Yosemite. The redwoods. Big Sur. World-famous outdoor destinations abound in California. There are so many that you couldn’t possibly explore all the richness the state offers in one lifetime. The trick when camping in California is managing so many possibilities. Once you've visited the famous sites, try some creative approaches to camping in California.


When you think Napa Valley, you think of wine, not camping. But you can plan a wine vacation from behind the flap of your tent. Set up in one of the valley’s campgrounds then visit the many casual tasting rooms that won't mind dirt under your fingernails.  When you tire of drinking wine, hike Mt. St Helena, a dormant volcano. Or walk through the Petrified Forest, a forest that was turned to stone by the last eruption of the volcano. Or visit California’s Old Faithful, a nearby geyser.


Once you have found camping in California’s Half Dome in Yosemite Valley, center yourself in Tuolumne Meadows, a more remote section of the park with its own collection of charming granite domes. Here's a secret: Instead of joining the crowds of day hikers on the meadow's most popular trails, follow the backpackers north on the famed John Muir Trail. The trail meanders through meadows, along a river below alpine peaks. And best of all, the first 8 miles of this trail out of Tuolumne are flat. Hike until you find a spot to watch the marmots, then return to your campsite. For more, backpack another 23 miles to Reds Meadow where you can catch a shuttle back up to Tuolumne.


With a little effort, you can spend the rest of your life camping in California and have a new adventure every time.

California

The Best Camping in California | 100+ CA Campgrounds

Cooks Valley, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Cooks Valley is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Cooks Valley

The Best Camping Near Cooks Valley, California

Perfectly located on the soothing, turquoise blue waters of the Eel River in the heart of the ancient forest of the Giant Redwoods, our RV& Cabin Destination is sure to provide a memorable experience. Embrace tranquility as you connect with nature, those you love, and your inner world. Frolic in the enchanted forest as you take a stroll amidst the majestic and mysterious redwood trees. Discover the quiet moments. Create lasting memories around the campfire with your loved ones. Take a leisurely drive down the magical, awe-inspiring Avenue of the Giants, but do stop to take in the fragrance and grandeur of the otherworldly and humbling cathedral-like evergreen canopy and family groves. Savor the joy from adventurous activities like swimming, fishing, or kayaking on the river. We have plenty of sunshine, privacy, and on-site hosts with years of experience. You will always find a friendly face here. Our activity playground, volleyball court, river beach, welcoming environment, and clean park, display that this gem in the redwoods is sure to be your preferred home nature spot! At Giant Redwoods RV and Cabin Destination, we invite you to enjoy all of the fun and restorative moments this unique sanctuary has to offer.

CABINS - These are brand new"Glamping" cabins which do not have plumbing inside. You will be assigned your own private bathroom. Pack like you are tent camping, but leave the tent at home!

Pets Allowed for RV Campers - We have a Dog Park

We have one dog cabin available

Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination

We are Mendocino Magic, an outdoor events destination and private campground. Formerly a 600 acre logging camp and then a commercial trout farm, the space has historically provided employment to a large part of the local community. As the commercial logging and fishing industries faded from prominence, the land has transitioned to becoming a recreational destination for those seeking connection with the outdoors.

Home to some of the best stargazing in Northern California, Mendocino Magic also features the pristine Holland Reservoir- the largest private water holding in the North Coast region. Miles of trails wind throughout mountainous hillsides and scenic valleys. These former logging era pathways now lead guests around ponds previously used for the trout farm, through manzanita groves, and madrone and oak forests, to numerous campsites, weekend getaway cabins, and furnished luxury canvas tents (glampsites).

Guests can enjoy a traditional campout, with the option to add high-end amenities. There are cabins and facilities on site to host and cater to large groups for private events, corporate retreats, weddings, workshops, and seminars.

**Camping includes:**

Central Camper’s Kitchen- gas grill, fire pit\*, 800 square foot sound stage.

*\*weather permitting*

Over 3 miles of hiking trails, porta potties, hot outdoor showers, private reservoir for swimming, kayaking and catch and release fishing, family and pet friendly camping, as well as adults only clothing optional areas.

We invite you to join us for your next unforgettable event.


Mendocino Magic

Established in 1922, Richardson Grove State Park was one of California’s first redwood parks. It began with 120 acres—only 1/4 the size of Muir Woods National Monument today. With the help of Save the Redwoods League and other generous donors, the park has grown to 1,800 acres.

