California is a camper's paradise, offering everything from towering redwood forests and rugged coastline to high desert landscapes and volcanic peaks. Whether you're planning a family weekend or a solo escape, finding the best campgrounds in California can make all the difference. Our curated list highlights 12 top-rated destinations across the state, each with its own unique character and natural beauty.
From the ancient groves of Humboldt Redwoods State Park to the dramatic cliffs of Leo Carrillo State Park, these locations represent some of the highest-rated camping experiences available. We've focused on places with strong visitor ratings and substantial review counts, ensuring you have reliable options for your next adventure. Whether you prefer developed campgrounds or backcountry solitude, this guide helps you compare and choose the perfect spot.
★★★★★ 4.8 · 3,781 reviews
Sierra National Forest spans a vast area of California's central Sierra Nevada, offering diverse camping opportunities amid towering pines, granite peaks, and alpine lakes. With a rating of 4.8 from over 3,700 reviews, it's a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. The forest provides numerous developed and dispersed camping options, though specific amenities are not listed here. Its address is listed as Sierra National Forest, California 91024, United States. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this expansive natural setting.
Address: Sierra National Forest, California 91024, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 35 reviews
Oak Hollow Campground, located at 1170 California 4 in Arnold, CA, offers a classic Sierra Nevada camping experience. With a rating of 4.7 from 35 reviews, it's a smaller, more intimate option. The campground is situated near Calaveras Big Trees State Park, making it a convenient base for exploring giant sequoias and scenic trails. The address is provided as Oak Hollow Campground, 1170 California 4, Arnold, CA 95223, United States. While specific amenities are not detailed, its high rating suggests a quality experience.
Address: Oak Hollow Campground, 1170 California 4, Arnold, CA 95223, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 104 reviews
California Parks & Recreation at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area offers a diverse outdoor experience. Located at 5290 Millerton Rd, Friant, CA 93626, this park provides camping, boating, and fishing opportunities along the reservoir. With a rating of 4.6 from 104 reviews, it's a solid choice for water-based recreation. The park is managed by California Parks & Recreation, ensuring maintained facilities. Its proximity to Fresno makes it accessible for a quick getaway.
Address: California Parks & Recreation, 5290 Millerton Rd, Friant, CA 93626, United States
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★★★★☆ 3.8 · 847 reviews
Crazy Horse Campgrounds, with a rating of 3.8 from 847 reviews, offers a unique camping experience in the California desert. While the address is not listed, its coordinates place it near the Colorado River area. This campground is known for its rustic charm and proximity to off-road trails. Despite the moderate rating, it has a substantial review count, indicating a well-visited location. Visitors should expect a more basic camping experience compared to state parks.
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★★★★☆ 4.2 · 85 reviews
Alaska Canoe & Campgrounds, despite its name, is located in Alaska (coordinates: 60.5372769, -150.8033774) and is not in California. However, it appears in this list due to data categorization. It has a rating of 4.2 from 85 reviews. The address is not provided. This location may be of interest to those traveling to Alaska, but it is not a California campground. Its inclusion here is likely a data artifact.
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 4,888 reviews
Lassen Volcanic National Park, with a stellar rating of 4.8 from over 4,800 reviews, is a must-visit for camping enthusiasts. The park features volcanic landscapes, hydrothermal areas, and clear mountain lakes. Its address is listed as Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, United States. Camping here offers a unique opportunity to explore one of California's lesser-known national parks. The park provides a range of camping options, from developed sites to backcountry permits.
Address: Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 4,018 reviews
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California's largest state park, offering vast desert landscapes and excellent stargazing. With a rating of 4.7 from over 4,000 reviews, it's a popular destination for those seeking solitude and wildflower blooms. The park's address is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California, United States. Camping is available in designated areas, and visitors can explore miles of hiking trails. Its remote location provides a true desert experience.
Address: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 4,864 reviews
Carpinteria State Beach, located at 205 Palm Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, is a coastal campground with a rating of 4.7 from over 4,800 reviews. It's known for its wide sandy beach and tide pools, making it ideal for families. The campground offers oceanfront sites, though specific amenities are not listed. Its proximity to Santa Barbara adds to its appeal. This is a top choice for beach camping in Southern California.
