North California in orange

Best Family Campgrounds in Northern California

It’s the perfect time to start planning a Northern California camping trip with the family. From redwood forests to lakeside retreats and coastal campgrounds, this region offers some of the most diverse (and beautiful) camping in the country.

If you’re looking for family-friendly campgrounds in Northern California, we’ve rounded up 18 of the best spots for hiking, swimming, fishing, and relaxing outdoors—without sacrificing comfort.

And no—camping in California doesn’t have to mean roughing it.

Many of the campgrounds on this list offer clean facilities, organized activities, and thoughtful layouts that make camping easier (and more enjoyable) for families—whether you’re seasoned campers or heading out on your first trip.

💡 Pro Tip for Family Camping

Family camping is a lot more enjoyable with a clean, defined space to relax.

A durable outdoor mat gives kids a place to play, keeps dirt and sand out of your tent or RV, and makes your campsite feel more like home.

 

What We Look for in a Family-Friendly Campground

As parents ourselves, we know what makes or breaks a camping trip—especially with kids.

Clean Bathrooms

For tent campers especially, clean and well-maintained restrooms and showers are essential. Even RV campers appreciate having reliable facilities while exploring the park.

Kid-Friendly Activities

Playgrounds, easy hiking trails, and optional organized activities go a long way in keeping kids engaged. It’s not required—but it definitely helps.

Campsite Privacy

No one wants to feel packed in. We prioritize campgrounds that offer a bit of space and separation—so you can actually relax and enjoy the setting.

Mountain Mats
Recommended for Your Campsite Setup

 

With those criteria in mind, here are our picks for the best family campgrounds in Northern California.

Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park Campground

tall redwood trees
Carl Bolstad

Location:
1111 2nd St
Crescent City, CA 95531

Phone: 707-464-6101

Official Website Link

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground offers one of the most iconic camping experiences in Northern California—surrounded by towering old-growth redwoods and miles of peaceful forest trails. It’s a place that feels immersive and quiet, while still being very accessible for families.

In the summer months, the nearby Smith River becomes a natural playground, with lower water levels that are perfect for wading, swimming, and exploring. Combined with ranger programs and scenic campsites, it’s an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation.

Why Families Love It

  • Incredible redwood setting with easy access to hiking trails
  • Smith River provides a natural swimming and play area in summer
  • Ranger-led interpretive programs (seasonal)
  • Spacious, forested campsites with a peaceful atmosphere

Good to Know

  • RV size is limited (generally up to ~25 ft)
  • Hot showers are available but require a small fee
  • Popular in summer—book early
  • More nature-focused (fewer built-in “resort-style” amenities)

Campsite Details

RV, Tent & Trailer Sites

  • 86 campsites
  • Accommodates tents, trailers (up to ~21 ft), and RVs (up to ~25 ft)
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring + grill
    • Food storage locker
  • Max 8 people per site

 

Hike & Bike Sites

  • 5 sites
  • Walk-in / bike-in only
  • Picnic table, fire ring, grill, food storage locker

Group Site

  • 1 site
  • Up to 50 people / 15 vehicles

Del Loma RV Park

sign entrance to Del Loma RV park in CA

Location:
21720 Hwy 299
Big Bar, CA 96010

Phone: 530-623-2834

Official Website Link

Del Loma RV Park is a relaxed, family-friendly campground set along the Trinity River in Northern California. It’s a great option for families looking for a casual, low-key camping experience with plenty of space and easy access to outdoor activities.

With grassy sites, river access, and a mix of on-site развлечments and nearby adventures, it’s a spot where kids can stay busy while adults unwind. While the facilities are a bit older, they’re consistently reported as clean and well-maintained.

