Introduction
Northern California is a camper’s paradise, offering a diverse range of landscapes from majestic redwood forests to serene lakes and rugged coastlines. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or planning your first outdoor adventure, choosing the right campground can make all the difference. With options ranging from tent sites to RV parks and kid-friendly spots to private retreats, there’s something for everyone.
At SeekaTour, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive travel information to help you plan the perfect getaway. In this guide, we’ll explore the best campgrounds in Northern California has to offer, ensuring you find the ideal spot for your next adventure.
Top Campgrounds in Northern California: Redwood National and State Parks
Home to the tallest trees on earth, the Redwood National and State Parks offer an awe-inspiring camping experience. The parks encompass several campgrounds, including Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, Elk Prairie, and Gold Bluffs Beach. Each site provides unique access to old-growth redwood forests, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife. Amenities vary but often include picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Camping here allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of ancient forests and explore miles of hiking trails.
Shasta–Trinity National Forest
As the largest national forest in California, Shasta–Trinity offers a vast expanse of wilderness for campers to explore. Popular campgrounds within the forest include Castle Crags State Park, known for its dramatic granite spires, and the serene sites around Trinity Lake. Campers can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The forest’s diverse ecosystems provide a rich backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and solitude.
Tent Campgrounds in Northern California, Mendocino Woodlands State Park
Nestled in a lush redwood forest, Mendocino Woodlands State Park offers a rustic camping experience ideal for tent campers. The park features group campsites with wooden cabins and communal dining halls, making it perfect for family gatherings or retreats. Surrounded by towering trees and traversed by the Little North Fork of the Big River, the park provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and nature study. Its historic significance and natural beauty make it a cherished destination for campers seeking a traditional outdoor experience.
Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Stretching along the Navarro River, this park offers tent campers a peaceful setting amidst second-growth redwoods. The Paul M. Dimmick Campground provides shaded sites near the river, while the Navarro Beach Campground offers coastal camping with ocean views. Activities include swimming, fishing, kayaking, and exploring nearby trails. The park’s proximity to the charming town of Mendocino adds to its appeal, offering campers a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Kid-Friendly Campgrounds in Northern California: Hendy Woods State Park
Hendy Woods is a favorite among families, offering accessible trails, spacious campsites, and educational programs. Children can explore the Big Hendy and Little Hendy groves, home to towering redwoods, and participate in ranger-led activities that foster a love for nature. The park’s gentle terrain and amenities like restrooms and picnic areas make it an excellent choice for families introducing their kids to camping.
Lake Sonoma
With its expansive reservoir and surrounding hills, Lake Sonoma provides a variety of recreational opportunities for families. The Liberty Glen Campground offers sites suitable for tents and RVs, with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. Families can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The Milt Brandt Visitor Center offers educational exhibits, and the nearby fish hatchery provides an engaging experience for children interested in aquatic life.
Best RV Campgrounds in Northern California: Lake Pillsbury
Located within the Mendocino National Forest, Lake Pillsbury is a haven for RV campers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. The lake’s shoreline is dotted with campgrounds offering RV hookups, picnic areas, and boat ramps. Visitors can enjoy water sports, fishing, and wildlife viewing, including sightings of the area’s tule elk population. The scenic beauty and recreational opportunities make it a top choice for RV enthusiasts.
Liberty Glen Campground at Lake Sonoma
Perched above Lake Sonoma, Liberty Glen Campground provides RV campers with stunning views and access to a range of activities. While the campground offers primitive facilities, its proximity to the lake allows for boating, fishing, and hiking. The campground’s elevated position offers panoramic vistas, making it a picturesque spot for RV camping.
Private Campgrounds in Northern California: Hipcamp Listings
For those seeking unique and private camping experiences, Hipcamp offers a platform to discover campsites on private lands. From vineyard-adjacent sites to secluded forest clearings, Hipcamp provides a variety of options that cater to different preferences. These private sites often offer amenities like fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and even glamping accommodations, allowing campers to enjoy nature with added comfort and privacy.
