Best and Fun Campgrounds in California

Campgrounds in California

Looking for the best campgrounds in California?? Here’s the list with all the travel information that you need to plan a family tour.

One of the best ways to explore California is camping. California’s state parks and national parks feature numerous excellent campgrounds with pristine settings and exceptional recreational facilities.

Especially in southern California, there is plenty of space to camp in the summer. For example, Jumbo Rocks Campground, San Onofre Bluffs Campground, and Serrano Campground are the most popular campgrounds in SoCal. 

Although many sites have fire pits, you should still check the regulations to make sure your camper’s fire-safety equipment meets the standards required by the park. And to enjoy the best California camping experience, make sure you follow these rules:

One of the most important considerations before choosing a campground is the time of year of travel. The warmer months have higher rates, which means you will have to book your campsite in advance to avoid the high season.

On the other hand, Northern California offers beach camping, lakeside camping, forest camping, and desert camping experiences. For example, Redwoods State Park Campground, D.L. Bliss State Park Campground, Manzanita Lake Campground, and Kirby Cove Campground are the most popular campgrounds in NorCal. 

So, Let’s discover the complete list of the best and fun campgrounds in California. Just check whether you have added them to your bucket list.

Campgrounds in California

1. Campgrounds in California: Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree National Park

If you’re looking for a secluded camping area, the Jumbo Rocks Campground is your best bet.

Campgrounds in California Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree National Park
Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree National Park

Jumbo Rocks Campground is located in the center of the Joshua Tree National Park, near the Skull Rock trail, which begins here. It is one of four campgrounds within the park. The other campgrounds are Indian Cove, Black Rock, and Cottonwood.

Although Jumbo Rocks Campground doesn’t have water, it does have vault toilets. And some campsites are large enough to accommodate RVs while others are small. However,  tent campers enjoy the greatest freedom and flexibility here.

Skull Rock in Joshua Tree National Park
Skull Rock in Joshua Tree National Park

Altogether there are 124 campsites in the campground.

These campsites feature fire rings and picnic tables but, the only drawback is the lack of potable water. Although the site does have restrooms, it’s not equipped with running water and showers. So, you have to bring every essential thing.

The Jumbo Rocks Campground has numerous hiking trails and canyons to explore if you want to explore the surrounding area. So, this place is a paradise for hikers.

Surrounded by unique rock formations and massive boulders, this campground offers you a chance to explore a surreal desert landscape.

night camping in Jumbo Rocks Campground
Night Camping in Jumbo Rocks Campground

On the other hand, this campground is perfect for stargazing. So, night camping in Jumbo Rocks Campground will be an unforgettable experience for any camper. You can catch magical sunsets of this boulder-rich region and spectacular night skies.

But, make sure to book your reservation in advance.

Although Jumbo Rocks Campground is open year-round, the park’s hot summer months may lead to a closure of the campgrounds. However, the peak season is between October and May. So, reserve your campsite now.

Address: Jumbo Rocks Campground, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, United States   Phone: +1 877-444-6777

Campgrounds in California

2. Campgrounds in California: Francis Beach Campground, Half Moon Bay

Francis Beach Campground in Half Moon Bay is a dreamy camping area for beach lovers. Located along Half Moon Bay State Beach, it offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

Campgrounds in California Francis Beach Campground, Half Moon Bay
Francis Beach Campground, Half Moon Bay

Therefore, campers can enjoy hiking, surfing, coastline fishing, whale watching, horseback riding, and other fun outdoor activities.

There are 52 individual sites at Francis Beach Campground. Some are tent-only, while others are designed for RVs with electric hookups. And the one-day-use fee of a campsite is around $10.

Other facilities on Francis Beach Campground include coin-based showers, modern restrooms, a dump station, a water filling station, and electricity for all sites. So you can charge your appliances and enjoy the ocean.

Aside from that, there is also a dog park and a trailhead for dogs too. If you are planning on camping with your pet, you should plan accordingly.

Address: Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, United States  Phone: +1 800-444-7275

Looking for the best beaches in San Francisco?? Here’s the complete list with all essential travel information. Just check. 

