Is your idea of camping roughing it and pitching your tent far away from the maddening crowd? Or do you prefer a little closer to civilization and paved roads? Do you like the idea of camp fires and the smell of the changing season but not sure you want to experience all that nature offers and give up the soft life? Whatever your taste in outdoor overnight lodging, these five perfect fall camping spots in California will help you find the ideal setting for your fall adventure!
Beautiful reflecting lakes in this northern California campground will enhance your autumn adventure and provide excellent photo opportunities. There are several camping sites in the area with half accepting reservations. There’s a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and food storage container at each site, but no RV hookups. A new volcano adventure camp opened and gives kids a chance to learn about the volcanic activity that formed the area. Make sure to use the food storage containers as bears frequent the area and don’t always ask before taking food.
Park of the Santa Cruz Mountains in California, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the oldest park in the state. Visitors will have the chance to see the kings of the forest, the giant redwood trees that can grow from the size of a tomato seed to a height of nearly 367 feet tall and an average circumference of 22 feet. There are more than 80 hiking and backpacking trails in the park, but check to see if any are closed before heading out on your adventure. Fall is a particularly great time to camp at Big Basin, and is the best time to escape the heat of the summer and accompanying storms. Autumn brings abundant color changes in wildflowers. The four waterfalls are a special delight and may provide opportunities to see some of the animals and birds that live there. Leashed dogs are permitted in the camping area, but not on the trails. Check at the ranger station to see if any fees apply on trails that lead to hiking or rock climbing areas.
One of 19 national parks and nestled in the southern part of the state, Sequoia National Forest is part of the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, and has over one million acres with the world’s largest number of sequoia trees. Over 850 miles of trails and 14 campgrounds in the two national parks found there, the views are unsurpassed for majesty and the raw beauty of nature. From the spring wildflowers to the blankets of snow, fall may be the best time to visit the park with the golden tones and cooler temperatures providing optimal opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and just enjoying nature. There are many recreational activities in the area including horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, and mountain biking as well. Passes or permits may be required, so check in with the local rangers’ station. This is a wilderness area, so use caution when traversing on trails and stay on the established paths.
If the idea of pitching your tent on the ground and roughing it doesn’t appeal to you, El Capitan Canyon is just the place for you. With 108 comfortable cabins and all the amenities of home that will make you feel warm and cozy, there are 300 acres to roam and explore nature. Located on the Pacific Coast, an unusual perk of camping here is that it’s a great place to catch a wave or two, kayak, or climb a rock. There are beautiful hiking trails for those who want a little more adventure. Imagine spending the day in the sun and surf, then coming back to your cabin to enjoy a brisk fall evening around a cozy fire singing camp songs. There are special camp experience packages available for those who want to enhance their stay, such as s’more and barbecue kits, massage treatments with licensed therapists, and wine tasting events with other campers.
With over 500 miles of dirt roads, 12 wilderness areas, and 110 miles of hiking trails that include 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrega Desert State Park is many things, but ordinary isn’t one of them. This state park inside the Colorado Desert in southern California gets its name from the bighorn sheep that live there. Many people choose to set up base camp at Borrego Springs and travel to one of the world’s oldest and most diverse areas where you can see badlands, canyons, and mountains. Any season brings a special color, but fall is one of the best times to visit. You’ll see desert plants and flowers not seen elsewhere, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife. This is also a Dark Sky Community, perfect for stargazing. The local Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Associate offers over 150 free programs that will give you more information about the area and enrich your visit. Check with local ranger stations for any applicable fees or passes needed while there.
