What Are The Must-visit RV Camping Destinations In Northern California?

Would you like a road trip full of towering redwoods, mirror-like alpine lakes, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and rugged Pacific coastline all from the comfort of your RV?

What Are The Must-visit RV Camping Destinations In Northern California?

Northern California gives you an amazing range of RV camping experiences — from primitive forest sites beneath ancient giants to full-hookup parks with luxury amenities. You’ll find coastal bluffs, serene lakes, mountain meadows, volcanic fields, and deep redwood canyons. Below you’ll get a curated list of must-visit destinations, practical tips for RV camping in the region, seasonal recommendations, and a comparison table to help you plan.

How to use this guide

This guide highlights top Northern California RV destinations by region, with essential details for each campground, local attractions, and practical RV advice. You’ll see a comparison table for quick planning and deeper descriptions to help you match destinations to the kind of trip you want.

Quick comparison of recommended campgrounds

This table gives you a snapshot of recommended campgrounds, the type of site, hookups, maximum RV length, reservation method, and what makes each spot special.

Region	Campground	Type	Hookups	Max RV Length	Reservations	Pet Friendly	Highlights
Redwood Coast	Jedediah Smith Campground (Jedediah Smith SP)	State	No (water at site, limited)	35 ft	ReserveCalifornia	Yes	Old-growth redwoods, Smith River access
Redwood Coast	Gold Bluffs Beach Campground (Prairie Creek SP)	State	No	40 ft	ReserveCalifornia	Yes (on leash)	Beachfront, elk sightings
Humboldt Coast	Richardson Grove Campground	State	No	40 ft	ReserveCalifornia	Yes	Ancient redwoods right off US-101
Mendocino Coast	Van Damme State Park Campground	State	Limited/no	35 ft	ReserveCalifornia	Yes	Fern canyon, pygmy forest, beach access
Sonoma Coast	Wright’s Beach / Shell Beach (Sonoma Coast SP)	State	No	40 ft	ReserveCalifornia	Yes	Coastal bluffs and dramatic tides
Point Reyes	Point Reyes National Seashore (Sky Campgrounds)	National Seashore	No	30–35 ft	Recreation.gov	Some sites allow	Rugged coastal trails, elk, lighthouse
Lake Tahoe	North Tahoe RV Parks (various)	Private/State	Full/Partial	40+ ft	Direct/ReserveAmerica	Yes	Lake access, water sports, winter skiing nearby
Lassen Volcanic	Manzanita Lake Campground (Lassen NP)	National Park	No (water at site)	35 ft	Recreation.gov	Yes	Volcanic features, fishing, stargazing
Shasta Region	Lake Shasta Caverns / Shasta Lake Recreation	Private/State	Partial/full	40+ ft	Direct/Accredited sites	Yes	Houseboat/boating, caverns, scenic drives
Trinity Alps	Trinity Lake (various)	National Forest/Private	Varies	30–45 ft	Recreation.gov/Forest Service	Yes	Remote lakes, fishing, fewer crowds
Sacramento Delta	Folsom Lake State Recreation Area	State	No (some RV sites limited)	40 ft	ReserveCalifornia	Yes	Water recreation, close to Sacramento
Sierra Foothills	Donner Memorial State Park (Truckee area)	State	Full/Partial	40 ft	ReserveCalifornia	Yes	Historic Donner Lake, short drives to Tahoe

Redwood Coast — Giant Trees and Coastal Beauty

You’ll find the iconic redwood forests along the northern coast, where ancient trees create cathedral-like canopies. Camp near rushing rivers or on coastal dunes for a mix of forest and ocean.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park (Smith River area)

Jedediah Smith offers towering old-growth redwoods and the scenic Smith River. You’ll love quiet, shady sites and quick access to swimming, fishing, and easy hiking. Sites are generally small-to-medium — check length limits and bring a leveler for uneven ground.

• Best for: Forest lovers, river recreation
• Tools to bring: Long leveling blocks, bug spray, warm layers
• Reservations: ReserveCalifornia; book early in summer

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park — Gold Bluffs Beach

Gold Bluffs Beach puts you between the redwoods and the ocean. You’ll spot Roosevelt elk grazing near the beach and enjoy miles of coastline. Campsites are rustic; plan for no hookups and bring potable water if needed.

