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RV Camping In Northern California

Venture into ancient redwood groves, where mist-shrouded trails beckon you to explore nature's majestic cathedral.

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The 5 best RV campgrounds in Northern California

  • Morro Dunes RV Park

    Location MarkerMorro Bay, CA

    Nestled along the stunning central coast Morro Dunes RV Park offers breathtaking views of Morro Rock and the Pacific Ocean. With spacious sites modern amenities and easy access to beaches and coastal trails it's a prime destination for RV enthusiasts.

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  • Bodega Bay RV Park

    Location MarkerBodega Bay, CA

    Experience the rugged beauty of the Northern California coast at this tranquil RV park just steps from the sandy beaches of Bodega Bay.

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  • Skyline Wilderness Park

    Location MarkerNapa, CA

    Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Napa Valley at this serene RV campground offering breathtaking mountain views and easy access to renowned wineries.

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  • Casini Ranch Family Campground

    Location MarkerDuncans Mills, CA

    Nestled in the heart of the Russian River Valley Casini Ranch Family Campground offers a serene and picturesque setting for RV camping. With its lush redwood groves meandering creeks and ample amenities this campground provides a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

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  • Pomo RV Park & Campground

    Location MarkerFort Bragg, CA

    Nestled in the heart of the Mendocino Coast this picturesque campground offers stunning ocean views lush redwood groves and easy access to the charming town of Fort Bragg. With spacious RV sites modern amenities and a serene atmosphere it's the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Northern California.

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The 5 hardest to book RV campgrounds in Northern California

  • Yosemite RV Resort

    Location MarkerCoarsegold, CA

    Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains this highly sought-after RV resort offers unparalleled access to the iconic Yosemite National Park.

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  • French Camp RV Park Resort

    Location MarkerManteca, CA

    This premium RV resort boasts a prime location near the San Francisco Bay Area offering top-notch amenities and a peaceful retreat from the city.

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  • Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort

    Location MarkerEureka, CA

    Surrounded by towering redwood forests and the rugged Pacific coastline this secluded RV resort offers a truly unique and unforgettable camping experience.

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  • Smithwoods RV Park

    Location MarkerFelton, CA

    Nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains this highly coveted RV park offers serene redwood groves and easy access to coastal attractions.

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  • Emerald Desert RV Resort

    Location MarkerPalm Desert, CA

    Nestled in the heart of the Coachella Valley this luxurious RV resort offers stunning desert landscapes lush palm trees and top-notch amenities for the ultimate glamping experience.

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RV camping in Northern California guide

Overview

Discovering Northern California's majestic landscapes by RV is remarkably straightforward, thanks to the region's extensive highway network. From the Oregon border southward, travelers can explore natural wonders via Highway 101 and Interstate 5, passing through magnificent destinations including towering Redwood groves, dramatic coastal cliffs, Mount Shasta, the renowned Wine Country, the vibrant Bay Area, and the majestic Santa Cruz Mountains. Upon reaching I-80 in Sacramento, adventurers gain direct access to the Sierra Nevada range and pristine Lake Tahoe. The region offers diverse recreational opportunities for every type of RV enthusiast - observe migrating whales at Point Reyes National Seashore, catch waves at Pacifica State Beach, explore the ancient giants of Redwood National and State Parks, enjoy water sports on Shasta Lake, trek through Lassen National Forest, and countless other adventures. Accommodation options span luxurious RV resorts offering full hookups and extensive amenities to more primitive state park campgrounds without services. Coastal areas typically experience cool temperatures, consistent winds, and frequent fog banks until you venture south of Sonoma. The interior regions feature hot, arid summers contrasted by generally mild, wet winters. In the Tahoe area, winter brings significant snowfall and potentially challenging road conditions that require careful preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year for RV camping in Northern California?

The best time for Northern California RV camping typically falls between late spring (May) and early fall (October) when weather conditions are most favorable. During these months, popular destinations like Lake Tahoe and Shasta Lake offer ideal temperatures and minimal rainfall, making them perfect for outdoor activities and comfortable camping.

Summer months (June-August) provide the most reliable weather but tend to be busiest, especially in destinations like Yosemite and along the California Coast. For more moderate crowds and pleasant conditions, consider visiting in September or early October when temperatures remain mild and most campgrounds are still open. The Redwood regions offer particularly comfortable camping during these months.

If you're looking to avoid peak season crowds, spring camping (April-May) in areas like Mendocino or the Sacramento region can be excellent, though you should be prepared for occasional rain showers. Winter RV camping is possible in many Southern California locations, but mountain areas and higher elevations may have limited access due to snow and winter conditions.

What are some essential gear and preparations when RV camping in Northern California?

When planning an RV camping trip in Northern California, proper preparation is essential for a comfortable and safe experience. Start with the basics: ensure your RV's systems are in good working order, including water tanks, electrical systems, and waste management. For camping in popular destinations like Lake Tahoe or Shasta Lake, make advance reservations during peak seasons and research campground amenities to ensure they match your RV's requirements.

Pack essential gear specific to Northern California's diverse climate conditions. Include leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and stabilizing jacks for various terrain types. When visiting coastal areas like Mendocino or Bodega Bay, bring additional weather protection as coastal fog and wind are common. For mountain destinations such as Mount Shasta, pack appropriate cold-weather gear even in summer months.

Safety equipment is crucial for California RV camping. Carry emergency tools, spare parts, and a well-stocked first aid kit. When exploring remote areas in the Sierra National Forest or Mendocino National Forest, bring extra water, food, and fuel. Also, consider investing in a reliable GPS system and offline maps, as cell service can be limited in many scenic camping areas throughout Northern California's diverse landscape.

What are some nearby attractions and activities?

Northern California offers an incredible variety of outdoor attractions near popular camping areas. The majestic Yosemite features world-famous hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities, while the dramatic coastline of Big Sur provides stunning ocean views and beach activities. The ancient giants of Redwood National Park offer unique hiking experiences through some of the world's tallest trees.

For water enthusiasts, Lake Tahoe provides year-round recreation opportunities, from summer swimming and boating to winter skiing. The diverse landscape of Joshua Tree offers excellent rock climbing, stargazing, and nature photography opportunities. Along the coast, destinations like Mendocino combine rugged shorelines with charming towns perfect for day trips.

Adventure seekers can explore the volcanic landscapes of Lassen Volcanic National Park, while wine enthusiasts might enjoy camping near Napa for vineyard tours. The California Coast offers endless opportunities for surfing, tide pooling, and whale watching, making it perfect for marine-oriented camping trips.

What is the average cost for RV camping in Northern California?

RV camping costs in Northern California typically range from $25 to $75 per night for basic sites, with premium locations in popular destinations like Lake Tahoe or Santa Cruz commanding higher rates of $75-150 per night. State parks generally offer more affordable rates, while private RV resorts, especially those near California Coast attractions, often charge premium prices for additional amenities.

Seasonal variations significantly impact pricing, with peak summer months and holiday weekends commanding higher rates. Many campgrounds in Northern California offer weekly or monthly discounts, which can reduce nightly costs by 10-30%. Popular destinations like Monterey and Mendocino tend to have higher rates due to their coastal locations and tourist appeal.

Additional fees often include hookup charges ($5-15 per night for full hookups), pet fees ($2-5 per pet), and extra vehicle parking ($5-10 per vehicle). Some premium locations near Sacramento or the Bay Area may also charge resort fees or require minimum stays during peak seasons. Many campgrounds offer discounts for AAA members, military personnel, or seniors, which can reduce costs by 10-15%.