Why Families Love It

  • Riverfront setting with fishing, swimming, and rafting nearby
  • Fun on-site activities like mini golf, laser tag, and a game room
  • Swimming pool and open space for kids to play
  • Spacious sites with room for tents and RV setups

Good to Know

  • Facilities are older but generally clean and maintained
  • More casual campground—not a polished resort feel
  • Some activities (like laser tag) require an additional fee
  • Remote location—plan ahead for supplies

Campsite Details

RV, Trailer & Tent Sites

  • 58 campsites
  • Level sites with plenty of room for larger setups
  • Some sites offer 30/50 amp full hookups
  • Site rules:
    • Up to 2 tents per site
    • OR 1 RV + 1 tent per site

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

waterfalls into lake
Julio Mulero

Location:
4239 W A Barr Rd
Mt Shasta, CA 96067

Phone: 530-335-2777

Official Website Link

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is one of Northern California’s most memorable camping destinations, centered around the stunning 129-foot Burney Falls. Surrounded by forest, streams, and lake shoreline, it offers a mix of scenic beauty and easy-access outdoor activities that make it especially appealing for families.

 

Between swimming, boating, hiking, and exploring the falls, there’s no shortage of ways to spend the day. It’s the kind of campground where you can stay busy—or simply relax and take in the surroundings.

Why Families Love It

  • Iconic Burney Falls—one of the most beautiful waterfalls in California
  • Swimming and water play at both the falls area and nearby lakes
  • Wide range of activities: boating, fishing, hiking, and biking
  • Easy access to trails, including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail

Good to Know

  • Very popular—especially in summer—book early
  • Cabins are rustic (no electricity or running water)
  • Expect more foot traffic near Burney Falls itself
  • Great mix of nature and accessibility (not overly rugged)

Campsite Details

RV & Camper Sites

  • 85 campsites
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Food storage locker
  • Nearby restrooms with flush toilets, showers, and tap water

Tent Sites

  • 17 campsites
  • Similar setup:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Food storage locker
  • Restrooms and showers nearby

Cabins

  • 24 cabins (1- and 2-bedroom)
  • Walking distance to Burney Falls
  • Features:
    • Propane heaters
    • Platform beds with foam pads
    • Covered porch
    • Picnic table + fire ring
  • No electricity or running water (bring sleeping bags + lanterns)

Lassen Volcanic National Park

volcanic hotpool
wikiphotographer

Location:
Near Redding and Susanville

Phone: 530-595-4480

Official Website Link

Camping in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, alpine lakes, and high-elevation forest. With campgrounds ranging from 5,700 to 6,800 feet, expect cool mornings and chilly nights—even in summer.

 

The park has eight campgrounds with over 500 total campsites, giving families plenty of options depending on how remote or developed they want their experience to be. With more than 150 miles of trails, plus lakes for paddling and swimming, it’s a destination where you can easily spend several days exploring.

Why Families Love It

  • Unique volcanic features like steaming fumaroles and lava landscapes
  • Huge variety of hiking trails (150+ miles)
  • Lakes for kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing by the water
  • Ranger-led programs in both summer and winter

Good to Know

  • Higher elevation—expect cold nights and cooler temperatures year-round
  • Some campgrounds are more primitive (limited or no water)
  • Seasonal access varies—many campgrounds are only open summer through early fall
  • Spread-out park—driving between areas can take time

Campsite Details

Lassen Volcanic National Park has 8 campgrounds with a wide range of amenities and settings:


Manzanita Lake Campground (Most Developed)

  • 179 campsites
  • Flush & vault toilets, drinking water
  • Boat launch, RV sites
  • Pay showers & laundry nearby
  • Dump station
  • 20 camping cabins available
  • Partially reservable

Butte Lake Campground

  • 101 campsites + 6 group sites
  • Vault toilets, drinking water (seasonal)
  • Boat launch, RV sites
  • Partially reservable

Summit Lake Campgrounds (North & South)

  • North: 46 sites (flush toilets, drinking water)
  • South: 48 sites (vault toilets, drinking water)
  • Boat launch, RV sites
  • Partially reservable

Juniper Lake Campground

  • 18 campsites + 2 group sites
  • Vault toilets, boat launch
  • No potable water (lake water only)
  • Reservations required for group sites

Warner Valley Campground

  • 20 campsites
  • Vault toilets, drinking water
  • RV sites
  • First-come, first-served

