Editor SherifCalifornia is a camper’s paradise. From towering redwoods to sparkling lakes, rugged coastlines to serene deserts, the Golden State offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re traveling with family, an RV, a tent, or backpacks, these 50 state parks provide unforgettable camping experiences.
In this guide, we’ve ranked the best state parks for camping in California, considering scenic beauty, campground amenities, accessibility, wildlife, and activities. Each park includes practical tips, quick stats, and recommendations to help you plan your perfect getaway.
Top 50 State Parks Camping in California
1. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
California’s oldest state park (est. 1902) still offers one of the most memorable forest-camping experiences. Massive redwoods—some over 2,000 years old and 300 feet tall—surround the campsites, creating a cool, shaded environment perfect for families and hikers. Trails like Berry Creek Falls add adventure, and kids love the Junior Ranger activities. Foggy mornings, crisp nights, and quiet forest sounds make camping feel immersive. Best for: tent campers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting classic redwood scenery without long drives.
Quick Highlights:
• Oldest state park in CA
• Over 18,000 acres of redwood forest
• Great wildlife and waterfall trails
2. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
A standout for anyone who wants giant trees, elk sightings, and lush scenery. Roosevelt elk often wander near the campground, making mornings exciting for families. Fern Canyon—one of the most photographed spots in California—is only a short drive away. Campsites are heavily shaded and stay cool year-round, ideal for summer escapes. The park sits inside the larger Redwood National and State Parks system, offering over 75 miles of trails.
Why Camp Here:
• Elk sightings almost daily
• Famous Fern Canyon nearby
• Dense redwood canopy perfect for quiet, peaceful camping
3. McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Home to Burney Falls—often called the “eighth wonder of the world”—this park is perfect for campers who want dramatic scenery without strenuous hikes. The falls pour out 100 million gallons of water daily, creating a cool mist around viewing areas. Campsites sit beneath pine forests and stay surprisingly comfortable in summer. Fishing, kayaking, and swimming are popular at nearby Lake Britton.
Highlights:
• Burney Falls is 129 feet tall
• Great for families and beginner campers
• Excellent fishing and lake access
4. Crystal Cove State Park
One of the best coastal camping areas in Southern California. Perched on top of bluffs overlooking the Pacific, this campground delivers sunrise and sunset views you’ll never forget. The beaches stretch for 3 miles, offering tide pools, clear water, and great swimming. It’s popular with RV travelers because spaces are level and have sweeping ocean views. Trails above the bluffs add hiking options close to camp.
Why It’s Special:
• Ocean-view campsites
• 2,400 acres of backcountry trails
• Great family beach destination
5. Morro Bay State Park
Known for its calm waters, birdlife, and views of Morro Rock. This campground is ideal for RV travelers and families who want both nature and convenience. A marina, natural history museum, golf course, and hiking trails are all close by, making it easy to fill a weekend. Kayaking in the bay is one of the best activities—sea otters and migratory birds are common.
Top Features:
• Close to town amenities
• Bay kayaking and birdwatching
• Mild weather year-round
6. Leo Carrillo State Park
A perfect mix of beach fun and scenic camping. The campground sits in a canyon with plenty of shade, while the beach features sea caves, tide pools, and long sandy stretches. It’s a favorite for families and surfers. Visitors can hike from the campground into the Santa Monica Mountains.
Why Camp Here:
• Sea caves you can walk through at low tide
• Great surf conditions
• Shaded, spacious campsites
7. Pismo State Beach
One of the best state parks for RV camping along the Central Coast. Pismo offers beach access, dune exploration, birdwatching, and close proximity to town. The campground has level pads, hot showers, and easy access to calm water areas perfect for kids. Monarch butterfly season (Nov–Feb) adds a unique bonus.
Highlights:
• Monarch Grove nearby
• Large RV-friendly sites
• Mild weather + long sandy beaches
8. Carpinteria State Beach
Often considered one of the safest beaches in California, Carpinteria is perfect for families with kids. The campground sits directly beside the beach, making it easy to walk from tent to shoreline in minutes. Calm waves, tide pools, and nearby shops make camping simple and relaxing. Excellent sunsets and comfortable weather most of the year.
