What are the best camping sites in Northern California? Northern California is home to many beautiful camping sites with easy access for day camping to extended camping trips, including tent, RV, and cabin camping.
Related: Best Camping in Southern California
Here are the top 7 camping sites in Northern California that you must visit.
Best Camping in Northern California
1. Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks is situated in northern coastal California. It provides incredible camping options between forests, rivers, and coastlines. Camping is available in the park’s following four developed campgrounds.
- Jedediah Smith
- Mill Creek
- Gold Bluffs
- Elk Prairie
Elk Prairie Campground, which is 6 miles north of Orick, has 75 sites, all covered by tall redwoods. Mill Creek, which is 6.7 miles south of Crescent City, has 145 campsites where you can sleep under huge maple trees and young redwoods.
On the other hand, Jedediah Smith Campground, near Crescent City, offers 86 sites next to the Smith River. And Gold Bluffs provides 25 campsites with spectacular coastal views.
It is a must to book camping reservations at least 48 hours beforehand. You can book it online at ReserveCalifornia or by contacting 1-800-444-7275. Camping prices differ from $35 to $45 per night, depending on the facilities provided on the campground.
RV camping near Redwood National Park is only allowed in two of four developed campgrounds which are Elk Prairie and Jedediah Smith Parks.
Checking the Redwood National Park map and camping map on the park’s website will be a great help in scheduling your trip.
The park is home to black bears. Therefore, it is essential to keep your food and dispose of trash carefully. Swimming is permitted in specific regions, such as the Smith River. The best time to camp is May through October, when temperatures are camp-friendly.
It is recommended to enjoy camping in the Redwood National and State Parks to witness its luxury and various wildlife, which makes it a delightful experience.
2. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park provides delightful camping experiences with its famous granite hills, waterfalls, and huge sequoia trees. You can camp in all 13 campgrounds of the park. It offers backcountry locations to constructed campgrounds. Camping prices in developed campgrounds can range from $24 to $36 per day, depending upon the location and services provided. Yosemite Park helps you enjoy your camping by providing amenities like stores for groceries, restaurants, and shuttle services.
Finding a camping spot in Yosemite can be quite hard during the peak season from April to October. It will be a good decision to make bookings in advance. Recreation.gov is a preferable choice for those who like online booking. You may also call at 209/372-0200 for camping reservations.
Upper Pines Campground is one of the popular Yosemite campgrounds,. With 238 sites, it provides potable water and flush toilet facilities. Other best option are Tuolumne Meadows Campground. It is above 8,600 feet covered by alpine meadows, and provides 304 sites, whereas Half Dome Village, has 403 tent cabins and housing options.
RV camping is unrestricted in Half Dome Village, Upper Pines, and Tuolumne Meadows Campground.
Whereas backcountry camping and camping cabins offer a more primitive experience. You can choose your your location based on availability. Take a look at the Yosemite campgrounds map that help to find the good camping spot.
3. Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore has a unique blend of coastline and hills, making it heaven for camping enthusiasts. The National Park Service is equally dedicated to visitors with disabilities. It provides them with facilities, assistance, and work opportunities.
Wildcat Campground Point Reyes is a popular choice for tourists looking for amazing ocean views. It is easily accessible by bike from the park’s entrance or through a 5.5-mile hike from the Bear Valley Trailhead. Sky Campground offers a mesmerizing view of Drakes Bay and the Pacific Ocean that can be accessed by bicycle or foot. Or anyone can use the shortest route of 1.4 miles by easy uphill trekking or cycling from the Sky Trailhead.
Olema Campground and Tomales Beach Campground offer facilities like flush toilets and potable water as well as car camping options. However, Car Camping Point Reyeshas very limited 38-vehicle space.
Permits or reservations are necessary for various Point Reyes National Seashore activities. This includes backcountry camping, festivals, and professional filming and photography. It is important to note that dispersed camping is not allowed in Point Reyes. Whereas numerous backpacking options can be available to tourists in the park’s beautiful surroundings.
Visit the official website of Point Reyes National Seashore for more information about the park’s stunning trails, coastline, and landscape. Camping reservations for Point Reyes National Seashore are looked after by Recreation.gov or it can be done by calling 415-464-5100.
4. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is located in northern California. It draws tourists attraction with its wide range of volcanic sites, cliffs, and alpine lakes. We suggest planning for three to five days to explore its stunning trails and volcanic scenery.
Camping is permitted only in specific locations, so be aware of that. Backcountry camping is allowed with a free permit, whereas dispersed camping near Lassen National Park is strictly forbidden.
The park’s seven campsites accommodate a variety of requirements. For example, Juniper Lake Campground offers primitive sites with incredible lake views. Lassen National Park’s diverse landscapes and geological characteristics make it a worthwhile place, where climbing to the top of Lassen Peak, exploring Bumpass Hell’s geothermal site, or kayaking Manzanita Lake is not restricted.
