In the summer, there's nothing quite like the allure of camping under the clear, starlit skies of Northern California. With its stunning array of landscapes, from towering redwood forests to serene lakes and rugged coastlines, this region offers a unique camping experience unlike any other.
We've curated a list of 5 lesser-known yet breathtakingly beautiful camping spots in Northern California.
To help you plan your next outdoor adventure, and avoid the absolutely out of control crowds of Yosemite, head out to one of these locations on your next trip.
Trinity Alps Wilderness
Tucked away in the Klamath Mountains, the Trinity Alps Wilderness offers a unique alpine experience with over 500 miles of hiking trails, shimmering lakes, and meadows filled with wildflowers. The Canyon Creek area offers several free camping spots along the trail.
The Trinity Alps Wilderness, nestled in the majestic Klamath Mountains, has a rich and fascinating history dating back centuries. The Klamath Mountains, considered to be one of the oldest mountain ranges in North America, are a complex mosaic of different rock types that tell a story of plate tectonic forces and sea-floor sedimentation over millions of years. Notably, the Trinity Alps are part of the larger Klamath ranges, stretching from Northern California to Southern Oregon, and serve as a testament to the geological shifts and movements that have occurred over time.
The Trinity Alps area, known for its breathtaking landscapes and distinct flora and fauna, was once home to various Native American tribes. The Yurok, Karuk, and Hoopa people were among the primary inhabitants, living off the land's generous resources. These tribes led a hunter-gatherer lifestyle, with the bountiful lands providing ample fish, game, and plant resources for their subsistence. They also carried out controlled burns to maintain the health of the local ecosystem, an ancient forestry practice that contributed to shaping the forest landscapes we see today.
In more recent history, the Trinity Alps region was significantly impacted during the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. Thousands of prospectors flooded into Northern California, including the Trinity River area, eager to find their fortunes. This era left its mark on the landscape and its indigenous communities, leading to considerable conflict and displacement. The wilderness area, as we know it today, was established in 1984 when the California Wilderness Act was signed into law. Today, it stands as a treasured natural preserve, offering visitors a chance to experience its unique biodiversity and stunning wilderness that has evolved over the millennia.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Lose yourself among ancient redwood trees at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. The park has several campgrounds, but for a secluded experience, check out the Gold Bluffs Beach campground.
The history of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, a verdant sanctuary of old-growth redwoods located on California's northern coast, intertwines natural beauty with human dedication to conservation. The park's narrative begins millions of years ago when its towering redwood trees, which are among the oldest living organisms on Earth, first took root. These trees, some of which are over 2,000 years old and stand over 300 feet tall, represent a remnant of the ancient forests that once covered much of the Pacific Northwest.
The human chapter of the park's history opens in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time when the massive redwood forests faced severe threats from logging. In response to the deforestation, concerned citizens, conservationists, and the Save-the-Redwoods League, which was founded in 1918, began a concerted effort to preserve these unique ecosystems. This led to the establishment of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in 1925, along with several other redwood parks in the region. The park was created from land purchased through public and private funds, reflecting the collective will to protect these magnificent trees for future generations.
The park's evolution continued throughout the 20th century. The Civilian Conservation Corps, during the Great Depression, developed the park's initial infrastructure, building roads, trails, and campgrounds that visitors still use today. In 1990, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park was incorporated into the Redwood National and State Parks, a group of parks that collaboratively manage and protect 133,000 acres of forest. In 1980, the park was declared a World Heritage Site and, in 1983, an International Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, recognizing its global significance and the continuing efforts to conserve this remarkable forest ecosystem. Today, Prairie Creek stands not only as a testament to the enduring grandeur of the redwoods but also as a symbol of successful conservation efforts.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Enjoy stunning volcanic landscapes and starry nights at Lassen Volcanic National Park. The Juniper Lake Campground, located near the serene Juniper Lake, offers a peaceful getaway.
Lassen Volcanic National Park, characterized by its steaming fumaroles, meandering creeks, clear mountain lakes, and roaring volcanoes, is steeped in a rich geological and human history. The park is primarily known for Lassen Peak, one of the world's largest plug dome volcanoes, which last erupted between 1914 and 1917. This volcanic activity was well documented and drew national attention, eventually leading to the creation of the national park.
