Discover the Best Camping Spots in California: Your Ultimate Guide to Top Campgrounds

Welcome, fellow adventurers! If you’re anything like me, the call of the wild hits hardest when you think about California. This state isn’t just a place; it’s an entire continent packed into one magnificent jurisdiction. Where else can you wake up to the smell of salt spray on the Pacific, drive a few hours, and then fall asleep under towering alpine peaks?

I’ve spent years exploring the Golden State, from the scorching deserts of the south to the misty redwood forests of the north. And let me tell you, finding the best camping spots in California isn’t just about picking a location on a map; it’s about curating an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker looking for secluded tent camping in California or a family seeking the amenities of the top campgrounds in California, this guide is your definitive resource.

We’re going to dive deep into the specific locations that truly define the best camping in California, offering insider tips on reservations, accessibility, and the unique magic each spot holds. Get your gear ready, because the adventure starts now!

Navigating the Diverse Terrain: Choosing Your Camping Zone

California’s diversity is its superpower, but it can also be overwhelming when you’re trying to pinpoint the perfect place to set up camp. Before we get into specific sites, let’s break down the major zones. Trust me, knowing whether you want high altitude or beachside makes planning much easier.

The Majestic High Sierra: Alpine Adventures

The Sierra Nevada range—the “Range of Light”—is arguably home to some of the most spectacular wilderness in the world. This is where you find Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon.

If you’re seeking crisp air, granite domes, turquoise lakes, and serious hiking, the Sierra is where you need to be. These great camping sites in California often require careful planning, especially due to high elevation (which means cold nights, even in summer) and fiercely competitive reservations. When I think about true escape, I think about the Sierras.

Coastal Wonders: Beachfront Bliss and Redwood Shade

From Mendocino down to San Diego, the California coastline offers wildly different experiences. In the north, you’ll find dense, ancient redwood forests running right up to the misty ocean cliffs. These best places to camp in California are perfect for those who love cool temperatures, fog, and the haunting quiet of the giant trees.

Further south, particularly around Big Sur and the SoCal beaches, the camping tends to be more exposed, offering breathtaking ocean views and the constant roar of the waves. Securing a beachfront spot—a truly rare commodity—is often the ultimate goal for many campers.

Desert Oases: Stargazing in the Arid Lands

Don’t overlook the magic of the desert. Joshua Tree and Anza-Borrego offer a completely different kind of beauty: silence, stunning rock formations, unique flora, and perhaps the darkest night skies you will ever witness.

Desert camping is ideal in the late fall, winter, and early spring. Summers are brutal, but if you time it right, these are some of the most spiritual and serene best camping spots in California you can find.

Southern California Gems: Accessible Socal Campgrounds

For those living in or visiting Southern California, accessibility is key. While the mountains and coast are a draw, the ease of access to socal campgrounds near major cities like LA and San Diego makes them incredibly popular. We’re talking about sites that allow you to leave work Friday afternoon and be pitching your tent before sunset. These spots range from state beaches to mountain retreats like Big Bear and Idyllwild.

The Absolute Best Camping Spots in California: Must-Visit Destinations

When people ask me for the absolute, hands-down best place I’ve ever camped, the answer is usually one of these heavy hitters. These are the iconic locations that define California camping, and they are worth the effort required to secure a reservation.

Yosemite National Park: Iconic Beauty and Reservation Strategy

Yosemite is, simply put, breathtaking. It’s a global destination, which means you have to treat securing a site like a highly competitive sport. But the payoff—waking up beneath El Capitan or Half Dome—is unparalleled.

Campgrounds You Must Target

1. Upper Pines, Lower Pines, and North Pines: Located right in Yosemite Valley, these are the gold standard. They are heavily booked six months in advance, down to the minute. If you want to experience the true, jaw-dropping beauty of the Valley, this is where you need to be. These sites offer the amenities and accessibility that make them some of the best campgrounds in California for first-time visitors to the park.
2. Tuolumne Meadows: Located along Tioga Pass (accessible usually late May through October), this is a high-altitude gem. If you prefer sprawling meadows, quieter trails, and stunning views of the High Sierra, Tuolumne Meadows provides some of the most pristine tent camping in California. The air is thinner, the crowds are smaller, and the stars are impossibly bright.
3. Wawona Campground: Located in the southern part of the park, Wawona offers a more relaxed, forested experience. It’s slightly outside the main hubbub of the Valley, making it a great alternative if the Pines sites are full.

Expert Tip: If you strike out on reservations, look for cancellations 48 hours out on Recreation.gov. Also, consider the remote, first-come, first-served sites at Hetch Hetchy for a quieter experience.

