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Best Campgrounds in California

10,000
Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites in California (3,757)

    1. Mackerricher State Park Campground

    1465 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA

    $45 - $260 / night

    "PROS Campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground.

    → Campsites have bear lockers."

    "There are many sites next to the ocean."

    2. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    124 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."

    "The campsites are tucked between massive granite boulders, offering natural windbreaks and a sense of privacy that’s hard to find elsewhere."

    3. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    98 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."

    4. 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."

    5. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    79 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. Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

    72 Reviews
    Orick, CA
    Website
    +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."

    7. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    69 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."

    8. Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park

    65 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

    64 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

    66 Reviews
    Grover Beach, CA
    Website
    +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!)"

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  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    One night

    Our second night in the park had us staying at this lovely campground. Easily can see why it is the favorite for those visiting the park. Trails are close by with some even leaving from the campground. Sights are still quite close together but the foliage and rocks formations make you feel more secluded.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    One night

    Not being ones to plan ahead, we got lucky and were able to find a spot at this campground for one night while exploring the park. The facilities were clean and convenient. Some sites have more room between them while others are quite close.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    Two nights

    We stayed two nights while exploring the park. Quiet campground despite being quite busy. We found clean facilities and friendly staff. There is a lot of wildlife eager to partake in food items left laying around so you need to keep a clean site using the boxes where needed. We had a couple raccoons try to visit till our dog said hello. They quickly moved to another campsite where I heard them sending them packing as well.
    We enjoyed our time at this campground.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Painted Canyon

    Overnight stay

    After leaving the Joshua Tree NP we headed here to let our dog stretch her legs and run off some energy. This place was perfect for that as well as a lovely spot to camp. There are many spots to choose from. We found our spot tucked in a nook. We enjoyed a lovely evening with a nice campfire and lots of stars. The only downside were the gnats. Not biting but annoying as there were alot of them. The road in was rough and not a place to be if raining but a great dispersed site to get away from the crowds.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Giant Rock Dispersed

    Overnight stop

    We stopped in for the night before going into Joshua Tree NP. Except for the graffiti being left on the rocks the spot was great. There was also a little bit of trash. You can tell the area is quite popular although in January we were quite alone. There are a lot of spots to choose from.

  • S
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Kirk Creek Campground

    Unwind

    A perfect place to just get away from society. Be prepared for no service but I didn’t see that as a problem.

  • Kelly C.
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Islay Creek Campground — Montaña de Oro State Park

    Really nice campground

    It was great camping at Islay Creek Campground. It was peaceful, beautiful surroundings, and a decent amount of space between campsites. The coastal air, hills, and nearby ocean views made it a great escape. Access to hiking trails, tide pools, and scenic drives. Watch for ticks, found one on my dog so keep out of the tall grass.

    Sites were clean and well cared for, restrooms were not a far walk from my campsite and the overall vibe was quiet and relaxing. Limited cell service, if you’re trying to unplug. Nights get cool and foggy, so pack layers.

    Would definitely camp here again.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2026

    Panther Flat Campground

    Beautiful, clean campground!

    I stopped here in mid-January during a road trip to California, and it was the perfect choice for traveling with my five dogs. I was so grateful to find a well-maintained campground open during the winter season. It was incredibly quiet with only a few other campers around. Even though I only stayed for one night, I found the facilities to be impressively clean. My campsite was close enough to hear the river, which was a lovely touch. For only$15, this is a fantastic value. I’ll definitely be back!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 28, 2026

    Lake Solano County Park

    One night trip stay

    Spent a quick night here. Camp site is undergoing renovation so space is limited. Very safe and the free hot shower was a bonus! Definitely will visit in the summer to get some water time in, was too cold during trip to take advantage of the water.

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.

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