Coyote Hills Regional Park

1500 Cloverdale Road, Pescadero, CA 94060

Nestled deep within a secluded canyon where ancient redwoods touch the sky, Ben Ries Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Butano State Park. Choose from 21 drive-in sites for easy access or venture to one of 18 walk-in sites perched along the hillside above Little Butano Creek Canyon for a more immersive wilderness experience. Each thoughtfully placed campsite comes equipped with picnic tables, bear-proof food lockers, and fire rings where you can gather under towering canopies. While modern conveniences include flush toilets and fresh water taps throughout the grounds, the absence of shower facilities encourages a true back-to-nature experience in this redwood sanctuary.

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Tucked away along the legendary Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, Waterman Gap Trail Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry experience in Castle Rock State Park. This secluded haven offers six intimate primitive sites where the only sounds are rustling leaves and distant bird calls. While modern conveniences are limited to vault toilets and on-site water access, the simplicity is part of the charm. Pack your gas camp stove for warm meals under the stars, but leave the matches behind—open fires aren't permitted in this pristine wilderness sanctuary.

Big Basin Redwoods SP

Venture into the heart of Big Basin Redwoods State Park and discover Lane Trail Campground, a secluded hike-in retreat where adventure begins at the trailhead. This primitive camping experience welcomes up to six guests per site, offering the rare opportunity to sleep beneath towering redwoods far from the crowds. While you'll find secure food storage lockers to protect your provisions from curious wildlife, this back-to-basics destination embraces simplicity—no running water, picnic tables, or campfire rings disturb the natural setting. It's pure wilderness camping at its finest, where the journey to your site becomes part of the adventure itself.

1500 Cloverdale Road, Pescadero, CA 94060

Deep within the heart of the redwood forest, Butano Trail Camp awaits those seeking true wilderness solitude. This collection of 8 primitive campsites requires a rewarding 5.5-mile journey from the Visitor Center, where the modern world fades away with each step along the trail. Here, towering redwoods create a natural cathedral overhead, while essential amenities like pit toilets and bear-proof food lockers ensure safety without compromising the authentic backcountry experience. Leave your expectations of running water and electricity behind—this is camping as it was meant to be.

15000 Skyline Boulevard, Los Gatos, CA 95030

Nestled deep within the enchanting Santa Cruz Mountains, Castle Rock Trail Camp beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This rustic retreat combines the essentials of primitive camping—fresh piped drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, warming fire rings, and basic pit toilets—with the unexpected comfort of a weather shelter that stands ready when mountain storms roll through. Here, simplicity meets natural splendor in perfect harmony.

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

Nestled within the ancient cathedral of Portola Redwoods State Park, four exclusive hike-and-bike campsites await adventurous souls in the charming Huckleberry Campground. These hidden gems operate on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the camping season, offering an intimate escape where towering old-growth redwoods serve as your neighbors and the only sounds are whispers of wind through centuries-old branches.

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

Deep within Portola Redwoods State Park, the Family Walk-In Campground beckons visitors into a cathedral of ancient giants. This cherished retreat, nestled among towering old-growth redwoods, serves as a gateway to one of California's most pristine forest sanctuaries. Whether you're seeking a family adventure, planning a group gathering, or embarking on a solo hiking journey, this natural basin of evergreen splendor offers that rare gift—a secret escape where city stress dissolves into the whisper of wind through ancient branches.

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

Escape into a cathedral of ancient giants at Portola Campground, where 55 family-friendly sites and four hike-and-bike spots nestle beneath towering redwoods in the heart of Portola Redwoods State Park. Here, the modern world fades away as you immerse yourself in nature's grandest living monuments.

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

Deep within a secluded redwood sanctuary, Slate Creek Trail Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking true wilderness immersion. Six intimate primitive campsites await backpackers ready to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms. While campfires aren't permitted to protect this pristine environment, the gentle glow of backpacking stoves illuminates evening meals as twilight filters through towering canopies. The melodic babble of nearby Slate Creek provides nature's soundtrack, though wise adventurers pack their own water or come prepared with purification systems to safely enjoy this mountain stream's offerings.

