Discover the best beach campgrounds in California with campfires

United States
—
California

95% (9925 reviews)

Popular camping styles for California

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

91%

(989)

Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · CA

Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice! About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A 35 minute drive on highway 120 will take you to the Tioga Pass Gate of Yosemite National Park. This gate is a great start to several different areas inside of the park that you may want to visit beyond that gate. Off-road enthusiasts would not have enough time in one visit to explore all of the 4x4 trails, abandoned mines, and sites in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town. Climate and Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomid are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal. Swimming in the lake is possible usually between April to July.

99%

(332)

Wendy & John Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Ferndale, CA

For Ferndale, the village: check out https://www.visitferndale.com/souvenir-edition About our property: There is a gentle spirit throughout these beautiful 80 acres of evergreen forests and pastures. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; quilts, free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit), etc. Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish. Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Teach your toddler how to build a dam in the shallow creek. Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.) My aunt and uncle bought the property in 1947 from the first European settler, Paolo Gabrielli, who iimmigrated in early 1914 from northern Italy with slips of his grapevine in the lining of his coat. (The grapevine still grows over the back deck.) Paolo's wife Felicita and their three children stayed behind; they were to follow within the year. In the country outside of Ferndale, California, Paolo purchased the property one mile from the ocean and built a Tyrolean-style house, a chicken house (with a grappa still under the main floor), an outhouse, a corral, and a barn. He purchased 7 cows. And then, it was August 1914, and the War to End All Wars broke out in Europe. Felicita and the children, living in their village on the Austrian border, were interned in a prison camp in Austria with the rest of the village's residents. The Gabriellis' young daughter died there. Six years passed before Felicita and her sons, Virgil and Louis, were able to join Paolo in America. In 1938, Virgil--Fr. Gino--became the first Ferndale boy to serve Mass in his hometown church. Felicita died in 1940, and Paolo closed the dairy and moved into Ferndale. In 2013, we invited the people who had been children in the 1920s and '30s and who had come to this ranch after Sunday Mass to gather with other Italian families for polenta, wine, and music. These old-timers came to our house with photographs and maps and Mass cards and diaries, and shared their memories of a childhood in this place that still embraced them. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit). Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish (males must be neutered). Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.)

Camp Stoney Meadows

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Big Bend, CA

Our 120 acres is adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. We also offer three lovely cabins, which have power and access to a shared kitchen and bathroom with a hot shower. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

99%

(110)

Meadow Farm & Forest

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Fort Bragg, CA

Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. Our garden is reduced this time of year but we may still have something to share. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.

12 top beach campgrounds in California with campfires

91%

(989)

Bridgeport Reservoir Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · CA

Bridgeport Reservoir is a lake at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley in Mono County, California. Its earth-filled dam was constructed in 1923 by the Walker River Irrigation District, along the East Walker River. The campground and marina was built I-don't-know-how-long ago, but it sure is nice! About Us: Welcome to Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground. Join us for the classic camping and fishing experience with unique views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Within the Toiyabe National Forest, Bridgeport Reservoir Marina and Campground is conveniently located near two distinct hot spring areas. A true angler's paradise, the Reservoir has excellent trout fishing from spring through fall and is close by to multiple rivers for incredible fly fishing. A 35 minute drive on highway 120 will take you to the Tioga Pass Gate of Yosemite National Park. This gate is a great start to several different areas inside of the park that you may want to visit beyond that gate. Off-road enthusiasts would not have enough time in one visit to explore all of the 4x4 trails, abandoned mines, and sites in the area as well as the famous trail that brings you right to the Bodie Ghost Town. Climate and Ecosystem: At 6,400 feet (1,950 meters), this high desert climate has little to moderate tree coverage and gets hot during the days and cool at night. The conditions are much like Joshua Tree National Park or Alabama Hills camping area. During your visit, you will notice many flying insects that resemble mosquitos. These Chironomid are harmless and do not bite. On the contrary, the mosquito presence is very minimal. Swimming in the lake is possible usually between April to July.

