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

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

Looking for a place to get away from the stresses of the city and enjoy some peace and tranquility? Look no further than the Heritage Campsite. For the past four years, this has been our go-to spot for camping and creating great memories with our family and pets.

Located just a few miles from the Carrizo Plain National Monument and Soda Lake, this 2.5-acre lot is one of California's best-kept secrets. With only a few hours' drive from Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to be alone with nature and experience the beauty of the outdoors.

The Heritage Campsite is RV, travel trailer, and van-friendly, and generators are allowed at your discretion. And with no other visitors on the property, you'll have the entire lot to yourself.

One of the most amazing things about this campsite is the clear and beautiful night sky. With no city lights to interfere, you'll be able to see the stars like never before. And if you're lucky, you may even hear the coyotes howling in the distance.

During the spring, the valley comes alive with lush, colorful flowers that blanket the mountains in blue, green, purple, and yellow. It's a sight that you'll never forget and a reminder of the beauty of nature.

So why wait? Book your stay at the Heritage Campsite today and experience the magic of this hidden gem. It's like going back in time to the pioneering days or the native American passage travels. It's the perfect place to relax, unwind, and create new memories that will last a lifetime.



Heritage - Carrizo Plain Campsite 

Songdog Ranch is not a dude ranch, nor some ritzy retreat. It is a secluded rustic get away for the 'real' and adventurous. There are no cattle grazing in the pastures, nor fields of fruit along our fence line. The only things ever raised here are small herds of wine glasses in the light of campfires.

Songdog Ranch

Rustic cabin on 2.5 acres. Come see the Carrizo Plains! Whether you're into Soda Lake, wildflowers, zillion-star views, the rare local fauna, or exploring the nearby beaches and wineries, there's something here for everyone.



Grab your own pillows and blankies and come check it out! We look forward to sharing this incredible & unique experience with you!



The Little Brave House

Oak shaded campground, Recreational Vehicles up to 28 feet.

Aliso Park Campground

Camping is available on a first come-first serve basis. Thirteen campsites with picnic tables, fire pits, horse corrals and a wheelchair accessible vault toilet. Electricity and drinking water is not available. There is no garbage service, please act responsibly and pack out any refuse you have. This campground is more secluded and the camper is only steps away from unlimited hiking in the Wilderness Study Area that lies outside the campground.

Selby Campground

## Overview

Nira Campground is a beautiful site covered in oak trees and located along Manzana Creek. Whether you come to cast a line in the river, camp and relax, ride horses, mountain bike or hike, Nira offers a scenic location with a variety of recreation activities.

## Recreation

Along with hiking, mountain biking, fishing and swimming, Nira Campground is a great starting point for backpacking and deer hunting expeditions into the San Rafael Wilderness. Located on Manzana Creek just upstream from the mouth of Davy Brown Creek, a trailhead provides access for various trails up and down Manzana Creek that enter the San Rafael Wilderness.

## Facilities

While tent camping is best enjoyed in this cozy campground, there is room for small RVs under 20 feet. Nira has 12 campsites, each site includes a picnic table, barbecue grill and/or a fire ring. Sites 1-3 are tent and car camping sites only (no RVs due to size restrictions). There is a vault toilet in the campground. There is no drinking water at this site.

## Natural Features

Nira Campground is surrounded and shaded by oak tree- covered mountains. Whether you're a beginner in the art of birdwatching, or an experienced birder, Nira will not disappoint. A bounty of birds such as king-fishers, juncos, Stellar jays, white-breasted nuthatches, warblers and many more flourish in this section of the Los Padres National Forest. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Manzana River runs through the campground where swimming and fishing are favorite activities. The trailhead for San Rafael Wilderness is easily accessible. Los Olivios, Santa Ynez, Solvang and Buelton are all within a one hour's drive.

Nira Campground

Camping is available on a first come-first serve basis, we do not take reservations. Twelve campsites (two are elevated ADA compliant), with picnic tables, fire pits, horse corrals and ADA compliant vault toilet. Electricy and drinking water is not available. There is no garbage service, please act responsibly and pack out any refuse you have. It has some of the few shade trees on the monument. Formerly owned by the Kern County Land Company, the KCL still has a few of the original barn structures as well as some of the corrals. Please refrain from entering the barn structures.

KCL Campground Carrizo Plains NM

## Overview

Nestled on beautiful Figueroa Mountain, this charming campground sits alongside the serenely flowing Davy Brown Creek. Close to Santa Barbara, Davy Brown Campground offers some of the most tranquil camping in the Los Padres National Forest. The soothing sounds of the running creek can be heard from all campsites, making this campground a favorite for those planning a peaceful and relaxing get-away.

## Recreation

On hot summer days, the creek provides relief as visitors splash in the water holes located along the creek. Migrating birds, such as the exquisite western tanager, are often seen from spring to August. There are ample trails to hike, or mountain bike. From mid-August to late September, this campground is very popular with hunters during the annual deer season.

## Facilities

Davy Brown Campground has 13 scenic and picturesque campsites. Each campsite is equipped with fire rings, pedestal barbeques and a picnic table. There are two vault bathrooms (wheelchair accessible) spaced strategically throughout the campground. Davy Brown Campground can accommodate RVs up to 25 ft. long; hook-ups are not available. Three dumpsters are located on Figueroa Mountain Road for convenient trash disposal; none are available at this site. There is no drinking water at this site; please bring your own water.

## Natural Features

Davy Brown Campground is surrounded and shaded by mountains covered with valley oak, blue oak, live oak, and gray pine. The companion shrub species include manzanita, coffeeberry and redberry. A soothing creek offers diminutive waterfalls and invigorating swimming holes. Birds such as king-fishers, juncos, Stellar jays, white-breasted nuthatches, warblers and many more also make their home here. 

## Nearby Attractions

Davy Brown Campground is the starting point for several trails, including the spectacular Davy Brown/Fir Canyon Trail. Two miles further are the Lower Manzana and Upper Manzana trailheads, entry points to the majestic San Rafael Wilderness. Los Olivios, Santa Ynez, Solvang and Buelton are within an hour's drive.

Davy Brown Campground

KCL Campground

Sycamore Campground

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

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 Los Padres National Forest

Top Campgrounds in Los Padres National Forest (137)

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