We've said it before and we'll say it again - Sacramento's location is second to none. In about two hours, you can access both the bustling city of San Francisco and the scenic wonders of the Lake Tahoe region. This also means there are a variety of wonderful campgrounds within reach.
Stock up on s'mores and hot dog supplies, pack the Suburban, and head to one of these amazing campgrounds in the area. Some enjoy beach views and a cool ocean breeze, while others are nestled in a canopy of pines with mountain vistas.
Use our interactive map to better locate your favorite campground. Need more information? Click the title of each campground for more helpful details from Outdoor Project, an online community comprised of outdoor enthusiasts who are dedicated to building the best outdoor adventure resource.
LOCATION: EAST BAY, CA
PRICE: $30
TENT/CAR SITES: 36
Juniper Campground is the largest campground in Mount Diablo State Park. It is situated at 3,000 feet, offering exceptional vistas of Diablo Valley and the greater Bay Area. Choose from the diverse campsites, some with shade and less of a view, and some on the western edge of the grounds with less shade but unbelievable views.
LOCATION: EAST BAY, CA
PRICE: $30
TENT/CAR SITES: 6
While Juniper Campground is quite large with plenty of sites, Junction Campground is a quaint area with a limited number of campsites. This cozy and laid-back setting is perfect for enjoying a peaceful getaway within the beautiful Mount Diablo State Park. The campground rests under the shade of live oaks and boasts views of Diablo's lower slopes and Diablo Valley.
LOCATION: EAST BAY, CA
PRICE: $30 CAMPING FEE + $10 STATE PARK FEE
TENT/CAR SITES: 22
Live Oak Campground is another major campground in Mount Diablo Park. It is situated half-way up Diablo's southern slopes, where you will find gorgeous sandstone formations of the Rock City area. This is an cozy campground with sites nestled around a loop. Stretch your legs with a walk along Mount Diablo's Summit Trail, which passes through the campground and leads to nearby Rock City.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $24
TENT/CAR SITES: 17
North Fork Campground is a gorgeous, refreshing escape from the summer heat. The shaded campground rests under a canopy of cedar, pine and fir trees, along the bank of the North Fork of the American River. The campground is only open from June through October, so it can get quite crowded during the summer - especially because of the popular swimming hole located at North Fork Falls, which is just a short hike away.
LOCATION: YOSEMITE + CENTRAL SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $35
TENT/CAR SITES: 74
Head to Calaveras Big Trees State Park and pitch your tent at North Grove Campground, one of two campgrounds in the park. This area is especially attractive for tree-lovers, as the campground is within close proximity to giant sequoias, some of the oldest trees on earth. Explore the beautiful surrounding scenery with a walk through the North and South Groves, or along the North Grove Trail.
LOCATION: YOSEMITE + CENTRAL SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $20
TENT/CAR SITES: 49
Wakaluu Hep Yoo Campground is nestled along the banks of the North Fork of the Stanislaus River, providing a prime location for trout fishing and whitewater rafting. This area is an important cultural site for the Miwuk, who once occupied the area for over 2,000 years, and today serves as an amazing campground. The campground is situated beneath a shaded canopy of ponderosa pine, black oak and incense cedar. Wakaluu Hep Yoo Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis so no reservations are required.
LOCATION: SAN FRANCISCO PENINSULA + SANTA CRUZ, CA
PRICE: $30
TENT/CAR SITES: 3
Escape to Angel Island State Park, a popular destination for San Francisco residents, as it is extremely accessible from the city and provides breathtaking views of the Bay Area. With just three campsites, Ridge Camp is a peaceful campground set amidst a natural area in the backyard of a bustling city. Explore this amazing island, with a walk along the 8-mile Perimeter Road, a hike up to Mount Livermore, or a journey along any of the island's 13 miles of trails. Whatever you do, dress warmly, as this campground is exposed to the infamous Bay Area westerlies.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $25
TENT/CAR SITES: 35
Avoid some of the more crowded Lake Tahoe sites with a stay at Silver Lake West Campground, just a 35-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe. There are a variety of spacious sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, either nestled under pines or situated on rock formations. Wherever you are, this campground provides beautiful views and access to fishing, boating and hiking. Check out the nearby Woods Lake Loop for a great hike through the surrounding area.
