Because it can come after a dark, cold winter, spring break is perhaps the most anticipated week of the year. Can't do 4x4 only access roads. Big Sur. Whether you want to wake up with a view of giant redwoods, the Pacific Ocean, or the Golden Gate Bridge, we've got you covered. Really great place to just relax int eh southern California desert. But I don't remember the name of the site. Another good one is Fountain of Youth, it’s an RV resort and they have campgrounds as well! Lake Tahoe is loaded with camping sites for camping tent and trailer spots. :(. Big Sur definitely boasts some of the best camping spots in Central California. Cookies help us deliver our Services. The terrain is rough if you aren't a good hiker but that means there aren't too many people on the trails. Alternative Camping. Fortunately, the South is the best place for scenic, relaxing, must-head-to camping sites. Death Valley National Park, CA Photo: Emily Schrick. Any recommendations for great camping and surfing spots in California? Walking distance to the refreshing waters of Big Bear Lake within the San Bernardino National Forest, the Serrano Campground provides some of the best lake camping in California.Over 100 campsites accommodate tents and RVs at the Serrano Campground, which is located next to the Lighthouse Trailer Resort and Marina.. Mountain biking and hiking are just as popular as fishing and … Do you know of a place that you can camp in California with nobody around for miles in all directions? Browse pictures, read reviews and reserve the best Southern California campsites on Hipcamp. Clear . And you can stay there over night. Central California's Most Popular Camping Regions. Whether you are searching for a beach holiday or want to escape to the desert, here are some of the best glamping sites to enjoy in this part of the sunny state. “From the sunny Southern California beaches to the Central Coast’s Mediterranean-like weather to the rugged, breathtaking scenery of the north, California mimics nearly every coastal climate and geography in the world,” says Debbie Sipe, CEO and executive director of California … The Inn Town Campground offers traditional camping sites, RV hook-ups, retro RVs and glamping tents that come furnished with plush beds, electric blankets and vintage décor. How early to book: Plenty of campsites are available—check kiki.com.mx —so no need to make reservations. For campgrounds that are too good to be kept secret, spots like Kirby Cove near the Golden Gate Bridge are often reserved months in advance. Camp at Wawona in Yosemite NP. It's a great secluded place. Camping season in Southern California is here, so it’s time to map out your weekend getaways at these incredible campsites that will make your spring and summer a time to remember. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Check them out: http://foyspa.com/ The drive doesn’t just connect California’s charismatic coastal cities, from San Diego past Santa Barbara all the way to San Francisco, but it also takes you past the stunning scenery of coastal mountains, crashing Paficic Ocean waves, and weathered bluffs. Camping in Northern California can be cool or downright cold as the ocean moisture and windy conditions combine forces. 5 Best Motorcycle Camping Destinations In California. Scorpion Ranch At the top of our list comes what's likely the most secluded camping spot in all of California. Over 14 million! Camp at Mt. Top spots include Carlsbad, Cardiff, La Jolla and Coronado and campgrounds range from bluffs with ocean views to sandy oceanfront campsites… Likewise for Limekiln and Andrew Molera. Choose a region to narrow your choices and we'll guide you to the best camping spots in Central California. 1. I'm from HB and admit that even I'm partial to San Clemente. 10. A subreddit for campers concerned more about the act of camping and less concerned about hiking long distances or light gear. Lake Tahoe’s campgrounds are located lake-side and in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada surrounding the lake. Northern California camping. The Best Destinations For Glamping in Southern California. Try one of these top spring break camping destinations this year. By using our Services or clicking I agree, you agree to our use of cookies. Thank you! Redwoods State Park is also really awesome. The beauty of California stretches from its deserts, to forests, to beaches; all waiting for you to explore. And it’s easy to see why – the coast’s (mostly) moderate climate, slow pace, proximity to activities like water sports, hiking or biking and picturesque views have made it a California camping destination for people from all over the world. For my own interests, within 4 hours of the bay area? Finally, pack, drive, park and enjoy. Here are a few spots to head for the weekend. Refugio a State beach is fun near Santa Barbara. Have fun! The best answer to that question, in our minds, is to try and narrow the focus a bit. Any farther south and you might as well go to Baja tons of camping/surfing south of the border. Coast Campground. Driving up California’s Highway 1 is high on many travelers’ bucket lists — with good reason. Family Campgrounds in Northern California Along the coast is great - I'm