Annual Santa Barbara French Festival coincides with France’s Bastille Day Weekend. 40 acts on 3 stages. The Largest French Celebration in Western US. A great weekend for fabulous food, dancing, and a celebration of everything French.
Annual event; July
(listed from north to south)
North State / North Valley / North Sacramento Valley
Black Butte Reservoir
Stony Gorge Reservoir
East Park Reservoir
Lake Berryessa
Lake Oroville SRA
Thermalito Afterbay
Thermalito Forebay
New Bullards Bar
Collins Lake
Oak foothills of the Historic Gold Country, at the edge of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Most Central Valley Reservoirs have blooming wildflowers in early springtime. Summer heat can measure triple digits for months as most of these lakes are located below 1000′ elevation.
Central Sacramento & California Delta
Central Valley / San Joaquin Valley
Lake Amador
Lake Camanche
Pardee Reservoir
New Hogan Lake
New Melones Lake
Woodward Reservoir
Salt Spring Valley Reservoir
Lake Tulloch
Don Pedro Lake
Turlock Lake SRA
Modesto Reservoir
Lake McClure
San Luis Reservoir SRA
Eastman Lake
Hensley Lake
Woodward Reservoir
Millerton Lake SRA
Redinger Lake
Pine Flat Reservoir
Lake Kaweah
Lake Success
Buena Vista Reservoir
BALCH PARK campground is on a first come basis; no campground reservations needed.
2021 – THIS CAMPGROUND IS CLOSED indefinitely,
due to the Castle Fire 2020
Hedrick Pond lined w/ Sequoia trees
Balch County Park is right in the middle of Mountain Home State Forest, which is within the bigger Sequoia National Forest (aka Giant Sequoia National Monument). But don’t let all the bureaucracy mislead you, this is an ideal park and location, well worth your trip. The campground is the most developed one within the area – with paved roads, RV spaces, flush toilets and a fee to go along with all that. Even gotta fishing pond.
Balch Park & Campground NOT TO BE CONFUSED with utility company residences of BALCH CAMP between Pine Flat & Blackrock Reservoirs
Helpful Maps:
Nearby cities & towns:
| campground | elev. | spots | veg | toilet | water | fee | |
| Balch Park 559-539-3896 |
6500′ | 71 | pines | flush | piped | yes | no reservations first come basis |
If you’ve had it with the traditions, the big meal prep, or just sick of the family. Maybe you are a solo traveler, or a new transplant to California and need to explore more. Take a holiday away – for once this time.
Camping for turkey day? What a concept.
California is the perfect place for camping, all year long!
California mountains often have snow during November. Avoid camping in snow @ 4000-5000′ elevation and above; Freezing temps above 3000-4000′ elevation.
Deserts, coastal regions and foothills are top choices for late Autumn car camping. Always check the weather ahead of departure, and have a plan B as an alternative. NorCal will be much wetter than the rest of the state.
MEALS: Prepare dinner meals ahead of trip departure. Bake turkey days before your trip and create meals based around that. Make mash potatoes at home and don’t forget to bring the butter. Pack pre-baked turkey for sandwiches, plus other quick snacks & meals for on-the-go travel.
Desert Camping is premium at this time of year. Luckily the eastern half of Southern Cal is desert. The lower the elevation, the better the temps will be overnight. Be prepared for wind when the ‘storm fronts’ approach, the winds do get a cranking! Dirt roads can become flowing washes during a good rainstorm, so know the weather forecast.
Coastal campgrounds may need advanced reservations. Be prepared for wet weather, especially up north. The redwoods groves are gorgeous anytime of year.
Gold County Reservoirs are prime areas for relaxing in nature, while everyone else is out shopping. Oak hills, rivers and canyons. RV campers love these large lakes; boating, fishing, mountain biking trails, kayak rentals, hiking near historic Gold Rush towns.
River Canyons of California are always beautiful destinations in the autumn months with fall leaves changing color. Many campgrounds can be found at lower elevation, river access areas.
Joshua Tree National Park may be busy during this weekend. Instead try nearby Mecca: Box Canyon and Mecca Hills Wilderness, BLM desert lands near Interstate 10.
Anza Borrego Desert State Park is always a nice, easy and relatively close get-away for any holiday. Open camping on the backroads (for free) makes it one of the most attractive camping options in all of SoCal. Many dirt roads are accessible for passenger cars, if extreme caution is used. Don’t plan on driving more than a few miles on dirt.
Masses of off roaders love to camp out, especially on Thanksgiving weekend. Wheel all day, eat, drink, bon fires every night and rumor has it ‘they roast their big bird outdoors – deep in a dirt pit’. Really?
El Centro, Glamis, Imperial Dunes, Ocotillo Wells, Truckhaven Hills, Johnson Valley. All popular off roading areas in Southern California, so consider yourself warned.
Mojave Desert, near US Hwy 395
Jawbone Canyon expect to see RVs, toy-boxes and families outside enjoying the weekend. OHV style. Often the group tries to create a round corral with their huge convoy of vehicles, to keep thru traffic to a minimum around “their camp”. Just stay well away from those gear-heads. In general, it is a very busy area around Mojave up to Hwy 178 during the holidays. Try high desert Horse Canyon instead.