Campgrounds in California

3. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground, Redwoods National and State Parks

An excellent campground is available at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in Redwoods National and State Parks, about nine miles east of Crescent City, California.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground, Redwoods National and State Parks
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground in Redwoods National and State Parks

This state park preserves old-growth redwoods along the Smith River. And t is accessible from U.S. Route 199.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park campground has 86 campsites for RVs, trailers, and tents with full facilities, including coin-operated showers, hot showers, flush toilets, restrooms, and ADA access. The best sites are in the “outer loop.” They are set apart from the rest of the campground and are free.

There are also hiking trails through the lush forest with towering redwood trees. So, the trails are well treed and have plenty of shade. While enjoying the natural beauty, you’ll hear coyotes, spotted owls, and more along these trails.

Redwoods National and State Parks CA
Redwoods National and State Parks

Therefore, it considers a perfect getaway for families with young children.

However, visitors should be aware of the poison oak plants. And the trees are very vulnerable to these invasive species. So, keep your campsite clean. You can spot the plants that grow in the redwoods on the trail by following the Leave-No-Trace Principles.

Plan your family camping tour to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park campground now. It is available year-round campground.

If you are into backcountry camping, Redwoods National and State Parks allow permission for that too.

Address: Crescent City, CA 95531, United States   Phone: +1 707-464-6101

Campgrounds in California

4. Campgrounds in California: San Onofre Bluffs Campground, San Onofre State Beach

One of the premier surf beaches in the world, San Onofre State Beach offers camping and surfing at multiple breaks.

Campgrounds in California San Onofre Bluffs Campground, San Onofre State Beach
San Onofre Bluffs Campground, San Onofre State Beach

During the summer, this beach is an ideal place to RV camping, bike, and hike. It’s also a popular spot for families with kids, with multiple playgrounds and pools for kids to play in.

Whether you want to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean or plan an active family trip, there’s a campsite to fit your needs. And it is San Onofre Bluffs Campground.

The facilities on San Onofre Bluffs Campground include 175 campsites, a paved parking area, an RV dump station, vault toilets, a restroom, showers, drinking water, and fire pits. Also, you can use generators as long as you stay within 10 am to 8 pm.

In addition to the campground’s amenities, several exciting hiking and cycling trails are available that lead to the beach. Therefore, camping on San Onofre Bluffs Campground is great for families.

San Onofre Bluffs Campground, San Onofre State Beach
San Onofre Bluffs Campground, San Onofre State Beach

Aside from hiking and cycling, you can experience surfing on this beach because it is home to some of the best surfing spots in Southern California. Therefore, many surfers attract to San Onofre State Beach.

If you are not into surfing, you can go swimming, sunbathing, and fishing while camping on San Onofre State Beach.

Tent campers can use the inland campground on San Onofre State Beach called San Mateo Campground. And it features 140-plus sites for camp lovers.

If you’re planning to camp on San Onofre State Beach, make sure you reserve your campsite in advance.

Address: Old Pacific Highway, San Clemente, CA 92672, United States    Phone: +1 949-492-4872

Campgrounds in California

5. D.L. Bliss State Park Campground, South Lake Tahoe

Located on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, D.L. Bliss is a beautiful state park in California.

D.L. Bliss State Park Campground, South Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe

If you want to experience lakeside camping in a beautiful environment, D.L. Bliss State Park is the perfect place to stay and relax. In fact, you can enjoy incredible views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains while camping.

This area offers many activities, including swimming, scuba diving, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and more. So, it is a perfect place to make unforgettable memories with your family and friends.

D.L. Bliss State Park Campground CA
D.L. Bliss State Park Campground

D.L. Bliss State-Park Campground offers one group campsite and 150 family campsites. And these campsites are available for you on a first-come-first-serve basis. So, it is better to reserve in advance.

Although each site is slightly different, they all have picnic tables and grills for your convenience. Aside from that, the campground has a large pantry, restrooms, a hot tub, and hot showers, too.

But, there’s no electricity. So, D.L. Bliss State Park Campground is more secluded and calm at night.

Do you like night camping??

