From dramatic waterfalls that tumble onto the beach to peaceful redwood groves hidden along fern-lined trails, Northern California offers some of the most stunning places in the country to pitch a tent. That’s according to a recent article from travel website Matador Network, which highlighted 60 of the most scenic campsites across the United States. Among them, two standout destinations — Wildcat Campground in Point Reyes and Van Damme State Park in Little River — represent the rugged natural beauty of California’s north coast.
Both campgrounds made the cut in the site’s West Coast roundup for offering more than just a place to stay. With striking landscapes and immersive access to the wilderness, they’re ideal for campers looking to unplug and reconnect with nature.
Marin County
Wildcat Campground, Point Reyes
Perched on windswept coastal bluffs with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Wildcat Campground offers an unforgettable backcountry camping experience. It’s one of the few places where campers can hike to a secluded beach and watch a waterfall, Alamere Falls, plunge directly onto the sand. Accessible only by foot, Wildcat features eight walk-in sites spaced apart for solitude, surrounded by rolling meadows that burst with wildflowers in spring and early summer. During migration season, lucky visitors may spot gray whales breaching offshore.
Hiking distances to the campground vary depending on trailhead, but expect to trek at least 5.5 miles one way. There are vault toilets and water access on site, but no campfires are allowed. Advance reservations are required year-round. 1 Bear Valley Road, 415-464-5100, nps.gov
Mendocino County
Van Damme State Park, Little River
Nestled in a quiet canyon just south of Mendocino, Van Damme State Park blends coastal access with ancient forest immersion. While the main campground offers drive-in sites, the best experience is found along the Fern Canyon Scenic Trail, where five walk-in campsites sit beside a babbling brook in dense redwood forest. It’s only a 2-mile hike to reach them, but the atmosphere feels far removed from the modern world — perfect for campers seeking peace and quiet without a long backcountry trek.
Van Damme is also home to pygmy forests, tidepools and beach access. Amenities are available at walk-in sites and reservations — especially in peak season — can fill quickly. 8001 Highway 1, 707-937-5804, parks.ca.gov
For something a little closer to home, we found the best springtime camping spots in Sonoma County.