TOP 30 Best Wilderness camping in California

Desolation Wilderness is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 138 Emerald Bay Road in South Lake Tahoe, California, United States. This wilderness area offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With its rugged terrain, pristine alpine lakes, and towering granite peaks, Desolation Wilderness is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, camp, fish, and explore the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking solitude or adventure, this wilderness area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Blue Cloud Camping Area is a picturesque campground and lodging facility located at 150345 California 62 in Earp, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, Blue Cloud Camping Area is the perfect place to relax and unwind. As an official website of the United States government, Blue Cloud Camping Area is a secure and reliable choice for your next camping adventure. The Department of the Interior oversees this campground, ensuring that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.

French Camp is a campground, lodging, and park located on Rock Creek Road in Toms Place, California, United States. With over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites across the country, French Camp is here to help you plan your next trip and reserve unforgettable experiences. Whether you enjoy camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, or ranger-led activities, Recreation.gov has something for everyone. From historic landmarks to outdoor escapes, there are endless opportunities to explore and create lasting memories. With tools and resources to help you plan your trip, manage details, and access special events, French Camp makes it easy to experience the beauty of the USA. Whether you're returning to a favorite spot or discovering a new adventure, French Camp is the perfect place to bring home a story. Explore America's outdoor and cultural destinations with Recreation.gov and make your next trip unforgettable.

Wilderness Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 5720 Wilderness Drive in Bakersfield, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and peaceful atmosphere, Wilderness Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, this park has something for everyone. Come explore the wonders of Wilderness Park and experience the tranquility and beauty of the great outdoors.

Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes is a beautiful campground and RV park located in Menifee, California. Situated at 30605 Briggs Road, this institution offers a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. With spacious lodging options, including RV sites and cabins, guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness. The park also features a range of amenities, such as hiking trails, fishing ponds, swimming pools, and recreational facilities, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or embark on outdoor adventures, Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes provides the ideal retreat for all types of travelers.

YMCA Camp Marston is a picturesque campground nestled in the heart of Julian, California. Surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views, this institution offers a serene and peaceful retreat for visitors seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a variety of lodging options, including cabins and tents, guests can immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts of home. The park also features a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and team-building exercises, making it the perfect destination for families, groups, and corporate retreats. Whether you're looking to relax by the campfire or challenge yourself with exciting adventures, YMCA Camp Marston has something for everyone.

Salamander Camp is a serene retreat nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just a short drive from Los Gatos, California. This private oasis is the perfect place for groups of up to 20 people to relax, meditate, create art, and connect with nature. Surrounded by acres of untouched forest, Salamander Camp offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Guests can explore the winding trails, swim in the refreshing waters, or simply relax by the campfire under the starlit sky.

Saddleback Wilderness is a stunning park located at 3081 Santiago Canyon Road in Orange, California. This pristine wilderness area offers visitors the opportunity to explore and connect with nature in a serene and peaceful setting. With miles of hiking trails, lush forests, and breathtaking views, Saddleback Wilderness is the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike, a relaxing picnic spot, or simply a place to unwind and recharge, Saddleback Wilderness has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Orange County.

Mill Camp 6007 is a charming lodging institution nestled in the serene surroundings of Truckee, California. Located at 6007 Mill Camp, this cozy retreat offers a peaceful getaway for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The quaint accommodations provide a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. With its convenient location and welcoming ambiance, Mill Camp 6007 is the ideal destination for a tranquil and memorable stay in the United States.

Welcome to the King Range Wilderness, a stunning expanse of natural beauty located in Honeydew, California. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this remarkable park covers 42,694 acres and is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Established in 2006, the King Range Wilderness offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore pristine landscapes, engage in challenging recreational activities, and experience unparalleled solitude. Situated approximately 230 miles north of San Francisco and 60 miles south of Eureka, the King Range National Conservation Area (NCA) is your gateway to adventure. The roads leading to this secluded paradise are narrow, steep, and winding, so please plan your journey accordingly. Ensure your vehicle is fueled up, and be cautious of oncoming traffic. While main roads are generally accessible to passenger cars, primitive roads may be seasonally closed, especially during heavy winter storms.

Agua Tibia Wilderness is a popular tourist attraction located in Temecula, California, United States. This institution aims to preserve the natural beauty and resources of the wilderness area for present and future generations. With the increasing population and development in the surrounding areas, Agua Tibia Wilderness provides a peaceful escape into nature. Managed by the Department of the Interior, Agua Tibia Wilderness follows the seven standard Leave No Trace principles to minimize human impact on the environment. Visitors can explore the diverse landscapes of the wilderness, from desert terrain to the Rocky Mountains, and learn how to responsibly enjoy and protect these natural spaces.

The Otay Mountain Wilderness, located in Dulzura, California, is a popular tourist attraction offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the natural landscape. This institution is dedicated to preserving the wilderness for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Visitors are encouraged to follow the Leave No Trace principles to help protect the environment, with regulations in place to prohibit motorized equipment and mechanical transport in the wilderness area. Camping is allowed for up to 14 days, with campers required to relocate at least 25 miles from their previous site afterwards.

