was a fair amount of space between sites. We all enjoyed a meal at the steak house," shared a family staying at Rolling Hills Casino.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for children. "BEST campground (resort) we've ever stayed! Even without the countless amenities, this KOA has incredible staff & service. The front desk was super welcoming. They gave us treats and toys for each of our pups," reported a family staying at Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA.
Educational opportunities: Bidwell Canyon Campground — Lake Oroville State Recreation Area provides access to the Lake Oroville Visitor Center with interpretive displays. "Really enjoyed this campground which is part of the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. The staff where we checked in were helpful with all of our questions about the area," noted a family with children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many area campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "We arrived late to the campground. The office personnel had our information taped to the lobby door with directions on how to find our spot, and wifi info," shared an RV camper at River Reflections RV Park.
Hookup considerations: Electric service varies between campgrounds, with some offering limited amperage. "Spaces are perfect size and flat (even ground), which is imperative for the type of RV that we have. Also, check in on line was super easy," reported one RVer with a 40-foot motorhome at Almond Tree RV Park.
Overnight stopover options: Multiple RV parks along I-5 corridor serve as convenient stopover locations. "We use this park as a stopover on our trips from Central Oregon to the CA Central Coast. Quiet and clean. The owners are fabulous," noted one visitor about The Parkway RV Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Chico, CA?
Where are the best campgrounds near Chico, CA?
Chico offers several excellent camping options within a short drive. Butte Meadows Campground is a top choice about an hour from town, situated right on the river with convenient access to hiking trails and local businesses. For those seeking a quieter experience, Yellow Creek Campground provides an escape from busier spots with stunning views of Northern California. It's less crowded than nearby Lake Almanor campgrounds while still offering beautiful surroundings. Other solid options include Cal-Ida near the highway with river access, and Limesaddle at Lake Oroville for those willing to drive about 30 minutes for scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Are there any campgrounds with bathroom facilities near Chico?
Are there any campgrounds with bathroom facilities near Chico?
Several campgrounds near Chico offer bathroom facilities for campers. The Parkway RV Resort & Campground provides clean restrooms along with other amenities like spacious sites and a pool for cooling off during hot summer days. It's conveniently located with easy access to I-5. Cal-Ida features bathrooms that are popular with visitors, including hunters, bikers, and off-roaders who stop by to use the facilities. For those staying at Lake Oroville, Bidwell Canyon Campground offers toilet facilities, while Mendocino National Forest Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area includes basic bathroom amenities for campers enjoying the riverside location.
What lake camping options are available near Chico, California?
What lake camping options are available near Chico, California?
Chico-area campers have several excellent lake camping options within driving distance. Limesaddle - Lake Oroville State Rec Area is about 30 minutes from Chico, offering beautiful views, a quiet atmosphere, and lake access. Many visitors appreciate this spot when visiting Chico State students. Collins Lake Recreation Area provides another quality option with lakeside camping facilities. For those willing to drive a bit further, Lake Almanor has multiple campgrounds including Alder Creek Campground, which offers creek-side sites tucked among the trees. Bidwell Canyon Campground at Lake Oroville State Recreation Area provides another option with lake views and water access for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
Is glamping available in the Chico area?
Is glamping available in the Chico area?
While traditional glamping options are limited directly in Chico, there are comfortable alternatives that provide elevated camping experiences. Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA offers a resort-like experience with amenities beyond standard camping, including proximity to casino entertainment. Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot provides large pull-through sites with vegetation between spaces, access to multiple restaurants, entertainment options, and golf - creating a more comfortable stay than traditional camping. For those seeking upscale RV accommodations, River Reflections RV Park near Oroville and Almond Tree RV Park closer to Chico offer amenities that bridge the gap between camping and glamping with full hookups and additional comforts.
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