Morro Bay State Beach Campground
Morro Bay State Beach Campground is located along the shore of the bay, close to a wide variety of recreational activities. Rent kayaks at the Kayak Shack adjacent to the campground and paddle around the bay. Visit the nearby Monarch butterfly roosting area. A short drive away are Morro Bay Beach, Morro Rock, and the Morro Bay Teen Center and Skate Park. Enjoy campfire programs in the summer. Take the whole family on a Sub Sea Tour of the bay. The Museum of Natural History is especially popular with younger children. Set off on day trips to Cuyucos State Beach and Montano de Oro State Park.
The campground has flush toilets, hot showers, and some sites with electric and water hook-ups.
Dates & Rates Are Posted
After an eventful and memorable Camp season, we are already looking ahead to next summer! Check out our 2022 programs, including a return to our traditional four Camp session structure, teen programs, and Adventure Quests. Registration starts November 10th click below to learn when your family is eligible to sign up.
Lake Siskiyou Resort & Camp
Scenic Rating: 9/10
Region: Shasta and Trinity
Securing the spot for the top family campsite is this true gem of a lake, a jewel set at the foot of Mount Shasta at 3,181 feet, the prettiest lake on the I-5 corridor in California. The lake level is almost always full and offers a variety of quality recreation options, with great swimming, low-speed boating, and fishing. The campground complexes are huge, yet they are tucked into the forest so visitors dont get their styles cramped.
The water in this 435-acre lake is clean and fresh. There is an excellent beach and swimming area, the latter protected by a buoy line. In spring, the fishing is good for trout, and then as the water warms, for smallmouth bass. A good boat ramp and boat rentals are available, and a 10-mph speed limit is strictly enforced, keeping the lake pristine and quiet. The City of Mount Shasta holds its Fourth of July fireworks display above the lake. The campgrounds are huge and often fill on weekends and summer holidays.
Don’t Miss: Mineral Wells State Park Camping
Crystal Cove State Park
471 N Coast Hwy,Laguna Beach, CA 92651+1 949-494-3539
Why youve got to go: This is a gorgeous 3-mile-long state park and is a great place to spend some quality time with the kids. Its one of the biggest attractions in California for families and the trail system is just one of the reasons why.
What to do: You could explore the tide pools or take a dip here. The ocean is pretty mellow. You could go for a stroll or try mountain biking if youre outdoorsy and have the right gear. Theres also space for kids to build sandcastles. If you bring a kite along, the weather is almost always suited to that. You could also try camping here if you dont want to be confined in a lodge the whole time. Although, some of those have been around since the 1930s and are a great piece of history.
For: All ages.
Anaheim, CA 92802 781-4565
Why youve got to go: Dont skip this because youve seen Disneyland because this theme park has seven different themes which you will not find even in Disneyland. Youll find Cars Land, Paradise Pier, Bugs Land and a lot more here. And if your kids are fans of Pixar you have to check out the Disney California Adventure.
For: Up to 18. Again, do some homework on the height restrictions on some rides.
San Dimas, CA 91773 802-2200
For: Ages 5 and above.
Green Valley Family Campgroundgreen Valley Lake Ca
Green Valley Family Campground is located slightly north of Arrowbear, the midway point between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear. 37 camping sites are available, with 11 being available on a first-come, first-served basis. Amenities include picnic tables and flush toilets. Family activities include hiking, trout fishing, kayaking, and more. The busiest season tends to be summer.
Read Also: Harrington Beach State Park Camping
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort
This waterfront camping resort in Orange County is so close and so easy, you may feel guilty calling it camping. Located on a small protected cove set back from the oceanfront in the heart of Newport Beach, this hidden in plain sight gem has a clean beach with surf-free water perfect for paddle boarding and pedal boating. Over the summer, an inflatable water park is erected with enough structures to exhaust a kid of any size. The resort has lovely cabins on the water as well as set-back sections for tent or RV camping. In season, the resort hosts events like nighttime movies, campfires, and kids’ activities.
Summer 2021 info: Camping is available, and the water park is open. Social distancing is encouraged, and several restaurants and the fitness center remain closed as of April 12.
This post was originally published on May 25, 2017, and is updated annually. Some photos in this post were taken prior to the pandemic.
Joshua Tree National Parkyucca Valley Ca
Youll find Black Rock Campground in the northwestern corner of Joshua Tree National Park. It is described as a quiet, family campground and is a good introduction for first-time campers. Each of the 99 sites features a picnic table and fire ring with water and restrooms located nearby. Campsites differ in size and can accommodate both RVs and tents. Fees and reservation information are available online. Families can hike and look for wildlife including jackrabbits, ground squirrels, roadrunners, and much more. Check the website for reservation information.
Also Check: Mt Rainier National Park Camping
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground
For children who love the outdoors, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a great place to explore. Miles of trails through the redwoods will keep even the most eager hikers busy. The Smith River in mid to late summer, when water levels are safe, becomes a wonderful place for kids to play. Other attractions include a visitor center, a nature store, fishing, summer campfire interpretive programs. Pick up a and check the program schedule for craft programs and nature hikes.
