Fall Camping in California

Fall Camping in California

Discover the best fall camping across California. Embrace the magic of autumn camping. Vibrant foliage, crisp air, and campfire nights under the stars.

11+ Campgrounds4.7★ AverageBest: September through November
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Top Picks

Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Big Pine Canyon

Big Pine Canyon

Inyo National Forest

Golden aspens blaze against snow-dusted peaks above 14,000 feet, while September's first frosts thin the crowds along trails leading to ancient glaciers and alpine lakes.

4.9(23 reviews)
Verified
2
Harvey West Cabin

Harvey West Cabin

CAMINO · Eldorado National Forest

The Sierra Nevada's golden aspens and crimson maples frame this 1930s lumber company cabin, where autumn transforms the landscape into a painter's palette and cooler mountain air chases away summer's crowds.

5.2(8 reviews)
Verified
3
Kirby Cove Campground

Kirby Cove Campground

Sausalito · Golden Gate National Recreation Area

As autumn fog rolls through the Golden Gate, these five exclusive tent sites deliver front-row views of the bridge's towers emerging through morning mist, while cooler coastal temperatures transform the steep descent into an invigorating hike through golden hillsides.

4.6(133 reviews)
Verified

About Fall Camping in California

Fall camping California offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences as the state transforms into a tapestry of golden aspens, crimson maples, and perfect weather conditions from the alpine peaks of the Eastern Sierra to the sun-warmed beaches of the Channel Islands. California's autumn camping season, typically spanning September through November, presents ideal temperatures, fewer crowds, and some of the most spectacular scenery in North America.

Best Time

The optimal fall camping window in California runs from mid-September through early November, with peak foliage typically occurring in late September through mid-October depending on elevation and latitude. Eastern Sierra destinations like Big Pine Canyon and Aspen Campground showcase brilliant golden aspens from late September through early October, while coastal locations such as Kirby Cove enjoy mild temperatures and clearer skies throughout autumn.

Season Highlights

  • Stunning fall foliage
  • Cooler, comfortable temperatures
  • Fewer crowds and quiet sites
  • Perfect campfire weather

Explore Fall Camping in California

Browse 11 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.

Interactive MapAdvanced Filters11+ fall campgrounds
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Popular Activities

Fall foliage viewing and photographyHiking through alpine meadows and sequoia grovesTrout fishing in rivers and alpine lakesWildlife viewing including migrating birds and active bearsStargazing in dark sky locationsKayaking and canoeing on calm fall waters

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve popular campgrounds like Kirby Cove and Harvey West Cabin exactly 6 months in advance when reservations open on Recreation.gov, as they fill within hours for fall weekends.
  • 2For Eastern Sierra locations, bring layers including warm base layers, fleece, and a quality sleeping bag rated to at least 20°F, as overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing even when days are pleasant.
  • 3Bear canisters are required at many Sierra campgrounds and available for rent at ranger stations if you don't own one.
  • 4Channel Islands camping at Santa Rosa requires booking boat transportation through Island Packers months ahead and packing all water, food, and gear as nothing is available on the island.
11 campgrounds ranked
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Fall Camping in California FAQ

We've ranked 11+ fall campgrounds in California based on foliage, weather, and reviews. Top options feature stunning autumn colors and comfortable temperatures.

Fall foliage in California typically peaks during September through November, though timing varies by elevation and latitude. Check local foliage reports for optimal timing.

California offers excellent fall camping with colorful foliage, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer. Many campgrounds have special fall activities and harvest-season events.

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