by Ann Hinds

Created on: May 13, 2010   Last Updated: May 16, 2010

California is a very big state with many great places to camp. Some camping areas are less crowded and worth a visit and then there are the very well known spots that must not be missed. Starting with the most popular, these are the best places to camp in California.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park has 13 campgrounds. A favorite is Tuolumne Meadows. It sits next to the Tuolumne River where it branches into the Lyell and Dana forks. While you have to drive down to the Valley for showers, this is a very picturesque spot sitting at 8600 feet. There are camping spots for backpackers, primitive campgrounds and several with space for RV’s.

Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Parks

These two parks are always mentioned together, even on the website. They have the world's largest trees, gigantic mountains, cavernous canyons and camping. The two parks are side-by-side in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. With 15 campgrounds to choose from, there is room for primitive campers and Rv’s.  

Doheny State Beach

Doheny State Beach is a favorite of many and reservations for the campground are booked a year in advance. What makes this a favorite is that the campground is on the beach and since it is further south than many of the other beach campgrounds, it is warmer earlier. Besides the campground, there is a day-use area with a large grass area that is ideal for picnics.

Lake Shasta

There are multitudes of camping areas at Lake Shasta but the Antlers RV Park is not only a great campground but is in itself, a beautiful place to camp. Near the water, it is a short hop to the Marina. It offers full hook-ups.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

This amazing camping spot has a self-guided trail through an old-growth stand of Redwoods. The campsites are nestled amongst trees, providing a sense of privacy. Henry Cowell is located next to and within walking distance of the Roaring Camp Big Trees Railroad. The train takes visitors into the town of Santa Cruz or to the summit of Bear Mountain where the steam train hauled giant redwood logs out of the mountains.

San Onofre State Beach

It is true that you need to pass the nuclear generating station to reach the campground on the bluffs. Do not let that deter you. Camping on the bluffs overlooking the ocean is an experience to be treasured. San Onofre has some of the best surfing beaches on the California coast. If camping on the bluffs is not where you really want to be, there is a campground about one mile away that is also part of the San Onofre State Beach. The San Mateo campground is small and comfortable. The vegetation adds extra privacy. While there, take time to view the wildlife and birds. Part of the wetlands supports several species that are rare and endangered

There are so many places to camp in California that it almost seems presumptuous to pick the best. However, the campgrounds mentioned here are local favorites and a good places to start.  

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