LOCATION: MARIN, CA
PRICE: $25 CAMPING FEE + $10 STATE PARK FEE
TENT/CAR SITES: 15
Bootjack Campground is a quiet campground with just 15 sites within Mount Tamalpais State Park. It reopened in the fall of 2013 after over 40 years of closure and a recent renovation, and now serves as a quality campground with an ideal location on Mount Tam. Hikers may access the Matt Davis and Bootjack Trails, two popular hikes that cross paths at Bootjack Campground. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
LOCATION: MARIN, CA
PRICE: $25 CAMPING FEE + $10 STATE PARK FEE
TENT/CAR SITES: 16
Pantoll Campground is another popular campground in Mount Tamalpais State Park. Like Bootjack, Pantoll operates on a first-come, first-served basis. With just 16 sites, you'll want to camp on a weekday or arrive early on the weekend. All sites lie beneath a beautiful Douglas Fir forest, providing ample shade and a secluded feel. Select a site located further uphill for more space and privacy.
LOCATION: MARIN, CA
PRICE: VARYING
TENT/CAR SITES: 3
Take in amazing Golden Gate Bridge views, access nearby hiking trails, and escape from it all at Bicentennial Campground. As this 3-site campground is nestled within the trees at a higher elevation, it is somewhat sheltered from coastal winds. Take a hike along nearby trails and be on the lookout for wildlife and historic sites, such as manmade bunkers or concrete turrets used during the Cold War.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $17
TENT/CAR SITES: 13
This lesser-known campground is easy to miss amongst more high-traffic state park camping sites. But it shouldn't be missed! The affordable price and no-reservation option of Bayview Trailhead Campground is a great deal, especially for last-minute campers. Plus, it is located alongside the Bayview Trailhead, which provides exceptional views of Emerald Bay and passes by Granite Lake.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $27
TENT/CAR SITES: 36
Camp directly alongside Lake Tahoe on the western shore, overlooking crystal clear waters. The campground is located between Sugar Pine Point and D.L. Bliss State Parks, putting an endless number of recreational activities within reach. Not to mention, campers may swim, boat and paddleboard in the lake just steps from their campsite! Reservations are recommended during the summer, weekends and holidays. If possible, choose a site near the water for more space, better views and quicker water access.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $35
TENT/CAR SITES: 165
D.L. Bliss State Park is a popular destination for its pristine location along one of Lake Tahoe's most prized shorelines. Therefore, D.L. Bliss State Park Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in the state. Choose from 165 campsites, most of which are within a half-mile from the park's most popular beaches, plus Rubicon Point and Rubicon Trailhead. The desirable beachside campsites are often booked well in advance, so make sure you plan ahead!
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $35
TENT/CAR SITES: 175
General Creek Campground is a large campground open year-round, nestled beneath a pine and cedar forest in Sugar Pine Point State Park. With 175 sites, the campground typically has availability, and is a good alternative if the campgrounds in D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay State Parks are closed. During the summer, access two miles of Lake Tahoe beaches or go on a hike along any of the campground's nearby trails, and during the winter, go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing!
LOCATION: MARIN, CA
PRICE: $20
TENT/CAR SITES: 11
Situated in the 70,000-acre Point Reyes National Seashore, Sky Camp is a quaint campground with secluded sites and breathtaking views of the Point Reyes Peninsula. Each of the 11 sites (plus a large group site) has a grill, picnic table and food storage lockers. Reservations for this popular campground fill up quickly, so plan your camping trip well in advance!