Why It’s Popular:
• Family-friendly waves
• Beachfront campsites
• Walkable to restaurants and stores
9. Limekiln State Park
A Big Sur favorite offering the perfect mix of redwoods, waterfalls, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Campsites sit under towering trees, giving shade and privacy. Short hikes lead to historic lime kilns, a 100-foot waterfall, and ocean viewpoints. It’s a small, peaceful campground—ideal for couples or anyone needing a quiet nature escape.
Top Features:
• Big Sur coastline + redwoods
• Lime kiln ruins
• Waterfall hikes close to camp
10. Refugio State Beach
Known for its palm-lined beachfront and warm coastal conditions, Refugio is a classic Southern California family campground. Sites are just steps from the sand, making it easy for kids to play all day. Kayaking, fishing, and biking along the coast are popular. Sunsets here are among the best on the Central Coast.
Highlights:
• Palm trees along the beach
• Calm water ideal for families
• Great picnic and biking options
11. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Located just outside Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell offers old-growth redwoods, a winding river, and family-friendly campgrounds. Campsites are shaded and walkable to the Redwood Grove Loop Trail (0.8 mi), perfect for short hikes with kids. Ranger programs teach about the forest ecosystem, and creek-side areas are ideal for younger campers.
Quick Highlights:
• 54 campsites (tents & small RVs)
• Easy family trails
• Cool, shaded mornings
Tip: Arrive early on weekends for the best river-adjacent sites; pack layers as fog keeps mornings chilly.
12. Calaveras Big Trees State Park
This park is a must-see for giant sequoia lovers. Two main campgrounds sit near the North Grove, where massive trees tower over easy walking trails. Seasonal activities include snowshoeing in winter and river fishing in summer.
Quick Highlights:
• North Grove Trail: 1–2 hours walk
• Campground: 50+ sites
• Elevation ~3,500 ft
Tip: Spring wildflowers and autumn foliage enhance the experience; winter road conditions can affect access.
13. Van Damme State Park
Nestled on the Mendocino coast, Van Damme offers fern canyons, pygmy forests, and short trails to the beach. Walk-in campsites are intimate and peaceful, with estuary views perfect for photography and wildlife spotting.
Quick Highlights:
• Tidepooling opportunities
• Family-friendly short hikes
• Limited RV accessibility
Tip: Sunrise and sunset walks reveal seals and birds; pack waterproof shoes for creek crossings.
14. MacKerricher State Park
North of Fort Bragg, MacKerricher offers tide pools, seal haul-outs, and sandy beaches. Camp on level sites near the beach; wildlife sightings include gray whales and migratory birds in season. Trails are flat and stroller-friendly.
Quick Highlights:
• Miles of coastal trails
• RV and tent camping
• Boardwalk for easy family access
Tip: Check tide tables for exploring pools safely; binoculars help with wildlife spotting.
15. Point Mugu State Park
Point Mugu blends ocean views with canyon hiking. Campers can sleep beneath sycamores and explore inland trails or beaches. Backpackers can enjoy overnight hikes in the backcountry.
Quick Highlights:
• RV and tent sites
• Hiking to Mugu Peak
• Family-friendly beaches
Tip: Reserve beachfront sites early for summer; morning hikes reward panoramic views.
16. Salt Point State Park
Located on the rugged Sonoma coast, Salt Point is known for its rocky coves, tide pools, and coastal forest trails. Campsites are smaller and quieter, ideal for couples or small families.
Quick Highlights:
• Snorkeling/diving spots
• Primitive campsites
• Miles of coastal hiking trails
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; tide tables affect access to certain areas.
17. Gaviota State Park
A quiet Santa Barbara coast gem, Gaviota has bluff-top campsites with quick beach and waterfall access. Perfect for families who want less crowded coastal camping but still near amenities.
Quick Highlights:
• Beach and waterfall trails
• Picnic areas and shade
• Swimming in calm summer waters
Tip: Tidepools are best at low tide; bring flashlight for evening walks.
18. Doheny State Beach
Classic Southern California beach camping with full RV hookups and beachfront tent sites. Protected lagoon creates calm water for kids and beginner paddlers; evening campfires add charm.
Quick Highlights:
• Lagoon for paddleboarding
• Fire pits and picnic tables
• RV-friendly
Tip: Arrive midweek to avoid crowds; summer weekends are busy.
19. Mount Tamalpais State Park
Close to San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais offers ridge-top camping, redwoods, and panoramic views. Sunrise from East Peak is unforgettable, and short family-friendly hikes abound.
