Kylee R.
Ranger
RangerInyo National Forest Oh Ridge Campground
Oh Ridge! at June Lake
Deer walked right through our campsite! Lake was gorgeous. Lots of water available. Bathrooms are clean. Easy quick one night stop.
Best Campgrounds in California
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
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Best Camping Sites in California (3,936)
1. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
125 ReviewsTwentynine Palms, CAWebsite+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
101 ReviewsPinnacles, CAWebsite+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 ReviewsLone Pine, CAWebsite+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 ReviewsOrick, CAWebsite+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."
5. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
80 ReviewsCarlsbad, CAWebsite+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 ReviewsBig Sur, CAWebsite+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
71 ReviewsLos Osos, CAWebsite+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
67 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CAWebsite+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 ReviewsTwentynine Palms, CAWebsite+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 ReviewsGrover Beach, CAWebsite+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!)"
Recent Camping Photos in California
5930 Photos of 3936 California Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews in California
10000 Reviews of 3936 California Campgrounds
Josiah D.
GuideSouthwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
Good value
For car camping in the parking lot it's only $10 a night. You get flush toilets, running water, and free wifi from the visitor center. Only thing missing is a shower. The views are also great. Meets the necessities.
- Josiah D.Guide
Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins — Lassen Volcanic National Park
Cozy but no electric
Generally if I'm getting a cabin and paying extra for it I would like it to have electric. They did have propane heat though which is nice. That aside, the location is great. $5 for shower access for the duration. Close walk to the lake. Lots of wildlife.
- Josiah D.Guide
Burney Falls/Hat Creek KOA
Well maintained, clean campground
The staff were very friendly. Convenient for car camping. The showers are very nice and big.
- 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.
S.AllanScoutCowboy Camp
This is rough country
Great camp with amazing views. But, you should not camp alone. I've been here often this month and have seen a herd sheep eating the grass on the hillside, heard a pack of coyotes several nights in a row, until I heard a Mt Lion doing it's bird like sounds at night, as it circled my rv. This is last night, 10/07/2026 - mt lion presence detected, not seen. Be careful.
- MMargaret B.
TravelerSecret Gardens By the Bay
Secret garden enchantment
This is a 10 out of 10 stay. The outdoor kitchen and gardens are to die for and the owners are incredibly hospitable and kind we stayed for five days. It’s really the type of place you just have to see for yourself. Multiple showers and bathrooms. I stayed in my RV, but there are a cabin options as well as tent options booked to be a Hipcamp and beyond worth the cost. I highly recommend more than one night.
- SShirley M.Guide
Lower Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
Beautiful Yosemite
We camped in our tiny towable Meerkat camper. Our spot was right next to the bathroom (flush toilets but there are not any showers), site 64. The view is of 1/2 dome and there is a swimming hole near the site. Although the sites are close together, they are arranged nicely with a large picnic table and fire pit and large bear box at each at each site. There were group sites and tent sites. The camp is a stop on the bus route and it is in walking distance of Curry Village where there are restaurants and groceries available. The site puts you close to most of the things you want to see at Yosemite.
- Kylee R.Ranger
Porcupine Flat Campground — Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Porcupine Flats
Right in the middle of Yosemite! Lots of tree cover. Vault toilets and bear boxes. Fire rings and picnic tables. The spots are pretty close to each other though, not a bunch of privacy.
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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