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA
PRICE: $33
TENT/CAR SITES: 200
Fallen Leaf Lake Campground is arguably one of the best places to camp in the South Lake Tahoe area. Just a short walk from several campsites lies Fallen Leaf Lake, an exceptional place to swim, fish, kayak or paddle. Additionally, campers may access trailheads for the Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe Beaches, and the city of South Lake Tahoe with a short drive. This large and spacious campground has 200 sites, many of which enjoy peaceful meadow views, while some are located along Taylor Creek.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: FREE
TENT/CAR SITES: 10
This free campground is just a few miles from South Lake Tahoe, making this an ideal destination for budget-friendly camping. The campsites at Luther Campground are situated close together, while some are more detached, offering seclusion and privacy. Be careful of yellow jackets, and make sure food remains closed so you do not attract them.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $20
TENT/CAR SITES: 5 (PLUS 7 WALK-IN SITES)
Silver Creek Campground is one of three campgrounds in the famous Olympic Valley, home to the Squaw Valley Ski Resort. This campground is one of the more secluded options in the area, as it has seven walk-in sites situated along the edge of the Truckee River. They are more removed from both the main campground loop and the nearby highway.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $21
TENT/CAR SITES: 46
Wild Plum Campground is located about two miles east of Sierra City. This popular campground is perfect for fishermen and hikers alike, as it is is nestled alongside Haypress Creek and is just a quarter mile from the Pacific Crest Trail. Choose from their variety of campsites, including those in the smaller lower loop and a larger upper camp area with beautiful views of Sierra Buttes.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $35
TENT/CAR SITES: 25
The Tahoe State Recreation Area Campground is just off the beaten path, situated between a Tahoe City shopping center and a condominium lot. But once you step foot on the beautiful grounds dotted with pines offering lake views, you will feel completely immersed in nature. Enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, biking and other activities after setting up camp at one of their 25 sites.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $35
TENT/CAR SITES: 152
This historic campground is situated along the eastern shore of Donner Lake, providing campers with immediate access to its popular beaches for swimming, boating and fishing. During the summer, rent a small boat to explore the lake further, or go on a hike to experience the breathtaking scenery of this area.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $22
TENT/CAR SITES: 7
Granite Flat Campground is a popular destination for RV travelers, as there are 58 RV sites and just seven walk-in tent sites. However, the tent sites are nestled along the Truckee River, providing a secluded and private feel. Go fishing and swimming in the river, or explore nearby areas, such as Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows and Five Lakes Trail.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $22
TENT/CAR SITES: 29
This seasonal campground is open June through October, and provides access to one of the prettiest lakes in the region, Lower Sardine Lake. The trout-rich waters are particularly attractive for fishermen, but there are plenty of places for hiking and swimming in the area as well. Sardine Lake Resort is located just up the road. This seasonal resort has a small boat ramp and fleet of small electric boats available for rent.
LOCATION: SONOMA COAST + NAPA AREA, CA
PRICE: $32
TENT/CAR SITES: 128
This gorgeous beachside campground is located near Bodega Bay and Bodega Harbor, a perfect location for beachgoers and kayakers. There are plenty of sites available, split amongst four campground loops, in addition to a walk-in tent area and a group camping area. Wherever you pitch your tent, you will be blown away by beautiful views and the cool ocean breeze.
LOCATION: SONOMA COAST + NAPA AREA, CA
PRICE: $35
TENT/CAR SITES: 98
As the name implies, Bodega Dunes Campground is situated behind the dunes separating campsites from the lapping waves in Bodega Bay. The nearby South Salmon Creek Beach provides a pristine setting for sunbathing, kite flying, swimming and picnicking. Campers can also go surfing at North Salmon Creek Beach located just a mile north of camp. Most campsites are shaded by cypress trees, and some enjoy sandy dune backdrops, providing natural beauty and privacy.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $20
TENT/CAR SITES: 1 (PLUS 3 TENT/WALK-IN SITES)
Hope Valley Resort and Campground is one of few privately run campgrounds in the area. The campgrounds are particularly accommodating for RVs, as most of the 19 sites have full RV hookups, in addition to a rentable trailer and a house. However, there are a few walk-in tent sites available as well. Stop by this friendly campground between Memorial Day weekend and mid-October for an unforgettable experience!
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $18
TENT/CAR SITES: 3
Kit Carson Campground is arguably one of the prettiest campgrounds in the Tahoe area. Plus, it is secluded and inexpensive! However, there are only three tent sites at Kit Carson, so you'll have to plan your trip well in advance to ensure a spot. The grounds are within walking distance of Red Lake Peak, Carson Peak, Tahoe Rim Trail, and Carson Pass, putting many hikes within reach. The campground is completely immersed in a forest of Jeffrey pines and aspens, which illuminate the area with golden hues during the fall.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $19
TENT/CAR SITES: 22
Lakes Basin Campground is a hidden gem in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. With proximity to Lakes Basin, Bear Lakes and Round Lake, there are plenty of places to swim, fish, hike and explore. This is a particularly attractive campground for dog owners, as there are plenty of dog-friendly trails nearby.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $18
TENT/CAR SITES: 17
Crystal Springs Campground hosts 17 spacious campsites under pines and aspens. The campground does not take reservations, so you must arrive early to ensure a spot. If possible, grab a site along the base of the cliff, as they are the most secluded and private.
LOCATION: LAKE TAHOE + NORTHERN SIERRA, CA
PRICE: $35
TENT/CAR SITES: 75
Enjoy a scenic alpine valley setting at Grove Hot Springs State Park Campground, situated on the edge of a beautiful meadow under a Jeffrey pine forest. It is situated near Grover Hot Springs, the area's main attraction. Campers can also enjoy fishing in the nearby Carson River, and hiking and mountain biking along nearby trails.
HAPPY CAMPING!
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