What are the best camping spots in California for RVs?

Yosemite, Big Sur, Joshua Tree, and Lake Tahoe top the list. These destinations have legendary scenery, reliable facilities, and memorable road trip vibes. Check the official NPS California parks map for more inspiration.

Where can I camp on the beach with an RV in California?

Oceano Dunes, San Elijo, and Half Moon Bay all offer RV beach camping. Expect ocean views, sand, and quick access to the water—book ahead using the official ReserveCalifornia site.

Are California state parks RV-friendly?

Yes, most state parks offer sites for RVs. Many parks have designated RV spots with hookups and dump stations. Check each park’s rules on California State Parks .

How much does it cost to camp at California state parks with an RV?

Typical rates are $35–$65 per night. Fees vary by park, amenities, and season—see current rates on CA State Parks fee schedule .

What is the most scenic RV camping spot in California?

Big Sur and Yosemite are the most iconic for scenery. Dramatic cliffs, redwoods, and waterfalls make them favorites. Plan your visit at the Yosemite National Park or Big Sur State Parks websites.

How do I reserve an RV camping spot in California?

Use ReserveCalifornia.com or the National Park Service website. Book as early as possible on ReserveCalifornia for state parks or Recreation.gov for national parks.

Can you camp in California national parks with an RV?

Yes, but space is limited and reservations are required. See campground details and RV restrictions at each park’s official page on NPS.gov .

Are campfires allowed at California camping spots?

Campfires are usually allowed in fire rings, but may be banned in fire season. Check for current fire restrictions on California State Parks fire info or each national park’s website.

Do California camping spots have full hookups for RVs?

Some do, especially private RV parks, but most state and national parks do not. Always confirm amenities when reserving—see a list of public campgrounds at CA State Parks Camping .

Are pets allowed at California RV camping spots?

Most campgrounds allow leashed pets, but some restrictions apply. Review pet rules for each park at California State Parks Pets Policy .

What should I pack for an RV camping trip in California?

Bring layers, outdoor gear, food, first aid, and sun protection. See the official Ready.gov packing list for more tips.

Can you stay overnight with an RV at California beaches?

Yes, at certain beach campgrounds, but not on most public beaches. Reserve at places like San Elijo State Beach or Oceano Dunes SVRA .

Is it safe to camp in California during wildfire season?

It’s safe if you stay updated on fire conditions and follow park advisories. Get real-time updates from CAL FIRE or each park’s official site.

How far in advance should I book a camping spot in California?

Book 3–6 months ahead for popular parks, especially in summer. Find reservation windows and policies on ReserveCalifornia and Recreation.gov .

What amenities are included at most California RV camping spots?

Expect restrooms, water, picnic tables, and sometimes hookups. See details for each campground on California State Parks .

Are there any free RV camping spots in California?

Yes, on certain national forest and BLM lands. Learn more about dispersed camping on the US Forest Service website .

Can I rent an RV for a California road trip?

Yes, renting an RV for a California adventure is easy with roadsurfer. With RV rental in California , you can pick up a fully equipped RV near major cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, enjoy unlimited miles, and hit the open road with total flexibility.

Which California camping spots are best for families?

Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Pismo Beach are great for families. Check park amenities and family programs on each site’s NPS Find a Park page.

Are there any RV camping spots near Yosemite/Big Sur/Death Valley?

Yes, you’ll find RV campgrounds inside and just outside each park. Find locations and reservation links for Yosemite , Death Valley , and Big Sur .

Top 7 Campgrounds in California

Q: When is the best time of year to go RV camping in California?

Spring and fall have the best weather and smaller crowds. Summer is popular on the coast, while winter is ideal for desert destinations. See climate details on the National Weather Service .

California’s top campsites—where wild nights meet golden mornings.

When people talk about “the best campsites in California,” they’re usually thinking about more than just a tent or a parking spot. What they’re really after is that feeling—cool mornings under pine trees, smoky campfire dinners, falling asleep to ocean waves, or waking up with the sun on your face. Whether you’re starting your adventure with a convenient RV rental in California or setting out from one of the state’s major cities, this list brings together iconic parks and hidden gems where every night feels like an adventure and every sunrise promises something new. Whether you’re chasing starlit solitude, beach breezes, or family-friendly fun, these ten camping spots are your starting point for the ultimate California road trip.

