Planning your next outdoor adventure? Northern California offers a variety of camping options to tempt nature lovers and adventurers from far and wide.
Whether it be a calm, quiet getaway you're looking for or exploring the woods and trading stories around a campfire, this guide will help you find the best campgrounds in Northern California.
We've categorized the top campgrounds in Northern California based on the kind of experiences they offer, to make planning your outdoor adventure easier.
Best Coastal Campgrounds in Northern California
Northern California has a wild and beautiful coastline with rich ecosystems. Here are some of the best coastal campgrounds that offer beach access.
Bodega Dunes Campground, Sonoma Coast State Park
The Bodega Dunes Campground is located in Sonoma County, and is one of the top beach campgrounds in Northern California. It's a short walk from Bodega Bay, and has views of soft dunes and dramatic coastal trails. You can also indulge in wildlife watching.
All amenities like restrooms, showers, and RV hookups are available, making it an ideal spot for campers and RV travelers.
Whether you're into beachcombing or just soaking up ocean views, Bodega Dunes is one of the top camping spots in Northern California.
Campers especially love the spacious tent sites, and say there's plenty of room to store all their gear.
Total Campsites: Approximately 99 sites.
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Early Fall (April to October)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads.
Parking Pad Length: Supports vehicles up to 31 feet.
Facilities: Flush toilets, hot showers, potable water, and a dump station.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours (typically 10 AM to 8 PM).
Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, swimming, surfing, scuba diving, geocaching, and whale watching during migration seasons.
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash at all times.
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric, accommodates tents and RVs.
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see harbor seals, migratory birds, and other marine life.
Minimum Price: Approximately $35 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can typically be made up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Via ReserveCalifornia or authorized online platforms.
- Booking Tips: The campground fills up quickly during peak season (especially weekends and holidays). It's advisable to book as early as possible within the reservation window.
- First-Come, First-Served: Limited sites may be available outside of peak season, but availability is not guaranteed.
Surfwood Campground, MacKerricher State Park
Located in Mendocino County, MacKerricher State Park offers sandy beaches, tide pools, and bluffs, making it one of the most diverse campgrounds in Northern California.
This campground has excellent marine life viewing, and you can spot harbor seals in their natural habitat. It's a perfect spot for families and solo adventurers who want to experience a close connection to nature.
A review from a happy camper states that you can get excellent views of the tide pools from the boardwalk. And that day visits are free!
You can dive into the tide pools to relax or unwind on the beach.
Total Campsites: Approximately 140 sites.
Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads.
Parking Pad Length: Supports vehicles up to 35 feet.
Facilities: Flush toilets, hot showers, potable water, and a dump station.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours (typically 10 AM to 8 PM).
Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing,
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash; dogs are allowed on a leash on designated trails and beaches.
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric, accommodates tents and RVs.
Wildlife Viewing: Common sightings include harbor seals, gray whales (in season), and a variety of bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $35 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Through ReserveCalifornia or the official state parks reservation system.
- Booking Tips: Sites fill up quickly during summer months, especially on weekends. Booking early is essential.
- First-Come, First-Served: Limited sites may be available during the off-season or weekdays.
Van Damme State Park
Another great option is the Van Damme State Park at Mendocino, which offers some great forest and beach camping.
Nestled along the coast, this campground offers access to coastal trails, rare pygmy forests, and lush Fern Canyon. There are guided kayak tours to explore sea caves and coastal formations. Be it kayaking, hiking or bird watching, Van Damme is an excellent spot for outdoor experiences.
Total Campsites: Approximately 74 sites.
Best Time to Visit: Summer Months (June to August)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads.
Parking Pad Length: Supports vehicles up to 35 feet.
Facilities: Flush toilets, hot showers and potable water.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours.
Activities: Hiking, swimming, surfing, scuba diving, geocaching and wildlife viewing.
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash; pets not allowed on trails.
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric, accommodates tents and RVs.
Wildlife Viewing: Visitors can see a variety of bird species, and occasional sightings of river otters.
Minimum Price: Approximately $35 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Via ReserveCalifornia or the official state parks reservation system.