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. We also offer three lovely cabins, which have power and access to a shared kitchen and bathroom with a hot shower. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

Camp Stoney Meadows

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Big Bend, CA

Our 120 acres is adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

Meadow Farm & Forest

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Fort Bragg, CA

Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. Our garden is reduced this time of year but we may still have something to share. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.

Wendy & John Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Ferndale, CA

For Ferndale, the village: check out https://www.visitferndale.com/souvenir-edition About our property: There is a gentle spirit throughout these beautiful 80 acres of evergreen forests and pastures. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; quilts, free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit), etc. Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish. Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Teach your toddler how to build a dam in the shallow creek. Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.) My aunt and uncle bought the property in 1947 from the first European settler, Paolo Gabrielli, who iimmigrated in early 1914 from northern Italy with slips of his grapevine in the lining of his coat. (The grapevine still grows over the back deck.) Paolo's wife Felicita and their three children stayed behind; they were to follow within the year. In the country outside of Ferndale, California, Paolo purchased the property one mile from the ocean and built a Tyrolean-style house, a chicken house (with a grappa still under the main floor), an outhouse, a corral, and a barn. He purchased 7 cows. And then, it was August 1914, and the War to End All Wars broke out in Europe. Felicita and the children, living in their village on the Austrian border, were interned in a prison camp in Austria with the rest of the village's residents. The Gabriellis' young daughter died there. Six years passed before Felicita and her sons, Virgil and Louis, were able to join Paolo in America. In 1938, Virgil--Fr. Gino--became the first Ferndale boy to serve Mass in his hometown church. Felicita died in 1940, and Paolo closed the dairy and moved into Ferndale. In 2013, we invited the people who had been children in the 1920s and '30s and who had come to this ranch after Sunday Mass to gather with other Italian families for polenta, wine, and music. These old-timers came to our house with photographs and maps and Mass cards and diaries, and shared their memories of a childhood in this place that still embraced them. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit). Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish (males must be neutered). Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.)

99%

(1155)

SLO Country Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Luis Obispo, CA

SLO Country Camp was once a part of the Serpa Ranch, one of the early ranches of the Central Coast. It’s remained a beautiful rural pocket in the Edna Valley area of San Luis Obispo. It’s quiet and peaceful, enjoy your morning coffee listening to all the birds waking up. There’s a private creek not far away that draws deer and wildlife. Just saw 3 deer run through out property 2 days ago. Owls, red tail hawks, eagles, squirrels and jack rabbits we see frequently. And you can listen to the coyotes howling at night. We’re surrounded by rolling coastal hills, vineyards, horses, cattle and also land apportioned to the Land Conservancy. Walk down our road and then left up to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the entire area with the city San Luis Obispo at a distance. Our two sites are flat on decomposed granite pads. Both have excellent views and easy access to our common areas: wash/kitchen prep, and cold-water outdoor shower. Site 1 is best for trailers but Site 2 is adequate. Firewood is available for purchase at camp for those wanting to use the fire pit, or you can bring your own. The San Luis Obispo, Central Coast has so much to see and do! Hiking trails abound, my favorites are Bob Jones trail to walk or bike to Avila Beach, Johnson Ranch and Irish Hills for hiking hills, the Ridge trail for a view over Shell and Avila beaches, and the Harmony Trail to walk grassy cliffs by the ocean. Montano de Oro is only 15 minutes away with rocky ocean cliff trails that lead down to the coastline. We are 5 minutes from the beginning of the Edna Valley winery trail with 30 wineries or more I’ve lost count. Tasting and relaxing in great atmospheres. My favorites are Biddle Ranch, Talley, Mailene, Chamisal, Bailyanna... but there are so many more. We’re 10 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo, 10–12 minutes to Avila or Pismo beaches. Morro Bay is 25 minutes. And we’re just 5 minutes off the 101 for easy access to traveling. The Central Coast has almost everything for fun, adventure and food. Surfing, biking, hiking, ocean kayaking, paddle boarding, golf, wine and beer culture, ranch lands, shopping and restaurants and we’re close to it all.