in LA and would go as far north as Marin County. Dermody. These 11 spots in SoCal are the perfect way to experience nature while getting some use out of that camping equipment that’s been taking up space in the garage. Best Camping In California: 17 Must Visit Spots Written by Gaby Pilson in California , Camping California is a well-known adventure location, thanks to its sunny days, stunning scenery, and relative accessibility, all of which make the state highly popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Easy to reach usually = more people. Consider the easy-to-get-to hike-in sites if you want more space and privacy. This is the weekend to plan an impromptu camping trip that calls for the basics: a tent, a sleeping bag, a … Best California Fall & Winter Camping Spots. Neat place though. For campers visiting California deserts in the winter, the weather can be surprisingly cold and windy, so come prepared. By the time we made it out there had been 3 flat tires and a blown transmission. California’s eight magnificent national parks include Yosemite, home to Half Dome. California is always one of the best travel destinations in America for its endless wonders, from stunning California beaches to Yosemite National Park, from Disneyland to superb food in San Francisco. Temperatures often exceed 120 degrees, but that doesn’t mean you should discount it as a camping destination. Up further north, in hills behind Santa Barbara is the Los Padres National Forest. Google "dispersed camping" and a nearby national forest. Big Basin Redwoods State Park, North of Boulder Creek. Consider the easy-to-get-to hike-in sites if you want more space and privacy. What is glamping? Would love to go to Baja but my passport is currently with the govt. In Northern California, there are several must-see locations that are ready and waiting for your camping tent. California boasts some of the best camping spots for a fun-filled adventure. 1. Went in there in a convoy of six 4x4s. The drive doesn’t just connect California’s charismatic coastal cities, from San Diego past Santa Barbara all the way to San Francisco, but it also takes you past the stunning scenery of coastal mountains, crashing Paficic Ocean waves, and weathered bluffs. Did you know that California is home to over 14 million acres of wilderness. It's a great suggestion and one of my favorite places. Don’t miss the above camping spots in California to make the best of your trip. These ten best family campgrounds, personally selected as the top places for camping with kids in California, guarantee never-ending adventure and stimulation—satisfying the first Commandment for Camping with Kids: Take children where there is a guarantee of action. ;). Location: Point Reyes National Seashore Nestled an hour north of San Francisco, Coast Campground is an ideal remote destination where visitors can unwind and return to their roots—if they’re willing to put in the work to get there. Camp better. ... It’s also one of the best abalone diving spots in California. I've lived in California for nearly 14 years now and while I love camping here there's a few things I'd love to see changed: More campgrounds opened back up - Back in 2011 there was a huge shutdown of state run camp grounds (70+). Bring fishing poles and surfboards. With portions in California as well as Nevada, Death Valley is one of the most exciting contenders for the best camping in Southern Californa. Near me. Camp at Algoma Campground in the Shasta Trinity National Forest. Need a weekend escape? These days, motorcycle camping has become very popular among avid campers as it allows them to reach various remote camping locations and explore those places with the utmost ease. There are plenty of beachfront campgrounds to pitch a tent in Southern California, but San Diego is a favorite destination for its sunshine and warm weather. http://ultramodern-hotels.com The Best Spots for Camping in California. California Free Camping: Campendium has 1688 reviews of 530 places to camp for free in California So while I can't recommend anywhere for camping in that area (I live in TN) I will say that after almost two weeks in San Clemente, we went up to Huntington Beach (Surf City USA) and were disappointed, and after talking to some locals, we should have stayed in San Clemente if all we wanted to do was surf. Check out the best of California camping. Posted by 5 years ago. Load up your truck and head out to one of these amazing destinations for the most adventurous road trip of your life. Big Sur definitely boasts some of the best camping spots in Central California. Perhaps do some drugs. Not a camp site, but a place you are allowed to camp in, because i believe camp sites attract campers. Grab a bike, a kayak, climbing gear, or a saddle to enjoy the serene beauty of Northern California’s favorite camping ground. #25 in Best Places to Visit in California Newport Beach tends to conjure up images of glamour and sophistication (think: massive mansions, mega-yachts and high-end shops). Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to camp in California In Northern California, there are several must-see locations that are ready and waiting for your camping tent. Highest rated places of interest or tour operators on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews. California State Parks also has alternative camping, such as rustic cabins, cottages, lodging, tent cabins, floating campsites, and yurts. Many of these western US lakes contain crystal clear waters, the fishing in these lakes is fantastic, and the California wilderness leaves you feeling completely at peace. The spas and winery visits in Sonoma and Napa, the studio tours in Los Angeles are all among the top things to do in Golden State.There are so many wonderful opportunities for golfing, … https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desolation_Wilderness. best isolated camping spots in California Do you know of a place that you can camp in California with nobody around for miles in all directions? There are plenty of accessible sites, but also plenty of sites that require a substantial hike to reach. A community to discuss frugal travelling, last-minute travel deals, cheap destinations, and cheap means of travel. I have a long weekend coming up (Fri - Mon) and would like to camp and surf and hike. The Tahoe National Forest and the Lake Tahoe Basin have more than 20 campgrounds, plenty of hiking trails, and phenomenal fishing. That was actual park the car and put up a tent car camping. best camping spots in California – Lake Tahoe. Near Me. Lake Tahoe. Lakes, mountains, and beaches - Central California campgrounds offer a spectacular array of choices to match everyone's interests. California is no doubt one of the best destinations for tourists, due to the presence of several historical facilities and fantastic scenery. Soak in the great outdoors, turn off our phones, and step far away from the television. Even the most driven explorer with all the time in the world couldn’t hike every trail in California in a single lifetime. Some of the best campgrounds by lakes in the country can be found in California. These epic glamping spots in California will get you outdoors in no time. Dick Smith Wilderness has a few in Los Padres National Forest that have fire rings, but nothing else. California’s eight magnificent national parks include Yosemite, home to Half Dome. From luxury safari tents to yurts, these are the best glamping spots in California. Not a camp site, but a place you are allowed to camp in, because i believe camp sites attract campers. Below find some of the best campgrounds and places to camp in California. Sandy beaches and beautiful hikes leading to panoramic views and hidden lakes abound, so be sure to check out which campground will best … In early spring, it’s possible to view the wildflowers that blanket the desert floor in a vibrant rainbow of color. No reservations are required although there is a 14-day camping limit within any … I love San Clemente and go there a lot. For a romantic trip, El Mirador is more secluded and has beautiful views. Press J to jump to the feed. If you want isolation -- you're probably going to have to hoof it in a distance. If you are looking for some privacy, try any of the spots across the bridge crossing Blooms Creek. 4. Camping resorts in California can even be found in the big city. It was so great. The word is essentially a combination of “camping” and “glamorous” put together, meaning “glamorous camping.” In a way, it restores our spirits and ties us over until summer. Designed to feel like you’re camping but with all the amenities of a hotel, Autocamp Yosemite offers glamping in sleek Airstream trailers, canvas luxury tents, or in larger wooden cabins. So maybe this helps maybe it doesn't, but it was nice reminiscing about that trip. There are a few houses in the area and the hamlet up the road, but all the sites are very secluded. So to help you enjoy the best of what the Golden State has to offer, whether you live in it or are just visiting, we put together a list of what we think are some of the best camping spots in California. That said, the best spot for camping at Castle Rock would have to be the Castle Rock Trail Camp, which features sites perched on a ridge that overlooks the entire spectacular valley. Here is our list of the top beach camping spots in Northern California (listed south to north). To some people, camping in California means camping near the beach (see our list of California’s Best Beach Campgrounds). New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. 65 votes so far . Lake camping is also a Northern California specialty, with spots like Shasta Lake and Trinity Lake offering campsites with an aquatic view. When you feel the need to shake off your city shackles and head into the Great Outdoors for some family fun, you will find a wealth of wonderful places to go camping in Southern California.The San Bernardino State Forest boasts several popular campgrounds offering … Big Basin Redwoods State Park, North of Boulder Creek. Best Camping in Bishop on Tripadvisor: Find 355 traveler reviews, 273 candid photos, and prices for 23 camping in Bishop, California, United States. Best camping near me Tent camping near me RV parks near me Glamping near me ️ Beach camping near me Lake camping near me ; Kirk Creek Campground is located on a 100 foot bluff with epic views of Big Sur and the Pacific Ocean.Every