Big Sur: Rugged Coastline and Premium Sites

Big Sur is where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in a dramatic, unforgettable collision. The landscape here is so rugged that finding flat ground for camping is a luxury, which is why the few established best camping sites in California here are highly prized.

Campgrounds You Must Target

1. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Often called the “mini-Yosemite of the coast,” this park features redwood groves, hiking trails, and the stunning Big Sur River running through it. The campground here is massive and well-maintained, easily ranking among the top campgrounds in California. You are protected from the coastal wind but are still only a short drive from the famous viewpoints.
2. Kirk Creek Campground (Los Padres National Forest): Ah, Kirk Creek. This is the spot that shows up on every postcard. Perched directly on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, this is arguably the definition of coastal camping perfection. Reservations are mandatory and go fast, but if you manage to snag one, you’ll be treated to sunset views that will change your life. This is the quintessential Big Sur experience.
3. Plaskett Creek Campground: Located further south, Plaskett Creek is another fantastic coastal option known for its proximity to Sand Dollar Beach—a great spot for beachcombing and relaxing. It’s slightly more open than Kirk Creek but still offers incredible views and easy access to Highway 1.

Joshua Tree National Park: High Desert Magic

Stepping into Joshua Tree feels like stepping onto another planet. This is a paradise for climbers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates silence and stunning geological formations. When discussing the best camping spots in California, we must include Joshua Tree for its unique, almost spiritual vibe.

Campgrounds You Must Target

1. Jumbo Rocks Campground: Located centrally, Jumbo Rocks is famous because, well, it’s surrounded by giant, climbable boulders. Many sites are tucked between these massive formations, offering natural windbreaks and privacy. It feels like camping in a sculpture garden.
2. Hidden Valley Campground: A smaller, first-come, first-served (FCFS) site that is extremely popular due to its central location and proximity to excellent climbing routes. If you plan on trying for a spot here, arrive early on a weekday or prepare for an early morning queue on weekends.
3. Black Rock Campground: Located on the quieter, western side of the park, Black Rock requires reservations and offers easier access to the nearby town of Yucca Valley if you need supplies. It’s great for families who want amenities like flush toilets and water, which aren’t available at all desert campgrounds.

Redwood National and State Parks: Towering Giants

There is nothing in the world quite like sleeping among trees that predate the Roman Empire. The Redwood Parks in Northern California offer a deep immersion into nature, where the fog filters the light and silence reigns supreme.

Campgrounds You Must Target

1. Jedediah Smith Campground: Situated right on the Smith River (one of the few undammed rivers in California), this is the quintessential redwood camping experience. The sites are large, private, and shaded by immense old-growth redwoods. This is a prime location for tent camping in California if you want to feel truly dwarfed by nature.
2. Gold Bluffs Beach Campground: This is a tougher reservation to get, as it is smaller and more remote, requiring driving on an unpaved road. However, the reward is camping right behind the dunes, with elk frequently wandering through the area. If you want beach access mixed with redwood access, this is a phenomenal choice.
3. Prairie Creek Campground: Another excellent option nestled deep within the redwood ecosystem, offering immediate access to some of the area’s best hiking, including Fern Canyon.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Great Camping Sites in California

While the National Parks grab all the headlines (and the reservations), some of my most cherished memories come from the slightly less-traveled paths. These locations offer incredible beauty without the intense competition of the main tourist hubs, making them some of the truly great camping sites in California.

The Eastern Sierra’s Hot Spots: June Lake Loop and Mammoth Lakes

The Eastern Sierra (the east side of Highway 395) is a playground of granite peaks, trout streams, and volcanic activity. When I talk to serious campers, this area is often cited as offering the best camping in California outside of Yosemite Valley itself.

Must-Visit Campgrounds

1. June Lake Loop Campgrounds (Gull Lake, June Lake, Reversed Creek): The June Lake Loop is stunning, providing easy access to four gorgeous lakes. These campgrounds are popular but manageable, offering a mix of RV and tent camping in California with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Fishing, hiking, and stunning fall color displays make this area a year-round favorite.
2. Convict Lake Campground: Located just south of Mammoth, Convict Lake is dramatically situated beneath towering, multicolored peaks. It’s a photographer’s dream and a great place to fish. The campground is well-maintained and provides a luxurious feel to backcountry camping.
3. Big Pine Creek Campground: If you want access to the highest peaks in the contiguous US (Mt. Whitney), this is your gateway. These sites are rugged and beautiful, putting you right on the edge of serious wilderness.

Channel Islands National Park: The Galapagos of North America

For the truly adventurous who are willing to take a boat ride, the Channel Islands offer an experience unlike any other best camping spot in California. This is remote, primitive camping at its finest.