Southwest Walk-In Campground

  • 20 walk-in campsites
  • Flush & vault toilets, drinking water
  • No reservations

Lost Creek Group Campground

  • 8 group campsites
  • Vault toilets, drinking water
  • RV access
  • Reservations required

Donner Memorial State Park

donner memorial statue
Ken Lund

Location:
12593 Donner Pass Rd
Truckee, CA 96161

Phone: 530-582-7892

Official Website Link

Donner Memorial State Park Campground combines beautiful Sierra Nevada scenery with one of the most well-known stories in California history. Located near Donner Lake, it offers families a chance to mix outdoor recreation with a visit to the park’s excellent visitor center, which brings the region’s past to life.

 

In the warmer months, the lake becomes a hub for swimming, boating, and relaxing at the beach, while nearby trails offer easy access to hiking and exploring. It’s a well-rounded campground that works especially well for families looking for both activity and education.

Why Families Love It

  • Easy access to Donner Lake for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing
  • Visitor center with engaging exhibits on local history
  • Variety of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, and boating
  • Scenic Sierra setting with a mix of forest and lake views

Good to Know

  • No hookups—better suited for tent camping or smaller RV setups
  • RV length limits (~28 ft max) and trailers (~24 ft max)
  • Open seasonally (typically Memorial Day through mid-October)
  • Can be busy in peak summer months

Campsite Details

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 154 campsites
  • No hookups
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Food storage locker
  • Max 8 people per site
  • Pets allowed (must be leashed and attended)
  • RV max length: ~28 ft
  • Trailer max length: ~24 ft

Not sure what size outdoor mat you need for camping or RV life?
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right one:
Finding Your Perfect Outdoor RV Mat

Camp Richardson Historic Resort & Marina

lake with dock at sunset
Jonathan Cook-Fisher

Location:

1900 Jameson Beach Rd
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Phone: 800-544-1801

Official Website Link

Camp Richardson Campground offers a classic Lake Tahoe camping experience with an incredible mix of outdoor adventure and on-site amenities. Located just steps from the lake, it’s an ideal base for families who want both easy access to nature and plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged.

 

In the summer, families can enjoy swimming, biking, boating, and hiking, while winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and more. With a marina, dining options, and equipment rentals all on-site, it’s a campground that makes planning easy.

Why Families Love It

  • Walking distance to Lake Tahoe for swimming and lake activities
  • Tons of on-site amenities (marina, restaurant, general store, rentals)
  • Activities for both summer and winter camping
  • Easy access to biking trails, including a 20-mile paved path

Good to Know

  • No pets allowed in either tent or RV camping areas
  • More developed campground—less secluded than forest campsites
  • Can be busy, especially during peak summer months
  • Strong cell service and WiFi (a plus for some, downside for others)

Campsite Details

Tent Sites

  • ~200 campsites
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Bear-proof food locker
  • No pets allowed

 

RV Sites

  • ~100 campsites
  • Water & electric hookups available
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
  • No pets allowed

Wrights Lake Campground

Location:
Kyburz, CA

Phone: 530-644-2324

Official Website Link

Wrights Lake Campground is a great choice for families who want a true Sierra Nevada outdoor experience with easy access to a wide range of activities. Set near the shores of Wrights Lake and surrounded by forest, it offers a peaceful, nature-focused setting that still has plenty to do.

In the summer, families can enjoy everything from swimming and fishing to hiking, biking, and boating. It’s especially popular with more active campers who want to explore beyond the campsite. In the colder months, it transforms into a quiet winter destination for snowshoeing and cold-weather adventures.