Quick Highlights:
• Popular loops: Dipsea, Steep Ravine
• Campsites under redwoods
• Easy access from Bay Area
Tip: Bring layers; summit can be chilly even on warm days.
20. Clear Lake State Park
Set on California’s largest natural freshwater lake, Clear Lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and family camping. Shaded RV and tent sites provide easy lake access. Summer weekends are popular, so early booking is recommended.
Quick Highlights:
• Boating and fishing access
• 140+ campsites
• Family-friendly lake activities
Tip: Bring sun protection; monitor lake conditions for algae warnings.
21. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Prairie Creek is a redwood lover’s paradise. Towering old-growth trees, fern-filled canyons, and roaming Roosevelt elk make it magical. Campgrounds are shaded, cool, and peaceful. Short trails lead to Fern Canyon, a favorite for photography and families.
Quick Highlights:
• Elk sightings common near camp
• Fern Canyon: 0.5 mi loop
• ~86 campsites, tents & small RVs
Tip: Bring layers; fog keeps mornings cool. Weekends fill quickly—reserve ahead.
22. McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Home to the spectacular Burney Falls, this park features 129-foot waterfalls and creekside campgrounds. Lake Britton provides fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Trails are family-friendly yet scenic.
Quick Highlights:
• 129 ft waterfall
• 66 campsites, RV & tent
• Fishing & boating
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds; mist keeps areas cool—bring waterproof gear.
23. Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove blends coastal bluffs with backcountry trails. Campsites offer Pacific Ocean views, and the 3-mile beach is ideal for families. Hiking and tidepooling keep kids entertained.
Quick Highlights:
• 3 miles of beach
• 34 campsites, some ocean view
• Easy coastal trails
Tip: Sunset hikes are stunning; pack layers for evening coastal breezes.
24. Morro Bay State Park
Morro Bay offers calm waters, birdwatching, and close amenities. Campsites are near hiking trails and the bay. Kayaking or paddleboarding provides up-close wildlife encounters.
Quick Highlights:
• 176 campsites, tent & RV
• Birding hotspot
• Marina & golf nearby
Tip: Bring binoculars for seals, otters, and migrating birds; summer mornings are foggy.
25. Leo Carrillo State Park
Famous for sea caves and tide pools, Leo Carrillo combines beach access with shaded canyon campsites. Hiking trails reach ocean bluffs. Kids love exploring tide pools safely at low tide.
Quick Highlights:
• 135 campsites
• Beach & hiking combo
• Sea caves at low tide
Tip: Reserve ocean-adjacent sites early; bring water shoes for tidepool adventures.
26. Pismo State Beach
Central Coast camping favorite with dunes, beach access, and Monarch Grove nearby. RV-friendly and family-oriented, the park is perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
Quick Highlights:
• 350 campsites, tent & RV
• Monarch butterfly season Nov–Feb
• Dune trails & beach walks
Tip: Check tide conditions for safe beach walks; summer weekends fill fast.
27. Carpinteria State Beach
Calm waves, beachfront camping, and family-friendly surroundings make Carpinteria ideal for kids. Shops and restaurants are within walking distance, and the campground is shaded with picnic areas.
Quick Highlights:
• 150+ campsites
• Gentle waves for kids
• Walkable amenities
Tip: Book early in summer; sunset views are excellent.
28. Limekiln State Park
Big Sur’s hidden gem, Limekiln offers redwoods, waterfalls, and historic kiln ruins. Camp under massive trees with hiking trails just steps from the campground.
Quick Highlights:
• 36 campsites
• Redwoods & waterfall access
• Tidepooling nearby
Tip: Weekdays are quieter; bring sturdy shoes for forest and creek trails.
29. Refugio State Beach
Palm-lined coastal camping with calm water for children and beginner paddlers. Sunset views and beach bonfires create memorable experiences.
Quick Highlights:
• 131 campsites
• Kayak & paddleboard options
• Family-friendly swimming
Tip: Midweek visits avoid weekend crowds; bring bug spray for evenings.
30. Salt Point State Park
Rugged Sonoma Coast beauty with tide pools, underwater reefs, and forested coastal trails. Campsites are quiet and scenic, ideal for small families or couples.
Quick Highlights:
• 62 campsites
• Snorkeling & tidepooling
• Coastal hiking trails
Tip: Check tides before exploring the shore; pack layers—coast winds are strong.
31. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
Located in the heart of wine country, Bothe-Napa Valley offers a forested retreat with easy trails, picnic areas, and shaded campgrounds. Campers can hike through redwoods, enjoy creekside spots, and explore nearby wineries on day trips.
Quick Highlights:
• 87 campsites (tent & small RVs)
• Hiking trails: 10+ miles
• Seasonal creek swimming
Tip: Reserve early during summer; creekside sites are perfect for families. Bring insect repellent—mosquitoes are common near water.
32. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Nestled in Sonoma, Sugarloaf Ridge combines forest camping with panoramic valley views. Popular for hiking, stargazing, and winter snowshoeing. Campground has shaded tent sites with easy access to the visitor center.
Quick Highlights:
• 50 campsites
• Trails: 25+ miles for day hikes
• Great for stargazing
Tip: Pack layers for evening chills; spring wildflowers make hikes especially beautiful.
33. Mount Diablo State Park
Famous for sweeping Bay Area vistas, Mount Diablo offers ridge-top camping and redwood groves. Trails range from easy loops to steep climbs. Popular for sunrise hikers and families seeking scenic weekends close to urban centers.
Quick Highlights:
• 47 campsites
• Sunrise from East Peak is spectacular
• Family-friendly loops available
Tip: Arrive early for parking; wind can be strong at ridge-top sites.
34. Samuel P. Taylor State Park
Just north of San Francisco, this park has dense redwoods, creekside camping, and easy hiking. Flat trails are great for families, and campsites are shaded and peaceful.
Quick Highlights:
• 121 campsites (RV & tent)
• Hiking trails: 20+ miles
• Creek access for kids
Tip: Weekends fill quickly; early arrival secures best spots near water. Bring bug spray and layered clothing.
35. Manchester State Park
A quieter Mendocino coastal option, Manchester offers bluff-top camping with beach access. Sea stacks and tide pools attract photographers and families, while quiet campgrounds ensure privacy.
Quick Highlights:
• 42 campsites
• Tidepooling and photography
• Less crowded than nearby parks
Tip: Sunset views are spectacular; bring binoculars for seabirds and occasional whales.
36. Grover Hot Springs State Park
Located in the Sierra Nevada, Grover Hot Springs combines pine forests with natural hot springs pools. Campsites are spacious, with easy access to pools, hiking trails, and nearby meadows.
Quick Highlights:
• 63 campsites (RV & tent)
• Hot springs for adults and children
• Trails up to 8 miles
Tip: Bring swimwear and towels; summer evenings are cool in the mountains.
37. Hendy Woods State Park
Famous for its old-growth redwoods and serene creekside camping, Hendy Woods is ideal for first-time campers. Short, flat trails make it family-friendly, with interpretive signage along the way.
Quick Highlights:
• 50 campsites
• Redwood groves and creek walks
• Picnic areas available
Tip: Weekdays are quieter; bring layers as mornings are often cool and misty.
38. Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
This park offers cultural camping with interpretive exhibits about Native American heritage. Campers can hike, explore petroglyphs, and enjoy picnic areas.
Quick Highlights:
• 40 campsites
• Petroglyphs and educational programs
• Easy hiking trails
Tip: Family-friendly; combine camping with a cultural learning experience. Spring wildflowers enhance scenic walks.
39. Oceano Dunes SVRA
Unique among state parks, Oceano Dunes allows off-road vehicles, camping, and beach access. Popular with ATV riders, families, and RV travelers looking for adventure and sand dunes.
Quick Highlights:
• 300+ campsites
• OHV trails and dunes
• Beach access
Tip: Book early in summer; be mindful of tide schedules. Helmets required for OHVs.
40. McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Iconic for Burney Falls, this park offers creekside camping, waterfalls, and lake access. Trails range from easy strolls to moderate hikes, making it great for families and beginner backpackers.
Quick Highlights:
• 66 campsites (tent & RV)
• Burney Falls: 129 ft
• Lake Britton for kayaking & fishing
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds; mist from the falls can make nearby trails slippery.
41. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Famous for the iconic McWay Falls, Julia Pfeiffer Burns offers coastal camping with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Trails lead to waterfalls, cliffs, and hidden coves. The campground is small and first-come, first-served, creating an intimate experience.