You must take a ferry (usually from Ventura or Oxnard) to reach the islands, such as Santa Cruz or Santa Rosa. Once there, you’ll find pristine landscapes, unique wildlife (like the endemic Island Fox), and stunning coastal views. Facilities are minimal, often just pit toilets and filtered water, so you must pack everything in and pack everything out. This is a real test of preparation, but the solitude is unmatched.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Off-Grid Adventure

While Joshua Tree gets the fame, Anza-Borrego, located east of San Diego, offers an immense, sprawling desert experience. What makes this one of the best places to camp in California is the sheer freedom: Primitive roadside camping is generally allowed throughout the park.

If you have a self-contained vehicle or are prepared for true wilderness tent camping in California, you can drive down dirt roads and find your own secluded spot. The spring wildflower bloom here is legendary, and the dark sky designation means unbelievable stargazing.

For the Comfort Seekers: Top Camping Resorts in California

Let’s be honest: not every camping trip needs to involve roughing it. Sometimes, you want the immersion of nature combined with the comfort of a good bed, hot showers, and Wi-Fi. The growth of high-end camping resorts in California has exploded, offering fantastic options for families, couples, and those who prefer ‘glamping.’

Glamping and Luxury RV Parks

The definition of a top campground in California has expanded significantly. These resorts often focus on location coupled with five-star amenities.

1. El Capitan Canyon (Santa Barbara): Located right off Highway 101, this is a premiere glamping experience. They offer safari tents, rustic cabins, and yurts, complete with comfortable bedding, fire pits, and access to a general store and occasional organized activities. It’s close to the beach and wine country—a perfect blend of rugged and refined.
2. Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort: If budget is no concern and you want the absolute pinnacle of luxury camping, Ventana offers stunning glamping tents that feel more like boutique hotel rooms. It’s an experience that puts you directly in the heart of Big Sur’s beauty without sacrificing any modern convenience.
3. Camping World Campgrounds/KOAs: While these are chains, they often feature amenities like swimming pools, laundry facilities, and organized events, making them ideal great campgrounds in California for large families or long-term travelers who need reliable hookups and services.

Family-Friendly Amenities and Activities

When scouting the best campgrounds in California for families, look for state parks or private resorts that offer more than just a place to sleep.

• Pismo Coast Village RV Resort: While RV-centric, this resort in Pismo Beach offers beach access, a pool, mini-golf, and a full arcade. It’s a vacation destination in itself.
• Lake Tahoe Basin Campgrounds: Many of the campgrounds around Lake Tahoe (like D.L. Bliss State Park) offer excellent facilities, easy access to swimming, kayaking, and hiking trails, making them ideal best places to camp in California for active families.

Practical Planning Guide for California Campers

Securing a spot at the best camping spots in California requires strategy and discipline. As an authority on this topic, I can tell you that winging it during peak season is a recipe for disappointment.

Reservation Realities: The 6-Month Struggle

Most of the truly best campgrounds in California (especially those in National Parks and State Parks) use a six-month rolling reservation system. This means that on the exact day six months prior to your intended arrival date, the sites are released, usually at 7:00 AM Pacific Time.

Key Platforms and Strategies:

1. Recreation.gov (National Parks & USFS): This is where you book sites like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and US Forest Service sites like Kirk Creek. Be logged in and ready to click the moment the clock turns 7:00 AM. Trust me, the most coveted sites often sell out in under 60 seconds.
2. ReserveCalifornia (State Parks): This is the system for sites like Big Sur’s Pfeiffer Big Sur and coastal favorites like Leo Carrillo. Their booking window is similar, but the website interface and rules can vary slightly.
3. First-Come, First-Served (FCFS): If you can’t get a reservation, seek out FCFS sites, especially mid-week or off-season. Some of the most beautiful spots (like parts of Joshua Tree or dispersed camping in national forests) operate this way. Always have a backup plan.

Essential Gear for Diverse Climates

California camping involves extreme shifts in temperature and environment. What works on the beach won’t work in the mountains.

Location	Key Gear Requirement	Why It Matters
High Sierra	Four-season tent/Sleeping bag rated 0°F	Even July nights can drop below freezing at 8,000+ feet.
Coastal	Strong wind-resistant tent, rainfly	Coastal fog (the “marine layer”) and high winds are common.
Desert (Spring/Fall)	Excellent ventilation, wide-brimmed hat, 5+ gallons of water	Days are hot, nights can be surprisingly cold. Dehydration is a risk.
Redwoods	Waterproof ground tarp, moisture barriers	The forest floor is constantly damp due to fog and shade.