95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

Perched on dramatic coastal bluffs where the Pacific meets the shore, Francis Beach Campground invites you to fall asleep to the rhythm of crashing waves and wake to spectacular ocean sunrises. This cherished coastal retreat features 52 thoughtfully positioned campsites that welcome both tent campers seeking simplicity and RV travelers craving comfort. Whether you've snagged one of the coveted oceanview sites or nestled into a more sheltered spot, you'll find everything needed for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for sunset dinners, fire rings perfect for s'mores and storytelling, clean restroom facilities, and refreshing coin-operated showers to rinse away the salt and sand after a day of beachcombing.

95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

Nestled within a sun-dappled meadow and embraced by towering cypress trees, Sweetwood Group Campground creates an intimate outdoor sanctuary designed for memorable group gatherings. This tent-only retreat features thoughtfully placed picnic tables, wind-sheltered cooking stations, and a central fire ring where stories and s'mores are shared beneath starlit skies. The spacious layout allows groups to spread out while still maintaining that special sense of togetherness that makes camping adventures unforgettable.

1895 Geary Road, Sunol, California, 94586, United States

Deep within Sunol Regional Wilderness, adventurous backpackers discover a rare treasure: remote campsites scattered along the legendary Ohlone Wilderness Trail. These secluded spots offer the ultimate escape from civilization, where privacy reigns supreme and the only sounds are rustling leaves and distant wildlife. While amenities are intentionally minimal—featuring basic pit toilets and requiring water filtration from natural sources—the reward is an authentic wilderness experience that few Bay Area destinations can match.

9400 Quarry Road, Fremont, CA 94555

Where the San Francisco Bay meets rolling hillsides, Dumbarton Quarry Campground transforms 45 acres of reclaimed industrial land into an outdoor enthusiast's basecamp. With 63 thoughtfully designed campsites—including full-hookup RV spots and two secluded tent-only havens—this unique destination places you at the crossroads of wetland wonders and grassy hill country. Miles of hiking and biking trails branch out from your doorstep, inviting exploration of this remarkable Bay Area landscape.

7000 DEL VALLE ROAD, LIVERMORE, California, 94550, United States

Nestled in the heart of East Bay's rolling hills, Del Valle Family Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 150 diverse camping options ranging from traditional tent sites to fully-equipped RV spots and cozy cabins. This beloved family destination combines modern amenities like spotless restrooms and hot showers with easy access to the sparkling waters of Del Valle Lake, where days are spent swimming, boating, and creating lasting memories. While nature thrives here in all its authentic glory—including the occasional tick, poison oak patch, and evening mosquito—these minor wilderness companions are simply part of the genuine outdoor experience that draws families back year after year.

1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward, California, 94544, United States

Escape to Garin Regional Park, where 5,800 acres of pristine wilderness blend seamlessly with California's rich ranching heritage. At Arroyo Flats, group camping becomes an adventure among rolling golden hills and beneath expansive skies. Wander through time in the historic apple orchard, where gnarled trees still bear fruit each season, or climb ridgelines that reveal breathtaking panoramic vistas stretching from the bay to distant mountain peaks.

500 Hunters Point Expressway, San Francisco, CA 94124

Perched on the edge of San Francisco Bay, Sunrise Point Campground beckons group adventurers with six spacious campsites designed for gatherings of 20 to 40 people. Wake up to the gentle lapping of bay waters just steps from your tent, where each thoughtfully appointed site comes complete with sturdy picnic tables for communal meals, sizzling BBQ grills for evening cookouts, secure food storage lockers to keep wildlife at bay, and fresh potable water. This hidden gem within Candlestick Point State Recreation Area puts you at the intersection of urban convenience and natural serenity, offering direct shoreline access that transforms every sunrise and sunset into a spectacular show.

9999 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley, California, 94546, United States

Escape to Anthony Chabot Campground, where 75 thoughtfully designed sites await your next adventure. Choose from 12 fully-equipped RV sites perfect for modern comfort seekers, 53 convenient drive-up tent sites that bring you close to nature without the hassle, or challenge yourself with 10 secluded hike-in sites for the ultimate wilderness experience. Gather your crew for unforgettable group camping adventures, then refresh in hot showers after days spent exploring. Modern flush toilets ensure comfort, while the amphitheater hosts enchanting seasonal campfire programs that bring the community together under starlit skies.

1475 Central Magazine Rd, San Francisco, CA 94129

Discover a remarkable urban oasis at Rob Hill Group Campground, where the wilderness meets the city in San Francisco's historic Presidio. This extraordinary campground transforms group adventures into unforgettable experiences, whether you're organizing a scout expedition, planning a school outdoor education program, or gathering friends and family for a unique camping retreat. Miles of winding trails beckon from your tent flap, leading to breathtaking overlooks and hidden natural treasures that reveal why this is one of California's most distinctive camping destinations.

