California’s 270 state parks make it an ideal destination for RV campers to get close to nature.
The Golden State has some of the most idyllic natural scenes on the continent. But with so many unique areas to choose from, it’s hard to narrow down which are worth checking out.
When you’re ready for an adventure, these are a few of the most popular California state parks to check out.
Let’s get rolling!
Discover the Magic of California State Parks
Preserving natural beauty seems to be part of the motto for the California State Parks system. They’ve led the charge since Yosemite State Park opened in 1865, making it the first in the country. Nationally, they’ve got the most areas under protection of any other, and they’re proud of it.
With a large population and even more tourists, getting caught up in the most popular locations is easy. Even though you’ll wait in longer lines and fight crowds, they’re still worth your time.
But after you read our list, you’ll want to add some of these gems to your bucket list.
#1 Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove State Park, located off the Pacific Coast Highway between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach, is breathtakingly beautiful. With a Mediterranean climate year-round and over 2,400 acres of wilderness, it’s popular with outdoorsy folks of all stripes. Coupled with more than three miles of sandy beaches for surfing, it’s no wonder we’ve got it at number one.
Nestled in the cove, scuba divers and swimmers love the natural reefs and biodiversity. You can explore tidepools and horse trails to your heart’s content on land.
Get lost in the forested canyons and then find your way to the historic district for lunch. Forty-six charming vintage cottages built in the 1930s make you feel like you’ve entered the past.
Make sure you stop in at The Beachcomber Cafe for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Their menu features fresh pasta dishes, local seafood, and plenty of frosty beverages.
Campground Information
Several areas in this California state park offer various options depending on your needs.
Moro Campground is the only one with RV sites. Out of 57 total, 27 are for motorhomes and travel trailers. The rest are for soft-sided campers and “low impact” overnights, including Class B campervans.
On-site restrooms are convenient to use during your stay. You’ll also have access to showers, which use tokens to conserve water. At two minutes per token, you’ll have to wash quickly.
The park also enforces strict length limits of 38 feet for hookups and 25 without. You can bring your dogs, but they must always be on a leash.
The historic cottages are also available for rent if you want something more interesting. Choose between one or two-bedroom houses or a hostel-style dormitory.
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#2 Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the next on our list, best known for its namesake trees. High in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it’s a popular destination for travelers from around the world. With one of the oldest pines in the country, at 277 feet tall and 1,500 years old, visitors flock to the area.
The Fall Creek Unit holds a second-growth forest of redwoods in a fern-lined river canyon. While you can’t stay overnight at this stop, it’s worth checking out.
Kids and train enthusiasts in your group will love the nearby Roaring Camp Railroad. Hop on an 1880s steam locomotive for a fun ride from the park to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Campground Information
Designed to house some of the many tourists in the region, the 107-site campground is open to RVs. The only caveat is that all of them are dry, meaning no sewer, water, or electrical hookups. You can tow in trailers under 31 feet, and your motorhome can’t exceed 35 feet.
There aren’t a lot of amenities here for campers. But you will have access to coin-operated showers and flush toilets. Drinking water is also available in the campground. Each site includes a picnic table and fire pit. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash at all times.
We recommend making reservations for this popular California state park at least six months in advance. But be aware you may have to prepare for evacuation during fall and winter if the weather turns sour.
#3 Montaña de Oro State Park
One of California’s largest state parks, Montaña de Oro, covers over 8,000 acres of land near the town of Los Osos. With seven miles of shoreline, it’s a water lover’s dream.
Rising 1,347 feet to the top of Valencia Peak, the park has numerous backcountry trails. Backpackers and naturalists love the biodiversity offered in this coastal gem.
Surprisingly, its name doesn’t come from a history of mining. Instead, it’s from the golden wildflowers that bloom in the spring. Add to that a diverse set of wildlife, and it’s clear why hikers love to take their time on the trails.
Of all the beaches in the area, Spooner’s Cove is the most popular and is conveniently across the street from the campground. It’s also the only one your pets can be on.
In the summer, the temperature can be as much as 30 degrees cooler than inland locations. Plan to dress in layers and be flexible throughout the day.
Campground Information
Islay Creek Campground offers 47 campsites that are beautiful but relatively primitive. You can bring your tent or RV up to 27 feet long.
Toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and water spigots round out the amenities at Montaña de Oro. One perk is they have firewood for sale at the office nearby in case you forgot to bring your own.
A nearby spot may offer more options if your rig is too big for this California state park. With over 140 sites available, Morro Bay can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. While they don’t have sewer connections, they do have some electrical hookups. A dump station with potable water is also on the grounds.
Like many, they also offer token-operated showers.
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#4 Mount Diablo State Park
Unmatched views from the summit make Mount Diablo State Park a must. It’s a short drive from San Francisco, and you don’t have to leave your car to get to the top.
However, avid hikers love navigating their way to the peak. Unless you’re in fit condition, you may not want to attempt the Grand Loop Trail, which includes a 1,700-foot elevation gain and rocky terrain. But you’ll have other, more accessible options if that’s not your kind of hiking.
On the observation deck, rangers boast the best overlook in the world, sometimes stretching to 200 miles. You also might enjoy Rock City, a collection of iconic formations, including Native American artifacts.
Mount Diablo is one of the prominent features in Northern California and makes a wonderful day trip from the city.
Campground Information
Juniper Campground is an excellent option in Mount Diablo. They offer 51 dry sites, but the views are worth roughing it a bit. RVs are restricted to 20 feet. However, tents are always welcome. Each slot has a fire ring, picnic table, and easy access to toilets and showers.
Live Oak is another place to lay your head, but it’s not ideal for taking your rig. Out of 22 sites, most are close together and don’t offer much privacy.
The whole region is pretty dry, especially during the summer months. So carry plenty of water on your walks and top off your RV tank before heading up the mountain.
#5 Sonoma Coast State Park
The Sonoma Coast State Park stretches along 17 miles of Highway 1. As you make your way down the road, you’ll find multiple places to pull over to take pictures of the gorgeous ocean views.
You’ll likely see whales off the shore, so bring your binoculars. They travel north from December to February and swim south in March and April.
At Bodega Bay, you can put your boat in and enjoy prime fishing. Rockfish, perch, salmon, and steelhead trout are common in these waters. If you’re looking for a diving adventure, folks also collect cockles, muscles, and abalone. Ensure you have your valid license because rangers will check if they see you out there.
Hiking is a top draw at this California state park, with something for every skill level. Three areas offer beautiful trails, and those along the headlands aren’t particularly strenuous.
Paths linking the different sections of the park are loads of fun but stay on the marked routes. Seven picnicking stops, open from 8 AM to sunset, dot Route 1, too.
Campground Information
The Sonoma Coast State Park has four campgrounds to choose from. However, if you’re in an RV, remember that most don’t have amenities beyond the basics, such as pit toilets.
Bodega Dunes is your best bet, offering bathrooms and token showers. They also provide a dump station, but no hookups are available.
That said, they’ve got 99 sites during peak season, and you can top off your water at their filling station. RV and trailers are restricted to 31 feet and must fit on the paved parking pads provided.
Also, leave Fido home because they don’t allow dogs on most beaches to protect vulnerable wildlife.
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From Beaches to Forests
California state parks offer some of the most diverse experiences in the country. Traveling from the south to the north, you’ll see beaches, mountains, and ancient forests.
Exploring The Golden State in your RV is one of the best ways to enjoy its natural beauty. Fortunately, the Reserve California website makes it easy to see what’s available and pick your sites. Now’s the time to plan for your next vacation!
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