What comes to your mind when you hear the word “California”? You would probably think of Disneyland, Hollywood, Universal Studios, and Golden Gate Bridge. More often than not, people think of California as just an entertainment center. Not a lot of people consider that tourists come to this city not only to be dazzled but to also experience camping in California.
Based on California’s 2016-2017 State Park System Statistical Report, this city has 14,131 individual campsites and 312 group campsites. The report also states that there were a total of 7,265,525 individuals who camped overnight in one of these parks at least once. Undoubtedly, California offers a lot of opportunities for people to be with nature. With thousands of options to choose from, which one offers the best view and amenities?
Yosemite National Park
Undoubtedly, Yosemite National Park has the most number of camping grounds in the region. The most visited campgrounds are in the Yosemite Valley itself. These are the Upper Pines, North Pines, Camp 4, and Lower Pines. Among these four, only Camp 4 and Upper Pines are open throughout the year. The Upper Pine is the largest, having 238 camping sites with functional toilets, food lockers, picnic tables, and fire rings. There is also a grocery store and shower facility nearby at the Curry Village and the Yosemite Village. RVs are allowed except on Camp 4.
If you’re looking for a less visited area that can still allow access to the famed glacial lakes and Sierra Nevada Mountains of Yosemite, then you should make your reservation at the Tuolumne Meadows Campground. It lies on the Tioga Road, which is in the northeastern part of the Yosemite Valley. This location is only open from July to September, so plan your trip wisely. The Wawona also offers a secluded camping ground in the National Park and is just 45 minutes away from the central valley.
Most of the camping sites in Yosemite National Park are strictly by reservation. You can reserve up to five months in advance of your trip.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is most popularly known for being the backdrop of the Jurassic Park movie. It exudes a mysterious atmosphere that allures tourists to come to this place. This state park is a primeval forest that is popular for having the largest concentration of Redwoods in California. One of the best campgrounds in this state park is the Elk Prairie Campground, where you can sleep under the star, surrounded by a canopy of fir trees and pine trees.
Nevada Beach Campground
Nevada Beach Campground offers a scenic view of the South Lake Tahoe. It’s a well-visited spot by campers who also like to play watersports during their trip. There are 49 campgrounds in this compound. Each has barbeque grills and picnic tables. Some of the popular trails that visitors can explore are the Castle Rock Loop and the Lam Wa Tah Trail.
Camping in California is an adventure that you must try at least once in your life. Take time off and forget about your busy life. Breathe in the fresh air. Let the beauty of our world inspire and rejuvenate you.