If you’re wondering where to find the best camping in Northern California, I’ve got you covered—straight from my campervan logbook. After crisscrossing the redwood coast, lakeside hideaways, and misty mountains for years, I’ve discovered the kind of campgrounds that don’t just give you a place to park—they give you a memory.
Northern California is magic. You can sleep beneath skyscraper trees one night and wake up to crashing ocean waves the next. Whether you’re hauling a trailer, pitching a tent, or rolling deep in a decked-out Sprinter van, here’s a roundup of my absolute favorite campgrounds in NorCal.
Where Can You Camp Among Redwoods in Northern California?
Towering trees, fern-lined trails, and river whispers—if redwoods are what you’re after, Northern California offers some of the most awe-inspiring forest camping in the country. Here are two of my all-time favorites:
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park (Crescent City)
This place is otherworldly. The Jedediah Smith Redwoods aren’t just tall—they’re time travelers, standing for over 1,000 years. The campground here is right along the crystal-clear Smith River, and the redwoods form a kind of natural cathedral around your site. There are tent and RV spaces, with restrooms and showers.
My advice? Go in spring or fall for fewer crowds and catch the morning fog rolling through those trees. It’s like waking up inside a fantasy novel.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (Orick)
Home to Fern Canyon—yes, the one in Jurassic Park 2—Prairie Creek offers lush trails, elk sightings, and beach access all in one park. Elk Prairie Campground is walkable to dozens of trailheads. It’s great for families and hikers alike.
Just make sure to secure your site early. These fill up months ahead, especially in summer.
What Are the Best Lake and Mountain Camping Options?
Not into forests? No worries. The high country delivers just as much wonder—complete with alpine lakes, crisp air, and that mountain calm that’s hard to beat. These are two spots that always draw me back:
Pinecrest Lake (Stanislaus National Forest)
If you’re camping with kids or just want lake vibes without giving up amenities, Pinecrest Lake is a go-to. The campground sits right near the water with access to hiking trails, a general store, and even an outdoor movie theater during peak season.
I’ve pulled up here many times on longer road trips for a few days of paddleboarding and mountain air. Bonus: It’s usually open late into the fall.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
You’ve probably seen Burney Falls on Instagram—and it’s even better in person. The 129-foot waterfall flows year-round, making it a striking centerpiece of the park. Campsites are well-maintained, and there are also small cabins available (though they don’t have private bathrooms).
Hiking trails weave through pine forests, and Lake Britton nearby offers kayaking, boating, and fishing.
Is There Good Coastal Camping in Northern California?
Now let’s talk coastline. Because when you’re in NorCal, a beach sunset and salty air are just a winding highway away. These campgrounds offer unbeatable access to the Pacific:
Van Damme State Park (Mendocino County)
Van Damme is where coastal cliffs meet fern-filled forests. Located just outside Mendocino, this park has a mix of tent and RV sites, plus access to the Pygmy Forest Trail—a weirdly wonderful trail through stunted, ancient trees.
You can explore tidepools, sea caves, or just take a breezy cliff walk. In the summer, I’ve spotted migrating whales just offshore.
Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Want a redwood canopy and a beach all in one spot? Navarro River Redwoods has two campground options: one near the beach (Navarro Beach Campground) and another tucked into the forest (Paul M. Dimmick Campground). It’s first-come, first-served, so plan accordingly.
This is a great stopover between Anderson Valley wine country and the Pacific coast.
What If You Didn’t Make a Reservation?
Tried booking too late? I’ve been there. Fortunately, Northern California has plenty of wild and flexible camping options that don’t require reservations—if you know where to look.
First-Come, First-Served & Dispersed Camping
If you didn’t score a reserved camping site, don’t panic. NorCal is full of walk-in and dispersed options:
- Mendocino National Forest and Shasta-Trinity National Forest have dozens of free, off-grid sites.
- Mount Tamalpais State Park has walk-in sites that are perfect for spontaneous campers.
- Use apps like Campendium or The Dyrt to check availability, reviews, and road access.
Pro tip: Always arrive early in the day for first-come sites—preferably before noon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Northern California Camping
1. What’s the best time of year to camp in Northern California?
Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal. You’ll avoid the summer rush, and the weather is usually still warm and dry—perfect for hiking and stargazing.
2. Do you need reservations for camping in Northern California?
For popular parks like Jedediah Smith, Prairie Creek, or Burney Falls—yes. Sites can book out 6 months in advance via ReserveCalifornia. For national forest dispersed camping, no reservation is needed.
3. Can you camp for free in Northern California?
Absolutely. National forests like Shasta-Trinity and Klamath offer free dispersed camping. You’ll need to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash. No amenities, but big on solitude.
4. Is there dog-friendly camping in Northern California?
Yes! Most state parks and national forests allow dogs on leash. Just double-check park rules—some beaches or trails may restrict pets for wildlife protection.
Final Thoughts: Why the Best Camping in Northern California Is Worth the Drive
Whether you’re hugging the coast or deep in the redwoods, the best camping in Northern California is less about luxury and more about connection—connection to nature, to stillness, and to the kind of memories that don’t need Wi-Fi to be shared.
Every one of these campgrounds has left a mark on my map and my heart. Pack your gear, plot your route, and let the redwoods whisper you to sleep.
