The Best Summer Camping Destinations in California That Families Love

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I don’t think I’ve gone one summer of my life without a camping trip. And I hope I never do. There’s just something about summer camping in California that hits differently.

Maybe it’s the way you can wake up under towering redwoods one day, spend the next kayaking on an alpine lake, and then wrap up your trip with sandy toes at the beach. Or maybe it’s just the slower pace—sticky s’mores fingers, late sunsets, and kids who somehow forget about screens for a few days.

If you’re trying to plan the ultimate summer camping trip, California is packed with bucket-list destinations. The tricky part? Narrowing it down. And getting campsites, but we won’t worry about that part yet 😉 (I have tips to help!).

Here are some of the most popular (and truly worth-it) places to go summer camping in California, especially if you’re traveling with kids. And if you think you’re too late to get a spot, you’re not. Start setting up searches in this camping app today and let it snag a cancellation for you.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Redwoods + River Days

If you’ve never camped in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, summer is the time to do it.

This is classic California camping—towering redwoods, shaded campsites, and the Big Sur River running right through the park. Kids love splashing in the shallow sections, and parents love that it feels equal parts relaxing and adventurous.

We’re heading back here this June, and I can’t wait! Follow me on Instagram to watch our adventure in realtime. Or almost real time, since the service is pretty much nonexistent in the park.

Why it’s perfect for summer camping:

• Natural shade keeps campsites cooler
• Easy hiking trails for families
• River access for low-key “water play” days

Good to know: This is one of the most in-demand summer camping spots in California—book as early as humanly possible. Campsites are released 6 months to the day and book up in seconds.

Yosemite National Park: The Iconic Summer Camping Experience

There’s a reason Yosemite National Park is on just about every camping bucket list.

Summer camping here means waterfalls (early summer especially), epic granite views, and endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. Even just biking around Yosemite Valley feels like an experience.

Unfortunately, because Yosemite is like nothing else in the world, it feels next to impossible to book sites there. It’s not though. You just need to know when to try and then be flexible with your timing so you have more opportunities to try. Again, if all else fails, look for cancellations with this app. I’ve gotten lucky plenty of times–even securing multiple consecutive nights!

Why families love it:

• Iconic scenery everywhere you look
• Junior Ranger programs
• Shuttle system (less driving stress)
• Wildlife all around you (deer just mosey on through camp)

Pro tip: If Yosemite Valley campgrounds are booked, look into the Housekeeping Cabins. It’s not exactly camping, but it’s a good compromise to be able to stay in the park. There are also nearby hotels, but I know that’s not the same as camping in the valley.

Pinecrest Lake: Laid-Back, Family-Friendly Mountain Camping

Pinecrest Lake is one of those places families return to year after year—and once you go, you’ll get why. We actually went for the first time back in 2019 when we didn’t luck out with Yosemite sites. And it was such a gem of a place, we couldn’t wait to return the following summer, and it’s high on my list of favorite camping lakes.

It’s a little less intense than Yosemite, but still gives you that perfect mountain-lake summer camping vibe. They do outdoor movies in the amphitheater, have a restaurant on site and even have a cute little coffee stand.

Why it stands out:

• Sandy beach areas (rare for mountain lakes!)
• Calm water for paddleboarding and swimming
• Easy, scenic loop trail around the lake

This is one of the best spots for summer camping with younger kids, especially if you want a balance of adventure and relaxation. And for non-campers who want in on the fun, there’s a cute little resort onsite as well.

Lake Tahoe: Camp + Swim + Repeat

Lake Tahoe in the summer is hard to beat.

You get crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and cool mountain air—basically the ideal combination for summer camping. I also love that our non-camping friends can stay near us in one of the nearby family resorts.

Best areas to camp:

• D.L. Bliss State Park
• Emerald Bay State Park
• Meeks Bay Campground
• Nevada Beach Campground – this is one of the few that allow dogs
• Campgrounds on the North Shore for a quieter vibe

Check out this full list of top campgrounds in Lake Tahoe. We love Meeks Bay, but there are no dogs allowed at that campground. Nevada Beach allows dogs, and we had a great time camping there last year. It’s right on the lake and provides easy water access.

Why it’s so popular:

• Beach + mountains in one trip
• Tons of water activities
• Cooler temps than inland California
• The lake is absolutely picturesque

California Beach Campgrounds: Wake Up to the Ocean

If your version of summer camping includes salty air and sandy feet, California’s beach campgrounds deliver. I have a whole post dedicated to the best beach campgrounds in Southern California. There are several great options, and you really can’t go wrong.

A few favorites:

• Carlsbad State Beach (great for San Diego families — we’ll be there again this summer!)
• Doheny State Beach (super family-friendly, campsites right on the sand)
• Leo Carrillo State Park (tide pools + caves = kid heaven)
• San Elijo State Beach

Why beach camping is a summer win:

• Built-in entertainment (the ocean does all the work)
• Cooler coastal temperatures
• Beautiful sunsets
• Perfect for quick weekend getaways

Bonus: Other Popular Summer Camping Spots in California

If you’re looking for a few more ideas, these are also incredibly popular for summer camping:

• Sequoia National Park – Camp among the largest trees on earth
• Shasta Lake – Great for boating and houseboat camping
• Russian River – Perfect for tubing and relaxed river days
• Burney Falls – One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state

Each of these brings something a little different to your summer camping experience.

Tips for Planning Summer Camping in California

A little real talk—summer camping in California takes planning.

Here’s what will make or break your trip:

• Book early (like… really early): Many campgrounds open reservations 6 months in advance and fill within minutes (or seconds 😬)
• Check fire restrictions: Especially in late summer
• Pack for temperature swings: Hot days, chilly nights–especially at Lake Tahoe. It was hot one day and SNOWED the next last year when we were there in late June.
• Bring activities: Bikes, hammocks, beach games—it keeps kids engaged

Final Thoughts: You Really Can’t Go Wrong

The beauty of summer camping in California is that there’s no single “right” choice.

Want dramatic scenery? Go Yosemite.
Want easy, repeatable family fun? Pinecrest.
Want something coastal? Grab a beach site.

Or honestly—do a mix over the summer and call it your own California camping tour.

Because at the end of the day, the best part of summer camping isn’t the destination—it’s the memories you make while you’re there.

Looking for more camping resources? Check out:

• Fun Family Campgrounds With Water Parks
• Summer Vacation Ideas for Families
• How to Plan aa Group Camping Trip
• Fun Camping Desserts That Kids Love
• Best Family Campgrounds in Southern California
• How to Stay Cool While Camping
• 1-Pot Camping Meals

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