When you think of an adventurous vacation, camping would be the first thing which comes to your mind and there is no destination better than California. The state is one of the best places to go camping thanks to some terrific campgrounds and a variety of spots to pitch a tent.
Whether you prefer to wander on the beach, dwell in the desert or hop in the forest, campsites in California has something for everyone. So pack your gear, call your friends, and head out to sleep under the stars at one of these beautiful campsites.
1. Lake Tahoe
The country’s largest lake is a stunning location for camping. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in both California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is also a favourite outdoor recreation destination and is a top spot for kayaking, boating, hiking and bicycling. There are many worth seeing sights such as the beautiful sunrise, the crystal water of the lake, and if you’re lucky, you might get the chance to see the fog hovering just over the water.
2. Yosemite
Yosemite is packed with many amazing campsites. Yosemite National park is a geological wonder, and it is voted as one of the top 5 national parks for camping by the readers. The park has 13 campgrounds, many of them are seasonal, and in high demand.
Yosemite Valley is not only pleasant for camping, but it’s also an excellent destination for climbing, hiking, and sightseeing. The valley has phenomenal natural beauty including 5 of the world’s highest waterfalls. Yosemite has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it covers over 1,100 miles of land. Approximately four million visitors visit the park on an annual basis. So hurry and pack your luggage to camp in Yosemite.  You can see Sequoia trees, waterfalls, and forests in the valley along your way. Some of the famous campgrounds in Yosemite include the Pines, Camp four, Bridalveil Creek, Wawona, Crane Flat, Hodgdon Meadow, and Yosemite Creek.
3. Big Sur
The land in the south of Monterey along the coast of California has been inspiring artists, musicians, and travellers for years. The natural wonders of this place will stun you for sure. What you need to remember is that the area has a severe winter and landslides. The best time to visit Big Sur is from April through October.
Big Sur has a variety of accommodations from camping and cabin rentals to luxury hotels and home rentals. The best part is that the place is budget friendly for everyone.
There are many scenic spots to camp in Big Sur. In fact, it is the preferred location for travelers for its spectacular views and hiking.
 4. Death Valley
Death Valley is the driest and hottest area in North America. It is located in Eastern California’s Mojave Desert. The land has diverse wildlife, spring wildflowers, snowy winter peaks, and record summer heat. The National park is the best destination for recreation and seasonal camping.
Death Valley is the perfect place to explore with family. There are tons of sightseeing spots and fantastic sunset locations including;
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- Zabriskie Point
- Badwater basin
- Artist’s palette
- The Racetrack (4 wheel vehicle required)
- Devil’s Golf course
- Natural bridge
5. Redwood National and State Parks, (Northern California)
Redwood Nationals and State Parks are 2,000-year-old beauties, and camping on this natural wonder is a divine experience. The site has four campgrounds. Redwood national park, Prairie Creek Redwoods state park, and Del Norte Coast Redwood State Park are located in the Redwood forest.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park stretches out along the Pacific coastline at Gold Bluffs Beach. With proper planning, camping in Redwood National and State Parks will be a delightful experience for visitors of all ages, and backgrounds.
Here’s a Friendly Reminder:
One of the best ways to spend time together as a family outdoors is to go camping. Having the right to- do list and knowing the best camping hacks can help you pull off a trip on a budget. Keep in mind that it doesn’t help that you simply haul everything, or buy the most accommodating tent you can get your hands on. You want to travel light, and you can’t afford missing out on the real camping experience.
It doesn’t matter what climate you are planning to camp in you would want to make sure that everyone is cozy and safe. Choose your tent while considering the campsite and space. Opt for an ecologically friendly tent, one crafted from no toxic substances, without comprising on the quality standards that you look for in a tent. The canvas tent you choose should be waterproof, have the right kind of panels that you need, and quality stitching to make sure that it lasts.
You also have to consider sleeping bags. Unless you are very sure that you will be camping where it is cold, then you want a bag that falls within the range of 20 and 40 degrees. A handy tip is to let your sleeping bags air out on top of the tent if the weather permits it.
You might also need a ground tarp, flashlights or lamps, and towels and other hygiene items for every family member on the trip. If you like you can also take sleeping pads that you can quickly inflate with a few puffs. In addition to the basic camping gear, some of the extras that you will definitely need are:
- Small toys for children in your camp
- Extra sheets to create rooms in the tent
- A camera to capture the moments
- A small net with a bucket for when you are camping near a stream
- Baby wipes to clean hands with
- A hammock
- A playpen if you want the children to stay off the dirt
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- A clothesline to hang your wet clothes
It is essential that once you are settled, you make sure that you have a game of camp rules for all the children. It helps if the kids know the kitchen, campfire, and sleeping areas, and that they also know some basics like asking before they take or use anything from any of these areas. Last, instruct young kids not to run around the fire, and never go exploring a campsite on their own or with other kids without adult supervision.
Once you take care of the basics, an overnight camping adventure with family would be a lot of fun. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the world.
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