97%

(3270)

Salmon Creek Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Bodega Bay, CA

Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.

97%

(99)

Manzanita Camping & Co

16 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Coloma, CA

Set up camp and relax in one of our private manzanita surrounded tent sites. A short three min walk to our cobble beach along the beautiful South Fork America River will keep you cool during this hot summer. Or use our sites as a base camp for the many hiking and biking trails in the area. Taste some local wines at one of the many wineries or grab a growler at a nearby brewery. Propane fire pits are provided for your stay at your camp site, with one tank of propane included for your use... Because what is camping without looking at a fire and roasting marshmallows? Our fire pits sure help add to that *camping feel* but COOKING OVER FIRE PITS (OTHER THAN S'MORES) IS NOT PERMITTED, so please plan to bring your own camp stove or preferred camp-cooking appliances and the required fuel. We look forward to your stay with us! FAQ: What should I bring? For our standard tent or RV sites, the sites include a picnic table and a propane fire pit with propane for heating/ambiance only. You should plan to pack everything you would usually expect to bring with you to a typical Forest Service or State Park campground... For example: propane camp stove or equivalent with your own propane/fuel for cooking, extra tables for your personal camp set-up needs, shade tents or pop-ups, games or camp activities, camp cots/pads/air mattresses, camping bedding, tents, camp chairs, etc. We are happy to answer any question you may have!

95%

(355)

The 3 G Familia Farm

12 sites · RVs200 acres · Manchester, CA

This farm/ ranch had been in our family for nearly 100 years. During those years there have been events from farm bureau shows, rodeos, horse racing, barbecue events for functions, musical festival's, fund raisers, and tons of family fun. This property borders the Stornetta Lands which is a spectacular National Park. You'll find this destination a central hub for things to explore in this unchartered piece coastal area along mendocino county coast line.

94%

(390)

Arber-Moore's Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Oak View, CA

Beautiful natural campsites in the Valley of the Moon (Ojai Valley). Our sites are within an eighth of a mile of walking, running, biking, and riding trails from Ojai to the beaches of Ventura. On many days you can experience Ojai’s famous pink moments. You can hike the trails above Ojai, boat, eat, or picnic at Lake Casitas. Travel to nearby Ventura to shop, fish the pier, or take a deep sea fishing charter or Island charter to Whale watch or fish around the Channel Islands. Please note the aerial view of the camping area recently placed by Hipcamp is NOT AT ALL REPRESENTATIVE of the current camping sites and shows a photo that is many years old when the site was merely land. That photo is without any of the existing amenities or improvements. The actual sites are all Larger than Federal Park and Statepark guidelines, with averages of 20'x30' for campsites and 20'x40' for a long RVCampsite. We have planted many young trees and continue to plant trees and native shrubs around and near the sites. We have picnic tables, table coverings, fire pits, and camping rugs/footprints. There is also an outdoor shower, a shower tent with hot water, and an upgraded porta-potty with a sink. Note: During times when high heat is predicted, we strongly recommend that our Hipcampers bring pop-up shade tents or canopies for their sites. The Hipcamp is adjacent to our working ranch, and any photos of old sheds, trucks, a wood lot, or other equipment are NOT on the Hipcamp, but you will drive past that property to get to the separate Hipcamp area. Wineries, Farmer's Markets, Craft Breweries, dispensaries, and more are within 10 to 15 minutes of our site. Our location allows moments when you may see Hawks, Owls, Geese, Swallows, Robins, Bluebirds, and more. We offer both tent and RV camping. The Majority of our Guests love it here: "Vivian and Dave were exceptional hosts! Easy to contact and find our way to their property. Also gave us a plethora of places to go and things to do in the Ojai area. The area was open and spacious, and many trees and upgrades were in the works to make future stays more user-friendly. Big pluses were the shower and toilet facilities—much appreciated !!"

