Spring Camping in California
Discover the best spring camping across California. Welcome the new season with spring camping. Wildflowers bloom, waterfalls surge, and nature awakens.
Spring Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Canyon View Group Sites
Spring transforms Cedar Grove into a Sierra wonderland where waterfalls thunder from snowmelt and wildflowers blanket the canyon floor beneath towering granite walls.
Rainbow Basin/Owl Canyon Campground
Spring transforms the rainbow-striped badlands into a canvas of desert wildflowers blooming between ancient geological formations, while mild temperatures make hiking the scenic loop trail comfortable before summer heat arrives.
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Group Campground
Spring transforms the oak woodlands into a canvas of wildflowers while Sonoma Creek swells into a seasonal waterfall worth gathering the group to witness. Mild temperatures and fewer crowds during shoulder season mean your crew can claim the barbecue area and hiking trails without the summer rush.
About Spring Camping in California
Spring camping California offers an unparalleled diversity of landscapes and experiences, from the snow-melt waterfalls of the Sierra Nevada to the vibrant wildflower displays across desert basins and coastal headlands. As winter's grip loosens, California's campgrounds awaken with rushing rivers, blooming meadows, and perfect temperatures for outdoor exploration.
Best Time
The optimal timing for spring camping in California depends entirely on elevation and regional climate patterns. Desert destinations like Rainbow Basin and Ricardo Campground shine brightest from mid-February through April, when winter rains trigger spectacular wildflower blooms and temperatures hover in the comfortable 60-75°F range before summer heat arrives.
Season Highlights
- Wildflower displays
- Flowing waterfalls and streams
- Mild, comfortable weather
- Fewer crowds than summer
Explore Spring Camping in California
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve early for spring camping in California, as this season's mild weather and spectacular natural displays make it one of the most popular times to camp.
- 2Most developed campgrounds operate on Recreation.gov's six-month rolling reservation window, so mark your calendar and book exactly six months before your desired dates.
- 3For desert wildflower camping, monitor bloom reports from park services and wildflower hotlines to time your visit perfectly—blooms can vary by several weeks depending on winter rainfall.
- 4Pack layers for spring's unpredictable weather, including warm base layers for chilly mornings, sun protection for midday heat, and rain gear for occasional spring storms.
Spring Camping in California FAQ
We've ranked 20+ spring campgrounds in California based on wildflowers, weather, and accessibility. Top options feature blooming landscapes and rejuvenated waterfalls.
Spring camping season in California typically runs March through May, though opening dates vary by location and elevation. Mountain campgrounds may open later due to snowmelt.
California offers excellent spring camping with wildflower displays, flowing waterfalls, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer. It's perfect for hiking and photography.
Popular California Campgrounds Book Fast
The best spring camping in California book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Canyon View Group Sites
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- Search 20+ spring camping in California
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