KOA Campgrounds
KOA (Kampgrounds of America) operates several campgrounds throughout Northern California, providing reliable amenities and family-friendly environments. KOA campgrounds typically offer RV hookups, tent sites, cabins, and recreational facilities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Their consistent quality and convenient locations make them a popular choice for campers seeking comfort and convenience.
Most Beautiful Campgrounds in Northern California: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
This park is renowned for its lush landscapes, featuring towering redwoods, fern-filled canyons, and diverse wildlife. The Elk Prairie Campground offers sites nestled among the trees, providing an immersive natural experience. Campers can explore scenic trails, observe Roosevelt elk, and enjoy the serenity of the ancient forest.
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
Situated along the Pacific Ocean, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground offers a unique coastal camping experience. Campers can fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to stunning ocean views. The nearby Fern Canyon, with its moss-covered walls and cascading ferns, is a must-visit attraction. The combination of beach and forest makes this campground exceptionally picturesque.
Campgrounds in Northern California That Are Open Year-Round Campgrounds
Several campgrounds in Northern California remain open throughout the year, accommodating campers in all seasons. These include:
Reservation-Free Camping
While many campgrounds in Northern California require reservations, several sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This option is great for spontaneous travelers or those who missed out on booking in advance. Campgrounds like the Upper Pines Campground in Yosemite (outside of peak season) and some areas in Lassen National Forest offer walk-in availability. It’s essential to arrive early, especially on weekends, and to have a backup plan just in case your first choice is full. Reservation-free sites allow for flexibility but also require some strategy and quick thinking to secure a spot.
National Forest Campgrounds in Northern California: Dispersed Camping in National Forests
If you’re someone who truly wants to get off the beaten path, dispersed camping in national forests offers a raw, back-to-nature experience. Northern California’s national forests—like Klamath, Shasta-Trinity, and Sierra permit dispersed camping in many areas. These sites are free and don’t offer amenities, so campers must be self-sufficient. That means bringing your own water, packing out all trash, and respecting Leave No Trace principles.
Dispersed camping is perfect for adventurers who want solitude and an authentic connection with nature. You’ll often be rewarded with secluded streams, stunning views, and absolute quiet, but be sure to research the forest’s specific rules before heading out—some areas may have fire restrictions or seasonal closures.
Developed Campgrounds in National Forests
For those who want a balance of rustic and convenient, developed campgrounds in national forests are ideal. They usually provide restrooms, potable water, and sometimes even bear-proof lockers. Popular options include:
- Manzanita Lake Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park: Ideal for families, with easy access to lakefront views.
- Castle Lake Campground near Mount Shasta: Offers a scenic setting near hiking trails and alpine lakes.
These developed areas allow for a more comfortable experience while still immersing you in the beauty of NorCal’s wild landscapes.
Private RV Campgrounds in Northern California: Features of Private RV Parks
Private RV campgrounds are often more equipped than public ones, offering full hookups (electric, water, sewer), Wi-Fi, laundry services, and even recreation halls or game rooms. For travelers who want a more “plugged-in” experience, these spots offer reliability and convenience. Many also have security patrols and gated access, giving an extra sense of safety.
Notable Private RV Campgrounds
Some standout private RV campgrounds in Northern California include:
- Mountain Gate RV Park near Redding: Features spacious pull-through sites and a pool.
- Durango RV Resort in Red Bluff is known for its upscale amenities and riverfront sites.
- Marin Park RV near San Francisco: Offers city access while still allowing a nature retreat.
These private RV campgrounds are great for long-term stays or for those who value modern comforts while exploring California’s diverse terrain. SeekaTour highly recommends them for hassle-free travel.
Map of Campgrounds in Northern California
Planning a camping trip gets a lot easier with a visual reference. A map of campgrounds in Northern California is a vital tool for understanding proximity to attractions, terrain, and accessibility. From the northwest coast’s redwood parks to inland lake destinations, a good map helps you pick your next stop based on your interests—be it hiking, fishing, or solitude.
Digital platforms like Google Maps or recreation.gov offer interactive maps. You can filter by amenities, reviews, or vehicle access (tent, RV, 4WD only). SeekaTour is working on a curated, easy-to-navigate camping map for all types of travelers, soon to be released.