For those who like comfort, try camping cabins or hotels near Lassen National Park, like the Drakesbad Guest Ranch. On the other hand, RV camping near the park’s entrance is unrestricted.
Most campgrounds in Lassen Volcanic National Park ask for reservations. Camping reservations can be made by visiting recreation.gov or calling 1-877-444-6777. Make sure you book in advance, especially during the peak season, which is May to October.
Before you plan a Lassen National Park trip, we also advise you to visit the park’s website for the latest updates.
5. Lake Tahoe Area
The Lake Tahoe area, which borders California and Nevada, is an outstanding camping location because of its sparkling water, exceptional Sierra Nevada mountains, and lush forests. The area provides a wide range of campsites and camping opportunities. However, you can camp only in certain campgrounds, including California State Parks, National Forest lands, and Nevada State Parks.
Consider your preferences before choosing which side of Lake Tahoe you want to stay on. North Lake Tahoe offers more private camping alternatives, whilst South Lake Tahoe camping gives easier accessibility to amenities such as restaurants and shopping. It is advised to consider looking at the Lake Tahoe area camping map to find a suitable spot.
Lake Tahoe area camping prices range from $20 to $50 per night, based on location and facilities. RV camping in Lake Tahoe is also available, with sites including Tahoe Valley RV Resort providing full hookups. If you want a more lavish experience, consider yurts or camping cabins.
June to September is a peak season due to mild and pleasant weather. So, if you plan during that period, make sure you reserve your camping spot in advance. December to April is mainly popular for wintertime activities such as skiing and snowboarding. It is essential to pack layered and waterproof clothes that will help you in different weather conditions. Lake Tahoe campground reservations can be made online; however, plan ahead of time because campsites fill quickly on summer weekends and vacations.
There is no denying that the Lake Tahoe area is a prime example of scenic aesthetics, which is why Lake Tahoe camping reviews are so positive. Campers and tourists consistently praise Mendocino Grove because of its surroundings, nearby activities, and views.
6. Memorial County Park
Memorial County Park is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains near La Honda, California. With its 126 campsites, it offers a variety of camping experiences, including RVs and tents. These campsites are located among towering redwoods and rolling hills.
Check-in at Memorial Park Campground starts at 2 p.m., so plan your time there correctly to secure your campsite and get a good chance to explore the location. Car camping is permitted with drive-up campsites accessibility, making it ideal for families and events. Memorial County Park is an excellent choice for La Honda camping due to its easy entrance to Silicon Valley and breathtaking natural beauty.
Consider campsites 1-20 for an unforgettable trip. They provide spectacular views of the nearby forest. To find your ideal campsite, browse the Memorial County Park campsite map, which shows amenities like clean toilets, potable water, and picnic tables.
For camping reservations, use the San Mateo County Parks reservation system or call (650) 363-402. Many California state parks allow car camping and have restroom facilities. Some popular options include Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, D.L. Bliss State Park, and Donner Memorial State Park.
Memorial County Park is a good camping destination near La Honda. This park offers lavish camping between beautiful redwoods, private hiking routes, and a variety of wildlife. The most attractive campsites can be found along Pescadero Creek, where there is plenty of shade, easy access to hiking trails, and attractive sights.
7. Mendocino Grove
Mendocino Grove, located on the beautiful Mendocino Coast of California, provides a luxurious camping experience. This region includes 37 perfectly built campsites that adapt to the environment of surrounding forests. Camping is strictly restricted to specific locations within the grove to protect the scenic beauty of the region.
Mendocino Grove offers modern comforts, such as complimentary WiFi, to ensure a comfortable stay. The official website provides further information about different services. Mendocino Grove camping rates begin at $20 per night.
The spacious safari-style camps have hot showers and flush toilets, comfy beds, linens, and cozy blankets. Private terraces feature spectacular ocean or forest views. Visitors can also relax in the grove’s community center, which has relaxed seating and a fireplace. Mendocino Grove camping reservations can be made online.
Mendocino Grove camping reviews have earned outstanding levels for its breathtaking landscapes and exceptional services. Due to this, Mendocino Grove frequently rated high on platforms like Hipcamp, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. This coastal resort is a great choice for anyone looking for a refreshing break and an ideal option for peace lovers.
Summary
Camping in Northern California offers amazing experiences due to its diversified landscape. The luxury of the region is unparalleled. It brings the best camping in Northern California, from the misty redwoods of Mendocino Groove and Point Reyes National Seashore to Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear lakes and Yosemite National Park’s beautiful coastline. Have you been to any of these camping sites? How was your experience? Let us know in the comments.
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