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Top ten California beach camping sites - part two
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This photo from Pismo Beach might explain why "on the beach" camping is so rare in California
Continuing my list of favorite beach camping spots in California we head south towards San Francisco and the central coast area. Like most of the campgrounds to the north these top ten spots are State Park Campgrounds and reservations can be made up to a year in advance online through Reserve America. Many of our beloved State Parks, including some of those in my Top Ten have been targeted for closure due to state budget cuts. Be a state park advocate by sending a message to your legislators opposing these closures through the California State Parks Foundation here.
California central coast camping is great because there are numerous state parks where you have both the fantastic rugged coastlines and proximity to metropolitan areas or other ammentities. This means lots of things to do and see, but also greater crowds. You will not find any "first come first served" sites on this list and reservations are recommended. So secure your reservations and let's go camping!
Van Damme State Park
Ok, so it’s not ON the beach, but it is right across Highway 1. Popular with abalone divers, it is a beautiful campground, secluded and generally quiet. Us “ab” divers tend to get up early and go to bed early, so it is pretty quiet in the evenings. The showers are coin operated (bring your quarters) but the water pressure is epic.
Sonoma Coast State Beach
This park is actually a series of beaches separated by headlands and rocks spanning about 20 miles of the California coastline just north of San Francisco. There are several campgrounds, but the closest to the beach is the Bodega Dunes campground with 98 campsites, flush toilets and hot showers. Check out the state site for beautiful aerial pictures of the coastline.
Angel Island
Primitive camping at the largest island in San Francisco bay. You will have beautiful views of the entire bay area from the trails and fire roads circling the island. This is truly a unique park, right in the middle of one of the biggest urban areas in the US. Unfortunately it is on the list of State Parks risking closure, so if you love Angel Island like I do, don't forget to make your voice heard by following the link above and sending a message to our state government.
Pismo Beach
Located in San Luis Obisbo, this popular beach offers hiking, swimming, surf fishing and clamming. Winter home for the Monarch Butterflies, it is truly a unique spot. Campgrounds are off the beach behind the dunes with full facilities including a visitors center.
California Beach Campgrounds- Far North Coast
California Beach Campgrounds- Southern
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