97%

(517)

Estero San Antonio Wonderland

13 sites · Lodging, Tents120 acres · Tomales, CA

Camp with sweeping views of beautiful pastureland in West Marin. Enjoy privacy, birds singing, cows, chickens, food from the farm, and hiking our gorgeous land that is on the Estero San Antonio. The campsites are spaced far apart from one another to ensure some privacy. It is very quiet out here at night. If there are other campers you might hear them in the distance. All campsite are located overlooking the Estero and close to the grass road to enter and exit the property. You will have access to some of our pastures for picnics and leisurely walks. When you check in we will give you directions to a few special places around the surrounding area and see if you would like some grassland finished beef, lamb, pork, eggs, or vegetables all grown or made on our ranch. We offer other care packages, ask us when you arrive (include, home made focaccia, sourdough bread, local cheeses, etc...) A liability waiver will be needed to be signed. This is primitive camping, There is water but it is not potable. so bring your own drinking water. It can get very windy out here in Spring and Summer. Come prepared. We have situated the campsites to be on the leeward side and as protected as possible. We try to leave the land better off than we found it and hope that you will share the same respect for the pristine beauty of this place. We are 10 minutes away from the quaint town of Tomale and 15 minutes from the town of Valley Ford. Dillon Beach is only 3.5 miles away. Bring your own kayak or canoe and paddle to the ocean down the Estero San Antonio! You can learn more about our land and practices check out True Grass Farms online.

Free Your Mind Camping

4 sites · RVs, Tents119 acres · Gasquet, CA

The campground land is remotely located on private property and perfectly located for excursions to the Pacific Ocean, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, the Smith River National Recreation Area, and the Pacific Coast Ranges and mountain lakes such as the Devil's Punchbowl, Buck Lake, and Raspberry Lake. Relax and free you mind while camping on 119 acres of private property under starry skies with almost no light or noise pollution. In the surrounding area you can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, surfing, mushrooming, berry-picking, beachcombing, birdwatching, and countless other outdoor activities. The campsites have picnic tables and fire rings, and campers are provided with 5 gallons of potable water, an outdoor, cold-water Artesian shower, and an outhouse. Bundles of wood are available for an extra charge when you book. The campsites are set within a deciduous and pine forest at about 1913 feet in elevation. There is a pond on the property, but its purpose is for wildlife habitat only so no water activities are permitted (that is, no swimming, fishing, boating, etc.) The property owner has a dog, two cats, and a menagerie of yard birds such as turkeys, peacocks, guinea hens, chickens, ducks, geese, etc. Kirk has lived off-grid for over twenty years and holds a wealth of information about the Gasquet/Del Norte County area. Perhaps the most interesting feature of the property is that it has had documented Sasquatch encounters over the past twenty years that have been published in "Tribal Bigfoot" (D. Paulides 2009). Kirk can tell you about his experiences with this and other phenomena on the property.

Available this weekend

95%

(148)

Lake Concow Campground

99 sites · RVs, TentsOroville, CA

Ancestors of Maidu people lived here long ago. European settlers arrived and took control of the area. In recent history, a multi-cultural group of community members formed the Konkow Partnership to attempt to hold, steward, and preserve the wilderness that survives here. We look forward to your post fire visit.Learn more about this land:Congratulations Campers! The campground is reopened after the last couple of years of wild fires and tough winters. We are reopened even as repairs and upgrades are being made. Thank you to all visitors who love this place for your patience as we continue to improve the features of the Campground. Stay tuned for progress reports. We hope to see you real soon. Visit, fish, or camp in a rare jewel forest, hidden in the Sierra/Cascade foothills, less than an hour's drive to Chico, Oroville, or Paradise. Surviving forests of mature cedars, pines, oaks, and madrones provide shady camping, fishing along the lake shore, or picnicing along the banks of the creek that runs through a recovering creekside area. Stargaze or fly kites in our Great Meadow or admire copious wildflowers and other native plants on over 80 acres of wilderness. We provide a variety of recovering wilderness areas near water faucets, pit toilets and an RV dump station. Our site features mature forests, grassy meadows, a year-round creek in a fire recovery zone. The site also features lakefront shoreline access for bank fishing, a central fire pit and lots of space for group camping. Fires are permitted in the central pit when weather allows. The Lake Concow/Konkow Campground is a wilderness sanctuary and houses many variety of rare and endangered plants, animals, and insects. Please be aware of and give respectful space to all of the residents of the park. The list of year round residents may include poison oak, thorny berry vines, mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, deer, eagles, osprey, owls, squirrels, skunks, foxes, bears, mountain lions, snakes, bats, and more. Please be responsible for personal camp supplies and trash. The Campground is a Pack In/Pack Out location and garbage cans are supplied near the office house near the entrance. Good hiking shoes, protective clothing, and hats are recommended. All Campground faucets supply delicious, potable water tested regularly. The modern listings spell the name Concow, Ancestors spelled it Konkow. Both are correct, though may give different search results. There is plenty of room for parking large vehicles and for turning around. TOW VEHICLES MUST STAY THE DURATION OF THE CAMPING VISIT. Sorry, we DO NOT allow towed-in-and-dropped-off campers or 5th wheel trailers at this time. This may change as clean up work progresses through the year. Stay tuned for updates. Thank you.

