Camping in California
The best campgrounds in California — Yosemite, Big Sur, Joshua Tree, and more. Reservation tips, season info, and gear recommendations.
California has more campground variety than almost any other state. You can camp under redwoods, in the desert, on the coast, and at 10,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada — sometimes within a few hours of each other.
The biggest challenge is reservations. California’s most popular campgrounds — Yosemite Valley, Big Sur, Mount Tamalpais — book out months in advance through Recreation.gov and Reserve America. Planning ahead is not optional.
Best Campgrounds in California
Yosemite Valley Campgrounds
Iconic, crowded, worth it. Book exactly 5 months ahead when the reservation window opens. Multiple campgrounds with different character — Upper Pines is the most central.
Kirk Creek Campground, Big Sur
Cliffside sites above the Pacific Ocean. One of the best views from any campsite in the country. Fills fast despite being less known than Pfeiffer.
Jumbo Rocks, Joshua Tree
Desert camping among massive boulder formations. Outstanding stargazing. First-come first-served in shoulder season, reservations needed in peak spring.
Convict Lake Campground, Mammoth
High Sierra camping with a stunning lake and easy trail access. Elevation around 7,600 feet — bring warm layers.
When to Camp in California
- Coast: Year-round, though summer fog is common north of Big Sur
- Sierra Nevada: June through October; passes may be closed in early season
- Desert: October through April; summer heat is extreme and dangerous
What to Pack
California’s campgrounds vary widely by elevation and region. See our best camping tents and sleeping bag guide for recommendations that cover the full range.