Summer Camping Spots

Sweet dreams are made of sweet places to pitch a tent. From the wilds of Tahoe to redwood seclusion on the Sonoma Coast, even in San Francisco, here are three ways to get your summer camp on.

Week: 07.18.2019
Regions: Northern CA

Tahoe Trio of Lakes

Camp at Loch Leven Lakes in Tahoe

Campsite at Loch Leven Lakes in Tahoe National Forest
Person sitting in a hammock at Loch Leven Lakes in Tahoe National Forest
Backpackers walking next to Loch Leven Lakes in Tahoe National Forest
Loch Leven Lakes in Tahoe National Forest
Three alpine lakes, superb views, and shoreline camping for soaking it all in … Loch Leven Lakes is pure Tahoe wilderness. This 7.2-mile out-and-back in Tahoe National Forest is great for a long day hike, or a weekend of adventure camping among this trio of crystal waters.
Read the full story

Have You Conquered Concord?!

Concord Hikes, Bike Rides, and Other Hidden Gems

Guided Hikes on Mount Diablo Go on a guided twilight hike on Mount Diablo for a quieter (dare we say intimate?) experience. Book early for the famous later summer Tarantula hike! Beauty from the Bicycle Seat Bikers can select from the Quick & Dirty Guide to the East Bay’s Best Bi
Visit our sponsor Visit Concord

Pomo Pitch

Hike-in Camping at Pomo Canyon on Sonoma Coast

Secluded camping under the redwoods and by a creek … now that’s a good pitch! Get to it at Pomo Canyon Environmental Campground, an absolute gem within Sonoma Coast State Park. This walk-in-only campground has hillside options and spots closer to the creek.
Read the full story

San Francisco Nights

Camp in San Francisco at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area

Date night in the city: Don’t end it with “Your place or mine?” Try camping at one of six bayside campsites at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area. Opened in 2018, the sites are located on Sunrise Point, aptly named for being one of the first locations to get beams of the ris
Read the full story

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View