The 6 Best Camping Destinations in California
From rugged mountain peaks to sun-soaked deserts, California is a camper’s paradise. Each destination offers a unique way to explore the Golden State's beauty. Whether you prefer pitching a tent beneath the redwoods or waking up to crashing waves, California’s diverse landscape provides breathtaking campgrounds to match your adventure style. Explore the top six camping destinations to find the perfect one for your next vacation.
1. Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) is the perfect getaway if you love the outdoors but appreciate modern conveniences. It has numerous locations across California — from Crescent City in the north to San Diego in the south — and is the go-to choice for those who want to see California without sacrificing comfort.
Each KOA campground accommodates all lodging, including RVs, tents and cabins. Most locations even provide essential amenities like hot showers, laundry facilities, playgrounds and Wi-Fi.
With several destinations, KOA’s campsites provide convenience regardless of where your adventure takes you. San Diego Metro KOA Resort is a coastal camping retreat with easy access to the city’s top attractions. Meanwhile, Lake Isabella KOA lets you take advantage of California’s famous lakes and beaches.
2. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
With breathtaking ocean views, towering redwoods and rugged wilderness, it’s no wonder Big Sur is one of California’s top spots for camping. It’s nestled along Highway 1 on the central coast and offers some of the most scenic camping areas in the state. Dramatic cliffs overlook the Pacific in one location, while the next site provides miles of forested trails.
A favorite among camping enthusiasts, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers spacious campsites within the redwood forests. You must book this popular spot six months in advance. Once you have claimed your reservation, you’ll gain access to various hiking trails, waterfalls and the Big Sur River.
3. Joshua Tree National Park
If you’re looking for the best stargazing and rock formations in the country, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit camping destination. Located where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet, this park is famous for its twisting Joshua trees, massive boulders and rugged terrain. It’s an outdoor enthusiasts’ playground, especially for those who enjoy rock climbing and photography.
Joshua Tree offers nine campgrounds. Jumbo Rocks Campground is well-liked due to its large rock formations that glow at sunrise and sunset. Near the park’s western entrance is Black Rock Campground. It provides easy access to hiking trails and an abundance of Joshua trees. For a more secluded experience, stay at Indian Cove Campground, which is tucked away among rocky outcrops.
4. Leo Carrillo State Park
If you like water activities, Leo Carrillo State Park may be the perfect campground for you. The area sits along the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu and offers easy access to the beach, coastal caves, and tide pools. It has become a favorite among families, surfers and nature lovers.
The main campgrounds sit within the large sycamore trees, offering more remote areas to explore. Visitors can hike scenic trails like the Leo Carrillo Beach Trail or Nicholas Flat Trail. Each offers stunning ocean views with steady waves and rugged coastlines.
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park
For a less crowded yet equally breathtaking experience, Northern California’s Lassen Volcanic National Park is the place to stay. This park is home to steaming fumaroles, crystal-clear alpine lakes and lava rock formations. You can get a mix of forest, lakefront and backcountry camping options.
Many families stay at Manzanita Lake Campground to enjoy kayaking, fishing, swimming and hiking. If you want a more remote, rustic experience, visit Butte Lake Campground. Lassen is also a great year-round destination. In the summer, hike the Bumpass Hell trail to witness bubbling mud pots and steaming hot springs. Visit in the winter to go snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.
6. Channel Islands National Park
For more remote camping, visit Channel Islands National Park's five unspoiled islands. Each is an adventure, with no stores, restaurants or commercial facilities. While you’ll need to pack everything, the trip is worthwhile, as it offers rich marine life and coastal landscapes.
Scorpion Canyon campground on Santa Cruz Island offers easy access to hiking trails, sea caves and some of the best snorkeling in California. For an even more secluded experience, Water Canyon on Santa Rosa Island provides breathtaking ocean views and miles of coastline.
Once on the islands, campers can hike the trails, kayak through sea caves, and even spot wildlife such as foxes and seabirds. The surrounding waters are part of a protected marine sanctuary, making this one of the best places for whale watching and marine exploration.
Discover California’s Best Camping Destinations
California offers camping experiences for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re planning an off-the-grid escape or a family-friendly adventure, the Golden State has something for everyone. Be sure to plan ahead to experience some of the best camping spots in California.