Address: 9881 CA-89, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States   Phone: +1 530-525-7277

Campgrounds in California

6. Campgrounds in California: Yosemite Creek Campground, Yosemite National Park 

Unlike most other Yosemite campgrounds, this first-come, first-served spot is less popular than the other Yosemite campgrounds. So, no need for reservations. 

Yosemite Creek Campground, Yosemite National Park 
Yosemite Creek Campground, Yosemite National Park

Located along Tioga Road, in the northern portion of the Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Creek Campground is quiet and remote. Because it is so far from the park’s major attractions, so, it is less crowded.

Yosemite Creek Campground features 75 tent campsites that are not large. So, RVs and trailers are not recommended. But these tent campsites are open and provide good views of the surrounding valley walls.

Yosemite Creek Campground CA
Yosemite Creek Campground

If you are looking for group campsites, there are several sites for you. On the other hand, few campsites offer easy access to people with disabilities too.

While camping there, you can experience fishing on Yosemite Creek, hiking the Yosemite Creek Trail, and enjoying spectacular nature views from various viewpoints. Ex: Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, Tuolumne Meadows, and Yosemite Valley.

The facilities on this campground include fire rings, picnic tables, food lockers, and vault toilets. But, it does not feature hookups, dump stations, and potable water.

Usually, the campground opens from July through early September. And it is not recommended to camp during the spring season, as the temperatures can drop significantly.

Since pets are allowed on Yosemite Creek Campground, come along with your doggy.

Address: Yosemite Creek Campground, California 95389, United States  Phone: +1 209-372-0200

Campgrounds in California

7. Serrano Campground, San Bernardino National Forest

Here’s another excellent lakeside camping spot in California.

San Bernardino National Forest
San Bernardino National Forest

The serrano campground in San Bernardino National Forest is close to the Big Bear Lake and offers 100 campsites for tent and RV campers. Twenty-nine of them are full hookups, while sixteen sites are double sites.

And they feature facilities including a comfort station, camp host, dump station, RV hookups, firewood sales, fire rings, interpretive trails, interpretive programs, picnic tables, showers, flush toilets, and restrooms.

So, do not hesitate to reserve your family campsite at serrano campground. And bring your doggy too.

Serrano Campground, San Bernardino National Forest
Serrano Campground, San Bernardino National Forest

As mentioned above, the Serrano campground offers interpretive programs, hiking and mountain biking trails, fishing spots, and many other water sports for outdoor enthusiasts.

For example, hikers, bikers, and snowshoers can try Cougar Crest Trail that runs through beautiful mountainous landscapes.

Address: San Bernardino National Forest Serrano Campground, Big Bear, CA 92314, United States    Phone: 1-877-444-6777

Campgrounds in California

8. Manzanita Lake Campground, Lassen Volcanic National Park

If you are planning a trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park, make sure to include a stop at the Manzanita Lake Campground.

camping in California Manzanita Lake Lassen Volcanic National Park
Manzanita Lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park

This campground has vault toilets, coin-operated laundry, showers, and a general store, along with more than 175 excellent campsites for RVs and tents. 

Since Manzanita Lake is only a few miles from the site, you can enjoy unlimited water sports while camping during summer. For example, it is a popular spot for fly fishers.

Manzanita Lake Campground, Lassen Volcanic National Park
Manzanita Lake Campground, Lassen Volcanic National Park

Aside from that, it allows non-motorized boating, kayaking, and canoeing. On the other hand, there is plenty of scenic hiking and biking trails, do not miss them.

Don’t worry; you can rent boats, kayaks, canoes, and bikes on this campground.

If you’re bringing an RV, you’ll need to make reservations for the cabins at the Manzanita Lake Campground.

Address: Lassen Volcanic National Park, Mineral, CA 96063, United States    Phone: +1 530-595-6121

Campgrounds in California

9. Campgrounds in California: Kirk Creek Campground, Big Sur

Located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Big Sur, Kirk Creek Campground is a popular and scenic blufftop spot for tent camping. It is easily accessible as it is close to Los Padres National Forest.

Campgrounds in California Kirk Creek Campground, Big Sur
Kirk Creek Campground, Big Sur

The beach near the campground is rocky and narrow, but it has green grasslands to have quality time with your family. The beach is only accessible on foot via a short trail.

