6 Best Camping Grounds in California for Kids

If you’re planning a family camping trip in California, you may wish to choose a destination that keeps your kids engaged while staying within your budget. The Golden State offers an impressive range of family-friendly campgrounds, from beachfront sites where children can build sandcastles to mountain retreats where they’ll spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Let’s explore six carefully selected locations that combine safety, entertainment, and natural beauty—without breaking the bank.

Take Aways

• Campland on the Bay offers 594 waterfront sites with dedicated children’s activities, outdoor play equipment, and family-friendly amenities like WiFi and bike rentals.
• El Capitan Canyon features a heated pool, playground, and guided hikes for kids to learn about Chumash history.
• South Carlsbad State Beach provides family swimming areas, Junior Ranger programs, and nature walks perfect for educational outdoor experiences.
• Paso Picacho Campground’s 85 sites offer easy access to Lake Cuyamaca fishing and historical attractions suitable for family exploration.
• Elk Prairie Campground allows children to safely observe Roosevelt elk and diverse wildlife while exploring scenic nature trails.

Beach Adventures at South Carlsbad State Beach

Looking for an all-in-one beach camping experience for your kids? South Carlsbad State Beach offers family-friendly swimming areas and diverse activities that won’t break the bank.

Your children can try surfing, whether they’re beginners or experienced riders, or explore marine life through skin diving and snorkeling in the clear waters. Leave no trace principles should be followed when engaging in these activities.

From gentle waves for novice surfers to vibrant underwater worlds for snorkelers, the beach offers aquatic adventures for every skill level.

Pack a picnic lunch and spend time at the designated picnic areas, or grab your fishing gear for a memorable family catch. Plus, families can watch amazing sunset views from bluffs while winding down their day of activities.

The beach’s educational programs add extra value to your stay, with Junior Ranger activities and nature walks that teach kids about local ecosystems.

You’ll also find opportunities for your family to participate in beach cleanups and evening campfire programs.

Just remember, you’ll need to leave your dogs at home, as they aren’t permitted on the beach.

Mountain Magic at Paso Picacho Campground

Want to give your kids a taste of mountain adventure without straying too far from San Diego? Paso Picacho Campground, nestled at 5,000 feet in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, offers an accessible mountain escape with family-friendly amenities.

You’ll find 85 well-equipped campsites that accommodate RVs up to 30 feet, each featuring a picnic table and fire ring. The campground provides modern conveniences like flush toilets and pay showers, while on-site ice and firewood sales save you extra trips.

Your kids can explore over 100 miles of trails, splash in Green Valley’s shallow pools, or try fishing at Lake Cuyamaca. History enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover the Old Stage Route that once carried wagons and coaches through the area. The relaxing world of wilderness camping offers a perfect escape for families seeking outdoor adventure.

Don’t miss the Stonewall Peak Trail, which starts near the campground and rewards hikers with panoramic views. While pets are welcome, they’re restricted to camping and picnic areas.

Coastal Fun at Campland on the Bay

Ever dreamed of camping right on the water’s edge? At Campland on the Bay, you’ll find 594 waterfront sites perfect for your family’s next adventure.

Your kids will love the outdoor play equipment, planned activities, and easy access to Mission Bay’s public beach. Over 80 percent of visitors make this their annual family tradition. According to the top family-friendly campsites around the globe, Campland on the Bay is one of the best campsites for families.

Kids can explore playgrounds, join fun activities, and splash at Mission Bay Beach – making memories that last a lifetime.

Set up your tent or RV at one of their full-hookup sites, where you’ll get water, electric, and sewer connections. You won’t need to rough it – the campground offers six shower facilities, laundry services, and free WiFi.

There’s even a market for groceries and camping supplies.

You can rent watercraft and bikes to explore the bay, or watch wildlife at the nearby Kendall Frost sanctuary.

USA Today ranks this as one of the top urban campgrounds, making it an ideal spot for introducing your children to outdoor living.

Glamping Paradise at El Capitan Canyon

When comfort meets the great outdoors, El Capitan Canyon delivers a premium camping experience without the typical roughing-it hassles.

You’ll find three accommodation options: Canvas Safari Tents, Cedar Cabins with private bathrooms, and Adventure Yurts with stargazing skylights. Nightly rates range from $145 to $795, depending on season and lodging type.

Your kids will love the year-round heated pool, playground, and easy access to family-friendly hiking trails. The Selma Rubin Trail offers a scenic walk to a farm with ocean views and friendly goats. Camping with your baby can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.

The on-site market and dining options mean you won’t need to pack coolers or cooking gear. Each site comes with a fire pit, grill, and picnic table for outdoor meals.

Take advantage of complimentary beach cruiser bikes to explore the 300-acre property, or join guided hikes to learn about the area’s affluent Chumash history.

Ancient Giants at Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Towering ancient redwoods define California’s oldest state park, where your kids can explore over 80 miles of trails beneath thousand-year-old giants. The park’s CZU Lightning Complex Fire in 2020 transformed much of the landscape, yet the ancient redwoods proved their resilience by surviving. Camping safety tips can help ensure a comfortable and secure outdoor experience for the whole family.

At Big Basin Redwoods State Park, you’ll discover a perfect blend of education and adventure, with some trees measuring over 50 feet around. The park’s diverse ecosystems and abundant Native American history provide countless learning opportunities for young explorers.

• Join free nature programs designed specifically for children
• Set up camp at family-friendly sites with basic amenities and trail access
• Watch for local wildlife while hiking through old-growth forests
• Visit ancient grinding rocks used by Native American tribes
• Explore scenic waterfalls along well-marked trails

Before visiting, check the park’s current status due to ongoing recovery efforts from recent fires. Many areas have reopened, offering your family a chance to witness nature’s remarkable resilience firsthand.

Wildlife Wonders at Elk Prairie Campground

Deep in the heart of Redwood National and State Parks, Elk Prairie Campground offers families an unparalleled opportunity to witness California’s largest land mammals in their natural habitat.

You’ll spot magnificent Roosevelt elk grazing in meadows surrounded by towering redwoods, especially during the late summer mating season when bull elk calls echo through the forest. Remember to bring a camera, as viewing opportunities occur year-round in this remarkable park. Embrace nature during your camping trip and be mindful of wildlife behavior.

Your kids will be thrilled to discover the park’s abundant wildlife diversity, including river otters, red squirrels, and various bat species.

For the best viewing experience, stick to marked trails and pullouts, keeping a safe distance from the elk. Remember to bring binoculars or a telephoto lens for close-up views.

The campground’s strategic location puts you right in the middle of this wildlife sanctuary, making it an ideal base for your family’s nature exploration.

The Last Word

Just as a child’s eyes light up when discovering their first starfish, California’s family campgrounds spark endless wonder without breaking the bank. You’ll find these six destinations offer the perfect mix of adventure and safety, ranging from $25 to $75 per night. Whether you’re pitching a tent by the Pacific or nestling among ancient redwoods, these spots create lasting memories while keeping your wallet happy.