Why Families Love It

  • Beautiful Sierra Nevada setting near Wrights Lake
  • Wide variety of outdoor activities (hiking, biking, swimming, boating)
  • Great for more adventurous families who like to explore
  • Wildlife viewing and nature-focused experience

Good to Know

  • More rustic campground with fewer built-in amenities
  • Water availability is seasonal
  • Can be chilly—especially mornings and evenings
  • Equestrian sites require horses or pack animals

Campsite Details

Tent-Only Sites

  • 19 campsites
  • Picnic table, fire ring, bear-proof food locker
  • Pets allowed (leashed and attended)

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 47 campsites
  • Picnic table, fire ring, bear-proof food locker
  • Pets allowed (leashed and attended)

Equestrian Sites (Tent/Trailer/RV)

  • 15 campsites
  • Must have at least one equine or pack animal per site
  • Vault toilets, piped water
  • Picnic table, fire grill, bear-proof food locker

Silver Lake West Campground

river rapids

Location:
Carson Pass Highway
Pioneer, CA 95666

Phone: 530-295-6824

Official Website Link

Silver Lake West Campground is a quieter, more tucked-away option for families looking to slow down and enjoy a peaceful camping experience in the Sierra Nevada. With private-feeling campsites and beautiful natural surroundings, it’s a great place to unplug and recharge.

Located near Silver Lake, families can spend their days hiking, climbing on large boulders, and swimming in the clear mountain water. It’s a low-key campground—perfect for those who prefer nature and simplicity over busy, activity-packed parks.

Why Families Love It

  • Quiet, less crowded campground with more privacy
  • Easy access to Silver Lake for swimming and relaxing
  • Great for exploring—hiking, bouldering, and nature play
  • Peaceful setting that feels more “off the radar”

Good to Know

  • First-come, first-served (no reservations)
  • Limited to smaller RVs and trailers (max ~24 ft)
  • Fill water tanks before arrival (limited water access for RVs)
  • More rustic—fewer amenities than larger campgrounds

Campsite Details

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 42 campsites
  • Suitable for tents, small RVs, and trailers (max ~24 ft)
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring & grill
    • Bear-proof food locker
  • Pets allowed

Gerstle Campground

shore of a blue lake

Location:
25050 Highway 1
Jenner, CA 95450

Phone: 707-847-3221

Official Website Link

Gerstle Campground is a small, family-friendly campground set along the rugged Northern California coastline near Gerstle Cove. With just 30 campsites, it offers a more intimate camping experience with easy access to some of the area’s most unique coastal features.

At low tide, the nearby tide pools become a natural classroom for kids, where they can safely observe sea stars, urchins, small fish, and other marine life. Combined with ocean views, coastal trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, it’s a memorable destination for families who enjoy exploring nature up close.

Why Families Love It

  • Tide pools full of marine life (great for kids to explore)
  • Small campground with a quieter, more personal feel
  • Coastal setting with opportunities for whale watching (seasonal)
  • Access to hiking trails and ocean activities

Good to Know

  • Reservations strongly recommended (especially March–October)
  • Coastal weather can be cool, foggy, and windy
  • Be respectful and cautious around tide pool wildlife
  • Smaller campground—limited availability

Campsite Details

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 30 campsites
  • Paved pads
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring & grill
    • Food storage locker
  • Drinking water and flush toilets nearby

Sonoma Coast State Park (4 Campgrounds)

beach at somona park
harminder dhesi

Location:
3095 Highway 1
Bodega Bay, CA 94923

Phone: 707-875-3483

Official Website Link

Sonoma Coast State Park offers one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in Northern California, with 16 miles of beaches, coves, headlands, and tide pools to explore. It’s a great destination for families who want a coastal camping experience with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure.

From whale watching in the winter and spring to tide pooling and beachcombing year-round, there’s always something to discover. With four different campgrounds to choose from—ranging from more developed to primitive—families can pick the experience that fits them best.

