I grew up in Hawaii, where most people don’t plan too far in advance for a weekend camping trip. Rather, they simply pull up to a beach with a sheet and a packed cooler, and let the good times roll.
When I moved to the mainland for college I was surprised by how the other-half camped. One of my first camping experiences took place in northern California, near Lake Tahoe. It was an incredible trip filled with hiking, kayaking and learning the finer points of cooking on an open fire.
I’m told that people from different regions of the country have varying camping styles. Personally, I can’t tell the difference between Midwest campers and West Coast campers, but I will say that of all the places I have ever set up a tent, California is hard to beat. If you are looking for an awe-inspiring place to rough it for a weekend, I would highly recommend the following sites:
D.L. Bliss State Park Campgrounds: Located near Lake Tahoe, this campground offers easy access to some of the most stunning sights in northern California. The campground is situated adjacent to Lester Beach which means you can hike, swim, kayak and sunbathe at your leisure. The site also features flush toilets and hot showers, which is always a bonus in my book.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground: Known as a haven for families and avid birdwatchers, Burney is usually packed this time of year. Its prime location near the Lake Britton reservoir and one of California’s most famous waterfalls, 129-foot Burney Falls, makes the site a must-visit for any nature lover. The campground features incredible amenities, including large sites, showers, toilets and dump stations. In addition, you can spend your days hiking, biking, fishing and boating.
El Capitan State Beach, Santa Barbara: If you are looking for a quiet escape in southern California, then consider pitching a tent at this amazing beach. El Capitan sits on a stretch of pristine coastline and allows visitors access to a slew of activities, from swimming to surfing, biking and tide pool exploring. In addition to the running water, flush toilets and showers, the site also features a convenience store which is open throughout the summer months.
Related Articles:
Camping Options For The Anti-Camper
Camping: A “Devil” Of A Good Time