And Sand Dollar Beach, one of the most picturesque stretches of sand along the Big Sur coast, is also accessible from Kirk Creek Campground. So, you get the chance to swim, surfing, fish, sunbathe, and spot native wildlife species, including mountain lions, bears, bobcats, deer, and foxes.

This campground features several scenic hiking and biking trails. For example, the Vicente Flat Trail, a famous hiker’s trail, runs through the campground. You can also ride horses and take part in other activities at the campsite.

The Kirk Creek Campground is a first-come, first-serve campground and contains single-family tent campsites and RV campsites.

Facilities on this campground include day-use picnic tables, campfire rings, barbecue grills, and vault toilets.

And the drawbacks include:

Although there are no showers and running water stations, there is a local store that sells water jugs. The bathrooms do have running water, but you may have to stand in a long line to fill up. On the other hand, the restrooms at Kirk Creek are not equipped with running water.

So, be sure to bring your water for drinking, cooking, and other stuff.

Address: CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States  Phone: +1 805-434-1996

Campgrounds in California

10. Manker Flats Campground, Angeles National Forest

The majority of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is in the Angeles National Forest. And the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is part of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Angeles National Forest CA
Angeles National Forest

This region is also home to many different kinds of plants and animals. And this park offers a wide range of recreation opportunities, including hiking and mountain biking along scenic trails.

If you are looking for an outdoor getaway, Manker Flats Campground in the Angeles National Forest is a great choice. It features 21 campsites with fire pits, picnic tables, beaches, and flush toilets.

camping in California Manker Flats Campground, Angeles National Forest
Manker Flats Campground, Angeles National Forest

For those who enjoy hiking, Manker Flats Campground is an ideal destination. The mountain is within easy walking distance of the campsite.

And it offers challenging hikes and scenic views. It also has a natural spring, which is a great place to relax—for example, Mount Baldy trailhead.

If you like camping close to Mother Nature, you’ll enjoy the beauty and serenity of the surrounding in Manker Flats Campground. And that’s why it considers an ideal place to go for a quiet and peaceful getaway.

Address: 12371 Little Tujunga Canyon Rd, San Fernando, CA 91342, United States   Phone: +1 747-322-6574  

Campgrounds in California

11. Antlers Campground, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Located in the northern portion of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Antlers Campground has plenty of space for your RV. (offers easy access from Interstate 5)

camping in California Shasta Lake Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Shasta Lake, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Antlers Campground is located on the bluff above Trinity Arm of Shasta Lake. Therefore it features many scenic spots to enjoy the view and lakeside bluffs. Since it is generally flat and level, you can safely place your RV.

Surrounded by pine trees and oak trees, this popular campground contains more than 55 campsites. And each site has a picnic table and fire ring.

It is open from early March through late October, and the fee for single or double campsites is around $40 per night.

Antlers Campground, Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Antlers Campground, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Antlers’ other amenities include vault toilets, flush toilets, a store, Antlers Amphitheater, and a paved parking lot.

Located near Lakehead, Antlers Campground offers lakeside activities such as fishing, hiking, boating, and fishing. It is shaded and provides a public boat launch too.

And the campsite has a large pond that is great for children. Surprisingly, the campground also hosts a pancake breakfast.

During the summer months, the campground offers free interpretive programs as well. If you like cave exploring, try Lake Shasta Caverns, located near this campground.

So, just add Antlers Campground in Shasta-Trinity National Forest to your bucket list.

Address: Antlers Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, United States  Phone: +1 530-275-8113

Campgrounds in California

12. Burlington Campground, Humboldt Redwoods State Park

The Burlington Campground is a year-round campground located near the Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park (at 184 feet elevation). So, you will have a nice view of the redwoods, which is a great place to spend the evening.

camping in California Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Humboldt Redwoods State Park

And Burlington Campground features 57 campsites for RVs and tents, including three designated hike-and-bike sites. Facilities on the campground include coin-operated showers, clean restrooms, bathrooms, fire rings, flush toilets, and a Visitor Center. Especially, the campsite is adjacent to the Visitor Center and is a popular spot for tourists.

There are no cell phone reception issues here, but cell service may be intermittent.