- Booking Tips: Summer weekends book up quickly; consider mid-week stays for better availability.
- First-Come, First-Served: Limited availability during the off-season
Best Redwood Campgrounds in Northern California
Northern California is home to some of the most magnificent redwood forests in the world. Here are the best destinations if you'd like to camp around these towering redwoods.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
The Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is in Del Norte County and includes the Ancient Redwoods and the crystal-clear Smith River.
At this campground, you'll pitch your tent among some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. Many sites offer easy access to swimming and fishing spots, making this campground a favourite among both solo travelers and families. The campsites are spacious and separated by trees, providing a higher level of privacy compared to other campgrounds.
Total Campsites: Approximately 86 sites.
Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads.
Parking Pad Length: Supports vehicles up to 36 feet.
Facilities: Flush toilets, hot showers and potable water.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours.
Activities: Hiking, swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the crystal-clear Smith River.
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash; pets not allowed on trails.
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric, accommodates tents and RVs.
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see black-tailed deer, river otters, and various bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $35 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Through ReserveCalifornia or the official state parks reservation system.
- Booking Tips: Sites fill up quickly during summer months; early booking is essential.
- First-Come, First-Served: Limited availability during the off-season.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park
If you are into camping and trying to explore the beauty of California's redwoods, then Humboldt Redwoods State Park in Humboldt County is the place to visit.
With several campgrounds within the park, you can swim in the Eel River, go fishing, and hike through miles of scenic trails. This park is one of the best Northern California camping spots if you are out for a redwood adventure.
Total Campsites: Over 250 sites across multiple campgrounds (Albee Creek, Burlington, Hidden Springs).
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Fall (April to October)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads.
Parking Pad Length: Supports vehicles up to 33 feet.
Facilities: Restrooms with flush toilets and showers, visitor center with exhibits, access to the Avenue of the Giants.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours.
Activities: Hiking, swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the crystal-clear Smith River.
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash; pets not allowed on trails.
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric, accommodates tents and RVs.
Wildlife Viewing: Visitors may see Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, and various bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $35 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Via ReserveCalifornia or the official state parks reservation system.
- Booking Tips: Summer weekends and holidays fill up fast; consider booking mid-week stays.
- First-Come, First-Served: Available at some campgrounds, especially during the off-season.
Best Lake and Mountain Campgrounds in Northern California
For those who prefer the serenity of lakes and the adventure of mountain landscapes, these are the best campgrounds in Northern California that offer stunning views, exciting treks and more.
Lakes Basin Campground
Located deep within the Plumas National Forest, Lakes Basin Campground provides access to more than 20 lakes in a stunning alpine environment.
This is one of the lesser-known campgrounds in Northern California, where you can kayak and hike through pine-laden mountains. Reviews frequently mention the excellent fishing opportunities, the clean, crisp air and the spectacular night skies.
The peaceful atmosphere and its proximity to the lakes make this campground one of the top spots for lake and mountain lovers.
Total Campsites: Approximately 22 sites.
Best Time to Visit: Summer Months (June to September)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads.
Parking Pad Length: Supports vehicles up to 30 feet.
Facilities: Vault toilets, potable water.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours.
Activities: Hiking, swimming, fishing, boating and biking
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric, accommodates tents and small RVs.
Wildlife Viewing: Possibility of seeing deer, black bears, and various bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $23 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Policy: No reservations; all sites are first-come, first-served.
- Availability Tips: Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a site.
- Peak Times: Summer weekends are the busiest; weekdays may offer better availability.
Emerald Bay State Park
One of the crown jewels of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park offers both boat-in and hike-in sites making this an incredibly unique camping experience. The campground's proximity to the clear waters of Lake Tahoe allows for easy access to a variety of water activities.
With spectacular views of Lake Tahoe and Fannette Island, Emerald Bay is a top choice for folks who want to camp by the water.
Total Campsites: 20 boat-in sites and 100 campsites at Eagle Point Campground.
Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Walk-in sites; access requires a short hike from the parking area.