A four-hour drive from San Francisco, the park features stunning coast redwoods more than three hundred feet tall and a national “wild and scenic” river (the South Fork of the Eel). Visitors can swim or wade in the river in summer and try catch-and-release fishing for salmon or steelhead in the winter. Check out the walk-through tree and the bat tree; learn from the tree-ring study conducted in 1933. You can camp, picnic, and hike on nine miles of trails. Don’t miss the gentle “racetrack” path, which passes many unusual redwoods, including a chandelier tree with multiple trunks branching several feet above the ground.

Camping — Richardson Grove has more than 160 family sites in three campgrounds. Huckleberry has one site for hikers and bicyclists. Oak Flat Campground is open only during summer. The Dawn Redwood Group, The campground can accommodate from 9 to 40
people.

Richardson Grove State Park

Bear Harbor - Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

## Overview

Facilities: 8 tent campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets. No hookups. Wheelchair accessible. Chemise Mtn. Trailhead. Entire campground may be reserved for overnight group use for $85 per night. Minimum number of people in group is 20, and maximum group number is 60. All applications and fees must be received 30 days prior to the first use day. To request a permit application please call the BLM King Range Project Office at 707-986-5400. NO group reservations are available Memorial Day weekend, Fourth of July weekend or Labor Day weekend. Use Fee: Camping - $8.00. If entire campground is not reserved than the campground sites are non-reservable and available on a first come first serve basis.

Nadelos Campground

ROADS MAY BE IMPASSABLE IN WET WEATHER. RV'S & TRAILERS NOT RECOMMENDED.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park lies on the southern portion of the Lost Coast, a 60-mile stretch of wilderness comprising the park and the King Range National Conservation Area.

For thousands of years before the first Europeans arrived, the Sinkyone Indians lived on this part of the coast. They occupied permanent villages beside streams and rivers, and moved out in family groups to hunt and forage in the hills during the summer. They fished, gathered seaweed and shellfish, hunted seals and sea lions, and harvested the occasional dead whale washed on shore. All kinds of fish were caught, but the seasonal salmon run was especially important.

Today, the Lost Coast Trail follows the whole length of the rugged Sinkyone coastline. Gray whales pass by during the winter and early spring. Roosevelt elk roam the grasslands. Sea lions and harbor seals hang out in rocky coves. It’s an arresting landscape, with canyons, arches, tide pools, sea stacks, seasonal wildflowers, waterfalls, and dark sand beaches. On a sunny day, the sea looks turquoise, giving the park tropical feeling.

Some aspects of the Sinkyone keep crowds away. Its trails are steep and its campgrounds are primitive. There’s no potable water, and you have to haul out your own trash. When wet, the park’s twisting dirt roads are impassable for passenger cars. More than a few visitors have had to stay an extra day or two because a mudslide or fallen tree closed their route home. “The Sinkyone lets you go when it wants to let you go,” a park ranger says. In other words, it’s a real wilderness. 

Usal Beach Campground 

2023 - 
Briceland-Thorn Road from Four Corners to Needle Rock is currently CLOSED due to storm damage UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. There is no vehicle access to Needle Rock and no alternative parking area in the immediate vicinity for walk-in visitation.

The Lost Coast Trail is closed between Bear Harbor and Wheeler Camps due to hazardous conditions created by 2023 winter storms.  There is currently no estimated time of re-opening. 

Camping—Wilderness camping is the only type available. Primitive campsites have tables, fire rings, a nearby pit toilet, but no
developed water source. Bring your own drinking water.

Usal Beach Campground—The only drive-in campground in the park, the
Usal Beach sites are in a meadow area near the beach. Narrow
rural roads are often impassable, and RVs or
trailers are not advisable.

Trail camps—These first- come, first-served campsites for backpackers are located between Bear Harbor and Usal Beach on the Lost Coast Trail.

Horse Camping—Equestrian camping
is permitted at Usal Beach and Wheeler campgrounds.

Group Camping—Groups of nine or more can be accommodated at the Usal Beach horse campground. Call (707) 986-7711 in
advance for a Group Use Permit.

Usal Beach - Sinkyone Wilderness State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED 

Richardson Grove Campground And RV

Benbow KOA & Golf Course

We are Mendocino Magic, an outdoor events destination and private campground. Formerly a 600 acre logging camp and then a commercial trout farm, the space has historically provided employment to a large part of the local community. As the commercial logging and fishing industries faded from prominence, the land has transitioned to becoming a recreational destination for those seeking connection with the outdoors.

Home to some of the best stargazing in Northern California, Mendocino Magic also features the pristine Holland Reservoir- the largest private water holding in the North Coast region. Miles of trails wind throughout mountainous hillsides and scenic valleys. These former logging era pathways now lead guests around ponds previously used for the trout farm, through manzanita groves, and madrone and oak forests, to numerous campsites, weekend getaway cabins, and furnished luxury canvas tents (glampsites).