San Francisco RV Resort
Oceano
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Wawona
D.L. Bliss State Park
Black Rock
Death Valley
Sequoia & Kings Canyon
Tips

San Francisco RV Resort

Best Coastal City Escape

Just outside the city buzz, this spot brings you classic California coast views with the convenience of city access. Wake up to the sound of waves, breathe in the ocean air, and watch sunsets just steps from your RV—perfect for anyone who wants urban adventure and beach vibes in one stop.

RV parked on the bluffs near San Francisco with ocean in the background—an ideal base for exploring Northern California campgrounds and city life.

Why We Love It

Oceanfront sites: RV spots perch right on the bluff, with unobstructed views of the Pacific.
Sunset central: Every evening feels special with waves below and skies glowing right from your campsite.
Close to the city: Only 15 miles from San Francisco, so you can explore by day and relax by the coast at night.
Resort perks: Heated pool, spa, and picnic areas add comfort to the coastal setting.
Welcoming community: A relaxed, friendly vibe makes it easy to feel at home among fellow travelers.

Parking & Access

Onsite RV parking: Large, level spaces for RVs and tow vehicles
Guest parking: Limited overflow spots for visitors—check with the office at arrival
Easy highway access: Just off Highway 1, close to Pacifica and San Francisco
Public transportation: Bus stops nearby for access to downtown SF
ADA: Accessible restrooms, paved walkways, and wheelchair-friendly sites
Dogs: Allowed in campground on leash; not allowed on the beach
Beach access: No direct beach access; Pacifica State Beach and Sharp Park Beach are a short drive or walk away

Oceano, North Beach Campground

Best Laid-Back Beach Vibes

On your way up the coast, take a break at this laid-back beach haven. You’re just a sand dune away from the Pacific, with plenty of space to stretch out and unwind. It’s a favorite for road trippers who crave easy beach access and a relaxed atmosphere.

Surfer heading into the waves at dawn next to a classic California beach pier, a favorite spot for coastal camping in California.

Why We Love It

Beachside camping: Walk straight from your RV through the dunes to wide, sandy Pacific shores.
Room to spread out: Flat, spacious sites make it easy to settle in, even during busy weekends.
Bonfire nights: Evenings on the sand glow with firelight and ocean breezes just steps from camp.
Wildlife moments: Monarch butterflies, seabirds, and dolphins are often spotted right from the beach.
Central location: Ideal stopover between Los Angeles and San Francisco along Highway 1.

Parking & Access

Onsite RV parking: Wide, level sites for RVs, trailers, and tents
Visitor parking: Day-use and overflow lots available near campground entrance
Easy access: Right off Highway 1 and near Highway 101 for easy arrival/departure
ADA: Accessible restrooms and some paved boardwalks for easier access
Dogs: Allowed on leash in campground and Oceano Dunes beach; not allowed in Pismo Beach nature preserve
Beach access: Direct walk from your campsite over the dunes to the sand
Showers: Clean, token-operated showers for campers

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur

Best Coastal Scenery and Redwoods

If you’re camping at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, you’re perfectly placed to explore some of Big Sur’s most unforgettable scenery. Don’t miss nearby Pfeiffer Beach, one of California’s best beaches—famous for its purple sand, dramatic sunsets, and iconic rock formations. It’s the perfect coastal adventure to pair with a night under the redwoods.

A hidden waterfall pours onto a secluded beach in Big Sur, capturing the dramatic scenery found at top California campgrounds.

Why We Love It

Unmatched views: Campsites sit above the Pacific, where ocean sunsets and morning fog roll right past your door.
Intimate setting: Limited walk-in sites keep crowds low and evenings quiet, ideal for unplugging.
Steps to McWay Falls: A short walk from camp leads to one of California’s most famous coastal views.
Immersed in redwoods: Towering trees surround the campground, adding shade and a true Big Sur atmosphere.
Wildlife from camp: Spot whales offshore or condors soaring above without leaving your site.