Fun Campgrounds in Northern California: Campgrounds with Unique Activities
Some campgrounds go beyond just offering a place to pitch a tent—they provide experiences. These fun campgrounds in Northern California keep the whole family entertained:
- Yosemite Pines RV Resort: Offers gold panning, a petting zoo, and even Conestoga wagon glamping.
- Russian River RV Campground: Provides water sports like tubing and kayaking.
- Casini Ranch Family Campground: Has movie nights, nature trails, and even a playground for kids.
Whether it’s roasting marshmallows, joining in ranger-led activities, or participating in a campground scavenger hunt, fun campgrounds create lasting memories.
Free Campgrounds in Northern California Locations Offering Free Camping
Free doesn’t mean low-quality—some of the most scenic spots in Northern California are totally cost-free. Options include:
- Modoc National Forest: Offers several free dispersed camping zones.
- Glass Creek Campground near Mammoth Lakes: Though on the eastern side of the Sierra, it’s technically accessible from NorCal and provides stunning views of the Inyo Craters.
- Mill Creek Falls area in Lassen National Forest: Gorgeous scenery with no fees.
These free campgrounds are a dream come true for budget travelers. But remember, you’ll need to be self-reliant and respectful—free access relies on campers keeping these sites clean and safe.
Best Lake Campgrounds in Northern California: Lake-Based Camping Experiences
There’s something magical about waking up next to water, and Northern California’s lakes offer just that:
- Lake Almanor: A fantastic destination for boating, swimming, and fishing. Campgrounds like North Shore Campground cater to both RVs and tents.
- Trinity Lake: Known for houseboats and deep fishing waters, surrounded by lush forests and quiet retreats.
- Donner Lake: Offers historical value and recreational facilities, including campgrounds with showers and fire pits.
These are the best lake campgrounds in Northern California if you’re looking to combine aquatic adventure with the peacefulness of nature. And yes, SeekaTour has detailed guides to each one!
Campgrounds in Northern California in Kernville: Overview of Kernville Camping
Though technically bordering Southern California, Kernville still makes a strong case for being included in your Northern California adventure, especially if you’re chasing riverside beauty and active camping.
Some popular options include:
- Rivernook Campground: One of the largest private campgrounds in the area with spaces for tents and RVs.
- Camp James is known for its scenic riverside views and modern facilities.
- Frandy Park Campground: Right on the Kern River, offering rafting, fishing, and epic scenery.
Kernville delivers that quintessential Californian river-camping experience. If you’re road-tripping north or south, it’s a perfect pitstop.
Conclusion
Northern California is truly a camper’s wonderland. Whether you’re looking for tent campgrounds, RV campgrounds, kid-friendly or private campgrounds, KOA spots, free camping, or even the most beautiful lake campgrounds, there’s no shortage of options. From national forest campgrounds to private RV parks and even spontaneous open or reservation-free sites, the choices cater to all styles of camping.
With so many campgrounds to choose from, planning your trip can feel overwhelming, but that’s where SeekaTour steps in. Our mission is to make travel easy and enjoyable with comprehensive guides, maps, and recommendations. So pack your gear, gather your loved ones, and hit the road—because Northern California is calling.
FAQs
What are the best times to camp in Northern California?
Spring and early fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is great for lakes and higher altitudes, while winter camping is ideal for those equipped for cold weather.
Are there pet-friendly campgrounds in Northern California?
Yes! Many state parks and national forests allow pets. Just be sure to check leash laws and campground-specific pet policies.
How can I make reservations for campgrounds?
Use recreation.gov for federal sites and ReserveCalifornia for state parks. Private campgrounds typically allow bookings through their websites.
What should I pack for a camping trip?
Essentials include a tent, sleeping bag, first-aid kit, food, water, flashlights, and weather-appropriate clothing. Don’t forget bug spray and sunscreen!
Are there any safety tips for camping in Northern California?
Yes—always store food in bear-proof containers, watch for poison oak, follow fire restrictions, and let someone know your itinerary.
