Basin Gulch Campground

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Escape to the pristine wilderness at Tomhead Saddle Campground, where tent camping takes on its purest form. Tucked away in the breathtaking Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this remote sanctuary lies within the legendary Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness—one of California's most untouched natural treasures. While you'll find restroom facilities for your convenience, the absence of potable water reminds campers to come prepared for a true backcountry experience. This is camping as it was meant to be: just you, your tent, and the vast wilderness stretching endlessly before you.

WEAVERVILLE RANGER STATION, P.O. BOX 1190

Perched high above the wilderness, Post Creek Guard Station stands as a testament to America's conservation legacy. This 1934 Civilian Conservation Corps masterpiece invites modern adventurers to step back in time while embracing the raw beauty of isolation. Here, where the modern world fades away, you'll find yourself in a rustic cabin that once housed forest guardians watching over vast expanses of wild country. Pack your provisions and drinking water for this off-grid experience—the reward is profound solitude and sweeping mountain vistas that few travelers ever witness.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Tucked away in nature's embrace, this intimate, tents-only retreat offers the perfect escape for those seeking authentic wilderness experiences. The gentle murmur of nearby Beegum Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventures, while dappled sunlight filters through the canopy overhead. This cozy campground serves as an ideal basecamp for explorers ready to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. While you'll find basic vault toilet facilities here, remember to pack your own water supply – a small trade-off for the pristine, undeveloped beauty that surrounds you.

Six Rivers National Forest

Tucked away in the vast wilderness of Six Rivers National Forest, Bailey Canyon Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This hidden gem provides all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including vault toilets and fresh drinking water, while each thoughtfully arranged campsite comes complete with a sturdy table for meals under the stars and a campfire ring where stories and s'mores come to life after dark.

741 State Hwy 36, Bridgeville, CA 95526, USA

Nestled along the pristine shores of Ruth Lake, Fir Cove Campground offers an enchanting escape into the heart of Northern California's Six Rivers National Forest. This lakeside haven beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water adventures and forest exploration, where days are filled with casting lines into crystal-clear waters, paddling across the lake's glassy surface, and discovering hidden trails that wind through towering evergreens.

WEAVERVILLE RANGER STATION, PO BOX 1190, WEAVERVILLE, CA, 96093 USA

Step back in time at Forest Glen Guard Station, where a century of forest service history meets modern comfort in this enchanting 1916 two-story cabin. Nestled between the babbling waters of Glen Creek and the pristine South Fork Trinity River, this historic retreat seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary conveniences. Eight guests can gather in comfort, enjoying a fully equipped kitchen, cozy space heaters, and modern bathrooms, before settling into Adirondack chairs around the fire pit to share stories under the stars. With electricity illuminating the original wooden floors and a picnic table ready for outdoor feasts, Forest Glen offers an authentic wilderness experience without sacrificing comfort.

11 Trinity Street, Hayfork, CA 96041

Nestled along the pristine Trinity River, Hell Gate Campground beckons adventurers with 17 intimate camping units perfectly sized for those seeking a more rustic experience. Whether you're pulling a compact trailer (up to 16 feet) or pitching a tent, you'll find yourself immersed in a playground of natural wonders. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into the rushing waters, explore the distinctive rocky shoreline, plunge into refreshing swimming holes, or lose yourself on scenic hiking trails while eagles and ospreys soar overhead.

Forest Glen Campground, Hayfork, CA, 96041

Nestled alongside the crystal-clear waters of the South Fork Trinity River, Forest Glen Campground invites you to experience the serene beauty of Northern California's pine country. This intimate retreat features 15 thoughtfully placed camping units beneath a canopy of majestic Ponderosa pines, where dappled sunlight filters through ancient branches. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Forest Glen delivers both—cast a line into the river's cool waters, take a refreshing dip on warm afternoons, or explore hiking trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness. For those craving extra solitude, four walk-in tent sites offer a more secluded camping experience, perfect for disconnecting from the modern world and reconnecting with nature.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Escape the crowds and discover the tranquil charm of Philpot Picnic Area, where six intimate picnic spots nestle among untouched wilderness. This hidden gem, reached via rustic unpaved roads, offers a genuine back-to-nature experience without the trappings of modern amenities. While you won't find running water here, you will discover something far more precious: direct access to the fascinating Philpot Interpretive Trail, where every step reveals the area's natural secrets. Perfect for adventurers seeking an authentic outdoor experience away from the beaten path.