Guests can enjoy a traditional campout, with the option to add high-end amenities. There are cabins and facilities on site to host and cater to large groups for private events, corporate retreats, weddings, workshops, and seminars.

**Camping includes:**

Central Camper’s Kitchen- gas grill, fire pit\*, 800 square foot sound stage.

*\*weather permitting*

Over 3 miles of hiking trails, porta potties, hot outdoor showers, private reservoir for swimming, kayaking and catch and release fishing, family and pet friendly camping, as well as adults only clothing optional areas.

We invite you to join us for your next unforgettable event.





Los Angeles is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Los Angeles is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Los Angeles

The Best Camping Near Los Angeles, California

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near San Diego. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near San Diego, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

San Diego

The Best Camping in San Diego | California Campgrounds

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, San Jose, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. San Jose is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near San Jose, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

San Jose

The Best Camping Near San Jose, California

The hub city of California’s Bay Area wins in waterfront beauty and access to Yosemite National Park for camping and hiking. While the city is a major tourist draw, water sports lovers will appreciate the abundance of opportunities.

There aren’t any major campgrounds in San Francisco itself, as you may expect, though Half Moon Bay State Beach is just south of the city, near San Mateo, CA. If you’re traveling north up the coast, you’ll find the Point Reyes National Seashore to your liking. There is only one campground with 14 sites, however. There are no RV or car-accessible spots, and all campsites are tent-only and walk-in. If you’re looking for the best camping near San Francisco, Point Reyes is probably still your most convenient option.

San Francisco

San Francisco, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near San Francisco, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping in San Francisco | CA Camping

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Fresno, CA has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Fresno, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Fresno

The Best Camping Near Fresno, CA | California Campgrounds

Where the American and Sacramento Rivers meet is some of the best camping in California. Near Sacramento, CA, campers can experience life during the 1840s Gold Rush and tour the museums before heading to their campsites for the night. RVers will find plenty of campgrounds where they can pull in and find the amenities they need. Stay close to the city and its attractions or closer to the coast. On the water you can spend the day fishing, boating, and swimming. Your camping adventures in the area can include horseback riding along the trails or a visit to a local farm complete with a family-friendly petting zoo.

Sacramento

The Best Camping Near Sacramento | CA Camping

Long Beach is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Long Beach, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Long Beach camping trip.

Long Beach

The Best Camping Near Long Beach, California

Looking for the best campgrounds near Oakland, CA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Oakland

The Best Camping Near Oakland, California

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Bakersfield, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Bakersfield is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Bakersfield

The Best Bakersfield Camping | California Campgrounds

Looking for the best campgrounds near Anaheim, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Anaheim and user-submitted reviews.

Anaheim

The Best Camping Near Anaheim, California

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Inyo National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Inyo National Forest campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Inyo National Forest

The Best Camping Near Inyo National Forest, California

Tahoe National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Tahoe National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Tahoe National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Tahoe National Forest

The Best Camping Near Tahoe National Forest, California

Six Rivers National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Six Rivers National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Six Rivers National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Six Rivers National Forest

The Best Camping Near Six Rivers National Forest, California

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Eldorado National Forest, CA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Eldorado National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Eldorado National Forest

The Best Camping Near Eldorado National Forest, California

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Los Padres National Forest, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Los Padres National Forest camping trip.

Los Padres National Forest

The Best Camping Near Los Padres National Forest, California

Join the fun near Lassen National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Lassen National Forest. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Lassen National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Lassen National Forest

The Best Camping Near Lassen National Forest, California

Join the fun near Stanislaus National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Stanislaus National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Stanislaus National Forest

The Best Camping Near Stanislaus National Forest, California

Are you in need of a campground near Angeles National Forest, CA? Angeles National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Angeles National Forest

The Best Camping Near Angeles National Forest, California

San Bernardino National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. San Bernardino National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near San Bernardino National Forest, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

San Bernardino National Forest

The Best Camping Near San Bernardino National Forest, California

Modoc National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Modoc National Forest, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

The Best Camping in Cooks Valley

Top Campgrounds in Cooks Valley (116)

1.

Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination

2.

Mendocino Magic

3.

Richardson Grove State Park

4.

Bear Harbor - Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

5.

Nadelos Campground

6.

Usal Beach Campground

7.

Usal Beach - Sinkyone Wilderness State Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

8.

Richardson Grove Campground And RV

9.

Benbow KOA & Golf Course

10.

Mendocino Magic

Recent Reviews In Cooks Valley

481 Reviews of 116 Cooks Valley Campgrounds