Parking & Access

Day-use parking: Paved lot near entrance (fee required); fills quickly on weekends
Accessible spots: ADA parking near restrooms and main overlook
No RV overnight parking: No RV camping inside the park; RV options available nearby
Trail access: Short walk from lot to McWay Falls overlook and main trails
Highway 1 access: Direct from Pacific Coast Highway; expect winding roads
Restrooms: Clean, accessible restrooms in the day-use area
Dogs: Allowed on leash in parking/picnic areas only; not allowed on trails, overlooks, or environmental campsites

Wawona Campground, Yosemite National Park

Best Granite Peaks and Forest Trails

Set in the heart of Yosemite National Park, Wawona puts you right among ancient forests and granite giants. Wake up surrounded by natural beauty, with endless trails and Yosemite’s wild spirit just outside your door.

View from inside a camper of Yosemite’s iconic granite cliffs, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes found at camping spots in California.

Why We Love It

Riverside sites: Many campsites sit along the South Fork of the Merced River, perfect for cooling off or relaxing by the water.
Shady forest setting: Towering pines and sequoias surround the campground, keeping it cool and scenic in every season.
Stargazing nights: Clear skies and quiet evenings make Wawona a peaceful spot for nights under the stars.
Historic character: The nearby Pioneer Yosemite History Center adds a rustic, cultural charm to your stay.
Central basecamp: Convenient location for day trips to Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove.

Parking & Access

Onsite RV parking: Spacious, designated spots for RVs and tents
Guest parking: Overflow and visitor parking near campground entrance
Easy access: Off Highway 41, accessible year-round
ADA: Accessible restrooms, some wheelchair-friendly campsites and picnic areas
Dogs: Allowed in campground and on paved roads/parking areas on leash; not allowed on trails (except Wawona Meadow Loop)
Trail access: Steps from scenic hiking and biking routes; trailheads nearby
Water & restrooms: Drinking water, restrooms, and food storage lockers throughout

D.L. Bliss State Park

Best Lake Views and Sandy Shores

Northern California’s lake views don’t get better than this—think clear water, sandy beaches, and pine-covered hills. D.L. Bliss offers postcard scenery plus easy access to kayaking, hiking, and small-town charm nearby.

Crystal-clear waters and pine forests surround an RV route along Lake Tahoe, a must-see destination for lakeside camping in California.

Why We Love It

Beachside sites: Camp just a short walk from Lester Beach and Calawee Cove, two of Tahoe’s most scenic shores.
Shaded setting: Tall pines surround the campground, offering cool relief on warm summer days.
Starry nights: Clear alpine skies make evenings around the fire feel wide open and peaceful.
Trail access: Popular routes like the Rubicon Trail start right from camp, blending shoreline and forest hikes.
Family-friendly vibe: Calm waters, picnic spots, and open space make it easy for kids and groups to enjoy.

Parking & Access

RV parking: Shaded sites for RVs, trailers, and tents
Day-use/overflow: Extra lots available; fill fast on weekends
Highway access: Just off Highway 89 with clear signage
ADA: Accessible restrooms and paved beach paths
Dogs: Leash-only in camp and paved areas; not on beaches/trails
Beach: Short walk to Lester Beach and Calawee Cove
Boat launch: Seasonal ramp for small boats, kayaks, and paddleboards

Black Rock Campground Joshua Tree National Park

Best Stargazing and Desert Landscapes

Experience the unique magic of Joshua Tree National Park—where spiky trees, boulder-studded landscapes, and big desert skies create an unforgettable backdrop. Sleep under the stars, soak up the silence, and feel the adventure of California’s wildest park.

A starlit sky shines above an RV parked in the desert, illustrating why California camping spots like Joshua Tree are perfect for night sky adventures.

