Explore the Best Places to Camp in Northern California! Beach camping, peaceful lakeside spots, free camping (with type), and tips for planning your next outdoor escape. Now you have this guide to finding the best places to camp Northern California and make great memories! Let us know your camping stories in the comments! Get started planning your next adventure now.
Camping areas in Northern California
Northern California is a camping haven for lovers of Mother Nature, from towering redwoods to still lakefronts and rugged coastlines. With its varied landscape and stunning scenery, there is something for every sort of camper in this province, whether you are a family in search of a weekend escape or an intrepid hiker seeking a wilderness getaway. This guide will show you how to find the best places to camp in Northern California, including jaw-dropping campgrounds, free camping areas, beginner-friendly campgrounds, and pro tips for the ultimate trip. You’ll find tips in this guide if you’re dreaming of beach camping, lakeside lounging or thick forest retreats.
Beach camping Northern California
Prayer flags flutter in the wind as a sign of good luck welcomes, and blessings at this Northern California campground. Here’s what makes this region a camper’s dream:
Beach camping Northern California
Stunning Diversity: With everything from coastal cliffs and sandy beaches to towering redwoods and snow-capped mountains, there’s something for every kind of camper.
Mild Weather: Ideal for year-round camping, Northern California has a climate that is milder and less arid than its southern neighbor, making it great for multi-day outdoor ventures.
Unlimited Activities: Whether it’s kayaking and paddle boarding on quiet lakes, hiking hidden trails within forests, or walking along coastal beaches, this area is full of adventure.
If you’ve camped in Southern California, you know, it’s desert vibes and dry heat. While lovely in its way, Southern California simply doesn’t measure up to Northern California’s variety and verdant beauty.
Most Scenic Places to Camp in Northern California
Lake Tahoe Area
Known for its crystalline waters and surrounding mountain peaks, Lake Tahoe is a camper’s dream come true. Emerald Bay State Park stands out with its stunning lake views and quick access to kayaking, hiking, and fishing.
Lake Tahoe Area
Emerald Bay State Park Address: 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 Phone: +1 (530) 541-3030 Website:California State Parks
So here are, my top picks for where to go if you’re visiting a State ParkVisit California State Parks.
Searching for some peaceful moments by the water? These California campgrounds with lakes offer incredible sunrises and days filled with possibilities.
Redwood National and State Parks:
There is nothing quite like camping among the ancient redwoods. Jedediah Smith Campground in the Redwoods National and State Parks allows you to sleep beneath some of the tallest trees on Earth. Relax in the enchanted, dense woodland, and accommodate hiking routes and wildlife watching at these one-of-a-kind campsites.
Jedediah Smith Campground Address: 14650 Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt, CA 95542 Phone: +1 (707) 465-7765 Website:Jedediah Smith Campground
Mendocino Coast
If “beach camping Northern California” is on your bucket list, head to MacKerricher State Park on the Mendocino Coast. Camp near kaleidoscopic tide pools full of marine life, walk down sandy beaches, and hear crashing waves all night long.
MacKerricher State Park Address: 24100 MacKerricher Park Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 Phone: +1 (707) 964-1177 Website:MacKerricher State Park
Favorite Places for Adventurous Campers
Lassen Volcanic National Park
For a combination of peace and adventure, Lassen Volcanic National Park has it all. See boiling mud pots and steaming fumaroles at geothermal wonders, then relax at one of the park’s remote campgrounds. It’s the ideal combination of being lazy and being curious.
Cinder Cone Crater in Lassen Volcanic National Park, California USA
Lassen Volcanic National Park Address: 38050 Highway 89, Mineral, CA 96063 Phone: +1 (530) 595-4444 Website:Lassen Volcanic National Park
Trinity Alps Wilderness
Avoid the crowds in a rugged, stunning wilderness at the Trinity Alps. Perfect for hikers wanting both epic alpine vistas and free camping opportunities. Are you asking yourself “Where can I camp for free?” There are many options for dispersed camping in Trinity Alps in designated forest service areas.
Trinity Alps Wilderness Address: 1642 S. Main St., Weaverville, CA 96093 Phone: +1 (530) 623-2121 Website:Trinity Alps Wilderness
Northern California Beachfront Escapes
Kirby Cove Campground
Kirby Cove Campground, Nestled alongside the San Francisco Bay. This is a choice coastal camping option. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge, misty mornings, and refreshing hikes. Because beach camping in Northern California is so popular, plan and get your reservations well in advance!
Golden Gate Bridge from Kirby Cove Campground beach
Kirby Cove Campground Address: Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Marin Headlands, CA 94965 Phone: +1 (415) 331-1540 Website:Kirby Cove Campground
Campgrounds in California with lakes
Shasta Lake
Shasta Lake is a top camping area for water sports lovers. From paddle boarding to jet skiing to fishing, there’s something for everyone. Campsites scattered around the lake have prime places to set up for the weekend.