Forest Rt. 1, Deerlick Springs, Yolla Bolla Ranger District.

Nestled beneath a towering canopy of ancient Douglas Firs, Deerlick Springs Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape with 13 intimate tent-only sites. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls who navigate its rugged access road, leaving the world of RVs and trailers behind for a truly immersive forest experience.

PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Horse Camp Primitive Campground offers a rare escape where riders and their equine companions can share the wilderness experience together. This intimate hideaway features just two thoughtfully designed sites, each welcoming vehicles, tents, and most uniquely, horses. As the park's exclusive equestrian-friendly camping destination, Horse Camp provides a gateway to miles of scenic trails where hoofbeats blend with birdsong and the rustle of foothill pines.

PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095, USA

Escape to Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground, where canvas walls replace cabin doors and the whisper of Clear Creek provides your nightly soundtrack. Nestled within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, this tent-only sanctuary invites adventurers to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Towering alders and ancient canyon live oaks create a natural canopy over intimate campsites, while endless trails and crystalline waters promise days filled with exploration in this serene mountain hideaway.

PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA, USA 96095

Tucked beneath a canopy of towering pines and fragrant firs, Sheep Camp Primitive Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape in the heart of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. This tent-only sanctuary perches dramatically above Brandy Creek, where adventurers can wake to spectacular cliffside vistas and the gentle whisper of mountain breezes. Whether you're seeking the thunder of hidden waterfalls along nearby trails or the ancient wisdom of old-growth forests, this rustic retreat serves as your perfect basecamp. The sparkling waters of Whiskeytown Lake lie just minutes away, promising endless recreation under California's brilliant blue skies.

PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA, 96095, USA

Escape to Brandy Creek Primitive Campground, where the whisper of creek waters and rustling leaves create nature's perfect soundtrack. This tent-only sanctuary within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offers adventurers an authentic wilderness experience, with scenic trails that wind through recovering forests to hidden waterfalls. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – take a refreshing dip in crystalline swimming holes, pedal along mountain biking trails that challenge and reward, or lace up your boots for hikes that reveal the raw beauty of Northern California's backcountry.

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

P.O. Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA, 96095

Nestled near the sparkling waters of Brandy Creek Marina, this RV campground offers a unique back-to-basics experience within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Ancient oaks and towering pines cast dappled shadows across the smooth asphalt pads, creating natural cooling stations throughout the day. While the campground embraces simplicity without traditional amenities like restrooms, hookups, or fire rings, it provides the perfect basecamp for self-contained RVs seeking proximity to lake adventures and the serenity of Northern California's wilderness.

PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095188, USA

Nestled along the southern shore of Whiskeytown Lake where three distinct mountain ranges converge with the Sacramento Valley, Dry Creek Group Campground offers an intimate lakeside retreat perfect for larger gatherings seeking a classic tent camping experience. Located just 14 miles west of Redding and three hours north of Sacramento, this tent-only facility sits beneath a shady canopy of conifers, oaks, and maples, with stunning lake views framing your campsite. The 3,200-acre lake stretches before you with crystal-clear waters that beckon on hot summer days, while the surrounding forested backcountry promises adventure for hikers and mountain bikers alike. The campground features just two spacious group sites, each thoughtfully equipped for comfortable group camping. You'll find multiple picnic tables for spreading out your gear and gathering for meals, plus two large serving tables that make meal prep a breeze. Both charcoal barbecue grills (in small and large sizes) and cleared fire pit areas give you flexibility for cooking and evening campfires. Bear-proof storage lockers protect your food and scented items, while vault toilets and drinking water provide essential conveniences. The tent-only designation means you'll enjoy a quieter, more traditional camping atmosphere without generator noise, and the lakeside location allows you to moor your boat right at camp after launching from nearby Brandy Creek Marina. Water enthusiasts will find endless ways to enjoy Whiskeytown Lake, especially during the summer months when swimming, kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and water skiing are at their peak. Year-round activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and even gold panning—a nod to the area's rich Gold Rush history. Just a mile down the road, Brandy Creek Beach offers sandy shores and a designated swimming area, plus seasonal amenities from Memorial Day through Labor Day including showers, a store stocked with supplies, and kayak and paddleboard rentals. The Brandy Creek Falls trailhead, located four miles away, provides a rewarding hiking destination. The unique geography where multiple mountain ranges meet creates exceptional biodiversity, making wildlife viewing particularly rewarding throughout the seasons. For specific information about reservations and current conditions, contact the park at (530) 246-1225.

PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA, 96095, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Crystal Creek Primitive Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just two exclusive tent sites. Here, beneath a canopy of towering firs, maples, and pines, you'll discover a hidden sanctuary where the gentle murmur of Crystal Creek creates a natural soundtrack to your wilderness retreat. This secluded gem promises solitude seekers and nature enthusiasts an authentic back-to-basics camping experience far from the crowds.

PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA, 96095, USA

Nestled along the pristine northern shores of Whiskeytown Lake, Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area offers the perfect setting for unforgettable gatherings with family, friends, or colleagues. This scenic day-use facility welcomes groups of all sizes with one spacious main site and two intimate smaller areas, each thoughtfully positioned to capture stunning lake views. Whether you're planning a milestone reunion, corporate retreat, or celebratory event, the protected cove beckons with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, while the calm shoreline invites leisurely kayaking adventures and peaceful fishing excursions.

Bureau of Land Management, Redding Field Office, 6640 Lockheed Drive, Redding, CA, 96002, USA

Nestled along the pristine waters of the Trinity River, Douglas City Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 23 peaceful campsites tucked beneath a canopy of towering trees. This Bureau of Land Management gem combines the thrill of world-class fly fishing and white-water adventures with the simple pleasure of riverside camping. Whether you're casting for trout at dawn, cooling off with an afternoon swim, trying your luck at gold panning, or seeking the adrenaline rush of navigating class III-V rapids, this tranquil retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Northern California adventure.

Bureau of Land Management, Redding Field Office, 6640 Lockheed Drive, Redding, CA, 96002, USA

Tucked away along the crystal-clear waters of the Trinity River, Steiner Flat Primitive Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape without the price tag. This hidden gem offers eight pristine primitive sites where the sound of rushing water mingles with whispers of wind through towering Ponderosa pines. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or pulling in with a compact trailer, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape that invites exploration. Cast a line into the river's promising pools, launch your kayak for a leisurely paddle, or try your luck panning for gold in the same waters that drew prospectors over a century ago. Here, beneath a canopy of Douglas fir, oak, and madrone, simplicity meets adventure in perfect harmony.

Bureau of Land Management, Redding Field Office, 6640 Lockheed Drive, Redding, CA 96002, USA

Nestled alongside the pristine Trinity River, Steel Bridge Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 13 carefully placed campsites. This hidden gem welcomes tent campers and small trailers (up to 20 feet) seeking solitude away from crowded destinations. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, exploring nearby mountain trails, or simply unwinding to the gentle soundtrack of the flowing river, Steel Bridge provides the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts who prefer their adventures served with a side of tranquility.

Forest Rt. 1, Deerlick Springs, Yolla Bolla Ranger District.

Bureau of Land Management, Redding Field Office, 6640 Lockheed Drive, Redding, CA 96002, USA

Forest Glen Campground, Hayfork, CA, 96041

Bureau of Land Management, Redding Field Office, 6640 Lockheed Drive, Redding, CA, 96002, USA

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

11 Trinity Street, Hayfork, CA 96041

Six Rivers National Forest

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Bureau of Land Management, Redding Field Office, 6640 Lockheed Drive, Redding, CA, 96002, USA

741 State Hwy 36, Bridgeville, CA 95526, USA

WEAVERVILLE RANGER STATION, P.O. BOX 1190

WEAVERVILLE RANGER STATION, PO BOX 1190, WEAVERVILLE, CA, 96093 USA

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

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.