California’s diverse landscapes offer some of the most spectacular camping experiences in the country, from misty redwood groves to stark desert wonderlands. Whether you’re seeking the rush of Yosemite’s granite walls, the tranquility of coastal tide pools, or the otherworldly beauty of Joshua Tree’s rock formations, these six campgrounds showcase the Golden State’s incredible variety. Each destination brings its own rewards and challenges, from battling reservation systems that sell out in minutes to properly storing food in bear country. But with the right preparation and timing, you’ll find yourself falling asleep to ocean waves, waking up to towering sequoias, or stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the nation.
Klamath River RV Park – Klamath, CA
Perched where the mighty Klamath River meets the Pacific Ocean, this seasonal gem offers prime fishing territory and oceanfront camping from mid-April through October. You’ll find both full hookup RV sites and tent camping options, all with complimentary Wi-Fi and fire rings for those essential s’mores sessions. The real draw here is the fishing. Cast a line for steelhead trout right from the riverbank, though salmon fishing is temporarily off-limits due to the historic dam removals upstream. Don’t miss booking a jet boat tour or traditional Yurok canoe excursion to spot eagles, seals, and other wildlife along the river. Just remember to secure your food and trash properly, the local bears and clever crows are always on the lookout for an easy meal. The 9 PM quiet hours ensure peaceful nights under the stars, perfect for recharging before another day of coastal adventures.
Giant Redwoods RV and Cabin Destination – Myers Flat, CA
Step into the land of giants at this upscale camping destination that puts you literally steps from the legendary Avenue of the Giants. While tent camping isn’t allowed here, the glamping cabins offer a luxurious twist on the camping experience with queen beds, private bathrooms, and even Smart TVs for those rare moments when nature isn’t entertainment enough. RV sites stretch up to an impressive 110 feet, accommodating even the largest rigs with full hookups. You can fish the Eel River from your exclusive riverfront beach or catch a movie under the redwoods at the seasonal outdoor theater. The nearby Shrine Drive-Thru Tree makes for an unforgettable photo op, and the Victorian village of Ferndale is just 40 minutes away when you’re ready for some small-town charm. Book well in advance, this popular spot fills up quickly, especially during the peak April-October season.
Eagle Point Campground – South Lake Tahoe, CA
Scoring a site at Eagle Point is like winning the camping lottery, with sites 68-78 offering front-row seats to Emerald Bay’s impossibly blue waters. This tent and small RV campground opens mid-June and books solid within minutes when reservations open six months in advance, so mark your calendar and have that refresh button ready. While there are no hookups, the spectacular setting more than compensates, with easy access to the Rubicon Trail and the chance to kayak to Fannette Island’s historic Tea House. The resident black bears here mean business. Every scrap of food, toothpaste included, must go in the provided bear lockers day and night. Note that while your four-legged friend can enjoy the campground, they’ll have to sit out the epic hikes, as dogs aren’t allowed on any trails or beaches in the area.
Upper Pines Campground – Yosemite Valley, CA
Landing a spot at Upper Pines puts you in the heart of Yosemite Valley’s action, with Half Dome looming overhead and the Merced River flowing nearby. This is Yosemite’s largest valley campground and the communal vibe means you’ll be sharing the magic with plenty of fellow adventurers. Bring earplugs if you’re not an early riser. The free valley shuttle stops right at the entrance, whisking you to iconic spots without the parking hassle. With the Mist Trail practically at your doorstep, you can beat the crowds to Nevada Fall by starting at dawn. The electronic bear fence helps deter the hundreds of black bears in the park, but you’ll still need to be vigilant about using those food lockers. They’re sized at 35″ x 43″ x 28″, so plan your cooler situation accordingly. Snag a reservation exactly five months in advance at 7 AM PST and be prepared to click fast. These sites disappear quicker than morning mist off Half Dome.
Montana de Oro State Park – Los Osos, CA
This “Mountain of Gold” delivers California’s rugged coastline at its finest, with primitive camping that keeps you close to nature’s rhythms. The Islay Creek Campground welcomes tents and small RVs (27 feet max) with basic amenities. No hookups or showers, but you’re here for the tide pools and trails anyway. Time your visit for low tide and explore the incredible marine life at Spooner’s Cove, the most accessible tide pooling spot with convenient parking. The must-do Bluff Trail stretches 2.38 miles along dramatic cliffs, offering whale watching opportunities year-round and gray whale sightings during their December-April migration. Your dog can join you at Spooner’s Cove Beach and in the campground, but they’ll need to skip the hiking adventures since pets aren’t allowed on other trails. Spring brings those famous golden wildflowers that give the park its name, transforming the coastal plains into a photographer’s dream.
Jumbo Rocks Campground – Joshua Tree National Park, CA
Welcome to another planet… or at least that’s how it feels camping among Joshua Tree’s otherworldly granite formations. Jumbo Rocks puts you in the middle of a natural rock playground, with Skull Rock and other named formations right in camp for evening scrambles. There’s no water here, so load up those jugs before arriving, and prepare for temperature swings that can take you from t-shirt weather to puffy jacket territory in a single day. The International Dark Sky designation means the Milky Way puts on a nightly show that’ll have you forgetting all about your phone’s screen. The one-hour Skull Rock Trail loops right through the campground, perfect for kids and adults who never outgrew their love of climbing on rocks. Summer brings dangerous heat and aggressive bees seeking water, so aim for fall or spring visits when the desert shows its gentler side, though even March nights can surprise you with near-freezing temps or the occasional snow dusting.
Your California Camping Adventure Awaits
From the fog-kissed shores of the Klamath River to the star-filled skies above Joshua Tree, California’s campgrounds offer adventures as varied as the state itself. The key to camping success here lies in the details. Booking those coveted spots months in advance, respecting the wildlife (especially those clever bears) and coming prepared for everything from coastal mist to desert extremes. Whether you’re luxury glamping among ancient redwoods or pitching a tent beside Emerald Bay’s jewel-toned waters, each of these destinations promises memories worth every bit of planning effort. So dust off that camping gear, practice your reservation-clicking skills, and get ready to discover why California remains the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
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