10 California Campsites to Visit

Isn't camping the best?

Lighting a fire, eating smores, playing board games, creek jumping, hiking, enjoying the peaceful beauty of nature, looking at the stars, you name it. It's all fun. This past weekend I took a trip with SH and friends to the Kern River Valley for a one night camping trip. It reminded me of favorite camping pastimes, so I thought I'd compile a list of campgrounds in California (some that I've been to, others I'd like to go to.) I hope it inspires you to take a camping trip or maybe pitch a tent in your own backyard!

Northern & Central California

Tahoe National Forest
With opportunities for cabin rentals, campground camping, and group or RV camping, Tahoe has something for everyone.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park
The oldest State Park in California! Miles of trails for hikers and equestrians, waterfalls, bird watching, and of course home to the beautiful redwood groves. Book here.

Big Sur
Tent and RV camping, camp by the water, or camp among the redwood trees. For a list of campgrounds, visit here. 

Yosemite National Park
Words cannot begin to describe Yosemite's beauty. Seriously, you have to just go and see it for yourself. For more information click here. 

Sequoia National Forest
Home of the greatest concentration of giant sequoia groves in the world. For campground information, visit this site. (I personally found the site a bit confusing, so I would probably call if you're looking for booking information.)

Pinnacles National Park
This is America's Newest National Park. Explore the high peaks, chaparral, wildflowers and more. Pinnacles offers unique landscapes, perfect for rock climbing, hiking, exploring, etc. For more information, check out this website. 

Southern California

Catalina Island (Avalon)
This camping experience is unique since it's near town. You can pitch a tent or rent a tent cabin. 

Crystal Cove
Head to Laguna Beach for beautiful hiking trails, coastal camping, mountain biking and more. Visit here to book and here for more information. 

Jalama Beach
Check out my post here about our camping experience at Jalama (Santa Barbara County.)

Joshua Tree
Escape the city lights and see a night sky full of stars. Make sure to bring enough water because it gets hot in the summer and water is only available at a few locations around the park's edges. Plan your visit here. 

What about you, do you enjoy camping? Do you have any great camping spots to recommend? And thanks as always, for reading!