Welcome to Horse Mountain Creek Camp, your ultimate destination for outdoor adventure and relaxation in the heart of Whitethorn, California. Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the region, our campground offers a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, catering to both seasoned campers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. At Horse Mountain Creek Camp, you can enjoy a variety of lodging options, from traditional camping sites to cozy cabins, all designed to provide a memorable experience surrounded by nature. Our park is ideal for families, solo travelers, and groups looking to explore the great outdoors and connect with the environment.

The Mendocino Woodlands Camp Association is a campground, lodging, and park located at 39350 Little Lake Road in Mendocino, California, United States. Nestled within a National Historic Landmark, California State Park, the Woodlands offers group camping, environmental education, and historic preservation opportunities. The large, rustic group camps provide the perfect backdrop for weddings, retreats, and other special events. Qualified staff lead campers and students in exploring and learning about wildlife and plant communities to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Operated by a nonprofit organization, the Mendocino Woodlands Camp Association relies on donations to ensure future generations can enjoy the Woodlands experience. Situated within traditional Pomo territory, the Woodlands is a year-round facility and environmental education center set in the Redwood Forest near Mendocino. With 3 private group cabin camping areas, well-equipped kitchens, dining halls, and amenities, the Woodlands offers a unique camping experience. Trails for hiking and mountain biking are open to the public. Built in the 1930s as part of President Roosevelt's New Deal Projects, the Woodlands is one of only 46 Recreation Demonstration Areas in the US, and the only one in California and a Redwood forest. It has served its original purpose of group camping and outdoor education uninterrupted since opening in 1938. For group reservation inquiries, please submit a form and the staff will respond promptly. Your support is appreciated, and the Mendocino Woodlands looks forward to welcoming you to the park.

Camp Stevens is a health institution located at 1108 Banner Road in Julian, California, United States. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, this institution offers a peaceful and serene environment for individuals seeking to improve their physical and mental well-being. With a focus on holistic healing and wellness, Camp Stevens provides a range of therapeutic services and activities to promote overall health and happiness. Whether you are looking to relax, recharge, or recover, Camp Stevens is dedicated to helping you achieve your wellness goals in a tranquil and supportive setting.

Camp Royaneh is a premier outdoor education facility operated by the Boy Scouts of America, located at 4600 Scanlon Road in Cazadero, California. Nestled in the stunning redwood forests of Northern California, this camp offers a wide range of exciting and educational programs for young boys looking to develop leadership skills, outdoor survival techniques, and a deep appreciation for nature. With activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, and merit badge workshops, Camp Royaneh provides a unique and enriching experience for scouts of all ages. Come join us for an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors!

Roughing It Day Camp, located at 936 Dewing Avenue in Lafayette, California, has been providing outdoor learning experiences for children for over 50 years. Kids participate in exciting outdoor activities that help them make memories, build character, and develop real-world skills. The camp offers a tech-free environment where children can make lasting friendships and connections with counselors. Parents have praised the camp for boosting their children's confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills. Roughing It was founded by parents who wanted to create a special camp experience for their own daughters, and has since become a beloved tradition for many families. The camp offers informational sessions for new families and hires staff from various areas in the Bay Area. Join Roughing It Day Camp this summer and watch your child grow and thrive in a fun and inspiring outdoor environment.

Buckhorn Camp is a serene retreat located at 24641 California 243 in Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California, United States. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the area, the camp offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. By opting in to receive emails from Buckhorn, you can stay informed about upcoming bookings, offerings, and promotions. This is completely optional, but a great way to stay connected with all the exciting things happening at the camp.

Roosevelt Base Camp is a charming lodging facility located in Orick, California, United States. Situated at 121130 U.S. 101, this base camp offers a comfortable and convenient accommodation option for travelers exploring the beautiful surroundings of Northern California. With cozy rooms, friendly staff, and easy access to nearby attractions such as Redwood National and State Parks, Roosevelt Base Camp is the perfect home base for your next adventure. Whether you're hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the stunning natural scenery, this institution provides a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for guests to unwind and recharge. Book your stay at Roosevelt Base Camp and experience the beauty of the California coast in comfort and style.

Wilderness Travel is a premier travel agency located in Berkeley, California, offering over 200 trips in more than 80 countries around the world. Whether you are interested in hiking, trekking, snorkeling, or cultural encounters, we have the perfect trip for you. Our skilled guides and exclusive camps ensure a unique and unforgettable experience in destinations such as Serengeti National Park, the Alps, Machu Picchu, Egypt, Bhutan, and more. We are dedicated to environmentally conscious and locally focused travel, offsetting our trips' carbon emissions and working to preserve the cultures and ecosystems we visit. Our Trip Leaders are experts in their destinations and are passionate about sharing their knowledge with you.

SLO Camp N' Pack, located at 341 Higuera Street in San Luis Obispo, California, is a unique institution that combines classic military surplus with the best new outdoor and tactical gear on the market. As the only Military Surplus store on the Central Coast, we offer a wide selection of quality knives, flashlights, tactical gear, medical gear, clothing, backpacks, hats, pins, patches, and much more. Our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to helping you find the right gear for your needs. Our website provides just a glimpse of what we carry, so we invite you to visit us in person to explore everything we have to offer. We also support our Military, Law Enforcement, and First Responders.

