California beaches stretch for over 1,000 miles, and campers may take advantage of many campsites to enjoy sheer beauty. The coast supplies campers with bluffs, peaks, cliffs, native trees and views of which to take advantage, along with hiking, fishing and wildlife observing. Watch the vista break open as you travel along the famous Highway 101, which follows along this beautiful coast. Then, stop off to enjoy some of the finest elements of nature.
North Coast California
The Redwoods is one of the most popular camping spots for locals and visitors to California. The campgrounds of Admiral Williams Standley State Recreation area is near the south fork of the Eel River. With a terrain made up of peaks and cliffs, this site is 1,700 feet above sea level. Check the weather before you go to ensure that you pack appropriate clothing for the season. The weather can be a bit unpredictable. Pack a picnic and hike for the day or enjoy steelhead fishing.
Sonoma Coast
Boasting more than 5,000 acres of land, Sonoma Coast is one of the largest parks in California. The park stretches from the Russian River to Bodega Head, with trails that follow along the river, in the backcountry and five miles in sand dunes. Along the 10 miles of shore you can find pristine beaches, coves, reefs and tidepools. Although temperatures are fairly cool, it's a popular destination for whale watching, while spring and summertime has excellent bird watching. You will find toilets, fire pits, many hiking trails, horseback riding, picnic areas and parking.
Central California Coast
Pfeiffer Big Sur is one of the most coveted camping places to camp in all of California. Hiking trails can be found all over, some embedded within redwood trees, others along rivers and creeks. If you are looking for a rugged setting or would like some amenities associated with civilization, such as a $0.25 shower for three minutes, Big Sur has 810 acres you can enjoy. Located off the winding roads of Highway 1, you can find this national park 26 miles south of Carmel. Big Sur provides a landscape for both amateur and experienced hikers and campers.
Outside of the City
If you find yourself in the Los Angeles area and are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle, head out for a camping trip to Point Mugu State Park for some outdoor therapy. Within this 13,300-acre park, you can hike up to 70 miles of trails, many of which provide a great uphill workout. Located in the heart of the Santa Monica mountains, you can enjoy five miles of beaches, grassy valleys and rocky bluffs. Just off Highway 1, 15 miles south of Oxnard, this is a popular destination for tent and vehicle campers. Bring your work and laptop; there's Wi-Fi scattered about the park.
Camping on the Bluffs
Southern California provides some of the best camping for overlooking the ocean. San Elijo is located on the San Diego coast, and it offers campers the opportunity to surf, swim and picnic. Hikers also appreciate a backwoods hiking experience, but it's definitely less rustic than other camping spots. In fact, if you are seeking the comforts of home, you are likely to find them here, including Wi-Fi, fire pits, breakfast spots that are considered to be gourmet, showers and bars. Although this is a popular spot for surfers, you are likely to find that it's not too overcrowded as a camping spot.
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