Boating Campgrounds in California

Boating Campgrounds in California

Discover the best boating campgrounds across California. Launch your adventure from campgrounds with direct water access. Boat launches, marinas, and paddling opportunities await.

9+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: Spring through Fall (April-October)
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Lower Billy Creek
Star
4.7
(152)
Lower Billy Creek
Lakeshore
Sierra National Forest

Launch directly into Huntington Lake's crystal-clear waters from nearby ramps, where steady mountain breezes create excellent conditions for sailing and the calm morning hours draw kayakers and canoeists.

Tents
RVs
2
Kangaroo Lake Campground
Photo coming soon
Star
4.8
(89)
Kangaroo Lake Campground
Etna
Klamath National Forest

Crystal-clear Kangaroo Lake invites paddlers to glide across 25 acres of mountain water, with a paved quarter-mile trail delivering easy lake access for launching canoes and kayaks.

Tents
3
Manzanita Lake Group Campground
Star
4.3
(228)
Manzanita Lake Group Campground
Mineral
Lassen Volcanic National Park

Manzanita Lake's glassy waters invite kayakers to paddle beneath towering Lassen Peak, with morning reflections creating stunning photo opportunities from your boat.

Tents
RVs

About Boating Campgrounds in California

Boating camping California offers unparalleled access to some of the most spectacular waterways in the American West, from pristine alpine lakes nestled in the High Sierra to volcanic crater lakes and sprawling reservoirs throughout the state's diverse mountain ranges. California's geography creates extraordinary variety for paddlers and boaters, with opportunities ranging from peaceful kayaking on mirror-still mountain lakes to sailing across expansive reservoirs framed by granite peaks.

Best Time

The prime boating camping season in California runs from late May through September, though timing varies significantly by elevation and region. High elevation Sierra Nevada lakes like Rock Creek Lake and Crater Lake typically become accessible in late June or early July after snowmelt, with water temperatures warming enough for comfortable paddling by mid-July.

Activity Highlights

  • Boat ramps and launches
  • Marina access and dock space
  • Kayak and canoe rentals nearby
  • Calm water for paddling

Campground Locations

Showing top 9 campgrounds near Boating Campgrounds in California

Map of campgrounds near Boating Campgrounds in California
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Map Key
1
Lower Billy Creek
2
Kangaroo Lake Campground
3
Manzanita Lake Group Campground
4
Rock Creek Lake Group Camp (Inyo National Forest, Ca)
5
Letts Lake Campground
6
Cooper Gulch Campground
7
Crater Lake
8
Convict Lake Campground
9
Lake Mary Campground
View all 513 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Kayaking and canoeing on alpine lakesSailing on larger reservoirsStand-up paddleboardingFishing from boats and shorelineSwimming in mountain lakesWildlife viewing and bird watching

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve campsites well in advance for summer weekends at popular destinations like Huntington Lake and Lassen Volcanic National Park—six months ahead is recommended for prime dates.
  • 2Bring layered clothing even in summer, as high elevation lakes experience significant temperature drops after sunset, often dipping into the 40s.
  • 3Pack a quality dry bag for valuables and electronics, as afternoon winds can kick up waves on larger lakes.
  • 4California requires life jackets for all boaters, and children under 13 must wear them at all times on the water.
9 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Boating Campgrounds in California

Boating Campgrounds in California FAQ

We've ranked 9+ boating campgrounds in California based on boat launch access, marina facilities, water conditions, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with boat ramps, dock space, and calm waters.
Many campgrounds in California offer boat ramps, docks, and marina access. Some also have kayak and canoe rentals. Check individual campground amenities for specific watercraft access and any size restrictions.
Spring through Fall (April-October) is ideal for boating camping in California. Water levels and weather conditions vary by season—spring often brings higher water levels, while summer offers the warmest weather for water activities.
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