Top 10 Best Free Campgrounds in Northern California: Expert Guide to Scenic Spots
Discover Northern California's breathtaking natural beauty by camping at top free sites managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS). Many offer dispersed camping without permits, allowing flexible stays on public lands.
During our recent road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite and up the northern coast in a campervan, we identified these 10 exceptional free campgrounds based on official sources, personal experience, and visitor reviews for safety and accessibility.
Camino Cove Campground – Eldorado National Forest
Nestled on the northwest shore of Union Valley Reservoir, Camino Cove is among the most picturesque campgrounds in Eldorado National Forest. Open late May through October, it's ideal for fishing, boating, and hiking the Bassi Falls Trail.
Nearest Town: Pollock Pines, El Dorado County
Amenities: Fire rings and vault toilets. No potable water or showers.
Mud Lake Trailhead Campground – Lassen National Forest
Along the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, this trailhead suits thru-hikers and day trippers. Just 3.5 miles from Old Station, explore Subway Cave Lava Tubes and Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Nearest Town: Old Station, Shasta County
Amenities: Vault toilets, hitching rails, tables, fire rings. No potable water.
Pinnacle Rock – Mendocino National Forest
Go fully off-grid at this high-elevation viewpoint with unparalleled scenery. Most of Mendocino National Forest allows free dispersed camping, but Pinnacle Rock stands out. Bring all supplies—no amenities.
Nearest Town: Lucerne, Lake County
Amenities: None (no toilets, fire rings, water, or dumpsters).
Snag Lake Campground – Tahoe National Forest
Amid clear lakes, granite ridges, and forests, enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming. Five miles north of Bassets on Gold Lake Road, it offers 12 undesignated sites for tents or small trailers.
Nearest Town: Bassets, Sierra County
Amenities: Vault toilets. No potable water or dumpsters.
Orr Lake Campground – Klamath National Forest
A top freshwater fishing spot for bass, trout, and catfish, with views of Mt. Shasta and hikes to Orr Mountain.
Nearest Town: Bray, Siskiyou County
Amenities: Boat ramp, tables, vault toilets. No potable water.
Castle Lake Campground – Mount Shasta
Ten miles southwest of Mt. Shasta town, this pristine lake offers swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Open May–October with 6 sites; additional dispersed spots nearby. A short 1/3-mile walk to the lake.
Nearest Town: Mount Shasta, Siskiyou County
Amenities: Picnic tables, fire rings with grills, vault toilets. No potable water.
Steiner Flat Campground – Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Along the Trinity River, this primitive site has 6–15 spots for tents or small trailers. Perfect for swimming, fishing, hiking, or whitewater rafting.
Nearest Town: Douglas City, Trinity County
Amenities: Vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables. No potable water.
Lacks Creek – Redwood Valley
15 miles from the Pacific Ocean, ideal for hiking and mountain biking on 15–20 miles of trails. Free dispersed camping; very primitive.
Nearest Town: Eureka, Humboldt County
Amenities: None (no toilets, fire rings, or water).
Glass Creek Campground – Inyo National Forest
In a pine forest near Mammoth Lakes, close to Obsidian Dome lava formation. Slightly more southern but unmissable.
Nearest Town: June Lake, Mono County
Amenities: Vault/pit toilets, fire rings, tables. No potable water or hookups.
Plum Valley Campground – Modoc National Forest
In Warner Mountains, great for hiking and obsidian hunting near Sugar Hill Lookout and a clear creek under shady pines.
Nearest Town: Davis Creek, Modoc County
Amenities: Fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets. No potable water.
Essential Tips for Camping in Northern California
Fire permits are often required for campfires or stoves—check with rangers and never leave fires unattended.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: Camp on durable surfaces, pack out waste, minimize fire impacts, respect wildlife.
Many sites are seasonal—verify opening dates via USFS/BLM websites.
Bear country: Use bear boxes and research local guidelines.
Recommended Camping Essentials
Camping Gear
Quality gear is crucial. We rely on durable tents, sleeping bags, and pads for all California trips.
Cookware
Bring a camping stove, pots/pans, dishes, unscented soap, and wash basin for enjoyable meals.
Clothing
Layer up: Moisture-wicking base, packable jacket, beanie. For hikes, sturdy shoes.
Toiletries
Sunscreen, bug spray, and eco-friendly Dr. Bronner's soap for multi-use (shampoo, etc.).
First Aid & Water
Basic kit plus portable water filter to remove 99% of bacteria.