Parking Pad Length: Parking available for standard vehicles; RVs not recommended due to limited access.
Facilities: Vault toilets, potable water.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Not applicable due to the nature of the campsites.
Activities: Swimming, kayaking, surfing and boating in Emerald Bay. Visit Vikingsholm Castle, a historic mansion open for tours.
Pets Allowed: Not allowed in the campground or on trails.
Campsite Type: Primitive, tents only.
Wildlife Viewing: Possibility of seeing black bears, mule deer, and various bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $35 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Through ReserveCalifornia or the official state parks reservation system.
- Booking Tips: High demand during peak season; booking as early as possible is advised.
- First-Come, First-Served: Not available; all sites require reservations during the operating season.
Plumas Eureka State Park
Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Plumas Eureka State Park offers stunning mountain scenery and panoramic views of alpine lakes. Campers can explore well-preserved mining equipment and buildings that offer a glimpse into California's gold rush history.
The blend of historic sites and natural beauty here makes it one of the best campgrounds in Northern California for travelers who want some cultural exploration. The park also offers activities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Total Campsites: Approximately 67 sites.
Best Time to Visit: Summer to Early Fall (June to October)
Max Number of People: Up to 8 per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads.
Parking Pad Length: Supports vehicles up to 30 feet.
Facilities: Flush toilets, hot showers, potable water.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours.
Activities: Hiking, fishing and historical exploration.
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash.
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric, accommodates tents and RVs.
Wildlife Viewing: Common sightings include deer, squirrels, and various bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $35 per night (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Through ReserveCalifornia or the official state parks reservation system.
- Booking Tips: Summer weekends and holidays are popular; early booking is recommended.
- First-Come, First-Served: Limited availability during shoulder seasons.
Unique Camping Experiences at the Best Campgrounds in Northern California
Northern California also offers unique camping experiences off the beaten path of coastal and forest campsites.
Wondering what's different about these sites? Let's take a look.
Angel Island State Park
Imagine camping on an island in the middle of San Francisco Bay, with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline. That's exactly what Angel Island State Park offers.
Solely accessible by ferry, this island is a quiet retreat from the hustling and bustling city. Hike-in campsites make it an adventurous and unique place to experience the tranquility of nature without losing sight of the city (quite literally).
Total Campsites: 9 environmental sites and several group sites.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall (April to June, September to October)
Max Number of People: Varies by site; standard sites accommodate up to 8 people, group sites can accommodate more.
ADA Accessible: Limited accessibility due to the island's terrain.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Accessible only by ferry or private boat; campsites require a hike from the dock.
Parking Pad Length: Not applicable; no vehicles allowed on the island.
Facilities: Restrooms with pit toilets, historic sites, potable water and a café near the ferry dock.
Campfire Allowed: Camp stoves permitted; no open fires due to fire risk.
Generator Policy: Not applicable.
Activities: Hiking, fishing, scuba diving, surfing and historical exploration.
Pets Allowed: No pets allowed on the island to protect wildlife.
Campsite Type: Environmental (primitive), tents only.
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see deer, raccoons, and diverse bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $30 per night (prices may vary); ferry fees are additional.
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations open up to six months in advance.
- How to Book: Through ReserveCalifornia or the official state parks reservation system.
- Booking Tips: Limited number of sites; they fill up quickly, especially for weekends and holidays. Book as early as possible.
- First-Come, First-Served: Not available; all camping requires prior reservation.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
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For something a little different, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers the chance to pitch your tent amidst volcanic formations, geothermal features, and alpine lakes. Sounds fascinating right?
If you're a nature lover who's always wanted to get up close and personal with an active volcano, then this one's for you. You can hike through the hydrothermal areas to see bubbly mud pots, hot streams and alpine lakes. Some areas of the park are also available for winter sports when there's snow.
Total Campsites: Over 200 sites across multiple campgrounds (e.g., Manzanita Lake, Summit Lake, Butte Lake).
Best Time to Visit: Summer to Early Fall (July to September)
Max Number of People: Up to 6 people per site.
ADA Accessible: Some accessible sites available.
