As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Whether you want to actually be secluded from people or just feel secluded, there will be a campground on this list for you! These secluded Northern California campgrounds are great for a relaxing getaway away from it all. Maybe you want to be within a five minutes drive from the closest store, or perhaps you really want to be one with nature in the middle of nowhere. In the vast wilderness of Northern California, there are plenty of secluded campgrounds to choose from.
This lesser-known Northern California campground is located right outside of Crescent City. Camp by the Smith River among the redwoods in this unforgettable park. Frequent visitors love how quiet it is here, but it's also close enough to town to enjoy dining out. From Jedediah Smith Campground you can explore the area– hiking, beaches, and more! Friendly rangers occasionally give talks about all sorts of nature-related subjects. This campground is not tightly packed so you’ll be able to experience some solitude. Book this campground in advance!
These small and rustic cabins are located in Lassen Volcanic National Park on a small lake. Aside from the neighboring cabins, the lake is not very crowded, especially compared to places like Lake Tahoe. The cabins do not have electricity, so you'll need to bring your own lights. This adds to the rustic feel and seclusion of this area. Don’t be surprised to see deer walk right by in the early morning hours. A camp host and a small store can help you with any issues that arise and replenish you during your stay. This is a great way to explore Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Wright’s Beach Campground is located right next to the sand at Wright’s Beach. Get a spot with a view of this peaceful Northern California beach and fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing. While this campground is often booked, if you visit in the cooler months there may be fewer people on the beach. Some of the campsites have more privacy than others due to bushes and trees. Overnight camping ranges from $35 to $50, depending on which site you reserve and the time of year.
Next to the Sacramento River, Sims Flat Campground is a hidden gem. North of Redding and south of Mt. Shasta, the town of Castella is a picturesque spot to set up camp. This small spot has 19 campsites with fire pits that are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you find the sound of a train peaceful, this campground is for you– a train passes nearby every so often. From this campground, you can explore the Sims Bridge, a suspension bridge constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
On the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada and south of Lake Tahoe is Grover Hot Springs Campground. Enjoy beautiful mountain views of snow-capped peaks from the stunning meadow that the campsite is located on. The campground has hiking trails and fishing spots, plus a hot spring and a cold pool. Spacious campsites offer some seclusion from other campers. There is also a nearby creek where you can cool off in the warmer months. Camping is available year-round. Visit the Grover Hot Springs State Park website for updates.
Located in Yosemite National Park, this campground is a great starting point to explore the area. It’s impossible to visit Yosemite and be secluded from people, but at 6,200 feet elevation, you’ll feel far away from it all. This campground is only 17 miles away from Yosemite Valley and is usually less noisy than the campgrounds in the valley. Reservations are required in advance.
If you want seclusion from populated areas, Wrights Lake Campground is for you. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, this campground is on the edge of Desolation Wilderness. Situated next to a beautiful high-altitude lake, visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and birding. At 7,000 feet, this high-elevation campground is covered in pine and fir trees. Campsites are $25 for a single site and $50 for a family site. Reservations can be made online.
Some of the campgrounds on this list require a reservation, while others often have enough availability that you can book something the day of or just show up.
What is the most secluded place you’ve ever camped in? Tell us in the comments.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