Long before the area was recognized as a national park, it was home to several Native American tribes, such as the Atsugewi, Yana, Yahi, and Maidu, who resided in this area for centuries. These tribes lived in harmony with the land, respecting its bountiful resources and occasionally using volcanic glass (obsidian) for their tools and arrowheads. They witnessed minor eruptions and other geothermal activities, incorporating these events into their belief systems and legends.
The region's transformation into a protected area began in the early 20th century. Lassen Peak and Cinder Cone were declared National Monuments in 1907 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Then, in 1916, due to the widespread interest generated by the recent eruptions and the advocacy of influential locals like Benjamin Franklin Loomis, the areas were combined and expanded into Lassen Volcanic National Park. Loomis, a businessman and photographer, extensively documented Lassen Peak's eruptions, and his powerful imagery played a crucial role in promoting the creation of the park. Today, the park remains a unique destination, captivating visitors with its extraordinary volcanic landscapes and offering valuable insights into our planet's restless nature.
Mendocino National Forest
For a tranquil camping experience, the Mendocino National Forest offers many campgrounds. The Fuller Grove campground, situated next to the Eel River, is particularly charming.
Mendocino National Forest, the only national forest in California without a major paved road penetrating it, enjoys a rich history that reflects the changing landscapes and human influence over the centuries. Spanning over 913,306 acres, this expanse of wilderness is home to diverse ecosystems, from chaparral and oak woodlands to mixed conifer forests and high-elevation alpine environments. The forest's natural history dates back millions of years, molded by geological forces, climate changes, and fires, which played a pivotal role in shaping its unique vegetation and wildlife.
Before European arrival, Native American tribes, including the Yuki, Nomlaki, and Pomo, inhabited the region for thousands of years. These tribes lived in harmony with the natural environment, using its resources for sustenance and crafting tools from obsidian, shells, and other materials. They engaged in seasonal migrations, moving between lower and higher elevations based on resource availability, and often managed the land with prescribed burns to enhance plant productivity and control pests.
The modern history of the Mendocino National Forest began in the early 20th century. In response to rapid deforestation and the need for sustainable management of forest reserves, President Theodore Roosevelt established the California National Forest in 1907. It was later renamed the Mendocino National Forest in 1908. Over the next several decades, the Civilian Conservation Corps, part of the New Deal program, developed the forest's infrastructure, building trails, roads, and fire lookouts. Despite logging operations in certain parts of the forest, the area has largely retained its wild character, free from extensive human-made alterations. Today, the Mendocino National Forest stands as a testament to nature's resilience and the ongoing efforts to balance conservation and sustainable use of our country's natural resources.
Lost Coast and Sinkyone Wilderness State Park
The remote and rugged Lost Coast offers primitive camping with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Sinkyone Wilderness State Park provides several camping areas that let you immerse in the natural beauty.
Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, which boasts over 7,500 acres of rugged wilderness along the pristine Lost Coast of Northern California, is steeped in natural and cultural history. This wild and scenic expanse is named after the Sinkyone people, a Native American tribe who originally inhabited the region. The Sinkyone lived in harmony with the land, relying on its bountiful resources for sustenance. They hunted game, gathered acorns and other plant resources, and took advantage of the coastline's abundant sea life.
The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century drastically impacted the Sinkyone people and the landscape. The settlers sought to capitalize on the region's natural resources, particularly the old-growth redwood forests, leading to extensive logging. The Sinkyone were driven from their ancestral lands, profoundly affecting their traditional way of life. Many were forced to work in the new industries that sprang up, from farming to logging, while others were displaced to reservations.
The transformation of the region into a state park began in the latter half of the 20th century, when efforts to conserve the area's natural beauty gained momentum. Conservation groups, along with state and federal agencies, rallied to protect the remaining wilderness from further logging and development. In 1975, these efforts culminated in the establishment of the Sinkyone Wilderness State Park. Today, the park is cherished for its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity it provides to step back in time and experience California's wild coast as it once was. The legacy of the Sinkyone people endures in the park's name and in the wild landscapes they once called home.
Northern California is a treasure trove for camping enthusiasts, and these locations are just a few hidden gems that showcase the region's diverse beauty. Remember, summer camping can be a hot affair, so ensure your gear is suited for warmer weather.
Pack your bags, grab your camping gear, and prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning landscapes of Northern California!