• Best for: Beach+redwood combo, elk watching
• Note: Nighttime fog and strong winds are possible; secure awnings and outdoor gear

Richardson Grove State Park

Right on US-101, Richardson Grove is convenient yet full of big trees. You’ll find campsites that can handle longer rigs and easy access to the scenic drive through ancient redwoods.

• Best for: Quick stop along the coastal highway, family camping
• Tips: Use the park as a base for scenic drives up and down the coast

Humboldt and Northern Coast — Rugged Shorelines and Quiet Forests

This area blends coastal cliffs with pocket beaches and tranquil rivers. Cell service can be spotty, which is perfect if you’re trying to unplug.

Patrick’s Point State Park

You’ll enjoy trails along coastal bluffs, tide pools, and a forested campground. Sites range from primitive to more developed. It’s a great jumping-off point for cultural sites and scenic viewpoints.

• Best for: Tidepooling, family-friendly trails
• Amenities: Restrooms, potable water, no hookups in most areas

Humboldt Redwoods State Park / Avenue of the Giants

Drive one of the most scenic forested routes in the state, camp among massive trunks, and take serene river walks. You’ll find both primitive and developed campgrounds, some that can accommodate large RVs.

• Best for: Classic redwood drives and photography
• Reservation: ReserveCalifornia for major sites; some walk-in sites exist

Mendocino and Sonoma Coast — Clifftop Views and Cozy Towns

You’ll move between charming coastal towns and rugged state parks. The campgrounds here can be small and popular on summer weekends.

Van Damme State Park (Mendocino)

Van Damme offers fern canyons, a pygmy forest, and ocean access. Campgrounds are shaded with limited hookups, and you’ll want to pack hiking shoes and a camera.

• Best for: Families, easy hikes, beach access
• Note: Watch for high tides and strong coastal winds

Russian Gulch & Mendocino Headlands

You’ll find small coastal campgrounds and RV-friendly sites near the quaint town of Mendocino. Trails and overlooks are close by, and the town has good dining options.

• Best for: Romantic weekend or scenic photography
• Tip: Book ahead for popular summer weekends

Sonoma Coast State Park (Wright’s Beach, Shell Beach)

You’ll get dramatic cliffs and expansive beaches. Pewter-colored sunsets and tide pools make for great evening walks. Campgrounds are basic with limited hookups.

• Best for: Quiet beaches, long walks, coastal birding

Point Reyes National Seashore — Rugged Coastline and Wildlife

Point Reyes puts you on nearly untouched coastal landscapes, with elk herds, a historic lighthouse, and expansive beaches. Camping tends to be more primitive, and many sites require backpacking, but there are a few car-accessible sites.

Point Reyes Campgrounds

You’ll have options like Sky Campground (near the Bear Valley Visitor Center) that accept reservations through Recreation.gov. Many coastal sites are walk-in or backcountry; plan for limited services and strong wind.

• Best for: Wildlife viewing, short hikes, lighthouse visits
• Planning: Check tide charts before coastal hikes and keep distance from elk and pups

Lake Tahoe and the Northern Sierra — Alpine Lakes and Year-Round Recreation

Lake Tahoe has crystal-clear water, mountain vistas, and abundant recreation in summer and winter. The region has everything from primitive forest campsites to private RV resorts with full hookups.

North Lake Tahoe / Truckee area

You’ll find RV parks with full hookups, as well as national forest sites for more rustic experiences. Popular towns like Truckee, Tahoe City, and Kings Beach provide dining, shops, and gear rental.

• Best for: Boating, mountain biking, skiing in winter
• Reservations: Many Tahoe-area sites fill months ahead; plan early for summer and winter holidays

Donner Memorial State Park

This park gives you lakeside camping close to historic Donner Lake and the Pacific Crest Trail’s vicinity. It’s an excellent base for exploring Truckee and northern Tahoe attractions.

• Best for: History buffs, lake activities, proximity to Tahoe

Lassen Volcanic National Park & Shasta Cascade — Geology and Quiet Wilderness

You’ll find volcanic landscapes, hydrothermal sites, high-elevation trails, and fewer crowds compared to Yosemite. Lassen is perfect for those who love unique geology and star-filled skies.

Manzanita Lake Campground (Lassen)

Manzanita Lake is one of the most popular camping spots in Lassen NP, with great views of Lassen Peak. Sites tend to be non-electric with potable water available nearby, and the park offers excellent day hikes.

