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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.

Campground Showdown in California

Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!

Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National ParkJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National ParkJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National ParkJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National ParkJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National ParkJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National ParkJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National ParkJumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park
Click to VoteCampground A
OR
Alabama Hills Recreation AreaAlabama Hills Recreation AreaAlabama Hills Recreation AreaAlabama Hills Recreation AreaAlabama Hills Recreation AreaAlabama Hills Recreation AreaAlabama Hills Recreation AreaAlabama Hills Recreation Area
Click to VoteCampground B

Round 1 of 5

Best Camping Sites in California (3,936)

    1. Jumbo Rocks Campground — Joshua Tree National Park

    125 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."

    "bathrooms but no water access and the main entrance is about 45 drive, so come prepared. great access to climbing walking distance or short drive. stunning rock formations and sunrise/sunsets."

    2. Pinnacles Campground — Pinnacles National Park

    101 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."

    3. 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."

    4. Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

    78 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."

    5. South Carlsbad State Beach Campground

    80 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. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground

    72 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."

    7. Morro Bay State Park Campground

    71 Reviews
    Los Osos, CA
    Website
    +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 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

    65 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

    67 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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Recent Reviews in California

10000 Reviews of 3936 California Campgrounds

  • Michelle H.The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 11, 2026

    McCloud RV Resort

    So much shade

    We stayed two nights here and were able to walk to the Apple harvest festival across the street. You are definitely packed in here but the park is really nice. We stayed in spot 29.

    These spots seem to have shade all day long: 25-34 47-70

    Spots we saw that we would like to stay in next time: 18, 19, 83A, 113

    Also good: 80-83 and 105-113

    36-47 have no shade in the afternoon/early evening

    The bathrooms were old but clean. I wish the outdoor cooking facilities were better maintained. I’m not quite sure they are usable, but my husband says they are.

    We definitely will return to this Park. I appreciate the tight ship they run. We let them know that our cable box was broken when we arrived, and even though we don’t use the cable, they had somebody there within five minutes to fix it. Strict 10pm quiet rule, which I also appreciated. Some highway noise, but it was not that bad. The little town of McCloud is so very cute and easily walkable. We recommend Sage for a fancy dinner.

  • Jen F.The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 11, 2026

    Azalea Campground — Kings Canyon National Park

    Bring your levelers

    CONS: Most sites need some (or a lot) of level help. No RV dump. Pretty popular (so don’t expect privacy). PROS: sequoia is beautiful. You can find some amazing trails.

  • Beth The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 11, 2026

    Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area

    Stayed at Buena Vista Campground.

    Beautiful view next to lake. Site is on pavementwith grass area next to us. Had to call for noise, the ranger went by and after he left went back up again. So not so peaceful. Can boat, canoe, paddle board. Very calm lake. Not too busy. Pull through sites.

  • JThe Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 10, 2026

    Fowlers Campground

    Quiet amongst the trees

    I showed up for a first come first served site. It wasn’t clear when I drove in that you can look at the dates on the reservation tags and use the site if you’re between days it is reserved. Nice shady wooded campground right next to the river with easy access to a gorgeous trail.

  • JThe Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 10, 2026

    The 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.

  • Zack P.
    Oct. 10, 2026

    Twin Lakes Campground

    Beautiful Campsite

    I had a huge campsite site-one camping spot over from the lakeside. the whole back of the site open to forest-46a (this is a prime cluster of sites). Close to what are probably the cleanest, best maintained bathrooms in the park system (cleaned twice daily).  The Mamouth lakes area is not for campers seeking solitude, it's just too popular an area for that. However, despite a lot of people around, it is beautiful and stunning area nevertheless! 

    There is one thing to note-don't forget to bring clothes to layer up with as it can turn cold and windy without a moment's notice. In fact, because of a relentless, daily wind, it was the only camping spot I felt compelled to fully stake down my large Wonderland Tent. all summer...

    Another highlight of Mamouth is there are plenty of fish at nearby lakes-this area is considered one of the best regions in USA for trophy trout.  The Lakes are also stocked with plenty of good-sized trout for eating; however, Twin Lakes is not the best lake for shore fishing-you need a boat or float to get to the best spots-plus, it is a very weedy as well.

    Besides GREAT FISHING, you are nearby to a dozen FANTASTIC day hikes and there are many more great hikes for a bit longer drive- this is a day-hikers paradise!

    If the lack of solitude doesn't bother you (find it by hiking), it is also nice camping area for extended stays because you are so close to the town of Mammoth Lakes-it has good restaurants, bakeries, ice cream, and a Vons supermarket (best price on ice here),

    All in All, it was a great place to pitch my REI Wonderland Tent for a week and I highly recommend it.

  • Meredith M.The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 10, 2026

    Oak Park

    Sketchy

    Stopped here on a Friday night after spending the day in Simi Valley. It was a ghost town, with only one other campsite occupied that showed no movement or activity at all. The train isn’t running in the overnight hours, so that’s a plus, but the vibe at the lower campsite is making it tough to sleep nonetheless. Two stars for a clean bathroom.

  • S.Allan The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 10, 2026

    Clear Lake Campground

    Great Camp

    This was a nice stay and the owner was friendly and helpful. It has showers, but no pet area or great place to walk dogs. It had full amenities for RVs and both pull in and back in sites. Closely spaced, but awning room. The only two drawbacks are that the price is high for the area, as is the area itself. There are some options to save, so it may be in your budget.

  • S.Allan The Dyrt Pro User
    Oct. 10, 2026

    Tree Of Heaven Campground

    The Boondock

    It's a beautiful camp, but there is a conflict between their (gov run) website information and in park board. Some sights are first come first serve, but some can be reserved online, but aren't marked, so there can be a reservation for a first come first serve spot. I've been there three times, the last wasn't bad, but twice the above issues caused inconvenience to my camp. Still a beautiful place, though

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.

Keep Exploring

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