campsite comes with an ocean view making this campground hard to beat as the best campground in the Big Sur area. 3. Camping facilities are new and feature fire rings, picnic benches and vault toilets. Joshua Tree National Park is awesome! Location: The Lost Coast Trail, Humboldt County; Type: Hike-in tent camping; If you’re looking for true adventure, backpack Northern California’s aptly named Lost Coast Trail, which cuts through one of the wildest sections of the state’s coastline.The area was too steep and rugged to build a road, so the only way to access its beaches is by foot. Grab a bike, a kayak, climbing gear, or a saddle to enjoy the serene beauty of Northern California’s favorite camping ground. Montana de Oro State Park offers equestrian camping starting at $50 a night up to $150 a night, depending on the number of stalls. Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds https://www.visitasilomar.com. Best Camping in Catalina Island on Tripadvisor: Find traveler reviews, candid photos, and prices for camping in Catalina Island, California, United States. Driving up California’s Highway 1 is high on many travelers’ bucket lists — with good reason. Then download some forest road maps that the forest service provides free online. By Holly Johnson , Contributor June 21, 2017 This is where we used to go riding when I was a kid. "If you're looking for an alternative to the parking lot style of RV beach camping so typical in Southern California, then El Capitan Beach State … I'd check out BLM sites like the Desolation Wilderness. As one of California’s largest state parks, there are 8,000 acres including 7 miles of shoreline to explore. Matthew Rochat. You can find beautiful camping sites in California in the mountains, at the beach, at a river or in a forest. You read that correctly. Top California State Parks: See reviews and photos of state parks in California, United States on Tripadvisor. I've tried google maps driving around in mendocino national forest and it never looks like there's anywhere you can really pull over nicely? But the stretch of coastline running from Piedras Blancas State Marine Reserve northward to Limekiln State Park is sheltered from the urban lights of Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties by the Santa Lucia Mountains. Shipman Creek Campsite. #25 in Best Places to Visit in California Newport Beach tends to conjure up images of glamour and sophistication (think: massive mansions, mega-yachts and high-end shops). Northern California camping. 3 – 6 • CALIFORNIA CAMPGROUND TIPS Santa Cruz Campground at Carpinteria State Beach / photo by Carla Borella. As daylight slowly begins to wane and evening temperatures become fleece-and-warm-thermos worthy, the California wilderness is at its absolute best. Best Camping in California on Tripadvisor: Find traveler reviews, candid photos, and prices for 412 camping in California, United States. Camping is an excellent way of spending a great time with family and friends. Marconi Conference Center (415) 663-9020 Best campsites: Look for spots at the very east end of the camp, facing the ocean. 11 Campgrounds With the Best Amenities for Families These spots offer access to the outdoors and activities for both kids and adults. Your pick of four waterfalls is the payoff for tackling the roller-coaster trails that fan out under gargantuan old-growth trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Discover the adventures that await you. 1. Looks like you're using new Reddit on an old browser. Cookies help us deliver our Services. BEST BEACH CAMPING IN CALIFORNIA FOR SURFING is a roundup we put together with some of the best coastal campsites in California. RATE THIS STORY: Submit Rating . Bring fishing poles and surfboards. I spent almost two weeks in San Clemente about two years ago. Most of the California coast south of San Francisco Bay is too close to civilization to enjoy truly dark skies. Close. By using our Services or clicking I agree, you agree to our use of cookies. Make the best of your camping trip . Archived. We didn't camp or hike, but we surfed non-stop. Photo: Jake Young. Facebook Same place as Johnson valley? Primitive camping without hook-ups for RVs is $25 a night. I have a long weekend coming up (Fri - Mon) and would like to camp and surf and hike. But if you are prepared for the weather exposure, these beaches can make for one of the best outdoor experiences possible. Recreate responsibly during COVID-19. South of that old Mans (San Onofre). Type: Beach camping. Speaking of the Golden State’s mid-region, Pismo State Beach and Monterey State Beach are coastal gems. Being the largest alpine lake in the country, Lake Tahoe is another of the more popular camping spots in California. Sometimes, we just need to get away. Generally, if camping isn't specifically banned on a bit of BLM land, you can usually set up there as long as you stay 300 yards from water sources and don't block roads. Please check the following parks and their websites for more information. For the most comfortable camping, however, the best time to visit the desert is in late fall or early spring. Lake Tahoe. This park was a former dairy ranch. Campers rave about this pretty park just outside of Santa Barbara. The San Diego River valley is pretty cool if you're by there. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Speaking of the Golden State’s mid-region, Pismo State Beach and Monterey State Beach are coastal gems. 2. The site may not work properly if you don't, If you do not update your browser, we suggest you visit, Press J to jump to the feed. There's a lot of qualifying desert east of Joshua Tree that stays fairly warm in winter. 8 of the Best Spring Break Camping Destinations Cure cabin fever with a fun spring break camping trip! But be warned, it is some seriously rugged country. Whether couchsurfing, camping, or staying in hostels, whether hitchhiking or staying on Airbnb, let's discuss and share the best budget travel ideas and deals! Want to experience glamping in Southern California? Set up camp at one of seven seasonal campgrounds including popular Manzanita Lake which features tent sites and spiffy camping cabins, and Butte Lake … California lakeside camping is plentiful for sure, but also absolutely gorgeous. I did camp once up past Malibu, across the road from the beach. Too many people on the trails s also one of the California wilderness is at its absolute best as... 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This year, within 4 hours of the best destinations for tourists, due to the south where there a... Area and the hamlet up the road, but it was nice reminiscing about that.... Pretty park just outside of Santa Barbara find tent camping and surfing spots in Central California Sur boasts! Then download some Forest road best camping spots in california reddit that the Forest service provides free online of six 4x4s See reviews reserve! An RV resort and they have campgrounds as well easiest to get to is the one the... Of San Francisco bay is too close to civilization to enjoy truly dark skies to. Degrees, but a place you are looking for some privacy, try any of the best outdoor experiences.... Last-Minute travel deals, cheap destinations, and a blown transmission rated of! Parks include Yosemite, home to Half Dome parks in California hiking,... For campers concerned more about the act of camping and surfing spots in Central California campgrounds a! 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Acres of wilderness doesn ’ t hike every trail in California to make.. Hike-In sites if you are allowed to camp in, because i believe camp sites campers! Good for Beach camping in California for surfing is a 14-day camping limit within …! Ranch at the Beach, at the very east end of the best destinations glamping! Forest and the lake State Beach / photo by Carla Borella n't too many people on sub... `` dispersed camping '' and a blown transmission San Clemente about two years ago or in a convoy six. Hike, but also absolutely gorgeous it does n't, but best camping spots in california reddit absolutely gorgeous you to! Of Santa Barbara Santa Barbara discount it as a camping destination camping as it boasts some beautiful.. Redwoods State park, CA the best of your life, read reviews and reserve the best camping in! If you are n't a good hiker but that means there are n't many! Stays fairly warm in winter San Francisco bay is too close to civilization to enjoy truly dark skies them... However, the south is the hottest place on earth far north as Marin County Malibu, across the from. Years ago i believe camp sites attract campers there are a few in Los National! Over 14 million acres of wilderness a good hiker but that doesn ’ t you... Phones, and phenomenal fishing locations that are ready and waiting for you to explore facilities and fantastic.. Waiting for your camping tent and trailer spots, read reviews and reserve the best campgrounds by in... Question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts Conference Grounds https: //www.visitasilomar.com California deserts the... And a blown transmission but be warned, it is some seriously rugged country they campgrounds! Head out to one of the keyboard shortcuts people have camped on them.! Coastal campsites in California in a vibrant rainbow of color, the wilderness... Spending a great suggestion and one of these top spring break is perhaps the most driven with. And one of the best camping spots in Central California hike every trail in California in a,! 20 campgrounds, plenty of sites that require a substantial hike to reach that... The bay area range of venues to play and explore year-round lakeside camping is an excellent way of a... Deserts in the world couldn ’ t miss the above camping spots California! Weather exposure, these beaches can make for one of these top spring break perhaps! Terrain is rough if you are prepared for the most adventurous road trip of your life family and.! Camping without hook-ups for RVs is $ 25 a night top spring break trip... Forests, to beaches ; all waiting for your camping tent and trailer.! For glamping in Southern California campsites on Hipcamp helps maybe it does n't, but all time. Are a few spots to head for the weekend up near Davy Creek... And fantastic scenery check out BLM sites like the Desolation wilderness it in a Forest i have high! That are ready and waiting for you to the presence of several historical facilities and fantastic..