• Best for: Stargazing, volcano views, family hikes
• Note: Summer afternoons can be busy; mornings are peaceful

Lake Shasta and Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

Shasta Lake has marinas, houseboats, and several lakeside campgrounds. You’ll enjoy boating, fishing, and scenic drives around the lake. Some private parks provide full hookups and washer/dryer facilities.

• Best for: Boating enthusiasts, families, water sports
• Logistics: Watch for low water levels in dry years and check marina access for large RV tow boats

Trinity Alps and Shasta Wilderness — Remote Lakes and Mountain Peaks

If you prefer fewer crowds and more solitude, Trinity Alps and surrounding national forest lands are excellent choices. You’ll find primitive camps and forest service units that can accommodate larger rigs in certain areas.

Trinity Lake and National Forest Campgrounds

You’ll have options for both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping. Trinity Lake is a calmer alternative to Shasta with plenty of fishing spots and quiet coves.

• Best for: Boondocking, fishing, solitude
• Tips: Bring extra water and fuel; services can be far between

Sacramento Delta and Foothills — Water Recreation and Easy Access

These areas are closer to major metropolitan centers and offer easy weekend getaways for boating, fishing, and quick hikes.

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

You’ll find campgrounds near the lake with water access, trails, and picnic areas. It’s easy to use as a base for visiting Sacramento or nearby gold country towns.

• Best for: Quick weekend trips, water sports, family camps
• Amenities: Restrooms and potable water; hookups limited

Lake Berryessa (Napa County)

You’ll get a warm Mediterranean climate and lots of water-based recreation. Several parks and private campgrounds offer RV sites with varying levels of service.

• Best for: Boating, wine country detours, warm weather camping
• Caution: Boat ramp and shoreline access can be crowded on summer weekends

Practical RV Camping Tips for Northern California

Here are key practical tips tailored to the variety of settings you’ll find in Northern California, including redwoods, coast, mountains, and lakes.

Reservations and peak season planning

You’ll want to reserve popular sites well in advance, especially for Lake Tahoe, Lassen, and major state parks along the coast. ReserveCalifornia and Recreation.gov are the main platforms. Private campgrounds often have their own booking systems.

• Tip: Weekends and holidays book fastest. Plan at least 3–6 months ahead for summer in popular areas.

Hookups, water, and electricity

Northern California campgrounds vary a lot — many state and national park sites are dry or have only water at a spigot, while private RV parks offer full hookups and amenities.

• Bring: Long water hoses, sewer hoses, ample extension cords, and adapter kits for different hookups.
• Planning: Always confirm your desired hook-up type before arriving.

Waste disposal and dump stations

Dump stations aren’t always available inside remote parks. You’ll need to know the location of the nearest public dump or plan for a private RV park that offers the service.

• Tip: Map dump stations ahead of long routes and empty tanks in more developed areas.

Generators, quiet hours, and camp etiquette

Generators are allowed at many RV parks but often only during certain hours. Quiet hours are common — respect neighbors and wildlife.

• Courteous actions: Move vehicles quietly at night, control pets, and obey fire restrictions.

Cell service and connectivity

Cell coverage is inconsistent in redwood groves, high mountain passes, and some coastal pockets. If you rely on navigation or remote work, plan for offline maps or a cellular booster.

• Backup: Download maps and reserve critical information before you lose service.

Propane, winterizing, and fuel

Many mountain campgrounds get cold; you’ll want reliable heating and the ability to winterize if camping off-season. In more remote areas, propane and diesel can be scarce.

• Advice: Top off fuel and propane in larger towns, and bring antifreeze for tanks if winter camping.

Permits and fire safety

Check local fire rules; fire restrictions can change quickly in dry seasons. Some parks require special permits for backcountry camps or campfires.

• Essential: Carry a metal shovel and know the nearest water source for emergencies.

Boondocking and dispersed camping options

If you lean toward off-grid experiences, national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands in Northern California offer dispersed camping. You’ll find free, first-come first-served spots, often with scenic seclusion.

• Where: Many areas around the Shasta-Trinity, Mendocino National Forest, and parts of the Sierra Nevada.
• Be prepared: No services, primitive or no toilets, and strictly follow Leave No Trace — pack out all trash and waste.

Wildlife and natural hazards to be aware of

Northern California’s ecosystems host diverse wildlife and a few hazards. You’ll meet elk on prairies, deer near lakes, and black bears in forested campgrounds.

