Coastline + Campfires = Serenity
11 best beach-front camps in Northern California.
Explore Northern California's best beach-front camps with ocean views, sandy shores, and rugged cliffs. Camp under the stars, hike scenic trails, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets!
One
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground - Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is a hidden gem in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, nestled along a stunning 10-mile stretch of golden beach. Famous for its towering redwoods and the historic Fern Canyon nearby, this campground offers a unique mix of forest and ocean experiences.
Amenities include solar-powered showers and potable water, but there are no hookups or dump stations. It’s a perfect spot for those who love nature, with opportunities for wildlife watching, hiking, and beach-combing.
Note: The campground is accessed via a narrow, dirt road, and the use of recreational vehicles and trailers is not advised due to road conditions. The maximum motorhome length allowed is 24 feet, and no trailers are permitted.
NPS – Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
Two
Mattole Campground
Mattole Campground, located at Mattole Beach near Petrolia, CA, is a rustic and remote destination perfect for adventurous campers. Known for its stunning beachfront and proximity to the Lost Coast Trail, it offers a tranquil escape in nature.
The campground has basic amenities, including pit toilets but no potable water, so visitors should come prepared. While RVs are technically allowed, due to the challenging access road, larger vehicles are not generally recommended . With only 22 tent/trailer campsites, it provides an intimate setting for enjoying the coastal beauty. Be prepared for the cold windy nights if you’re in a tent!
Note: The road to get there is pretty rough so keep that in mind.
Three
Shelter Cove RV Campground
The Shelter Cove RV Campground is located in the picturesque Shelter Cove area on the Lost Coast of California, offers a unique coastal camping experience. This RV-friendly campground provides full hookups, catering to a comfortable stay.
The on-site deli adds a convenience factor, making it easy to grab snacks and essentials. It’s close to the black sands beach which is one of the most unique beaches in all of California. This campground is ideal for those looking for a more developed camping experience in the rugged and beautiful Lost Coast region.
Four
MacKerricher State Park Campground
Located near Fort Bragg, MacKerricher State Park Campground offers a diverse coastal experience. It’s renowned for varied beach environments, including sandy stretches and rocky shores, making it perfect for exploration and wildlife spotting. The campground is RV-friendly with a range of sites suitable for tents as well.
Amenities include showers and restrooms, adding comfort to the rustic setting. Activities like fishing, tide pool exploration, and whale watching are popular here. The nearby boardwalk and trails provide easy access to the beach and scenic views, making it a favorite for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
There are 3 main campgrounds at MacKerricher State Park:
- West Pinewood
- East Pinewood
- Surfwood
Five
Caspar Beach RV Park and Campground, Mendocino County
Caspar Beach RV Park and Campground, situated near Mendocino, is a favorite for families looking for a beachfront camping experience. This campground offers easy access to the picturesque Caspar Beach, ideal for a variety of water activities like surfing and fishing.
It caters to both RVs and tents, with facilities including showers and a camp store for convenience. The campground provides a blend of natural beauty and comfort, making it perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities without sacrificing modern amenities. Its location also allows for exploring the surrounding areas like Fort Bragg.
Six
Manchester State Park Campground / KOA
Manchester State Park Campground, nestled along the Mendocino Coast, is known for its strikingly long, sandy beaches. This campground offers a more secluded experience, ideal for those seeking a quieter, nature-focused retreat. Facilities here are basic, with sites accommodating both tents and RVs, but without hookups.
The campground features restrooms and showers, enhancing the rustic camping experience. It’s a prime spot for beach-combing, bird watching, and simply enjoying the peaceful ocean vistas. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and winds that are characteristic of this coastal region.
Top tip: If you want better amenities, but like the area then choose to go to KOA Manchester Beach instead of the State Park Campground.
Seven
Gualala Point Regional Park Campground
Gualala Point Regional Park Campground, located near the quaint town of Gualala in Sonoma County, offers a serene coastal camping experience. This campground is nestled in a scenic setting near the Gualala River and provides easy access to a sandy beach.
It’s suitable for both tents and RVs, though there are no hookups available. Campers can enjoy amenities like restrooms and showers. The area is great for hiking, bird watching, and beach-combing. The campground’s location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and the charming local community.
Eight
Wright’s Beach Campground - Sonoma Coast State Park
Wright’s Beach Campground, part of the Sonoma Coast State Park, is renowned for its direct beach access and stunning ocean views. This campground is particularly popular among beach-goers and offers a true oceanside camping experience. It’s well-suited for tent camping, but also accommodates smaller RVs, although there are no hookups available.
The amenities are basic, with flush toilets and potable water, but the real draw is the proximity to the beach. Ideal for sunbathing, beach-combing, and watching sunsets, it’s a prime spot for those seeking a tranquil beach escape. This beach is not suitable for swimming due to the strong rip currents and heavy surf.
Nine
Bodega Dunes Campground - Sonoma Coast State Park
Bodega Dunes Campground, located within the Sonoma Coast State Park, is a sought-after destination for its beautiful sandy dunes and proximity to Bodega Bay. This campground is well-suited for both tent and RV camping, with amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and a dump station.
It’s an ideal spot for beach lovers and hikers, offering easy access to several miles of scenic beach and trails like the Bodega Dunes Trail. The area is known for its stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife with the opportunity for whale watching and bird watching. It’s also close enough to explore the local flavor of Bodega Bay, adding convenience to the natural beauty of the campsite.
Ten
Doran Regional Park Campground, Bodega Bay
Doran Regional Park Campground in Bodega Bay is a popular destination known for its extensive beachfront and a variety of recreational activities. This campground caters to both tent campers and RVs, with several sites offering beautiful views of the bay and beach.
Amenities include flush toilets, showers, potable water, and a dump station. There are also picnic tables and fire rings but no electrical hookups. It’s a great spot for activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking. The campground’s location makes it convenient for exploring the local area, including the charming town of Bodega Bay. Its scenic setting and array of activities make it a favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Eleven
Kirby Cove Campground, Marin Headlands
Kirby Cove Campground, nestled in the Marin Headlands just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, offers a unique camping experience with its secluded beach and stunning views of the bridge. There’s no water or electrical hookups, emphasizing a more primitive camping style. The campground is known for its tranquility and scenic beauty, including a pebble beach and hiking trails.
Note: This small, rustic campground is only suited for tent camping. No car camping or RVs here. Reservations are a must due to its popularity and limited number of sites.
“Beach more, worry less!”