Camp Gilmore is a part of The Salvation Army's Lawrence M. Daley Camp and Conference Center, located at 26801 Dorothy Drive in Calabasas, California. Since 1939, Camp Gilmore has been providing life-changing Christian summer camp experiences for up to 2000 children. As an evangelical ministry, The Salvation Army's mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ while meeting human needs in His name without discrimination. Camp Gilmore offers a unique camping experience within the beautiful surroundings of Calabasas, with a focus on serving the lost, vulnerable, needy, poor, hurting, helpless, and hopeless. With three distinct sites to enjoy - Camp Daley, Camp Gilmore, and Wilderness - campers can immerse themselves in a supportive and faith-filled environment while creating lasting memories and friendships.

Las Trampas Regional Wilderness Park is a vast 5,778-acre park located at 18012 Bollinger Canyon Road in San Ramon, California. This park offers a rugged and remote wilderness experience with an expanded trail system for hikers and horseback riders. The park's size and terrain provide visitors with a sense of privacy and escape from urban life. Visitors can explore the park's diverse vegetation, including black sage, chamise, and bay laurel trees, as well as various bird species and wildlife such as raccoons, foxes, and deer. The park also features geological formations, including the Orinda formation and Pinole Tuff of volcanic origin.

Sunol Regional Wilderness, located at 1895 Geary Road in Sunol, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction open year-round for visitors to enjoy. The park offers a variety of activities such as camping, picnicking, hiking, and backpacking in its 6,859-acre wilderness area. The park is also home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the park's unique features, including sandstone outcrops with fossils, massive basalt outcrops for rock climbing, and a scenic gorge along Alameda Creek. The park also offers opportunities for bird watching, with a variety of bird species commonly sighted along the creek.

Welcome to Frontier Ranch Camp, your ultimate destination for adventure and discovery nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Scotts Valley, California. Located at 1050 Lockhart Gulch Road, our camp offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, providing an unforgettable experience for campers of all ages. At Frontier Ranch Camp, we pride ourselves on creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can explore the great outdoors, build lasting friendships, and develop valuable life skills. Our diverse range of activities includes hiking, horseback riding, archery, arts and crafts, and team-building exercises, all designed to foster personal growth and a love for nature.

Camp Little Bear Park and Lodge is a charming and rustic retreat located in Bell, California. Nestled on Orchard Avenue, this institution offers a peaceful escape for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature. The park features lush greenery, tranquil walking paths, and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The lodge provides cozy accommodations for those looking to extend their stay and fully experience all that Camp Little Bear has to offer. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this tourist attraction is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Cali Camp is a magical kids camp located in the stunning natural surroundings of Topanga Canyon, California. Established in 1955, this iconic summer camp offers a variety of activities for children ages 4 to 15, including rock climbing, art, equestrian camp, and more. The experienced staff at Cali Camp provide a safe and exciting environment for campers to explore and connect with nature. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour of the camp, meet the staff, and participate in activities like handball, archery, aerial arts, and gymnastics. Come experience the best summer camp in Los Angeles and reconnect with the great outdoors at Cali Camp.

Catalina Island Camps is a unique and enriching institution located at 100 Howland Landing in Avalon, California, United States. Nestled on the beautiful Catalina Island, this camp offers a variety of outdoor adventures and educational programs for children and teenagers. With a focus on fostering independence, leadership skills, and a love for nature, Catalina Island Camps provides a safe and supportive environment for campers to explore, learn, and grow. From hiking and kayaking to marine biology and team-building activities, there is something for everyone at this exceptional camp. Join us for an unforgettable experience on Catalina Island!

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, located in Whitethorn, California, United States, offers a rugged and remote experience for outdoor enthusiasts. This park is part of the Lost Coast, a 60-mile stretch of wilderness along the coast. The park was once home to the Sinkyone Indians, who lived off the land and sea for thousands of years. Visitors to Sinkyone Wilderness State Park can explore the Lost Coast Trail, which follows the stunning coastline and offers opportunities to see gray whales, Roosevelt elk, sea lions, and harbor seals. The landscape features canyons, arches, tide pools, waterfalls, and dark sand beaches, creating a truly unique and picturesque setting.

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is a beautiful campground, lodging facility, and park located at 33401 Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano, California, United States. This 8,000 acre protected wilderness preserve is nestled among the river terraces and sandstone canyons of the western coastal Santa Ana Mountains. Visitors can enjoy the park's fertile valleys, native oak groves, sycamore stands, seasonal wildflowers, and running streams while observing abundant wildlife along the numerous trails. Camping is available year-round with check-in at 2 p.m. and check-out at 12 p.m. Day use is from 7 a.m. to sunset. Parking fees vary based on the day of the week and holidays. The park offers ranger-guided nature walks and naturalist programs by appointment. Trail guides and park brochures are available at the entrance booth and ranger office. Come and explore the natural beauty of Caspers Wilderness Park and make unforgettable memories in this serene environment.