The campground has flush toilets and hot showers. Campsites have plenty of privacy among the trees and undergrowth.
Mojave National Preservebarstow Ca
Mojave National Preserve is described as being a campers paradise. It is the largest unit of the National Park System in the contiguous United States. Families will find two family campgrounds, the Mid Hills Campground and Hole-in-the-Wall Campground. Both sites are available year-round and include fire rings, picnic tables, and pit toilets. Keep in mind that reservations are not accepted campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
You May Like: Best Rv Camping Near Salt Lake City
Lake Casitas Recreation Area11311 Santa Ana Rd Ventura Ca 93001
Lake Casitas offers over 400 sites with camping options ranging from Basic Hookup Sites on dirt pads to Executive Hookup Sites featuring a 40 concrete pad with water, electric, and sewer hookups. Families will also appreciate the on-site playgrounds though the nearby Casitas Water Adventure remains closed for the summer 2021 season. Reservations are available online.
Kennolyn Campsmultiple Locations Santa Cruz And Huntington Lake Ca
Since 1946, Kennolyn Camps has provided a haven for boys and girls ages 6-16 to be their best selves, unplug from technology, and make lifelong friends. Join us at one of our two overnight camp locations: in the Santa Cruz Mountains at our hidden village in the redwood forest just a short drive to the beach. Or on Huntington Lake just south of Yosemite at our cozy lodge nestled in the Sierras. This summer were celebrating 75 years of changed lives!
Also Check: Best Places To Go Camping In Ny
Malibu Creek State Park 1925 Las Virgenes Rd Calabasas Ca 91302
You wont have to drive too far to get to Malibu Creek State Park. Families can enjoy horseback riding, swimming, hiking, fishing, and more. Camping amenities include fire rings and showers. Malibu Creek State Park has also served as the filming location for television shows over the years including M*A*S*H and Planet of the Apes..
Tawonga In Forward This California Camp Lets Jews Of Color Like Me Just Be Ourselves
Jordan Daniels reflects on the powerful experience of joining Tawongas Jewish Families of Color Weekend in September: Many stories written by Jews of Color, including myself, discuss our othered experiences in Jewish spaces But we also have stories of belonging where we can just be and with places like Camp Tawonga, theyre finally being written. Im grateful to write this one.
Don’t Miss: West Coast Camping Road Trip
Berkeley California: New Woodland
New Woodland is tucked up behind Little Farm in Berkeley, just 15 minutes from our home. It is a group campsite that can hold a minimum of 11 campers, but a maximum of 50 campers, so consider this one for your preschool posse or scout troop. There are no fancy showers or concessions stands near, but the site does have two onsite, relatively clean, chemical toilets and a water spigot. There are plenty of picnic benches, fire pits and grills for all eating and smores needs. Wild turkeys and the fact that its right behind Little Farm are an added plus for child entertainment. If you go, make sure to bring celery and lettuce to feed the animals to keep the kiddos happy.
Pros:
Sleep Away Camps For The Best Summer Ever
Posted on Last updated:
Categories Summer Camps in Los Angeles
As we say here at MomsLA: its never too early to start researching summer camps. Popular summer camps and sleep-away camps near Los Angeles tend to reach capacity far before the last day of school. To help you prepare, weve rounded up the 28 best Sleep Away Camps for Kids in California and Beyond updated for 2021!
We know that Sleep Away Camp has not always been popular with LA parents, but we think thats starting to change. Youll see lots of options in this list, both close by and far away.
Don’t Miss: Best Portable Battery For Camping
Best Places In The Bay Area For Camping With Little Kids
We have camped with our kids at a variety of Bay Area campsites, from regional parks to rustic cabins, and each place has had its own special charm plus some things that were a bit less charming about them too. Heres a round-up of camping spots in Northern California along with some useful links to weekend excursions that are like camping, all selected with parents in mind.
Rockbrook Camp For Girls
Rockbrook Camp is one of the top summer camps for girls, founded in 1921 and located on a North Carolina mountain in Brevard. It’s an all-girls camp that provides entertaining and memorable experiences for girls between the ages of 6 and 16. They host several different overnight camp sessions in the early summer, mid-summer, and late summer, lasting a couple of weeks. Rockbrook Camp also has specialty camps for those specifically interested in a horse camp or kayaking camp for their child.
Campers participate in exciting activities like horseback riding, white water rafting, rock climbing, zip-lining, and plenty more at the camps. They also have different sports your child can join, like tennis, riflery, swimming, and archery.
You May Like: Camping World Rv Sales Burlington
Shaffers High Sierra Camp
Established back in 2000, Shaffers High Sierra Camp is one of our favorites. Its situated in Tahoe National Forest, giving campers the perfect opportunity to interact with Mother Nature. Speaking of which, the camp accommodates both boys and girls between 8 and 17 years old.
