Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park Campground

Lassen National Forest

Tucked away along the gentle waters of Hat Creek, Honn Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. This charming streamside retreat invites you to unwind beneath a canopy of shade trees, where each thoughtfully appointed site comes complete with its own fire pit and barbecue grill. Known for its exceptional trout fishing, the crystal-clear waters of Hat Creek have earned a reputation among anglers seeking that trophy catch. While the distant hum of the highway occasionally reminds you of the outside world, most visitors find themselves enchanted by the campground's prevailing sense of tranquility and the soothing sounds of the flowing creek.

Bureau of Land Management, Applegate Field Office, 708 West 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101, USA

Nestled along the banks of the pristine Pit River, this intimate eight-site campground offers an authentic wilderness experience without sacrificing essential amenities. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table, fire ring, and barbecue pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground features two fully accessible restrooms and maintains a clean, welcoming environment with regular trash removal service. Adventure seekers will appreciate the convenient kayak launch ramp, while anglers can cast their lines from the wheelchair-accessible fishing pier. Though the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach without potable water, visitors find this adds to the authentic outdoor experience—just remember to bring your own supply.

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, Headwaters Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience. This primitive environmental camping area serves as your gateway to some of Northern California's most breathtaking natural wonders, including the magnificent Burney Falls and the sparkling waters of Lake Britton. Here, the modern world fades away as you immerse yourself in a landscape where scenic trails wind through ancient forests and the only soundtrack is nature's symphony.

: Dusty Campground, Eagle Mountain Lane

Nestled beneath a canopy of ancient oaks and towering pines, Dusty Campground offers a tranquil retreat on the pristine north shore of Lake Britton. This hidden gem, thoughtfully managed by PG&E, has earned a devoted following among those seeking an authentic escape from the everyday. Visitors consistently praise its peaceful atmosphere, secluded setting, and budget-friendly approach to outdoor adventure—making it an ideal basecamp for families and solo travelers alike who value serenity over spectacle.

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

Perched above the thundering cascade of Burney Falls, Rim Campground welcomes adventurers to a world where pristine wilderness meets modern comfort. Here, spacious campsites nestle among towering pines, offering front-row seats to nature's grand performance. Whether you're launching a kayak onto the crystalline waters of Lake Britton at dawn or following woodland trails to hidden viewpoints, this gateway to adventure provides the perfect basecamp. Clean, well-maintained facilities and thoughtfully designed sites ensure your focus remains on the breathtaking surroundings rather than camping logistics.

2019 Forest Road McCloud, CA 96057

Tucked away along the pristine Upper McCloud River, Algoma Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This intimate, undeveloped gem features just 8 dispersed sites where the gentle murmur of the river provides nature's soundtrack. As the northern terminus of the spectacular 15-mile McCloud River Trail, Algoma rewards hikers and adventurers with a peaceful riverside haven. While amenities are purposefully minimal—just a vault toilet graces this rustic retreat—the absence of crowds and the presence of untamed natural beauty more than compensate. Bring your own water and camping essentials to fully embrace this back-to-basics experience.

Modoc National Forest

Escape the crowds and discover a hidden gem where solitude meets natural beauty. This intimate campground offers just a handful of carefully placed sites for adventurous souls seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Tucked away from the well-worn tourist trails, this secluded retreat rewards those willing to venture beyond the ordinary with unparalleled tranquility and a genuine connection to nature.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Bureau of Land Management, Applegate Field Office, 708 West 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101, USA

2019 Forest Road McCloud, CA 96057

: Dusty Campground, Eagle Mountain Lane

Lassen National Forest

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Upper Soda Springs Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic San Joaquin River becomes your constant companion. This tranquil retreat features 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and access to pristine pit toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, set out on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, or venture to the nearby geological wonder of Devil's Postpile National Monument and the breathtaking cascade of Rainbow Falls.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Doran Regional Park

Nestled along a stunning 2-mile stretch of sandy beach on Bodega Bay, Doran Regional Park Campground offers 112 year-round campsites where the Pacific Ocean meets coastal adventure. With five distinct camping zones ranging from harbor-side spots to tent-only areas, this family-friendly destination combines beach camping with exceptional access to fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Whether you're launching your kayak into the bay, exploring tide pools along the rock jetty, or simply enjoying soft sand and mellow surf, Doran delivers a quintessential California coastal camping experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott CA 95571

Escape into the cathedral-like sanctuary of Hamilton Barn Environmental Campground, where primitive hike-in campsites nestle beneath towering old-growth redwoods. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls with unparalleled privacy and profound solitude, offering a rare chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms.

CA-108, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

Nestled along the scenic Sonora Pass on CA-108, Sonora Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 22 tranquil sites carved into a landscape of towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sagebrush. Here, where the melodious West Walker River flows just steps away, anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off to explore the dramatic high country. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures, complete with firewood available on-site to fuel evening campfires under star-studded skies.