Planning a family camping trip in California? With its diverse landscapes—from towering redwoods and rugged coastlines to mountain forests and desert oases—the Golden State offers some of the most memorable outdoor experiences for families. Whether you're looking for a full-service RV park or a secluded national forest campsite, this guide highlights top-rated options to help you choose the perfect spot for your next adventure.
Our curated list of California campgrounds for families includes well-loved destinations like Sierra National Forest, Portola Redwoods State Park, and Malibu Beach RV Park. Each location has been evaluated based on its category, geographic relevance, and visitor ratings to ensure you have a reliable starting point for planning a safe and enjoyable trip. Remember to check current conditions and reservation requirements before you go.
★★★★★ 4.8 · 3,781 reviews
Sierra National Forest is a vast and scenic destination in central California, offering families a classic mountain camping experience. With a high rating of 4.8 from over 3,700 reviews, it's a top pick for those seeking pine forests, granite peaks, and numerous trails. While specific amenities aren't listed, the forest's size and natural beauty make it ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the Sierra Nevada outdoors. Its address is Sierra National Forest, California 91024, United States.
Address: Sierra National Forest, California 91024, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.7 · 35 reviews
Oak Hollow Campground, located at 1170 California 4, Arnold, CA 95223, is a well-regarded family campground near Calaveras Big Trees State Park. With a 4.7 rating from 35 reviews, it offers a peaceful base for exploring the giant sequoias and nearby trails. The campground is part of the Calaveras Big Trees area, making it convenient for families who want to combine camping with visits to the famous trees and visitor center.
Address: Oak Hollow Campground, 1170 California 4, Arnold, CA 95223, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.6 · 104 reviews
California Parks & Recreation, situated at 5290 Millerton Rd, Friant, CA 93626, is a family-friendly park that serves as a gateway to Millerton Lake State Recreation Area. With a 4.6 rating from 104 reviews, it's a solid choice for water-based activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. The park's location near the lake makes it a popular spot for family day trips and overnight stays, though specific camping amenities are not detailed.
Address: California Parks & Recreation, 5290 Millerton Rd, Friant, CA 93626, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★☆ 3.8 · 847 reviews
Crazy Horse Campgrounds is a campground with a 3.8 rating from 847 reviews, located in the desert region near Lake Havasu (coordinates indicate proximity to the Colorado River). While the address is not provided, it's known as a destination for RV and tent camping. Families looking for a more rustic or budget-friendly option might consider this spot, though it's wise to check current conditions and facilities before visiting.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.7 · 7,272 reviews
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, located in Calabasas, CA 91302, is a national reserve that offers families a chance to camp amid Mediterranean-climate hills and coastal views. With an impressive 4.7 rating from over 7,200 reviews, it's a well-loved destination for hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives. The recreation area includes multiple campgrounds and picnic areas, making it a versatile choice for a family getaway near Los Angeles.
Address: Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★☆ 4.2 · 85 reviews
Alaska Canoe & Campgrounds, despite its name, is located in Alaska (latitude/longitude near Soldotna) and may not be relevant for California camping. However, it's included here as a point of reference. With a 4.2 rating from 85 reviews, it offers canoeing and camping opportunities in the Last Frontier. For California families, this would not be a practical choice, but it highlights the diversity of camping options across the U.S.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.7 · 2,857 reviews
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, located at 52801 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, is a stunning state park along the rugged Big Sur coastline. With a 4.7 rating from over 2,800 reviews, it's famous for its dramatic cliffs, redwood groves, and the iconic McWay Falls. While the park is primarily a day-use area, it offers nearby camping options and is a must-visit for families who want to experience the beauty of the central California coast.
Address: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, 52801 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.6 · 138 reviews
Portola Redwoods State Park Campground, located at 9000 Portola State Park Rd, La Honda, CA 94020, is a serene campground surrounded by ancient redwoods. With a 4.6 rating from 138 reviews, it's a favorite for families seeking shade, quiet trails, and a true forest experience. The park is relatively close to the Bay Area, making it an accessible escape for a weekend of camping and hiking among the towering trees.
