One of the best things about boondocking in California? The diverse options that this incredible state has to offer. From the incredible Redwood forest and spectacular vistas at national parks like Yosemite to warm and sunny beaches and vast desert parks like Joshua Tree, there really is something for everyone in California. Luckily, because there are so many spots for boondocking in California, you can enjoy all of these amazing places without breaking the bank.
Here are some of our favorite spots for camping in California without hookups.
Boondocking Sites in California
Chimney Creek Campground
If you are looking for free camping in California, consider Chimney Creek Campground. This facility in the high desert is near the town of Lake Isabella. Numerous hiking trails lead under pinon trees to the Chimney Peak Wilderness. This campground offers easy access to Mojave National Preserve and Sequoia National Forest.
Orr Lake Campground
Soak in the stunning views of Mt. Shasta while camping at Orr Lake Campground. Catfish, trout, and bass are often biting in the lake at this campground located in Klamath National Forest near Bray. The path around the lake is a fantastic place to go camping. You can find many things to do in the national forest, including biking, hunting, scenic driving, swimming, and tubing.
American Girl Mine
American Girl Mine is a popular spot to go boondocking in eastern California. This former mine site near Whitehaven offers easy access to the Mexican border. Spend a fun day playing on the sand dunes or explore Yuma, Arizona, which is located about 10 miles away. During the Gold Rush, this was one of the largest mines in the state.
Beaver Creek Campground
Beaver Creek Campground is near Klamath River. This Klamath National Forest campground is under tall shade trees on Beaver Creek’s shores and accommodates sites up to 28 feet long. Enjoy playing in nearby Calaveras Big Trees State Park and exploring the national forest when camping at this location.
Chamise Flat Dispersed Campground
If you are looking for a great fishing spot while boondocking in California, Chamise Flat Dispersed Campground in the Sequoia National Forest may be perfect. There are many flat dirt spots near the river where you can park your RV at this location near Kernville. Vault toilets and trash bins may be available in the warmer months. Besides fishing, you can find outstanding trails to hike, and the river makes a great place to go rafting.
Calkin’s Flat Dispersed Campground
Another fantastic option in Sequoia National Forest is Calkin’s Flat Dispersed Campground. This campground, located about 15 miles north of Kernville, is a great place to go hiking in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming. It is also an excellent place to go fishing, especially in the fall. Since this area has a higher elevation than many California spots, it makes an ideal mountainous location to go camping during the hot summer months.
Ash Creek Campground
Ash Creek Campground in the Modoc National Forest is a fantastic place to go camping. Wildlife officials stock Ash Creek, making it a terrific spot to go fly fishing. The trailhead for Red Tail Rim Trail is at this campground, and it is available for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. RVs must be shorter than 22 feet to park at this campground located north of Canby.
Where to Boondock in California
- You can find many boondocking sites in California located within the 19 national forests found in the state.
- Others sit on lands controlled by the Bureau of Land Management, such as Carrizo Plains National Monument, Mojave Desert National Preserve, and the lands surrounding Joshua Tree National Park.
- You can also find locations along the Pacific Ocean, especially in the Big Sur area.
As you can see, there are many great places to go boondocking in California. Why not start planning your trip now? You can start by renting an RV right here on RVshare!