18012 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, California, 94583, United States

Escape into 5,342 acres of untamed wilderness where rolling hills and hidden valleys create a sanctuary just beyond the urban sprawl. Las Trampas Regional Wilderness offers adventurers a chance to disconnect and explore rugged terrain that feels worlds away from city life. The Corral group campsite welcomes both equestrian enthusiasts and hiking groups to experience primitive camping at its finest, where starlit nights and morning mist replace the familiar glow of streetlights.

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Fort Mason Center, Building E, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA

Drop anchor in one of San Francisco's most spectacular hidden gems, where your sailboat becomes your floating basecamp in the heart of the city. Aquatic Park Cove welcomes sailors to a protected anchorage where the urban meets the maritime, offering front-row seats to some of America's most iconic landmarks. Wake to the sight of Alcatraz Island catching the morning light, spend your days exploring the Maritime Museum's treasures, and watch the Golden Gate Bridge transform into a glowing sculpture at sunset. Just steps from your anchorage, the historic ships of Hyde Street Pier tell tales of San Francisco's seafaring past, while the city's vibrant neighborhoods beckon with endless adventures.

9401 Morgan Territory Road, Eastern Contra Costa County, California, United States

Escape to the untamed beauty of Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, where adventure begins at a secluded hike-in backpacking site nestled among rolling hills. This primitive camping experience offers the perfect blend of wilderness solitude and essential comforts, including sturdy picnic tables for evening meals under the stars, a clean vault toilet, and convenient hitching rails with water troughs for equestrian adventurers. The thoughtfully fenced site provides multiple level areas ideal for pitching your tent, ensuring a comfortable night's rest after a day of exploration.

Bicentennial Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Perched among windswept cypress trees on the dramatic Marin Headlands, Bicentennial Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience where the wilderness meets the city. This secluded haven rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramas of the Golden Gate Bridge glowing against San Francisco's skyline, while Pacific waves crash against the rugged coastline below. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape without venturing far from urban comforts, this small campground serves as a tranquil basecamp for hikers exploring the headlands' extensive trail network.

7867 Redwood Road, Oakland, California, 94619, United States

Just minutes from downtown Oakland lies a secret sanctuary where towering 150-foot coast redwoods create cathedral-like groves that transport visitors to another world. Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park beckons adventurers with nearly 40 miles of winding trails perfect for hiking, jogging, and horseback riding through misty forests. Lucky visitors might spot golden eagles soaring overhead or catch a glimpse of the elusive Alameda striped racer slithering through the underbrush, making each journey through these ancient woods a potential wildlife encounter.

The access gate is located on Conzelman Road next to the Battery Spencer overlook parking area, within the Marin Headlands.

Imagine waking up to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge framed perfectly outside your tent at Kirby Cove Campground, where five intimate tent-only sites offer an exclusive front-row seat to one of the world's most photographed landmarks. This hidden gem, tucked away at the base of the Marin Headlands, rewards adventurous souls who navigate the steep, winding dirt trail with an unforgettable camping experience just minutes from San Francisco. Each site provides a rare combination of wilderness solitude and urban skyline views, while a dedicated group picnic area makes this the perfect basecamp for small gatherings seeking something extraordinary.

2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland , California, 94609, United States

Perched high in the Berkeley Hills, Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve offers adventurous campers a secluded wilderness experience just minutes from urban life. Your journey begins with a rewarding 0.2-mile uphill trek that leads to a pristine backpack camping site, where two thoughtfully placed tent pads await beneath open skies. Here, you'll find yourself dining at an ADA-accessible picnic table while gazing across a breathtaking 180-degree panorama that stretches from the majestic Mount Diablo to Volmer Peak and the rolling hills of Tilden Park. With basic amenities including a serving table and pit toilet, this primitive site strikes the perfect balance between comfort and authentic outdoor immersion.

1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Nestled beneath a canopy of ancient live oaks, this enchanting campground serves as your gateway to Rock City, where towering sandstone formations create a natural playground for climbers of all ages. The gnarled branches overhead provide welcome shade while nearby boulders beckon adventurers to explore their sun-warmed surfaces, making this an ideal basecamp for families seeking both comfort and adventure.