Picnic Table: Yes.
Grills: Yes.
Site Access: Drive-in with parking pads; some walk-in sites available.
Parking Pad Length: Varies by campground; some sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet.
Facilities: Flush toilets or vault toilets, potable water (varies by campground), dump stations at select locations, visitor centers and camp stores.
Campfire Allowed: Yes, in designated fire rings.
Generator Policy: Allowed during specified hours (typically 8 AM to 10 AM and 12 PM to 2 PM).
Activities: Explore mud pots, fumaroles, and hot springs unique to the park. Hiking, fishing, kayaking and swimming.
Pets Allowed: Yes, but must be on a leash; pets not allowed on trails.
Campsite Type: Standard non-electric; some campgrounds offer group sites.
Wildlife Viewing: Possible sightings include black bears, coyotes, foxes, and various bird species.
Minimum Price: Approximately $16 to $26 per night, depending on the campground (prices may vary).
Booking Availability:
- Reservation Window: Reservations can be made up to six months in advance for some campgrounds.
- How to Book: Through Recreation.gov for reservable sites.
- Booking Tips: Manzanita Lake and Summit Lake campgrounds fill up quickly during peak season; early reservations are advised.
- First-Come, First-Served: Available at certain campgrounds like Butte Lake and Warner Valley.
Things to Keep in Mind for Your Camping Trip
- Reservations: Campgrounds in Northern California fill up fast, especially during the peak seasons. Most campsites accommodate nightly reservations well in advance.
- Seasonal Considerations: Do you prefer a campground blanketed in snow or filled with wildflowers? Some campgrounds are seasonal, so make sure to check weather conditions before planning.
- Packing Essentials: The weather varies in Northern California, so it is best to pack in layers for both hot and cold weather; also, make sure you pack tents, sleeping bags, and other essential camping gear.
- Choosing the Right Campground: From beach camping and forest trails to volcanic adventures, there are some great options out there. Think about the type of experience you want, and choose from our list of top campgrounds in Northern California.
Final Thought
Northern California offers diverse camping experiences, ensuring a soul satisfying adventure in the lap of nature.
Whatever you're looking for, be it a bonding experience or just a break from city life, these campgrounds don't disappoint. Remember to check official park websites or contact rangers before your trip to get the most up-to-date information about your campground. If you're making last minute plans, look for openings on Campsite Tonight to find a spot.
Frequently asked questions:
What's the best time of year to camp in Northern California?
The best time for camping in Northern California is generally from late spring (May) to early fall (October). This period offers delightful weather and full access to most campgrounds. However, specific ideal times can vary:
- Coastal Camping: Summer can be foggy, so early fall often provides clearer skies and warmer temperatures.
- Redwood Forests: Summer is popular, but spring offers lush greenery and fewer crowds.
- Mountain Areas: July to September provides the warmest temperatures and most accessible trails.
Do I need to make reservations for campgrounds in Northern California?
Yes, it's highly recommended to make reservations, especially for popular campgrounds and during peak season (summer months and holidays). Many campgrounds allow reservations up to 6 months in advance. Some first-come, first-served sites are available, but they fill up quickly.
Are campfires allowed in Northern California campgrounds?
Campfire regulations vary by location and season. Many campgrounds allow fires in designated fire rings, but restrictions are common during dry seasons due to wildfire risk. Always check current fire regulations before your trip and never leave a fire unattended.
What wildlife might I encounter while camping in Northern California?
Northern California is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, deer, and various bird species. In coastal areas, you might spot seals or whales. Always store food properly in bear-resistant containers where required and maintain a safe distance from all wildlife.
Are dogs allowed in Northern California campgrounds?
Many campgrounds allow dogs, but rules vary. Generally, dogs must be kept on a leash and are not allowed on certain trails or beaches. Always check the specific pet policies for the campground you're visiting.
Is it safe to drink water from streams or lakes while camping?
While Northern California's waters may look pristine, it's not safe to drink untreated water from natural sources. Always bring plenty of clean water or use a reliable water treatment method (filter, purification tablets, or boiling).