99%

(114)

Mission Ranch "Mi Querida"

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · CA

Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway" is a quick and easy 60 minute drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and safe. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 10 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."

Camp Stoney Meadows

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Big Bend, CA

Our 120 acres is adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

99%

(1115)

Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden

7 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Murphys, CA

Thank you Hipcamper's for many great years of support. The sculpture garden and campground features, continue to grow. Historic Brice Station 100 acres, was a horse stop on the Ebbetts Pass stage line. Horses were fed, watered and swapped here, over 100 years ago. Today, Brice station hosts a ceramics gallery and school, vineyard and tasting room, Blacksmith school, Concert series, Shakespeare performances and Master artist, Michel Olson's, Sierra Circles Sculpture Garden and campground. Born in Berlin, Germany, he has spent much of his life performing, guiding, studying, while travelling and becoming an accomplished artist in wood, stone and iron. Two of his gypsy rigs and several large art installations, are in the meadow next to the forested 6 site campground. Installation include, 100 ft sacred circle, yin/yang, sun dial and calendar. Quadruple Branch Arch. Avenue of art. Glass and Brass over Grass. Stone stage with two bell racks. Wheels of time. Florence the Freightliner. Glass henge. Chain henge. Family altar. Double sand box. Stone spiral Each, of the 6 campsites, have art installations as well. Site 1 is spacious with multiple tent sites, art Steel TeePee, and nice shade oak. Picnic table and some chairs. Parking for 4 cars. Sites 1 and 6 together, with kitchen area, makes a great group site. Site 2, is our largest single site. Multiple tent sites. 2 tables. Branch arch way. Parking for 6 cars. Hammock friendly trees. Site 3, is our cozy site. Multiple tent sites. Wood wizard and frog carving. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars Site 4, has our second metal TeePee, with melted bottle suncatchers. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars Site 5, has Wood Henge, made from one enormous tree. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars. Site 6, has a burningman bicycle fence, and ski lift chair swing. Multiple tent sites. Picnic table. Parking for 3 cars. Brice Station Winery, tasting room. Open Fri. - Sun. 12 to 6pm .Quyle Kilns Pottery Gallery, School and ceramic art studio Wed thru Sunday 10am to 6pm Paul Quyle Blacksmith school. C.B.A. member. First and third Sat 9am. Brice Station Vineyard, tasting room and concerts bricestation.com Simply put, art, nature camping, with a hint of history, at its best. Children are full price and must be attended to. No trailers over 14 ft. No campsite open fires June thru Oct. Communal kitchen/crafts area with large tables, BBQ and cook top available. Propane fire rings and counter top stoves allowed in campsite. Leashed dogs welcome, please pick up after. Please no extra loud music or voices.