Hawk Campground, Marin Headlands, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Sausalito, CA 94965

Perched high above Tennessee Valley in the rugged Marin Headlands, Hawk Campground rewards adventurous backpackers with an unforgettable wilderness experience. This primitive, hike-in sanctuary challenges visitors with steep trails that wind through coastal mountains before revealing a spectacular mountaintop refuge. From your tent, watch morning fog roll across black sand beaches far below while golden sunsets paint the entire Bay Area in breathtaking panoramic views. The journey here demands experience and determination, but those who make the climb discover one of California's most dramatic backcountry campsites.

96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton, CA 94517

Nestled within the rolling hills of Mount Diablo, these group campsites provide the perfect basecamp for outdoor gatherings and team retreats. With essential amenities including pit toilets and fresh running water, groups can disconnect from the digital world while staying comfortably connected to nature's rhythms.

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Perched high above the shimmering waters of San Francisco Bay, Ridge Campground offers an extraordinary island escape accessible only by ferry or private boat. This environmental campground invites adventurers to discover breathtaking panoramic vistas, winding trails that tell centuries of stories, and historical landmarks that whisper of California's complex past. Here, where city skylines meet wilderness, campers find themselves in a rare sanctuary just miles from urban life.

Angel Island SP

Perched on the slopes of Angel Island, Sunrise Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking an extraordinary escape just miles from urban civilization. This exclusive hike-in sanctuary, accessible only by ferry or private boat, rewards those who make the journey with breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the glittering towers of downtown San Francisco to the rolling hills of the East Bay. Here, where morning light first touches the bay, campers discover a tranquil retreat that feels worlds away from city life, yet remains tantalizingly close to one of America's most iconic metropolitan areas.

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Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this pristine campground, where adventure meets tranquility. Whether you're seeking a weekend retreat or an extended wilderness experience, our carefully maintained sites offer the ideal basecamp for exploring the natural wonders that surround you. From starlit evenings around the campfire to dawn hikes through untouched landscapes, every moment here connects you with the great outdoors.

19450 Marsh Creek Road, Brentwood, California, 94513 , United States

Escape into the wilderness at Round Valley Regional Preserve's exclusive group backpacking site, where adventure meets solitude in a fenced primitive camping experience. Whether you arrive on foot, horseback, or bicycle, you'll discover a thoughtfully designed campsite featuring graded tent pads, a sturdy picnic table, vault toilet facilities, and convenient hitching rails for equestrian visitors. This self-sufficient camping experience requires you to carry in all your water and pack out everything you bring, embracing the true spirit of leave-no-trace wilderness camping.

Mount Diablo State Park, Juniper Campground, 1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Perched on Mount Diablo's western slopes, Juniper Campground beckons adventurers with its stunning vistas and gateway access to pristine hiking trails. Wake up to panoramic views that stretch across the valley below, then set off to explore the nearby Diablo Valley Overlook—just one of many natural wonders within easy reach. Families love the thoughtfully designed amenities that make outdoor adventures comfortable for all ages, while the campground's strategic location serves as your basecamp for discovering Mount Diablo's countless treasures.

2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda , California, 94563, United States

Spanning 2,079 acres of rolling Berkeley Hills, Tilden Regional Park stands as a beloved outdoor sanctuary in the East Bay. Since its founding as one of the region's pioneer parks, this expansive natural playground has delighted generations with its diverse offerings—from winding hiking trails that reveal breathtaking vistas to the nostalgic charm of the historic Tilden Merry-Go-Round. Adventure-seekers and families alike discover their perfect escape here, whether pitching tents at the group camping facilities or exploring the park's countless recreational treasures.

9401 Morgan Territory Road, Eastern Contra Costa County, California, United States

95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland , California, 94609, United States

15000 Skyline Boulevard, Los Gatos, CA 95030

1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward, California, 94544, United States

Big Basin Redwoods SP

18012 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, California, 94583, United States

7867 Redwood Road, Oakland, California, 94619, United States

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

96 Mitchell Canyon Road, Clayton, CA 94517

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1895 Geary Road, Sunol, California, 94586, United States

1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

95 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, CA 94020

9400 Quarry Road, Fremont, CA 94555

9999 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley, California, 94546, United States

Mount Diablo State Park, Juniper Campground, 1300 North Gate Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

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.