Why Families Love It

  • 16 miles of coastline to explore (beaches, tide pools, coves)
  • Seasonal whale watching (Dec–April) and year-round wildlife sightings
  • Variety of campground options—from developed to primitive
  • Easy access to hiking trails and beach activities

Good to Know

  • Coastal weather can be windy, foggy, and cool—even in summer
  • No hookups at any of the campgrounds
  • Some campgrounds are walk-in and more primitive
  • Be mindful of wildlife (especially harbor seals during pup season)

Campsite Details

Sonoma Coast State Park has 4 campgrounds, each with a different level of amenities:


Bodega Dunes Campground (Most Developed)

  • 99 campsites
  • Picnic table, fire ring, food locker
  • Bathrooms + showers
  • Max RV/trailer length: ~31 ft
  • No hookups

Wrights Beach Campground

  • 27 campsites
  • Picnic table, fire ring, food locker
  • Bathrooms (no showers)
  • Tap water available
  • Max RV/trailer length: ~31 ft
  • No hookups

Willow Creek Campground (Environmental Camp)

  • 11 campsites
  • Walk-in sites
  • Picnic table, fire ring
  • Pit toilets

Pomo Canyon Campground (Environmental Camp)

  • 20 campsites
  • Walk-in sites
  • Picnic table, fire ring
  • Pit toilets

Trying to keep your tent clean (especially with kids)?
This guide walks through simple ways to keep dirt, sand, and moisture out of your setup:
How to Keep Your Tent Clean and Dry While Camping

Lake Alpine Campground

mountain lake reflecting nature
don graham

Location:
4000 CA-4
Arnold, CA 95223

Phone: 209-795-1381

Official Website Link

Lake Alpine Campground is a small, scenic campground set along the shores of a beautiful alpine lake in the Sierra Nevada. With just 25 campsites—all within walking distance of the water—it’s an easy and relaxing option for families who want to spend most of their time outdoors.

Days here are simple and full: swimming, boating, fishing, or hiking the easy 4-mile loop around the lake. With a lodge, restaurant, and general store nearby, it offers just enough convenience without taking away from the peaceful, nature-focused experience.

Why Families Love It

  • All campsites are walking distance to Lake Alpine
  • Easy, family-friendly 4-mile loop trail around the lake
  • Swimming, boating, and fishing all in one spot
  • On-site lodge, restaurant, and general store nearby

Good to Know

  • Small campground—sites can fill quickly
  • No hookups
  • More low-key and quiet (not activity-heavy like larger parks)
  • Seasonal ranger programs offered in summer

Campsite Details

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 25 campsites
  • All sites within walking distance of the lake
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
  • Restrooms with flush toilets nearby
  • No hookups
  • Pets allowed

North Grove Campground at Calaveras Big Trees State Park

kids standing inside a giant redwood tree
Phae

Location:
Arnold, CA 95223

Phone: 209-795-2334

Official Website Link

North Grove Campground at Calaveras Big Trees State Park offers a memorable camping experience among towering giant sequoias. Families can walk among some of the largest trees in the world while enjoying a well-maintained park with easy access to trails and educational programs.

The park does a great job making nature engaging for kids, with ranger-led programs, guided walks, and Junior Ranger activities. It’s a great mix of outdoor exploration and learning—without feeling overly structured.

Why Families Love It

  • Walk among massive giant sequoias (a truly unique experience)
  • Kid-focused programs like Junior Rangers and Junior Cubs
  • Easy, scenic hiking trails through the grove
  • Strong mix of nature, education, and accessibility

Good to Know

  • RV/trailer length limit (~30 ft)
  • No hookups
  • Popular destination—can fill up quickly in peak season
  • More nature-focused (not a resort-style campground)

Campsite Details

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 58 campsites
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Food storage locker
  • Restrooms with flush toilets nearby
  • Max RV/trailer length: ~30 ft

Pinecrest Campground

people playing on a lakeshore
Giles Douglas

Location:
18 Pinecrest Lake Rd
Pinecrest, CA 95364

Phone: 209-965-3116

Official Website Link

Pinecrest Campground is a popular family destination centered around Pinecrest Lake in the Sierra Nevada. It’s a great option for families who want easy access to swimming, boating, and lakeside activities without needing to leave the campground area.

With a scenic 4-mile trail around the lake and nearby access to Sonora Pass, there’s plenty to explore both on foot and by car. It’s a straightforward, activity-focused campground that works especially well for summer trips.

