Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground

Westport-Union Landing State Beach, Highway 1, Westport, CA

Perched dramatically on windswept bluffs above the crashing Pacific, Abalone Point Campground beckons adventurers to one of Westport-Union Landing State Beach's three distinctive camping experiences. Here, where the continent meets the sea, visitors can choose between rustic primitive sites that harken back to simpler times or modern hookup sites that blend comfort with coastal wilderness. This clifftop sanctuary offers front-row seats to nature's greatest theater, where every campsite promises an ocean view that transforms with each passing hour.

19 miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1 and 2 miles north of Westport, Mendocino County, California

Perched above the dramatic Pacific coastline, Howard Creek South Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience. This rustic hideaway within Westport-Union Landing State Beach stretches along three magnificent miles of California's rugged shore. While you won't find modern conveniences like showers here—just simple pit toilets—what you will discover is something far more valuable: unfiltered access to one of the coast's most spectacular stretches of wilderness. Fall asleep to the rhythmic crash of waves against ancient cliffs and wake to panoramic ocean views that remind you why sometimes the best amenities are the ones nature provides.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Escape to the untamed beauty of Usal Beach Campground, where the Pacific Ocean meets pristine wilderness in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park. As the park's only drive-in camping destination, this primitive coastal retreat invites adventurers to pitch their tents between rolling meadows and dramatic black sand beaches. Here, dispersed campsites offer an authentic back-to-nature experience where self-sufficiency is key—pack your water and supplies for a true wilderness adventure along California's legendary Lost Coast.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Hidden along California's legendary Lost Coast, Barnside Campground beckons adventurers seeking true wilderness solitude. This primitive camping haven within Sinkyone Wilderness State Park offers an escape from civilization, where towering Douglas-fir forests meet dramatic black sand beaches. Here, environmental campsites blend seamlessly into one of the West Coast's last untouched frontiers, promising an authentic back-to-nature experience far from the crowds and comforts of modern life.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Tucked away in the untamed wilderness of Sinkyone State Park, Little Jackass Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking solitude far from civilization's reach. This hike-in primitive sanctuary sits cradled between towering Douglas-fir slopes and windswept coastal prairies, where the only sounds are creek water tumbling over ancient stones and wind whispering through the canopy. With no running water and a pack-it-out ethos, this rugged retreat demands self-sufficiency but rewards visitors with an authentic wilderness experience few places can still offer.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Perched on the edge of California's Lost Coast, Wheeler Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape within Sinkyone Wilderness State Park. Here, environmental campsites and horse camps nestle among ancient forests while dramatic black sand beaches stretch below towering coastal bluffs. The turquoise Pacific crashes against the rugged shoreline, creating a symphony that echoes across windswept prairies where Roosevelt elk graze in the morning mist. This is camping as it was meant to be—raw, remote, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Tucked away in the untamed Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Bear Harbor Campground stands as one of California's last true frontiers. Here, where the legendary Lost Coast Trail winds through ancient forests to meet the Pacific, adventurers discover a world of black sand beaches and towering cliffs that time forgot. This remote sanctuary offers the rarest of modern luxuries: complete disconnection from the digital world and total immersion in raw, unspoiled nature.

Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Where the wild Pacific meets untamed wilderness, Jones Beach Campground beckons adventurers to one of California's last frontiers. Nestled within the remote Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, this primitive camping haven sits along the legendary Lost Coast—a rugged stretch of coastline so steep and wild that even Highway 1 had to detour inland. Here, black sand beaches stretch beneath towering Douglas-fir forests, and Roosevelt elk roam freely through coastal prairies. This is camping for those who crave true solitude, where the only sounds are crashing waves and calling seabirds, and the nearest convenience is miles away.

1600 U.S. Highway 101, Garberville, CA 95542

Nestled within the enchanting Richardson Grove State Park, Oak Flat Campground offers an unforgettable escape beneath a cathedral of ancient coast redwoods. Here, where the gentle South Fork of the Eel River meanders through towering giants, campers discover a tranquil sanctuary that feels worlds away from civilization. The whisper of wind through centuries-old branches and the soft murmur of the river create nature's perfect soundtrack for your outdoor adventure.