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(80)

Folsom Lake

7 sites · Lodging40 acres · Granite Bay, CA

PLEASE TAKE NOTE: THERE ARE 2 DIFFERENT CAMPGROUNDS AT 2 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS ON FOLSOM LAKE: ONE LOCATION IS BEALS POINT CAMPGROUND IN GRANITE BAY. (HAS BOTH BASIC AND LUXURY GLAMPING) THE 2ND LOCATION IS PENINSULA CAMPGROUND IN PILOT HILL (ONLY HAS BASIC GLAMPING) Located at the base of the Sierra foothills, the lake and recreation area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating. Fishing offers trout, catfish, big and small mouth bass or perch. Visitors can also see the Folsom Powerhouse (once called "the greatest operative electrical plant on the American continent"), which from 1885 to 1952 produced 11,000 volts of electricity for Sacramento residents. For cyclists, there is a 32-mile long bicycle path at Beals Point that connects Folsom Lake with many Sacramento County parks before reaching Old Sacramento. The park also includes Lake Natoma, downstream from Folsom Lake, which is popular for crew races, sailing, kayaking and other aquatic sports. At both locations, you will stay in 16ft deluxe tents. Each tent has 2 full beds in them. At Beals Point we offer "Luxury" Glamping with real furniture, cozy bedding, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing and fun filled stay for up to 8 people (AT BEALS POINT ONLY!). At both Beals Point and Peninsula, we also offer "Basic" Glamping, where we bring the tent and mattresses, and you bring the rest. This means that you need to bring your own sheets, pillows, sleeping bags, blankets and other camping essentials. Close by the sites are public restrooms with running water, drinking water, and showers. Hiking trails are found all around at both locations. At Beals Point you can rent kayaks, visit the snack bar, or take a dip in the lake- whatever suits your needs can be found close by!

Star Hosts in California

99%

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Meadow Farm & Forest

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Fort Bragg, CA

Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. Our garden is reduced this time of year but we may still have something to share. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.

Wendy & John Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Ferndale, CA

For Ferndale, the village: check out https://www.visitferndale.com/souvenir-edition About our property: There is a gentle spirit throughout these beautiful 80 acres of evergreen forests and pastures. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; quilts, free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit), etc. Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish. Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Teach your toddler how to build a dam in the shallow creek. Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.) My aunt and uncle bought the property in 1947 from the first European settler, Paolo Gabrielli, who iimmigrated in early 1914 from northern Italy with slips of his grapevine in the lining of his coat. (The grapevine still grows over the back deck.) Paolo's wife Felicita and their three children stayed behind; they were to follow within the year. In the country outside of Ferndale, California, Paolo purchased the property one mile from the ocean and built a Tyrolean-style house, a chicken house (with a grappa still under the main floor), an outhouse, a corral, and a barn. He purchased 7 cows. And then, it was August 1914, and the War to End All Wars broke out in Europe. Felicita and the children, living in their village on the Austrian border, were interned in a prison camp in Austria with the rest of the village's residents. The Gabriellis' young daughter died there. Six years passed before Felicita and her sons, Virgil and Louis, were able to join Paolo in America. In 1938, Virgil--Fr. Gino--became the first Ferndale boy to serve Mass in his hometown church. Felicita died in 1940, and Paolo closed the dairy and moved into Ferndale. In 2013, we invited the people who had been children in the 1920s and '30s and who had come to this ranch after Sunday Mass to gather with other Italian families for polenta, wine, and music. These old-timers came to our house with photographs and maps and Mass cards and diaries, and shared their memories of a childhood in this place that still embraced them. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit). Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish (males must be neutered). Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.)

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. We also offer three lovely cabins, which have power and access to a shared kitchen and bathroom with a hot shower. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

