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.
Exploring the Best Beach Camping in Northern California
Beach Camping Spots You Must Visit in Northern California
Northern California is home to some of the most stunning coastal landscapes, making beach camping a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top beach camping spots include:
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Kamp Klamath near the Redwood National Park, offering beautiful beach views and easy access to hiking trails.
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Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, where campers can enjoy the serenity of the Pacific Ocean while surrounded by towering redwood trees.
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.
Things to Know Before Camping in Northern California
Booking CA State Park Camping Reservations
Due to the popularity of camping in Northern California, it’s important to make your CA State Park camping reservations early. Some of the most sought-after campsites are located in parks like Big Sur and Mendocino.
When to Visit Northern California for Camping
The best time to camp in Northern California is during the summer and early fall when the weather is mild, and the campgrounds are fully accessible. However, be sure to check for seasonal closures and flooding risks during the winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Northern California good for camping with kids?
Yes, Northern California offers several family-friendly campgrounds with safe and fun activities for kids, including easy access to hiking trails, beaches, and lakes.
2. What are the best regions for camping in Northern California?
Some of the best regions for camping in Northern California include Shasta Cascade, Redwood National Park, and Mendocino Coast, each offering unique landscapes and various campgrounds.
3. Which lakes in Northern California allow camping?
Clear Lake, Shasta Lake, and Lake Tahoe are some of the top lakes in Northern California that allow camping with easy access to water activities and nature exploration.
4. Where can you go camping near the Bay Area?
Popular camping spots near the Bay Area include Angel Island State Park, Mount Diablo State Park, and Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
5. Is dispersed camping allowed in Northern California?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in many national forests and remote areas of Northern California, though it’s important to check local regulations before heading out.
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.