Burlington Campground, Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Burlington Campground, Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Reservations are required, and reservations are accepted up to six months in advance. Generally, you can arrive at the campground anytime during the weekdays or weekends.

It is also convenient, and there are over 100 miles of hiking trails nearby Burlington Campground. Since it is near the South Fork of the Eel River, the camp offers access to the river, and there is also a summer bridge that crosses it.

Hikers can easily navigate these trails. So, surely try them to explore nature.

Address: Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571, United States  Phone: +1 707-946-1811

Campgrounds in California

13. Fern Basin Campground, San Bernardino National Forest

Fern Basin Campground is located within San Bernardino National Forest, seven miles northwest of the small town of Idyllwild in the southern California mountains.

camping in California San Bernardino National Forest
San Bernardino National Forest

The campground features over 20 campsites in an oak, conifer, and cedar forested setting for tents, small RVs, and trailers.

And also, the facilities include picnic tables, fire pits, fire rings, grills, drinking water, and vault toilets. You can purchase in Idyllwild, a friendly community located less than 7 miles away.

It is also popular with families because it is near the mountain trail, which leads to San Jacinto Peak. The Marion Mountain Trail is a one-mile stretch of hiking that leads to the summit, where you can see panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Fern Basin Campground, San Bernardino National Forest
Fern Basin Campground, San Bernardino National Forest

Aside from hiking, you can enjoy backpacking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, mountain Biking, taking scenic photos, picnicking, and stargazing with your family.

Fern Basin Campground offers you a chance to stay in the most peaceful and picturesque surroundings. You’ll find a rustic setting and plenty of space to relax.

Although there are many other campsites nearby, Fern Base Campground is a more remote option. This campsite is less crowded than others, and it’s located at an elevation of 6,300 feet.

Other campgrounds in San Bernardino National Forest include Idyllwild and Lake Idyllwild. The latter two are located north of Idyllwild and feature a lake and a beach. While the former is more popular, the latter is more accessible.

Despite its relatively high elevation, Fern Basin Campground offers a more rural environment. The best time to visit this campground is from late May to early September.

So, come along with your family and pet.

Address: Forest Rte 4S02, Banning, CA 92220, United States   Phone: +1 909-382-2600

Campgrounds in California

14. Russian Gulch State Park Campground, Mendocino Coast

Are you ready to enjoy beach camping??

Russian Gulch Seascape
Russian Gulch Seascape

The campground is located at the northern end of Russian Gulch State Park, just north of Mendocino (seven miles south of Fort Bragg and two miles north of Mendocino).

And it is accessible via Highway 1, Point Cabrillo Road, and Brest Road, and the park is only 2.1 miles from the town center.

Russian Gulch State Park Campground features around 30 standard campsites for RV, tent, trailers, group, and equestrian with all the amenities of a modern cabin.

And they are a paved road, scenic picnic areas, a bathhouse, firepit, food storage locker, hot showers, restrooms with flush toilets, drinking water, and Ranger Station. Firewood must be purchased locally by campers.

The campground has designated accessible sites for people with ADA.

Russian Gulch State Park Campground, Mendocino Coast
Russian Gulch State Park Campground, Mendocino Coast

And the campsites are open year-round. But, it can be reserved from late March through Labor Day and are first-come, first-serve other days of the year.

This area has a verdant grotto with a waterfall close to the beach that is 36 feet tall. And the trail to this waterfall called Fern Canyon Trail, a six-mile round trip, starts at Russian Gulch State Park Campground.

Located near the Russian River, it offers incredible views of the Mendocino Coast, surrounding mountains, ocean, and seascape. Therefore, it is popular among picnickers.

On the other hand, its gleaming rocks and pristine beaches are popular with day-trippers and locals too.

So, the things to do while camping on Russian Gulch State Park Campground are hiking, beachcombing, tide-pooling, biking, fishing, boating non-motorized boats, kayaking, birdwatching, horseback riding, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, whale watching, and more.

Since there is no lifeguard at the park, be careful.

Address: CA-1, Mendocino, CA 95460, United States  Phone: +1 707-937-5804

Campgrounds in California

15. Tamarisk Grove Campground, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Let’s go desert camping.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Tamarisk Grove Campground of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a good choice if you want to escape the heat.