Why Families Love It

  • Easy access to Pinecrest Lake for swimming, boating, and fishing
  • 4-mile loop trail around the lake (great for walking or biking)
  • Marina and rentals available (boats, paddleboards, bikes)
  • Classic summer campground with lots to do in one area

Good to Know

  • Very popular—reservations required during peak season (Memorial Day–Labor Day)
  • No hookups
  • Busy during summer months
  • More activity-focused than secluded

Campsite Details

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 196 campsites
  • No hookups
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Paved parking pad
  • Drinking water and flush restrooms nearby

Anthony Chabot Regional Park Campground

blue tent overlooking a mountain lake
Dwan

Location:
9999 Redwood Rd
Castro Valley, CA 94552

Phone: 1-888-327-2757

Official Website Link

Anthony Chabot Regional Park Campground is a convenient and accessible camping option just 30 minutes from downtown Oakland. Set near Lake Chabot, it offers a quick escape into nature without requiring a long drive.

With over 70 miles of trails and easy access to the lake, it’s a great choice for families who want a mix of hiking, biking, and water activities—all within a well-developed park setting.

Why Families Love It

  • Close to the Bay Area (easy weekend getaway)
  • Access to Lake Chabot for fishing, kayaking, and boating
  • Extensive trail system for hiking and biking
  • Variety of campsite types, including full hookups

Good to Know

  • More developed park—less secluded than remote campgrounds
  • Can be popular on weekends due to proximity to the city
  • Good option for shorter trips or first-time campers
  • Mix of camping styles (RV, tent, hike-in)

Campsite Details

RV & Trailer Sites (Full Hookups)

  • 12 campsites
  • Full hookups (sewer, water, 30 amp electric)
  • Picnic table, fire ring + grill
  • Restrooms with showers nearby

Hike-In Sites

  • 10 campsites
  • Vehicle parking nearby
  • Picnic table, fire ring + grill
  • Restrooms with showers nearby

Tent / No-Hookup Sites

  • 53 campsites
  • Picnic table, fire ring + grill
  • Restrooms with showers nearby

Upper Pines Campground

woman sitting by a campfire by a tent
Robbi Baba

Location:
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Valley, CA 95389

Phone: 209-372-8502

Official Website Link

Upper Pines Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in Yosemite National Park—and for good reason. Located in Yosemite Valley, it’s a convenient home base for exploring some of the park’s most iconic sights, including Half Dome, Glacier Point, and countless hiking trails.

There’s no shortage of things to do here—families can spend days hiking, exploring rivers, biking, or simply taking in the scenery. It’s an unforgettable place to camp, especially for first-time visitors to Yosemite.

Why Families Love It

  • Prime location in Yosemite Valley
  • Easy access to major trails and landmarks (Half Dome, Glacier Point)
  • Huge variety of activities (hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, more)
  • Classic “bucket list” camping experience

Good to Know

  • Extremely busy—especially April through October
  • Campsites are close together (limited privacy)
  • Expect crowds—plan early starts for popular hikes
  • No hookups

Campsite Details

Tent, Trailer & RV Sites

  • 238 campsites
  • RVs up to ~35 ft, trailers up to ~24 ft
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Food storage locker
  • Restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water nearby
  • No hookups

Planning a coastal camping trip?
Don’t miss this guide with tips specific to beach environments:
Guide to Beach Camping

Big Basin Redwoods State Park Campgrounds

2 vw buses at a campground
Markus Spiering

Location:
21600 Big Basin Way
Boulder Creek, CA 95006

Phone: 1-831-338-8861

Official Website Link

Big Basin Redwoods State Park—established in 1902—is California’s oldest state park and home to some of the most awe-inspiring redwood forests in the state. Walking among these ancient trees—some over 1,000 years old—is an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults.

The park offers multiple camping options set within the redwoods, along with miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities to explore the area’s rich natural history. It’s a destination that combines scale, beauty, and a deep sense of place.

