Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
peaks, along gorgeous strands of Southern California sand or take shelter underneath red-
woods, the tallest trees on earth, from Big Sur north to Oregon. SoCal's deserts are magical
places to camp next to sand dunes on full-moon nights.
If you didn't bring your own tent, you can buy (and occasionally rent) camping gear at
outdoor outfitters and sporting-goods shops in most cities and some towns, especially near
national parks.
Campground Types & Amenities
Primitive campsites
Usually have fire pits, picnic tables and access to drinking water and
vault toilets; most common in national forests (USFS) and on Bureau of Land Management
(BLM) land.
Developed campgrounds
Typically found in state and national parks, these offer more
amenities, including flush toilets, barbecue grills and occasionally hot showers.
Private campgrounds
Often cater to RVs (recreational vehicles) with full electricity and
water hookups and dump stations; tent sites may be sparse and uninviting. Hot showers
and coin-op laundry usually available, and possibly a swimming pool, wi-fi and camping
cabins.
Walk-in (environmental) sites
Provide more peace and privacy, and may be significantly
cheaper than drive-in sites. A few state-park campgrounds reserve walk-in sites for long-
distance hikers and cyclists only.
Seasons, Rates & Reservations
Many campgrounds, especially in the mountains and in Northern California, are closed
from late fall through early spring or summer. Opening and closing dates vary each year,
depending on weather conditions and the previous winter's snowfall. Private campgrounds
are often open year-round, especially those closest to cities, beaches and major highways.
Many public and private campgrounds accept reservations for all or some of their sites,
while a few are strictly first-come, first-served. Overnight rates range from free for the
most primitive campsites to $60 or more for pull-through RV sites with full hookups.
A few booking services let you search for public and private campground locations and
amenities, check availability and reserve campsites online. They may charge a reservation
fee of up to $10.