Understanding Fire Safety and Local Regulations

This is non-negotiable. Due to extreme fire risk, particularly between May and November, fire regulations are strict and constantly changing.

• Check Local Fire Restrictions: Before you pack your firewood, check the specific park’s website. Many best campgrounds in California only allow fires in designated fire rings, and often, wood fires are banned entirely, allowing only propane stoves.
• Permits: If you plan on doing any backcountry hiking or dispersed camping (like in National Forests), you will need a California Campfire Permit and/or a Wilderness Permit. These are often free but mandatory.

Southern California Specifics: Finding the Best Socal Campgrounds

Living in or visiting Southern California often means dealing with traffic, but it also means having incredible natural escapes within a couple of hours’ drive. Let’s focus on the socal campgrounds that give you the biggest bang for your driving buck.

Beach Camping near San Diego and LA

True beach camping—where your tent is literally on the sand—is rare and highly regulated in California. Most “beach camping” is actually bluff-top or adjacent to the beach. However, some sites offer spectacular proximity.

Top Socal Campgrounds on the Coast:

1. Leo Carrillo State Park (Malibu/LA County): This is one of my personal favorites near Los Angeles. The campground sits just across the highway from a beautiful beach and tide pools. The sites are shaded and relatively quiet, making it one of the best campgrounds in California for a quick city escape. Reservations are absolutely essential here.
2. Doheny State Beach (Dana Point/Orange County): Famous for its surfing, Doheny offers beachfront RV and tent sites. You can literally walk out of your tent and onto the sand. The atmosphere is energetic, making it a great spot for groups and families.
3. San Elijo State Beach (Cardiff/San Diego County): Perched right on a coastal bluff, San Elijo offers stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach below. It’s also conveniently located near great restaurants and shops in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.

Mountain Retreats near the City

When the heat gets intense in the city, many Southern Californians head for the mountains. These areas provide the cool elevation and pine forests needed for a refreshing getaway.

Inland Socal Campgrounds:

1. Big Bear Lake (San Bernardino National Forest): Offering dozens of campgrounds around the lake, Big Bear is a year-round destination. Whether you choose Serrano Campground (for amenities) or a quieter Forest Service site, you get access to boating, hiking, and mountain biking. It’s one of the most accessible best places to camp in California for LA residents.
2. Idyllwild-Pine Cove (San Jacinto Mountains): Known for its unique, artistic mountain town vibe, Idyllwild offers campgrounds like Stone Creek and Tahquitz Peak that are situated among massive Ponderosa pines and granite peaks. The cooler temperatures and challenging hikes make this area a great escape from the heat.
3. Mt. Laguna Recreation Area (Cleveland National Forest): Located east of San Diego, Mt. Laguna offers stunning high-desert and mountain views. Burnt Rancheria Campground is a popular spot here, providing peaceful camping with access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).

Beyond the Tent: Exploring Unique Camping Experiences

To truly cover the best camping spots in California, we need to acknowledge the unique modes of camping available across the state, catering to different levels of commitment and comfort.

Dispersed Camping and Boondocking

For those who prioritize solitude and have the right equipment (high-clearance vehicle, sustainable setup), dispersed camping in National Forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land is a fantastic, often free option.

• Alabama Hills (Owens Valley): Just west of Lone Pine, the Alabama Hills offer stunning views of the Sierra crest and Mt. Whitney. While not officially a campground, the BLM allows dispersed camping in many designated areas, making it a popular spot for RVs and rough tent camping in California.
• Mendocino National Forest: Vast and sparsely populated, this forest offers thousands of acres of dispersed camping opportunities, perfect for those seeking true wilderness solitude.

Specialized Camping: Horse Camping and Kayak Camping

California’s size allows for specialized camping facilities:

1. Horse Camping: Many state parks, particularly those in the Sierra foothills and along the Eastern Sierra, offer special equestrian campgrounds with corrals and specific facilities for those traveling with horses.
2. Kayak/Canoe Camping: Places like the Russian River in Sonoma County or various spots along the Delta allow you to paddle to secluded sites only accessible by water, offering a unique perspective on the great camping sites in California.

Final Thoughts on Finding Your Best Camping Spot in California

California is a state that rewards effort. The effort you put into securing that reservation, the effort you put into packing the right gear, and the effort you put into respecting the diverse environments are all paid back tenfold by the unforgettable views and experiences.

Whether you’re cozying up in a luxury camping resort in California, braving the high altitude for some pristine tent camping in California, or relaxing at one of the accessible socal campgrounds, remember to leave no trace, respect wildlife, and always have a plan B.

I hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to explore the sheer variety of the best camping spots in California. The mountains, deserts, and coasts are waiting. Happy camping, and I’ll see you out on the trails!