Why We Love It

Secluded sites: Nestled among Joshua trees, the campground feels tucked away from busier park areas.
Dark skies: Some of the best stargazing in Joshua Tree is right from your campsite.
Trailhead access: Hiking and horseback trails begin directly from the campground for easy exploration.
Wildflower blooms: In spring, desert flowers add bursts of color throughout the campground.
Peaceful vibe: Fewer crowds make evenings quiet and mornings calm, ideal for recharging in the desert.

Parking & Access

RV parking: Level sites for RVs and tents (no hookups)
Day-use/overflow: Extra parking near entrances; limited in peak season
Access: Just outside Yucca Valley on paved roads
ADA: Accessible restrooms and some paved paths
Dogs: Leashed in camp/roads; not on trails or backcountry
Trails: Hiking and horseback routes start from campground
Water/restrooms: Drinking water, restrooms, and picnic tables at sites

Death Valley RV Park

Best Extreme Desert Adventure

A true desert adventure starts in Death Valley National Park. This basecamp gives you access to otherworldly landscapes, stargazing, and endless quiet. Cool off in the pool after a day exploring and see why Death Valley’s raw beauty is one for the books.

Lonely RV set against the rugged hills and golden brush of Death Valley, representing the wild spirit of remote California campgrounds.

Why We Love It

Full hookups: Level RV sites with hookups make desert camping easy and convenient.
Resort-style perks: Seasonal pool, hot tub, and shaded areas offer comfort after exploring the heat.
Close to Furnace Creek: Minutes from the visitor center, dining, and key Death Valley landmarks.
Stargazing from camp: Some of the clearest night skies in the U.S. are visible right from your site.
Easy access: Paved roads and wide pull-throughs make it friendly for larger rigs and trailers.

Parking & Access

RV parking: Level sites for RVs/trailers; some with hookups (confirm ahead)
Guest parking: Extra spaces near sites
Access: Off major highways near Furnace Creek
ADA: Accessible restrooms, showers, and paved walkways
Dogs: Leashed in camp/developed areas; not on trails
Pool & hot tub: Seasonal amenities; check availability
Park access: Minutes from visitor center, Badwater Basin, and Zabriskie Point

FAQ: Camping in California

Planning an RV camping trip in California comes with plenty of questions—especially if it’s your first time. To help, we’ve answered the most common questions about reservations, RV sizes, overnight parking, and the best seasons to go. Use this quick FAQ guide to make your California camping adventure simple and stress-free.

What is the best time of year to go RV camping in California?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are the best seasons for RV camping.
These months bring mild weather, fewer crowds, and scenic drives.
Summer is popular but busiest, with limited availability in top parks.
Winter offers unique experiences but some areas close due to snow.

Do I need a reservation for camping spots in California?

Yes—reservations are highly recommended at California’s most popular camping spots.
Yosemite, Big Sur, and Lake Tahoe often book out months in advance.
Some smaller parks and off-season dates may offer first-come, first-served sites.
Book state park sites through ReserveCalifornia.gov.

Can I park an RV overnight anywhere in California?

No—overnight RV parking is only allowed in designated areas.
Parking outside campgrounds or RV parks can result in fines.
Stick to official camping spots for safety and amenities.
Some Walmarts or truck stops may allow overnight stays, but always confirm locally.

What size RV is best for California’s roads and parks?

Smaller Class B and Class C RVs are the easiest to drive in California.
They handle winding coastal highways and mountain roads better than larger Class A models.
Most national and state park campgrounds have size limits, usually 25–35 feet.
Learn more in our guide to Class B vs Class C RVs.

Are there RV-friendly camping spots near the beach in California?

Yes—California has many RV-friendly camping spots with beach access.
Popular options include Oceano’s North Beach Campground, San Francisco RV Resort, and Big Sur’s coastal parks.
These spots combine ocean views with full RV facilities.
Book well in advance, especially for summer weekends.

More Tips & Inspiration for Your California Road Trip

Nature & Camping Inspiration

Ready to Explore California Your Way?

Forget the ordinary. Start your California road trip with a fully equipped RV—coastlines, deserts, and national parks are all within reach. It’s freedom, fun, and the perfect crew—just add you.

Book your trip from California