Quick Highlights:
• Campground: ~26 sites, tent-only
• McWay Falls: 80 ft ocean drop
• Coastal bluff trails
Tip: Arrive early; parking is limited. Sunset is spectacular from the overlook. Bring layers for coastal winds.
42. Limekiln State Park
Located in Big Sur, this park combines redwoods, historic lime kilns, and waterfalls. Camp under massive trees with easy access to Fern Canyon and short beach hikes.
Quick Highlights:
• 36 campsites (tent & small RV)
• Waterfall trail: 0.5 mi loop
• Big Sur coastline access
Tip: Pack sturdy shoes; evenings are cool and misty. Reserve early during peak season.
43. Andrew Molera State Park
A quieter Big Sur option, Andrew Molera offers riverside camping and access to long, undeveloped beaches. Hike trails through meadows and coastal bluffs with minimal crowds.
Quick Highlights:
• 26 walk-in tent sites
• 8+ miles of hiking trails
• Beach access
Tip: No RV hookups; pack food and water. Sunset along the beach is ideal for photos.
44. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (Backcountry Option)
For backpackers, the backcountry at Julia Pfeiffer Burns offers remote coastal trails with ridge-top camping and ocean views. Ideal for overnight hikers seeking solitude.
Quick Highlights:
• Backcountry permit required
• Coastal ridge views
• Minimal amenities
Tip: Bring bear-proof food storage and layered clothing; check tides before planning overnight hikes.
45. Big Sur Campgrounds (General)
Big Sur hosts multiple dispersed state park campgrounds, including Ventana and Pfeiffer Big Sur. All offer redwood and ocean experiences with hiking, waterfalls, and coastal trails.
Quick Highlights:
• Small campgrounds, 20–40 sites each
• Easy to moderate hiking
• Scenic coastal drives nearby
Tip: Reservations essential in summer; pack layers and rain gear even in summer.
46. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
A classic redwood and river campground, Pfeiffer Big Sur offers access to the Big Sur River, hiking trails, and nearby attractions like Pfeiffer Beach.
Quick Highlights:
• 147 campsites (tent & RV)
• Big Sur River access
• Hiking trails 0.5–6 mi
Tip: Arrive early for creekside spots; summer weekends are crowded. Bear lockers provided.
47. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
While camping is limited, nearby state campgrounds allow early access to Point Lobos trails. Famous for ocean cliffs, sea otters, and tide pools.
Quick Highlights:
• Nearby campgrounds for access
• Tide pools & wildlife spotting
• Hiking trails with ocean views
Tip: Arrive before 9 AM to avoid parking limits; binoculars enhance wildlife observation.
48. Samuel P. Taylor State Park
Redwoods, creeks, and flat family-friendly trails make Samuel P. Taylor a Bay Area favorite. Campgrounds are shady and spacious, ideal for tents and small RVs.
Quick Highlights:
• 121 campsites
• 20+ miles of trails
• Creek swimming for kids
Tip: Weekdays quieter than weekends; pack layers for cool mornings and evenings.
49. Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
Northern California gem with rugged coastlines, dense redwoods, and remote beaches. Campgrounds provide forest and creek settings, great for quiet family trips or backpacking.
Quick Highlights:
• 50+ tent-only sites
• Coastal hiking trails
• Roaming wildlife
Tip: Bring sturdy boots for trail hiking; coastal fog keeps mornings damp.
50. Van Damme State Park
Mendocino favorite with fern canyons, pygmy forests, and beach access. Walk-in campsites are scenic and peaceful; trails are short and family-friendly.
Quick Highlights:
• 41 campsites
• Fern Canyon trail 0.5 mi
• Short hike to the beach
Tip: Sunrise for wildlife spotting; pack waterproof shoes for creek crossings.
Conclusion
From the majestic redwoods of Northern California to the sun-kissed beaches of the south, California’s state parks offer something for every camper. Families will love shallow lakes, calm beaches, and accessible trails. RV travelers benefit from level campsites, hookups, and scenic drives. Tent campers and backpackers can immerse themselves in solitude, waterfalls, and forest trails.
Tips for Planning Your Trip:
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Reserve campsites early, especially in summer or popular coastal parks.
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Pack layers: mornings and evenings can be cool even in summer.
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Check wildlife and tide information before visiting coastal or forest parks.
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Always follow Leave No Trace principles to keep these parks pristine.
California is waiting—grab your tent, RV, or backpack, and discover the best state park camping in California for your next unforgettable adventure.