Top 5s & 10s From California Camping

1) Patricks Point State Park -
This park near Trinidad is a real favorite, with campsites set amid Sitka spruce, trails that tunnel through thick fern vegetation, and an agate beach. There are several ocean lookouts where visitors can spot migrating whales. It's often foggy and damp here, but always beautiful.

There are 124 sites for tents or RVs up to 31 feet long, with picnic tables, fireplaces, and piped water provided. Rest rooms are also available.

2) Van Damme State Park -
This park near Mendocino is ideally situated for year-round adventures. You get ocean frontage on one side and forest on the other. In the winter, the nearby Noyo and Navarro Rivers can provide steelhead fishing.

The park has 74 sites for tents or Rvs up to 35 feet long. All facilities are available at the park or nearby.

3) Salt Point State Park -
Located north of Jenner, this park is just far enough from the Bay Area to give visitors a feeling of total separation from mass humanity. It is a great spot for abalone diving in season, beachcombing, and quiet walks. Horses are available for riding.

The park has 109 sites for tents or RVs up to 31 feet long, 20 walk-in sites, and 10 hiker/bicyclist sites, all with facilities provided at the park or in nearby Jenner.

4) Half Moon Bay State Beach -
A pretty and popular spot, Half Moon Bay State Beach offers tent campsites on a grassy area instead of sand. It is a prime spot for a long beach walk, especially during low tides. A bonus is nearby Pillar Point Harbor, located seven miles to the north, with a boat launch, sportfishing operations, and quality restaurants.

The park has 56 sites for tents or RVs, with piped water and rest rooms provided.

5) Sunset State Beach -
Sunsets often look like they are imported from Hawaii at this park. Sunset State Beach, on the shore of south Monterey Bay near Watsonville, is a favorite for vacationers and a good alternative to Big Sur to the south. There are several good trails for short walks, and clamming can be good during low tides.

There are 90 sites for tents or RVs up to 31 feet long. Each comes with a picnic table.

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