1600 U.S. Highway 101 Garberville, CA 95542

Nestled within the enchanting Richardson Grove State Park, Madrone Campground offers an intimate escape beneath towering coast redwoods that have stood sentinel for millennia. This seasonal sanctuary invites campers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of ancient forests, where the gentle murmur of the South Fork Eel River provides nature's perfect soundtrack for your rustic camping adventure.

Richardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542

Nestled within the enchanting embrace of Richardson Grove State Park, Dawn Redwood Group Campground invites you to sleep beneath the gentle giants that have stood sentinel for centuries. Here, where ancient redwoods stretch skyward and the melodic South Fork of the Eel River whispers through the forest, you'll discover a camping experience that connects you with nature's most magnificent cathedral.

Nestled among towering old-growth firs, Wailaki Campground offers an intimate escape with 13 thoughtfully positioned campsites. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable wilderness stay: sturdy fire rings for evening gatherings, picnic tables for outdoor dining, and bear-proof storage to keep wildlife wild. Modern vault toilets ensure convenience without compromising the natural setting. Adventure beckons right from your tent flap, with direct access to two spectacular trails—the challenging Chemise Mountain Trail and the legendary Lost Coast Trail, where hikers can explore California's most remote and untouched coastline.

Tucked away in the southern reaches of the King Range National Conservation Area, Nadelos Campground invites adventurers to experience the untamed beauty of California's Lost Coast region. This hidden gem offers a back-to-basics camping experience where towering forests draped in emerald moss create a natural cathedral, and the gentle murmur of a nearby creek provides the perfect soundtrack for your wilderness retreat. Well-appointed with essential amenities including vault toilets, fire rings, and sturdy picnic tables, the campground serves as your basecamp for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Bear-proof trash receptacles ensure safe coexistence with local wildlife, while direct access to the challenging Chemise Mountain Trail and the family-friendly Bear Creek Nature Trail puts adventure right at your tent flap.

1600 U.S. Highway 101, Garberville, CA 95542

Nestled within Richardson Grove State Park, Huckleberry Campground invites you to sleep beneath ancient giants in one of approximately 40 campsites scattered throughout an enchanting old-growth redwood forest. This beloved campground combines the raw beauty of California's most iconic trees with modern amenities, including fully accessible facilities that ensure everyone can experience the magic of camping among these thousand-year-old sentinels.

445 Lake Benbow Drive, Garberville, CA 95542

Nestled along the gentle curves of the South Fork Eel River, Benbow State Recreation Campground invites you to experience Northern California's natural splendor across 75 thoughtfully positioned campsites. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under towering redwoods, while convenient water faucets are scattered throughout the grounds. Though the nearby Highway 101 provides a whisper of civilization and easy access for travelers exploring the Pacific Coast, the campground maintains its connection to the wild, offering a perfect balance between accessibility and natural immersion.

CA

Nestled in the heart of the King Range wilderness, Tolkan Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. With 4 tent sites and 5 trailer spots thoughtfully dispersed among towering oaks, this intimate campground serves as your gateway to world-class mountain biking on the Paradise Royale Trail and heart-pumping runs at Tolkan Terrain Park. While you'll find essential amenities like clean vault toilets, sturdy fire rings, picnic tables, and bear-proof storage, the absence of running water, electricity, and reliable cell service ensures a true disconnect from the digital world—exactly what many outdoor enthusiasts crave.

CA

Tucked away from the crowds, Honeydew Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This intimate campground features five thoughtfully spaced tent and trailer sites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. While modern conveniences are minimal—vault toilets serve the sites and running water isn't available—the nearby creek provides a natural water source for those prepared to treat it. The campground's wheelchair-accessible design ensures that everyone can enjoy this peaceful retreat into California's untamed wilderness.

1600 U.S. Highway 101, Garberville, CA 95542

445 Lake Benbow Drive, Garberville, CA 95542

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

19 miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1 and 2 miles north of Westport, Mendocino County, California

Westport-Union Landing State Beach, Highway 1, Westport, CA

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Richardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Whitethorn, CA 95589

1600 U.S. Highway 101 Garberville, CA 95542

1600 U.S. Highway 101, Garberville, CA 95542

CA

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

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.