Shasta Lake in northern California with low water level
Shasta Lake Address: 2016 Shasta Dam Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019 Phone: +1 (530) 275-4465 Website:Shasta Lake
Clear Lake State Park
California’s largest freshwater lake, Clear Lake offers picturesque campgrounds with lakefront vistas. Relax by the water, see local wildlife or enjoy a peaceful canoe ride. As you can see in this photo above, California has campgrounds that have lakes — a perfect setting to create lifetime memories.
Clear Lake State Park Address: 5300 Soda Bay Rd, Kelseyville, CA 95451 Phone: +1 (707) 279-2267 Website:Clear Lake State Park
Beginner-Friendly Campgrounds
Are you new to camping or bringing the family along? These stress-free options make enjoying the great outdoors easy.
Half Moon Bay State Beach is family-friendly, with restrooms and plenty of nearby places to eat — great if you have kids.
Campgrounds near national parks frequently offer rental gear and guided activities for first-timers.
Half Moon Bay State Beach Address: 95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 Phone: +1 (650) 726-8820 Website:Half Moon Bay State Beach
Free Camping Spots for Budget-Friendly Adventures
For those campers looking for budget-friendly camps, Northern California has some of the best free camping spots in the nation.
There are zones for dispersed camping in Stanislaus National Forest and BLM (Bureau of Land Management)
Prepare to come stocked with supplies, as these spots may not have the amenities. Pro tip: An app like Overland can help you find verified free campsites in Northern California.
Stanislaus National Forest Address: 19777 Greenley Rd, Sonora, CA 95370 Phone: +1 (209) 532-3671 Website:Stanislaus National Forest
Places to camp in southern California Vs Northern California
If you’re weighing Northern and Southern California for your next trip, here’s a quick comparison:
Pacific Crest Trail, Southern California
Northern California is home to verdant forests, tranquil lakes, and rugged coastlines to suit every type of camper.
Home to high desert terrain such as Joshua Tree and sunny beaches like Malibu, Southern California — in contrast — is known for its own Sunshine State vibes.
If you’re an outdoorsy person looking for alternatives and cooler temperatures, the top camping spots in Northern California outshine anything in the south easily.
Tips for a Memorable Camping Experience
Campgrounds Book Fast: Some of the more popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, so plan and reserve your spot in advance.
Pack strategically: A checklist will help you not forget the important stuff, like a dependable tent, a good sleeping bag, and first-aid supplies.
Be Safe: Be aware of wildlife in the area, and follow the proper way to store food if you’re camped somewhere where animals might get into it.
Use Handy Tools: Apps such as AllTrails can help you find nearby adventures, and The website Recreation.Gov makes Camping Reservations Made Easy
Plan Your Next Northern California Camping Adventure
From paddling on crystal-clear lakes and hiking among some of the world’s oldest redwoods to waking up to misty oceanside views, Northern California’s diverse landscapes have something for everyone. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to locate the best spots to camp within Northern California and make some incredible memories.
So what are you waiting for; start planning your next adventure and tell us about your camping experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your favorite spots or any hidden gems we might’ve missed!
FAQs about Camping in Northern California
Where can I camp for free in Northern California?
In Northern California, there are free camping options in national forests (such as Stanislaus National Forest) and on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands. If you are an adventurous camper seeking dispersed campsites, check out the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Always check individual regulations and policies for any given site before pitching a tent.
Where can I tent camp without reservations in Northern California?
Dispersed camping in national forests and BLM lands usually does not require a reservation. Popular locations include parts of Mendocino National Forest and Lassen Volcanic National Park. But places like Half Moon Bay State Beach or Kirby Cove usually require reservations, especially during the busy season.
Can I camp anywhere in California?
Camping must be done in designated spots such as campgrounds, national forests, and BLM lands. In certain areas of the national forests, dispersed camping is permitted, but often with restrictions. Check local rules to ensure compliance.
How much does it cost to camp in California?
California camping costs vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Emerald Bay State Park in Lake Tahoe and other state park campgrounds will run you about $25 to $50 a night; fancier sites will likely run $100 or more. That’s usually free on BLM lands or in national forests or costs only a nominal fee.
How long can you stay in a campsite in California?
Most California campgrounds allow for a maximum stay of 14 to 21 consecutive days. National forests and BLM lands may have similar or more restrictive limits in place to ensure equitable use. Check the rules for the specific site for details.
These FAQs should help guide your Northern California camping adventure! You must know about our most informative adventure camping blogs,