SLO Country Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Luis Obispo, CA

SLO Country Camp was once a part of the Serpa Ranch, one of the early ranches of the Central Coast. It’s remained a beautiful rural pocket in the Edna Valley area of San Luis Obispo. It’s quiet and peaceful, enjoy your morning coffee listening to all the birds waking up. There’s a private creek not far away that draws deer and wildlife. Just saw 3 deer run through out property 2 days ago. Owls, red tail hawks, eagles, squirrels and jack rabbits we see frequently. And you can listen to the coyotes howling at night. We’re surrounded by rolling coastal hills, vineyards, horses, cattle and also land apportioned to the Land Conservancy. Walk down our road and then left up to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the entire area with the city San Luis Obispo at a distance. Our two sites are flat on decomposed granite pads. Both have excellent views and easy access to our common areas: wash/kitchen prep, and cold-water outdoor shower. Site 1 is best for trailers but Site 2 is adequate. Firewood is available for purchase at camp for those wanting to use the fire pit, or you can bring your own. The San Luis Obispo, Central Coast has so much to see and do! Hiking trails abound, my favorites are Bob Jones trail to walk or bike to Avila Beach, Johnson Ranch and Irish Hills for hiking hills, the Ridge trail for a view over Shell and Avila beaches, and the Harmony Trail to walk grassy cliffs by the ocean. Montano de Oro is only 15 minutes away with rocky ocean cliff trails that lead down to the coastline. We are 5 minutes from the beginning of the Edna Valley winery trail with 30 wineries or more I’ve lost count. Tasting and relaxing in great atmospheres. My favorites are Biddle Ranch, Talley, Mailene, Chamisal, Bailyanna... but there are so many more. We’re 10 minutes from downtown San Luis Obispo, 10–12 minutes to Avila or Pismo beaches. Morro Bay is 25 minutes. And we’re just 5 minutes off the 101 for easy access to traveling. The Central Coast has almost everything for fun, adventure and food. Surfing, biking, hiking, ocean kayaking, paddle boarding, golf, wine and beer culture, ranch lands, shopping and restaurants and we’re close to it all.

Camp Stoney Meadows

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Big Bend, CA

Our 120 acres is adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

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Beach camping in California with campfires guide

Overview

Golden coasts. Redwood forests. Fiery desert canyons. Alpine lakes framed by snowy peaks. But the best memories are in the details—seeing a gray whale breach off the rugged north coast, feeling the sun on your face on a Southern California shore, or maybe enjoying s’mores beside the crystal waters of Lake Tahoe. Trails climb from campgrounds to immense granite domes in Yosemite while Joshua trees beckon for attention in the eastern deserts. The best part? There’s somewhere amazing to camp year-round.

Where to go

North Coast

Camping beneath redwoods—the tallest trees in the world—is a hard-to-beat highlight of the north coast. The majestic groves scattered across Redwood National & State Parks are an excellent choice for first-timers. Further south, from Eureka to Mendocino and eventually San Francisco, you’ll find a string of private and state park campgrounds tucked along rugged coastlines marked by bluffs, coves, dunes, and tidepools.

Central Coast

Stretching from Monterey south to Santa Barbara, the Central Coast scores points for scenery and variety. Plus, it’s a convenient escape from the urban hassles of San Francisco and Los Angeles. Redwoods, waterfalls, and windswept bluffs border Highway 1 in Big Sur, while waves crash beside state parks north of Santa Barbara. For a remote camping experience, campsites at Channel Islands National Park off the coast of Santa Barbara can oblige.

SoCal Beaches: Los Angeles to San Diego

The golden beaches of Southern California are the stuff of lazy days and pop songs. And fantastic camping for those inclined. The best campsites line-up beside the coast between Newport Beach and Dana Point in Orange County, with a few more perched on coastal bluffs north of San Diego. Not surprisingly, these oceanfront sites fill fast, so book early.

Sierra Nevada Mountains

Granite domes and lush Alpine meadows border campgrounds in Yosemite National Park, while enormous sequoias are the draw in Kings Canyon and Sequoia national parks. Campgrounds beside alpine lakes and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Tahoe are always postcard-pretty.

Southern Deserts

For surreal sunsets, striking rock formations, restless sand dunes, and spring wildflowers, head east. Nine campgrounds and plenty more right outside await at Death Valley National Park, home to the lowest spot in the U.S. Joshua trees and picturesque boulders keep Hipcampers happy at Joshua Tree National Park while Anza-Borrego Desert State Park serves up fantastic desert hiking outside San Diego. High season is late fall through spring, when temperatures are pleasant.