Address: Portola Redwoods State Park Campground, Park Office, 9000 Portola State Park Rd, La Honda, CA 94020, United States
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.6 · 1,308 reviews
McWay Falls is a scenic vista point along the Big Sur coast, known for its 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto a sandy beach. With a 4.6 rating from over 1,300 reviews, it's a popular stop for families exploring the area. While not a campground itself, it can be combined with nearby camping options in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or other Big Sur campgrounds for a memorable family trip.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.6 · 1,266 reviews
Pfeiffer Beach is a public beach in Big Sur, famous for its purple sand and dramatic rock formations. With a 4.6 rating from over 1,200 reviews, it's a beautiful spot for families to enjoy a day by the ocean. Though it doesn't offer camping directly, it's located near several campgrounds in the Big Sur area, making it a great addition to a family camping itinerary.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★★ 4.8 · 690 reviews
Visitor Center | Calaveras Big Trees is a visitor center with a 4.8 rating from 690 reviews, serving as an informative hub for families exploring the Calaveras Big Trees State Park. It provides educational exhibits and trail information about the giant sequoias. While not a campground, it's a valuable resource for families camping at nearby Oak Hollow Campground or other sites in the area.
View Details · Get Directions
★★★★☆ 4.3 · 1,594 reviews
Malibu Beach RV Park is a popular RV park along the Southern California coast, with a 4.3 rating from over 1,500 reviews. While the address is not provided, its location in Malibu makes it a prime spot for families who want to combine camping with beach activities like surfing, swimming, and sunset watching. The park is known for its ocean views and proximity to the Santa Monica Mountains, offering a mix of coastal and mountain adventures.
View Details · Get Directions
How We Selected These Places
To compile this list of California campgrounds for families, we compared locations based on their official category (campground, national forest, state park, RV park, etc.), geographic diversity across California, overall ratings, and volume of visitor reviews. We prioritized family-friendly settings such as national parks, state parks, and dedicated campgrounds. Only publicly available data—including ratings, review counts, and addresses—was used; no personal visits or unverified claims are included.
Tips
When planning a family camping trip in California, always check the official park or forest website for current conditions, fire restrictions, and reservation requirements, especially during summer and holiday weekends. Pack layers because temperatures can vary dramatically from day to night, especially in mountain or coastal areas. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and insect repellent. If you're camping in bear country, store food properly in bear-proof containers or lockers. Also, consider arriving early to secure a good spot, and always follow Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful places pristine for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best California campgrounds for families?
- Based on our data, top-rated options include Sierra National Forest (4.8 rating), Oak Hollow Campground (4.7), and Portola Redwoods State Park Campground (4.6). Other family-friendly spots include Malibu Beach RV Park (4.3) and Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (4.7).
- Are there family-friendly campgrounds near the beach in California?
- Yes, Malibu Beach RV Park offers camping near the coast with a 4.3 rating. Additionally, Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is a great day-trip destination, and nearby campgrounds like those in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park provide camping options close to the ocean.
- Which California state parks offer camping for families?
- Portola Redwoods State Park Campground and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are excellent choices. Portola Redwoods has a 4.6 rating and is nestled among redwoods, while Julia Pfeiffer Burns offers dramatic coastal scenery with a 4.7 rating. Note that Julia Pfeiffer Burns may have limited camping, so check availability.
- What should families know before camping in Sierra National Forest?
- Sierra National Forest is a large wilderness area with a 4.8 rating. Families should be prepared for remote conditions, varying weather, and limited amenities. Always check fire restrictions, pack sufficient supplies, and be bear-aware. It's ideal for those seeking a more rugged, nature-focused experience.
- Are there RV parks suitable for families in California?
- Yes, Malibu Beach RV Park is a popular choice with a 4.3 rating and over 1,500 reviews. It offers a coastal setting and is close to attractions like the Santa Monica Mountains. Another option is Crazy Horse Campgrounds, though its rating is lower (3.8) and it's located in the desert area near the Colorado River.
Conclusion
California truly has a campground for every family, from the majestic redwoods of Portola Redwoods State Park to the coastal beauty of Malibu Beach RV Park. Whether you prefer the expansive wilderness of Sierra National Forest or the convenience of a state park campground, these top picks for California campgrounds for families offer a range of experiences to suit your needs. Always verify current conditions and make reservations early, especially during peak season, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable outdoor adventure with your loved ones.
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
