Northern California Camping: Rivers

Northern California is home to a vast network of beautiful rivers that make for idyllic camping sites. Fly fishers will love the ready access to trout in these rivers, and if you’re looking for adventure, you’re sure to find it in the opportunities for white water rafting and kayaking. Many of these campsites are close to stunning waterfalls which are perfect for hikers and families!

Fowlers Camp Campground

Perched beside the McCloud River, Fowlers Camp Campground is close to three stunning waterfalls, (Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls) which you can access via trails straight from the campground or by a short drive. The river has excellent fishing, and the campground is wheelchair accessible.

Open: April - October

RV-friendly: Yes

Forest Glen Campground

Forest Glen Campground sits beside the serene South Fork Trinity River and offers access to incredible hikes, fishing, and swimming. Rafting is available on other parts of the river, and the nearby Marble Caves are both a sight and an opportunity for rock climbing.

Open: May - September

RV-friendly: Yes 

Douglas City Campground

With good amenities and excellent river access, Douglas City Campground has become a popular place for rafting. The Trinity River provides good fishing for steelhead, salmon, and trout, and the beaches on the campground give great opportunities for inner tubing and swimming.

Open: May - September

RV-friendly: Yes

Northern California Camping: Lakes

One of the best things about northern California camping is the wealth of lakes in this part of the world. What could be more peaceful than waking up on the shores of a pristine mountain lake? And that’s without mentioning all the exciting activities like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding that northern California camping has to offer.

Manzanita Lake Campground, Lassen Volcanic State Park

Manzanita Lake Campground is one of the absolute must-dos of northern California camping. Situated in the stunning Lassen State Park, camping in this site allows you to explore not only the lake itself but all the volcanic landmarks of this beautiful state park.

Open: May - October

RV-friendly: Yes

Juniper Lake Campground

Juniper Lake Campground is also in Lassen Volcanic State Park, but it is much smaller and quieter than the big and busy Manzanita Lake. If you’re looking for a wilder and more private experience of northern California camping, Juniper Lake is an oasis of peace, and the campground offers stunning views of the scenery.

Open: June - October

RV-friendly: No - access is along a gravel path not recommended for RVs

Lake Almanor Campground

Lake Almanor Campground is a large and friendly campground that is perfect for families and groups who are looking to enjoy the gorgeous lake together, with access to kayak rentals and plenty of hikes and beaches to explore.

Open: May - September

RV-friendly: Yes

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort

A large resort on the beautiful forested shores of the lake, Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers a range of options from cabins to tent berths. With panoramic views of the mountains, a peaceful dock, and both food options and boat rentals readily available, this is an excellent choice for northern California camping made easy.

Open: Year-round

RV-friendly: Yes

McCloud Bridge Campground

If you’re seeking a quiet and beautiful escape into nature, definitely consider camping at McCloud Bridge Campground. High up the McCloud River arm of Shasta Lake, this campground is on the smaller side of the list so far, situated on the picturesque site of an old ranch. The lakeside berths offer excellent privacy to overlook the beautiful views, and there is good fishing, particularly for brown trout, right on the shore of the campground itself. 

Open: April - October

RV-friendly: Yes

Northern California Camping: Unique Natural Beauty

Northern California camping gives you access to some of the most unique natural beauty in the world. From bubbling lava beds to ancient rock formations to streaming waterfalls, campgrounds in this area will help you make lasting memories of nature’s wonders!

Castle Crags State Park Campground

Soaring granite formations form the dramatic backdrop for Castle Crags State Park Campground. This campground in the forest is in the middle of incredible hiking trails with views of Mt Shasta. It also is close enough to take advantage of the fishing in the Sacramento River

Open: Year-round (reservations 6 months in advance)

RV-friendly: Yes

Indian Well Campground, Lava Beds National Monument

Indian Well Campground is close to incredible lava tube caves that are open for visitors to explore. These unique phenomena are the main attraction, but you are also close to Medicine Lake and other hikes.

Open: Year-round

RV-friendly: Yes

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

The jaw-dropping McArthur-Burney Falls is one of the most impressive and beautiful waterfalls in California, and the campground here gives you prime access to enjoy them. Along with the falls, the campground here puts you in reach of Lake Britton for swimming and fishing, along with boat rental at a small marina. The park itself is full of gorgeous hikes, including parts of the famous Pacific Crest Trail.

Open: Year-round

RV-friendly: Yes

Final Thoughts on Northern California Camping

This highlight reel of all of the wonderful northern California camping options open to you is just the beginning. There is always more to discover, from the secret lakes you stumble onto in your hikes to the best places to catch salmon to the thrills of navigating rapids through the mountains. Once you’ve camped in this part of the world, you’ll be hooked!

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