This developed camping area is located just off Highway 78 and features around 27 tree-shaded campsites for tent, RV, and trailer campers.

And the facilities here include picnic areas, paved parking spur, fire rings, restrooms, flush toilets, coin-operated showers, barbecue grills, a small store that sell bottled water, and a restaurant.

The park’s visitor information office also sells bottled water. But tap water dump stations and electricity are not available on these campsites.

Tamarisk Grove Campground, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Tamarisk Grove Campground, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

During the non-summer months, the campground is a popular destination for those seeking to explore the surrounding wilderness. The months to visit Tamarisk Grove Campground are between October and May.

And the Yaqui Well is a well-known spot for Costas Hummingbirds and owls. On the other hand, the Cactus Loop Trail provides views of 7 types of cacti.

Aside from hiking, Tamarisk Grove Campground is perfect for stargazing too.

Address: Anza Borrego Desert State Park, 5960 Yaqui Pass Rd, Julian, CA 92036, United States   Phone: +1 760-767-4205

Campgrounds in California

16. Indian Well Campground, Lava Beds National Monument

For a relaxing weekend in the desert, stay at the Indian Well Campground in Lava Beds National Monument, Tulelake, California.

camping in California Lava Beds National Monument
Lava Beds National Monument

This historical park is a prime location for exploring lava tube caves, awe-inspiring sunrises, and historic battlefields.

Forty-three campsites are available at Indian Well, and no reservations are required. So, campers can enjoy their stay at this rustic campground with their families and friends. And you are allowed to bring your dog too.

Facilities on the campground include potable water and pit toilets.

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll probably want to rent a tent or RV for the trip. There are also several other options, including backcountry trail camping and large group camping.

Indian Well Campground, Lava Beds National Monument
Indian Well Campground, Lava Beds National Monument

While camping, there is plenty to do at Lava Beds National Monument, including a chance to watch sunsets and explore caves. Especially, you will see petroglyphs, buttes, and craters in the ancient caves on Cave Loop Road.

Indian Well Campground is about fifteen miles from the main road, but it’s still convenient to visit the park’s other attractions.

The trails in the Lava Beds National Monument are easy to hike, but you should be aware of the park’s rules. You must adhere to them.

If you plan to spend more time in the park, consider renting a yurt and exploring the lava beds.

Address: Lava Beds Campground Rd, Tulelake, CA 96134, United States   Phone: +1 530-667-8113

Campgrounds in California

17. Furnace Creek Campground, Death Valley National Park

The Furnace Creek Campground in Death Valley is a large, well-maintained campground that features 36 campsites, including 18 hookup sites for RVs, tents, and trailers.

camping in California Furnace Creek, Death Valley National Park
Furnace Creek, Death Valley National Park

This campground is equipped with clean and well-maintained washrooms, flush toilets, fire pits, a fire ring, and drinking water. Aside from that, it features a golf course, shaded areas, and a tourist center too.

And the only negative feature of Furnace Creek Campground is the limited hookups. However, the campground is ideal for families to get an unforgettable camping experience.

It is a popular choice for many travelers, as it is flat and offers a good view of the unique landscape in the background.

Furnace Creek Campground, Death Valley National Park
Furnace Creek Campground, Death Valley National Park

The climate can be hot and dry in summer at lower elevations, but it is calm and pleasant. But, the high-altitude campsites are unbearably hot in the summer. So, reservations are recommended during the busy season (October to April).

Address: Death Valley, CA 92328, United States    Phone: +1 760-786-3200

Campgrounds in California

18. Campgrounds in California: Castle Crags State Park Campground, Castle Crags State Park

In the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, you can camp at the Castle Crags State Park Campground for the night.

camping in California Castle Crags State Park CA
Castle Crags State Park

You’ll find 64 tent and RV campsites here, but there are no utilities. But, these spacious and well-maintained campsites offer free parking for one vehicle, an old-fashioned stone oven, grill, drinking water, and a table. So you can cook a delicious meal while you’re there.

Unlike some other state parks, you can bring your pets to Castle Crags State Park Campground.