If youre keen about choosing a well-established summer camp for your kid, this is the best place you can take them. Shaffers High Sierra Camp has done so well over the years that its even been recommended by Outside Magazine and the LA Times.
The summer camp has a zero Wi-Fi connectivity policy, which makes it easier to train kids to unplug from technology and instead focus on building relationships with people and connecting with nature. There are dozens of activities that your child can take part in. These include archery, swimming, performing arts, arts and crafts like acrylic painting, volleyball and more. The owners also plan backpacking and hiking expeditions.
Best Family Beaches In California Kid Friendly Beach Vacations
- Tanner Wilkes
California, nicknamed the Golden State, is a beautiful location filled with pristine beaches, redwood forests, and home to the Sierra Mountain Range.
When thinking of the perfect summer vacation, we cant help but think of the sunny California beaches, where the waves never stop kissing the shores.
To help you plan the ultimate vacation with your loved ones, Ive listed down the best family beaches in California.
Recommended Reading: Rv Camping Near Georgetown Tx
Olema Rv Resort & Campground
While largely catering to the RV crowd, the Olema Campground also offers 107 tent sites on its property between Point Reyes Station and Olema, bordering Olema Creek and Highway One. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table, and onsite amenities include a bathrooms and showers a playground games like horseshoes, shuffleboard, and volleyball a general store and post office a laundromat, and even wifi access. Plus the Point Reyes National Seashore is right next door! More info and reservations at 663-8106 or www.olemacampground.net.
North California Family Friendly Campgrounds 2020
Many of these campgrounds have been closed or have reduced campsites due to wildfires or Covid-19 concerns. Always call or visit the camps website ahead of your trip to ensure they are operating as normal.
Its the perfect time to start planning a North California camping trip with the family. California has so many campgrounds you are sure to find the perfect place to spend some relaxing days hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. If you are looking for a kid-friendly campground weve listed 18 of the best family campgrounds for Northern California.
Camping in California does not HAVE to mean roughing it! The campgrounds weve profiled are chock full of family-friendly features and activities to keep even the tween & teens happy and involved. Whether you are a seasoned camping pro or going on your FIRST camping trip we promise youll enjoy these campgrounds.
As parents ourselves, we know whats important for a successful family camping trip.
Read Also: High Point State Park Camping
Best Campgrounds On The Central Coast
Camping at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park | Photo by Flickr/SokheounKim
Californias Central Coast is perfect for those who seek chiseled beauty, sand, and surf. The tiny town of Big Sur can be found on the winding Highway 1. The perseverance it takes to get there is rewarded with campsites surrounded by towering redwoods, meandering creeks, and incredible views.
Both Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and are good options for families. Both are set with gorgeous backdrops and access to water holes. They also share one major con for families with young children: poison oak. So be sure to choose a campsite carefully, or make sure to teach the kids how to identify this plant.
Looking for a stellar Jr. Ranger program, large sites, beach access, and trails? Look no further than family-favorite San Simeon Creek Campground. This campground is close to the world-famous Hearst Castle and a raucous elephant seal colony that cant be missed!
Quaint Morro Bay is home to Morro Bay State Park, a large campground set below a giant eucalyptus grove and the perfect place to camp and enjoy civilization. This campground is within walking distance of the Museum of Natural History, kayaking, golfing, and a short jaunt to the embarcadero. Check out our guide to Morro Bay with kids.
In Northern Santa Barbara County dont miss El Capitan State Beach, is a beach haven with amazing views of the Channel Islands.
See Trekaroo kid-friendly reviews of Central Coast campgrounds.
Places To See In California Before Your Kids Are All Grown Up
California is a paradise for kids and adults alike. From snowcapped mountain ranges to untouched beaches to amusement parks, there is no shortage of places to see and enjoy.
You can easily spend an entire childhood in California without experience all that there is to do. In one of the most diverse places in the world, children will build memories as they learn about and explore these places you have to see before your children are all grown up.
Heres 40 amazing things to do in California with kids:
Recommended Reading: Camping World Newport News Va
San Elijo State Beach
San Elijo State Beachs bluff top camping offers a store, snack shop, and camp programs to help families with ease. Stairs lead down to the beach from the campground, where you can enjoy fun under the sun like swimming, surfing, and picnicking.
2050 Highway 101, Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007. Hours: Year-round Rates: Rates vary by site and season, so check website for specifics.760-753-5091
River Way Ranch Camp6450 Elwood Rd Sanger Ca 93657
Located in the foothills of Sequoia National Park, River Way Ranch Camp offers children, ages 7-16, a summer of friendships and memories to last a lifetime. Campers may choose from 75 activities including waterskiing, horseback riding, ropes course, mini-bikes, go-karts, waverunners, gymnastics, overnights and more. With an emphasis on the first time campers, River Way provides exciting experiences, focusing on increasing self-confidence. Campers, ages 7-9, remain with their counselors throughout the day participating in a variety of activities, while 10-16-year-olds customize their schedules.
You May Like: Tent Camping In Southwest Florida