• Bears: Use bear boxes or keep food locked in your vehicle. Never leave food out.
• Ticks and mosquitoes: Use repellent and check for ticks after hikes.
• Weather: Mountain storms, coastal fog, and heat waves are all possible; check local forecasts.

Seasonal guide — when to visit for the best experience

Your ideal timing will depend on what you want to do: beach walks, redwood hikes, alpine lakes, or snow sports.

Spring (March–May)

You’ll see wildflowers, thawing mountain lakes, and fewer crowds. Some higher roadways and campgrounds can still be snowbound.

• Best for: Waterfalls, wildflowers, lower elevation hikes

Summer (June–August)

Prime camping season for beaches, lakes, and forests. Expect crowded campgrounds and the need for reservations, especially at Tahoe, Lassen, and coastal parks.

• Best for: Swimming, boating, family trips
• Tip: Coastal fog is common in mornings; pack layers.

Autumn (September–November)

You’ll enjoy cooler days, clearer skies, and thinning crowds. Fall colors can be beautiful in the Sierra foothills.

• Best for: Cooler hiking, scenic drives, quieter campgrounds

Winter (December–February)

Bring chains and winter tires if you’ll be in mountain areas. Tahoe and Lassen are winter wonderlands for snow sports, but many campgrounds close or require winterized rigs.

• Best for: Skiing, snowshoeing, fewer tourists in lower elevations

Sample multi-day RV itineraries

A few itineraries to help you plan your trip based on how much time you have.

7-day Coastal & Redwoods Loop

• Day 1: Arrive in Mendocino / Van Damme State Park
• Day 2: Mendocino Headlands, Russian Gulch
• Day 3: Drive north to Humboldt Redwoods, camp near Avenue of the Giants
• Day 4: Continue to Prairie Creek / Gold Bluffs Beach
• Day 5: Jedediah Smith SP, Smith River
• Day 6: Patrick’s Point, tidepooling
• Day 7: Return south or continue to Shasta region

This route gives you a balanced mix of coast and ancient forests, with reasonable driving distances.

10–14 day Lake Tahoe + Lassen + Shasta

• Days 1–3: North Tahoe (boating, hiking)
• Days 4–5: Truckee/Donner area, Donner Memorial SP
• Days 6–8: Lassen Volcanic NP (Manzanita Lake, Bumpass Hell)
• Days 9–11: Shasta Lake (boating, caverns)
• Optional: Trinity Alps detour for solitude

Spend longer in Lassen if you love geology and backcountry hiking.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need special permits for RV camping in national parks and state parks?

You’ll need reservations for developed campgrounds in the majority of California state parks (ReserveCalifornia) and national parks (Recreation.gov). Backcountry or wilderness camping may require permits; check the specific park’s rules.

How big of an RV can most campgrounds handle?

Many state park campgrounds list max RV lengths in their descriptions. Some coastal and forest sites restrict rigs to 30–35 feet, while private parks often accept 40+ feet. Always check site restrictions before you book.

Are campfires allowed?

Campfire rules vary seasonally and by location. Fire restrictions are common in summer. Use established fire rings if fires are allowed and never leave fires unattended.

What if I want to boondock?

Dispersed camping is allowed on many national forest lands; check Forest Service rules. Some areas require permits or limit stay duration; pack for no services and practice Leave No Trace.

Final planning checklist for your Northern California RV adventure

• Reservations: Book high-demand campgrounds months in advance.
• Vehicle prep: Check tires, brakes, fluids, and battery.
• Supplies: Extra water, propane, hoses, adapters, levelers, and a stove in case campfires are banned.
• Safety gear: First aid kit, spare tire, chains (for winter), flashlight/headlamp.
• Navigation: Offline maps, local campground apps, and contact numbers for parks.
• Environmental care: Trash bags, biodegradable soaps, and bear-safe food storage.

Closing thoughts

You’ll find Northern California to be an exceptionally diverse RV destination — whether you want to park beneath redwoods, launch a boat on an alpine lake, or sleep with the ocean surf in the background. Use this guide to choose destinations that match the style of trip you want, prepare for the amenities and restrictions of each site, and give yourself time to really savor the landscape.

If you tell me how many days you have, your RV size, and the kind of activities you prefer (hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, or just relaxing), I can suggest a more detailed itinerary and reservation timeline tailored to your trip.