Address: Carpinteria State Beach, 205 Palm Ave, Carpinteria, CA 93013, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 3,624 reviews
Leo Carrillo State Park, situated at 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, offers stunning coastal views and rugged terrain. With a rating of 4.7 from over 3,600 reviews, it's a favorite for camping near the ocean. The park features a campground with sites for tents and RVs, though specific amenities are not detailed. Visitors can explore sea caves, tide pools, and hiking trails. Its Malibu location provides a quintessential California beach experience.
Address: Leo Carrillo State Park, 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
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★★★★★ 4.9 · 5,260 reviews
Humboldt Redwoods State Park, located at 17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571, boasts a near-perfect rating of 4.9 from over 5,200 reviews. This park is home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, offering a majestic camping experience. The campground provides a serene setting among the redwoods, though specific amenities are not listed. Visitors can hike among ancient giants and explore the Avenue of the Giants. It's a must-visit for nature lovers.
Address: Humboldt Redwoods State Park, 17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 7,272 reviews
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, with an address of Calabasas, CA 91302, offers a mix of rugged mountains and coastal vistas. It has a rating of 4.7 from over 7,200 reviews, indicating high visitor satisfaction. This national recreation area provides numerous camping opportunities, though specific sites are not detailed. Its proximity to Los Angeles makes it a convenient escape. Hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives are popular activities.
Address: Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States
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★★★★★ 4.9 · 5,013 reviews
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, located at 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, is a serene nature preserve with a rating of 4.9 from over 5,000 reviews. While it's a day-use park rather than a traditional campground, it offers a peaceful setting for picnicking and hiking among ancient redwoods. The reserve is part of the larger Russian River area, providing nearby camping options. Its high rating reflects its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy short trails and interpretive programs.
Address: Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446, United States
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How We Selected These Places
To identify the best campgrounds in California, we analyzed a database of locations categorized as campgrounds, national forests, national parks, state parks, nature preserves, and related outdoor recreation areas. We prioritized locations based on their relevance to camping, geographic spread across the state, and visitor ratings. Only locations with meaningful review counts were included to ensure quality. We did not personally visit any of these sites; instead, we relied on publicly available data. Our selection emphasizes high-rated destinations that are well-known for their natural features and camping opportunities.
Tips
When planning your camping trip in California, always check the official park or forest website for current conditions, fire restrictions, and reservation requirements. Many popular campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so book well in advance. Pack layers as temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night, especially in desert or mountain areas. Always follow Leave No Trace principles to protect these natural areas for future visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best campgrounds in California for families?
- Carpinteria State Beach and Leo Carrillo State Park are highly rated (4.7) and offer beach access and family-friendly amenities. Additionally, Lassen Volcanic National Park (4.8) provides educational experiences and a range of camping options. Always check for specific facilities like restrooms and picnic areas.
- Which California campgrounds are best for desert camping?
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (4.7) is the standout choice for desert camping, offering vast landscapes and excellent stargazing. Crazy Horse Campgrounds (3.8) also offers a desert experience, though with a lower rating. Be prepared for extreme temperatures.
- Are there campgrounds in California near redwood forests?
- Yes, Humboldt Redwoods State Park (4.9) is located in the redwoods and offers camping. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve (4.9) is a day-use area, but nearby Guerneville has campgrounds. Both are excellent for experiencing giant trees.
- What is the highest-rated campground in California on this list?
- Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve both have a rating of 4.9, the highest among the listed locations. For an actual campground, Humboldt Redwoods is the top pick.
Conclusion
California truly offers some of the best campgrounds in the country, and this list highlights top-rated destinations across diverse landscapes. From the towering redwoods of Humboldt to the desert expanses of Anza-Borrego, there's a perfect camping spot for every type of adventurer. Use this guide to compare options and plan your next unforgettable outdoor getaway. Remember to check availability and prepare accordingly for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
