The San Francisco Bay Area has everything.

From the big city vibes to the coastal beaches to the ski slopes, there are a range of adventures to be had. And what better way to explore the great outdoors than to experience the beauty of California nature and wildlife with a camping trip?

There are countless destinations to explore around the Bay Area for the experienced outdoors people and those just looking for a natural getaway from urban life. While California is renowned for its National Parks like Yosemite and the Redwood Forest, there are also campgrounds, rivers, and destinations to explore that might not be as crowded as some of the more well-known spots. 

National Parks might fill up fast, but they are not the only picturesque destinations to explore. Take a look at some of our favorite spots to camp around the Bay Area, and start planning your next excursion soon.  

American River Resort 

Whether you’re looking for camping, glamping, or a little bit of both, American River Resort on the American River in Coloma, California offers all of these outdoor options and more. Located just 133 miles outside of San Francisco, the resort has campsites, RV hookups, cabins, and more to make your stay perfect. 

With the location right on the south fork of the American River near the Gold Rush town of Coloma, activities like river rafting, fishing, mountain biking, gold discovery are definitely on the agenda. Explore the Sierra Foothills at this one-of-a-kind resort which offers fun for everyone in your group. Looking to plan a special event? American River Resort boasts many event spaces for weddings, wellness retreats, family reunions, and more. 

Address: 6019 New River Road, Coloma, CA
Cost: Cabins from $179, Campsites from $20 per person

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 133 miles

Olema Campground, Point Reyes

If you’re looking for picturesque beach views for days, the Point Reyes National Seashore is an idyllic coastal oasis. Olema Campground makes a great base camp, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly stay or a romantic getaway. With activity options like hiking, biking, bird-watching, or just relaxing on the beach, Olema Campground offers a laid back atmosphere with everything you need to live your best camping life. This private campground has great amenities to get you set up with what you need to pitch a tent and go. 

Address: 10155 Highway 1, Olema, CA 94950 

Cost: $53 RVs / $43 tents per night More info on pricing here. 

Distance from Bay Area: 37 miles

 Toyon Campground

You get three campgrounds in one at this local destination near the redwood-filled Huddart State Park. The campground is a good fit  for hiking day trips or just to experience the rugged wilderness with an evening campfire, with a permit required. Reservations are taken from May through October each year, and at 35 miles from San Francisco in the heart of the Bay Area, this destination is ideal for an overnight trip or even an extended getaway. 

Address: Campground Trail, Redwood City, CA

Cost: From $25 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 35 miles

 Lake Alpine Campground

The Stanislaus National Forest is one of Northern California’s many wonders, and while many flock to Lake Tahoe for outdoor fun, Lake Alpine is an underrated gem. Just three miles from Bear Valley, a quaint mountain town, the Lake Alpine recreation area offers swimming, kayaking, biking, hiking, and more. Picnics, horseback riding, and fishing are also available to visitors! At 182 miles from San Francisco, Lake Alpine is slightly off the beaten path.

Address: 4000 CA-4, Arnold, CA

Cost: From $30 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 182 miles

Woods Lake Campground

Boating, fishing, kayaking — it’s all available on Woods Lake, or the nearby Round Top Lake, Winnemucca Lake, Caples Lake, and Silver Lake. The campground is located in the summit of Carson Pass with many hiking trails to choose from along the mountain peaks Round Top, The Sisters, and Elephants Back. The no-frills campground is tent only, so you and your group can really be one with nature. 

 Address: Carson Pass Highway, Kirkwood, CA

Cost: From $24 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 187 miles

Big Trees Campgrounds

Big Trees Campgrounds features a haven of rivers, trees, and wildlife, where you can experience the gorgeous sequoias at 4,000 feet elevation and the nearby Stanislaus River and Beaver Creek. A bevy of outdoor fun is at your fingertips at this dog-friendly campground with 120 campsites and plenty of trailheads to launch your hiking adventure. 

Address: 1170 CA-4, Arnold, CA

Cost: From $35 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 155 miles

Sunset State Beach Campground

Sunset State Beach Campground is super accessible from anywhere in the Bay Area, at under 100 miles from San Francisco. Located in South Santa Cruz, there are many landmarks nearby and activities to enjoy. Go hiking in Point Lobos State Park. Try out pier fishing in Santa Cruz. In the winter, check out whale watching from the bluffs. Try out surfing with the rolling waves. Or just relax on the beach. There’s something for everyone at Sunset Beach. 

Address: Sunset State Beach, Watsonville, CA

Cost: From $35 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 90 miles

Fallen Leaf Campground

While you’re under a mile away from Lake Tahoe, Fallen Leaf Lake is a hidden gem in the area that is less crowded and just as beautiful. The campground offers tent and RV camping with six yurts available. Enjoy the wildlife, spend some time on the water, take in the gorgeous peaks of Cathedral Peak and Mount Tallac. Fallen Leaf Lake is the optimal location to enjoy nature, take in some water sports and hikes, and relax in the Lake Tahoe area.

Address: 2165 Fallen Leaf Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA

Cost: From $36 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 190 miles

Eagle Point Campground

Another great option in South Lake Tahoe is the Eagle Point Campground, located in Emerald Bay State park. The site offers lakefront campsites, where you can take advantage of the boat-in feature during the summer. Dogs are also allowed on leash so bring your furry friends along. Enjoy the wonders of Lake Tahoe, stunning vistas, and more at this gorgeous site. 

Address: 11001 S Highway 89, Tahoma, CA

Cost: From $35 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 194 miles

Stanislaus River Campground

Enjoy the Stanislaus National Forest at this picturesque destination, where you can visit the Stanislaus River and Spicer Meadow Reservoir for all your water activity needs. There’s a sandy beach and gentle stream from the river at the edge of the campground, so you’ll be right in the action. Mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing are just some of the many activities you can enjoy here. 

Address: Arnold, CA

Cost: From $19 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 177 miles

Skyline Wilderness Park

When you think of Napa, you probably think of wine and vineyards, but there is also some excellent camping! Tent, RV, and horse camping are available at this stunning destination in the heart of the Napa Valley. Archery and disc golf are just some of the fun activities on the agenda at this oasis in the middle of wine country. 

Address: 2201 Imola Avenue, Napa, CA

Cost: From $30 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 46 miles

Big Sur Campground and Cabins

If you’re looking to venture south for some beach vibes along Highway 1, look no further than Big Sur, where the waves collide with nature. Big Sur Campground and Cabins offers camping for all sorts, from serviced cabins to tent sites. Enjoy the redwoods. Go for a swim. Rent an inner tube. The opportunities abound at this gorgeous destination. 

Address: 47000 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States

Cost: From $65 per night

Distance to SF/Bay Area: 193 miles

Explore the great outdoors and book your camping trip today!

Enjoy the great outdoors, fit in some great water activities, and experience a range of amenities atAmerican River Resort. Nestled in the middle of California Gold Country, you’ll be surrounded by history and natural wonders. Whether you’re looking to plan a wedding or a family event or you just want a getaway, American River Resort provides a range of services and options. Learn more about all that American River Resort has to offer, and book your trip today.