The Top 3 Best Places for Camping in California in 2025
California’s diverse landscapes—from majestic mountains to pristine coastlines and ancient forests—make it a premier destination for camping in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a family planning a weekend getaway, the Golden State offers unparalleled camping experiences. After researching top-rated destinations, we’ve selected the three best places for camping in California based on scenery, amenities, activities, and camper reviews. These spots cater to tent campers, RV travelers, and adventure seekers alike. Pack your gear and discover the top camping destinations in California for 2025!
1. Yosemite National Park – Best for Iconic Mountain and Valley Camping
Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a bucket-list camping destination renowned for its granite peaks, waterfalls, and meadows. Located in the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite’s campgrounds, particularly Upper Pines, offer a perfect base for exploring iconic landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Topping best places for camping in California for so many reasons.
Key Features:
- Campsites: Over 1,400 sites across 13 campgrounds; Upper Pines (238 sites) is ideal for tents and RVs (up to 35 feet, no hookups). Reservations required via Recreation.gov.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, fire pits, picnic tables, food lockers; showers available at Curry Village (seasonal).
- Activities: Hiking (e.g., Mist Trail, Glacier Point), rock climbing, wildlife watching (deer, bears), and photography.
- Price: $26–$36 per night, depending on season and campground.
- Location: Central Sierra Nevada, about 4 hours from San Francisco.
Why It’s Great:
Yosemite’s Upper Pines Campground is a camper favorite for its proximity to Yosemite Valley’s major attractions, including El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. The towering granite cliffs and lush meadows create a breathtaking backdrop, while trails like the Mist Trail (3–7 miles) offer adventure for all skill levels. Campers praise the well-maintained facilities and ranger-led programs, though bear-proof food storage is a must. Reservations fill up fast, so book 5 months in advance via Recreation.gov. The park’s year-round accessibility makes it a top choice for 2025.
Best For:
Families, hikers, and campers seeking iconic mountain scenery and diverse activities.
Learn More: Yosemite National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
2. Big Sur – Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – Best for Coastal and Redwood Camping
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, nestled along California’s rugged Central Coast, is a premier destination for campers seeking dramatic ocean views and towering redwoods. Located along Highway 1, this campground offers a serene escape with access to Big Sur’s iconic coastline and forested trails.
Key Features:
- Campsites: 189 sites for tents and RVs (up to 32 feet, no hookups); reservations available via ReserveCalifornia.com.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, potable water, fire pits, picnic tables; nearby lodge and camp store.
- Activities: Hiking (e.g., Buzzard’s Roost Trail), beach access at Andrew Molera State Park, exploring McWay Falls, and stargazing.
- Price: $35–$50 per night, depending on site type and season.
- Location: Highway 1, 2.5 hours south of Monterey.
Why It’s Great:
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a camper’s dream, with sites shaded by ancient redwoods along the Big Sur River. The campground’s proximity to coastal landmarks like McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge makes it ideal for scenic drives and photography. Campers love the peaceful vibe, clean facilities, and trails like the 2-mile Buzzard’s Roost loop for ocean views. Reviewers recommend booking 6 months in advance for summer, as sites fill quickly. The nearby beaches and lack of light pollution make it perfect for stargazing and coastal exploration and one of the best places for camping in California.
Best For:
Couples, nature lovers, and campers craving coastal beauty and redwood forests.
Learn More: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a California State Park located near Carmel, Salinas
3. Joshua Tree National Park – Jumbo Rocks Campground – Best for Desert Camping
Joshua Tree National Park, known for its surreal desert landscapes and iconic Joshua trees, offers a unique camping experience at Jumbo Rocks Campground. Located in Southern California, this campground is a haven for stargazers, climbers, and those seeking a tranquil desert escape. When it comes to best places for camping in California, you won’t anywhere else like it on earth.
Key Features:
- Campsites: 124 sites for tents and RVs (up to 32 feet, no hookups); first-come, first-served October–May, reservations via Recreation.gov for peak season.
- Amenities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits; no water (bring your own or purchase nearby).
- Activities: Rock climbing, bouldering, hiking (e.g., Ryan Mountain Trail), stargazing, and desert photography.
- Price: $20–$25 per night.
- Location: Near Twentynine Palms, 2.5 hours east of Los Angeles.
Why It’s Great:
Jumbo Rocks Campground is celebrated for its otherworldly setting, with massive boulder formations and twisted Joshua trees creating a surreal backdrop. Campers rave about the dark skies, perfect for stargazing, and the proximity to climbing routes like Hidden Valley. The 3-mile Ryan Mountain Trail offers panoramic desert views, while the lack of light pollution makes it a top spot for astrophotography. Reviewers advise arriving early for first-come, first-served sites in spring and fall, as the campground is popular. Its serene vibe and unique landscape make it a standout for 2025.
Best For:
Solo adventurers, climbers, and campers seeking desert solitude and starry nights.
Learn more: Jumbo Rocks Campground – Joshua Tree National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
Why Choose California for Camping in 2025?
California’s diverse terrain—from Yosemite’s granite peaks to Big Sur’s coastal cliffs and Joshua Tree’s desert vistas—makes it one of the best camping destinations in the U.S. In 2025, campgrounds like Upper Pines, Pfeiffer Big Sur, and Jumbo Rocks offer a range of experiences, from family-friendly amenities to rugged, off-grid adventures. These locations provide access to hiking, climbing, and stargazing, with well-maintained facilities and reservation systems like Recreation.gov and ReserveCalifornia.com for easy planning. Booking 5–6 months in advance is recommended for peak seasons.
How to Choose the Best Camping Spot in California
When selecting a campground, consider these factors:
- Landscape Preference: Choose mountains (Yosemite), coast (Big Sur), or desert (Joshua Tree) based on your desired scenery.
- Amenities: Opt for sites with showers and water (e.g., Big Sur) for comfort, or embrace rustic camping (e.g., Joshua Tree) for adventure.
- Activities: Pick based on interests—hiking and climbing in Yosemite, beachcombing in Big Sur, or stargazing in Joshua Tree.
- Reservations: Book early via Recreation.gov or ReserveCalifornia.com for popular sites, especially in summer and fall.
- Season: Spring and fall offer milder weather; winter is ideal for Joshua Tree, while summer suits Yosemite and Big Sur.
Final Thoughts
Yosemite National Park’s Upper Pines, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Joshua Tree’s Jumbo Rocks Campground are the top three places for camping in California in 2025, offering stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re hiking Yosemite’s trails, relaxing by Big Sur’s coast, or stargazing in Joshua Tree’s desert, these destinations deliver adventure and beauty. Book your campsite now and immerse yourself in California’s natural wonders!
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