Why Families Love It

  • Walk among massive, ancient redwood trees
  • Extensive trail system (80+ miles) with waterfalls and wildlife
  • Strong educational component (nature and history center)
  • Variety of camping options, including group and backcountry sites

Good to Know

  • Some areas and amenities have changed due to recent wildfire damage
  • No tent cabins currently available
  • No hookups
  • Check current park status and availability before planning

Campsite Details

Standard Campsites

  • 142 campsites
  • No hookups
  • Some sites accommodate:
    • RVs up to ~27 ft
    • Trailers up to ~24 ft

Group Campgrounds

  • 4 sites
  • Sequoia Group Camp: up to ~50 people
  • Sky Meadow Group Camp: up to ~40 people

Horse Camp (Rancho del Oso)

  • Reservations required
  • No dogs allowed
  • Call park for details

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground

giant redwood tree
Ken Lund

Location:
101 N. Big Trees Park Rd
Felton, CA 95018

Phone: 1-831-335-4598

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Campground is a great introduction to California’s redwood forests, especially for families. The park’s 40-acre old-growth grove features towering trees and an easy, scenic loop trail that’s perfect for all ages.

One of the standout features here is the nearby Roaring Camp Railroad, where families can ride an authentic steam train through the redwoods—an experience that’s especially memorable for kids. With a mix of nature, history, and easy access trails, it’s a well-rounded and approachable campground.

Why Families Love It

  • Easy access to a beautiful old-growth redwood grove
  • Family-friendly trails, including the Redwood Grove Loop
  • Roaring Camp Railroad nearby (fun and unique experience for kids)
  • Mix of nature, education, and nearby attractions

Good to Know

  • No hookups
  • Popular campground—can fill up quickly
  • More accessible and developed (not a remote wilderness experience)
  • Fishing in the San Lorenzo River is catch-and-release only

Campsite Details

Standard Campsites

  • 107 campsites
  • Each site includes:
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring
    • Food storage locker
  • Restrooms with flush toilets nearby

Camp Edison

show of a lake in CA
Dru Kelly

Location:
42696 Tollhouse Rd
Shaver Lake, CA 93664

Phone: 1-559-841-3134 ext. 6

Official Website Link

Camp Edison is a well-developed, family-focused campground set in a pine forest along the shores of Shaver Lake. Open year-round, it offers a wide range of summer and winter activities, making it a reliable choice no matter the season.

This campground leans more toward a “camping resort” experience—with amenities like hookups, WiFi, a general store, and even organized activities for kids. In the summer, families can enjoy events like ice cream socials and movies at the amphitheater, creating a fun, community-style atmosphere.

Why Families Love It

  • Tons of amenities (hookups, store, showers, laundry)
  • Kid-friendly activities and events in summer
  • Easy access to Shaver Lake for swimming, boating, and fishing
  • Year-round camping with both summer and winter recreation

Good to Know

  • More of a developed campground vs. rustic experience
  • WiFi available for a fee
  • Very family-oriented and active (not a quiet, secluded campground)
  • Mix of full and partial hookup sites

Campsite Details

Full Hook-Up Sites

  • 43 campsites
  • Each site includes:
    • Electric, water, sewer
    • Cable TV
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring

Partial Hook-Up Sites

  • 209 campsites
  • Each site includes:
    • Electric
    • Cable TV
    • Picnic table
    • Fire ring

Make Camping More Comfortable (and Less Messy)

Camping with kids is incredible—but it also means sand, dirt, mud, snacks, and gear everywhere.

A simple outdoor mat creates a clean, defined space at your campsite—whether you’re at the beach, in the woods, or parked at an RV resort.

Why Families Love Using an Outdoor Mat at Campgrounds

  • Keeps sand and dirt out of your tent or RV
  • Creates a clean place for kids to play, eat, or hang out
  • Comfortable underfoot (especially on gravel or hard ground)
  • Easy to shake off, rinse, and pack away

Where You’ll Actually Use It

  • Outside your RV or tent as a “front porch”
  • At the beach (especially at coastal campgrounds)
  • Under picnic tables for meals
  • At sports sidelines or day trips during your stay

👉 Create a clean, comfortable space at your campsite with a durable outdoor mat designed for real RV living.

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