The camping area at Castle Crags is also accessible year-round, but May is the best time to visit if you’re planning a family outing.

Castle Crags State Park Campground, Castle Crags State Park
Castle Crags State Park Campground, Castle Crags State Park

There’s a separate campground called Riverside Campground that offers 12 tent and RV campsites, all of which are first-come, first-served.

Castle Crags State Park features plenty of hiking trails and fishing opportunities in the Sacramento River. Therefore, hikers and backpackers love this campground.

For example, a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail passes through the park. On the other hand, the Sierra-Hudson National Forest is also accessible from the park. Also, it features a stunning vista point of Mount Shasta.

Come on, grab these fantastic experiences.

Address: Dunsmuir, CA 96025, United States   Phone: +1 530-235-2684

Campgrounds in California

19. Campgrounds in California: Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Park

Camping in the Moro Campground in Crystal Cove State Park is a great way to experience the beach and the Pacific Ocean while observing the area’s natural beauty.

Crystal Cove State Park CA
Crystal Cove State Park

There are several different options for camping at this popular destination, and it is the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing and absorbing the view of the bay.

Whether you’re camping with the family or traveling solo, this campground is an excellent choice for your next getaway.

Moro Campground features around 60 campgrounds for tents, RVs, and trailers. And it features bathrooms, coin-operated showers, handicap accessibility, and electric/water hookups only for trailers and RVs.

Campgrounds in California Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Park
Campgrounds in California Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Park

The restrooms are open to everyone, but you must obtain a parking permit before entering.

Another option for camping in Moro Campground is backcountry camping. There are several primitive campsites at Lower Moro Campground, and they have no running water and must be accessed via a hike of three to four miles from the main parking area.

Regardless of which type of camping option you choose, you’ll enjoy the beautiful surroundings at Moro’s bluff campsites overlooking the ocean.

Surely try the trails that lead you to Moro Canyon while camping.

Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, United States   Phone: +1 800-444-7275

Campgrounds in California

20. Campgrounds in California: Kirby Cove Campground, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Are you looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle, but still, you don’t have much time? Here’s the perfect spot for you. Kirby Cove Campground near San Francisco (just 7 miles) is one of the most scenic campgrounds in California.

camping in California Kirby Cove Campground, Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Kirby Cove Campground, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

This beautiful camping spot is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area located in the Marin Headlands. So, while you’re there, you can see stunning views of the ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate National Park is a great place to spend your next family vacation. Here are some tips for planning a perfect camping trip.

Kirby Cove is an eight-mile drive north of San Francisco and features five overnight campsites and a reservable day-use site. And each one has space for accommodating up to 10 people. Therefore, hurry up reserve your place in advance.

Near the campground, a mile-long trail descends through the Monterrey pines and Blue Gum eucalyptus trees. The beach itself is made up of coarse sand.

And then hiking down the hill will provide you with sweeping views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Address: 948 Fort Barry, Sausalito, CA 94965, United States   Phone: +1 415-331-1540

Campgrounds in California

Campgrounds in California

  • Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree National Park
  • Francis Beach Campground, Half Moon Bay
  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground, Redwoods National and State Parks
  • San Onofre Bluffs Campground, San Onofre State Beach
  • D.L. Bliss State Park Campground, South Lake Tahoe
  • Bullfrog Pond Campground, Guerneville
  • Serrano Campground, San Bernardino National Forest
  • Manzanita Lake Campground, Lassen Volcanic National Park
  • Kirk Creek Campground, Big Sur
  • Manker Flats Campground, Los Angeles National Forest
  • Antlers Campground, Shasta-Trinity National Forest
  • Burlington Campground, Humboldt Redwoods State Park
  • Fern Basin Campground, San Bernardino National Forest
  • Russian Gulch State Park Campground, Mendocino Coast
  • Tamarisk Grove Campground, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
  • Indian Well Campground, Lava Beds National Monument
  • Furnace Creek Campground, Death Valley National Park
  • Castle Crags State Park Campground, Castle Crags State Park
  • Moro Campground, Crystal Cove State Park
  • Kirby Cove Campground, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Campgrounds in California