Death Valley National Park is one of the best destinations for Thanksgiving, cuz Panamint Springs serves their free turkey dinner.
Did someone say FREE?
| campground | elev | spots | veg | toilet | water | notes |
| Bobcat Meadow | 3800′ | 16 | oaks | vault | no | no RVs |
| Burnt Rancheria | 5000′ | 100+ | pines | vault | piped | Sunrise Hwy |
| Cibbets Flats | 4200′ | 23 | oaks | vault | piped | Interstate 8 |
| Corral Canyon | 3500′ | 20 | oaks | vault | piped | OHV near I-8 |
| Dripping Springs | 1800′ | 26 | oaks | vault | piped | Hwy 79, E Temecula |
| El Cariso North | 2600′ | 24 | oaks | vault | piped | small RV |
| Fry Creek Campground | 4900′ | 20 | oaks | vault | piped | Palomar Mountain |
| Indian Flats Campground | 3600′ | 17 | oaks | vault | piped | off Hwy 79 |
| Laguna Mountain | 5500′ | 75 | pines | vault | piped | Sunrise Hwy |
| Palomar SP Campground | 7000′ | 13 | pines | vault | piped | Palomar Mountain |
Sweetwater Reservoir, Otay Lakes, Agua Caliente, Vallecito
Camping Reservations 877-565-3600 or 858-565-3600
Lark Canyon, Cottonwood @ McCain Valley near Interstate 8
El Centro Desert OHV, Hot Springs, Colorado River
Coastal Towns with Camping near San Diego –
Chula Vista
Coronado
San Diego
Mission Beach & Bay
Del Mar
Cardiff
Carlsbad
Oceanside
Indian Flats Campground is located on a dirt road off Hwy 79, near Warner Springs CA. Boulder ridges & manzanita surround this oak filled secluded canyon. Small seasonal creek & waterfall is a short walk from campsite.
Los Coyotes Campground is a tribal camp, located on Hot Spring Mountain in North San Diego County. High desert chaparral, oak groves and boulders.
Maps Mountains / Desert Topo / San Diego Area Maps
Each Autumn monarch butterflies invade the Pacific Grove region of California. A sanctuary has been established along this coastline.
Annual event: October
831-648-5716
cityofpacificgrove.org/visiting/monarch-butterfly-sanctuary
it’s the way to go… slow & solo
enjoying quality time alone is not weird, wrong, or unnatural, no matter how many strange looks you get from friends & envious co-workers
Stop waiting for someone to do things with. Quit thinking that your best friend or partner will one day magically suggest an outdoorsy road trip, or day hike, or mountain bike ride. YOU are the one who craves the wildness of the earth, the unexplored, the secluded. The time is now for you to start living the life you want, outdoors, in California – today!
If you’ve just about had it with the pressures of everyday stresses, the wifi city life and the busy pace of civilized society is starting to get to you. Get a clue fast – before you loose your marbles. It’s time for much needed rest and relaxation. Nature is the best place to relax and reconnect with yourself and mother nature.
Looking to relocate to a more RURAL CALIFORNIA?
A change in scenery. A fresh perspective. A real break from the norm. No shopping, no errands, no phones, no television, no computers, nobody around. No one, except you.
and they might call you anti-social…
away, distant, solely, detached, free, independent, unique, individually
Unplug yourself from the hectic rat race and go exploring. Give yourself time to fully unwind: time to think, time to enjoy the outdoors and really find that special place of peace that comes only from earth. Yes, all by yourself.
VISION QUEST
Call it an annual primal ritual, or a first time experiment, traveling solo can be a blessing in disguise. Learning to be alone outdoors, become more aware of the physical world and enjoying yourself is an important key to a balanced life. Whether you seek a quick refresher course for the weekend or a full blown month long road trip, seeking a new comfortable destination and the art of basic relaxing is the main focus for this trip.
When you travel alone, it’s easy to take your own sweet time. Going slow is something we don’t usually do in our busy city lives. Time is so precious, so you may as well stretch that vacation out as long as possible. Savor the moments.
Take as long as you like for – photography, picnicking, hiking, stretching, yoga, cooking and stargazing. Firewood collection becomes the biggest chore of the day, and it could take hours. Walking from camp, every direction will lead to a new adventure. Driving back roads at 20 mph is luxurious. No one to be your back seat driver. Sleep in every day if you want. No pressures, no schedules, no big worries. Sunlight, food, heat, weather, cooking and cleaning. Sit back and learn to really relax. Enjoy a secluded camp site for a full week, and get to know the wildlife on a first name basis.
Follow the back roads to seclusion, or reserve several days at a unique campground. Imagine night after night of peaceful rest, with the sounds of nature surrounding you & the stars of the heavens dancing across the darkest skies.
Explore new terrain every day & move to a new camp every night. Or make it a “stay put” week-long meditation, in one spot. Whatever fits your needs. Either way, you’ll enjoy the solitude & the healing powers of nature. Answering to no one but yourself, you may feel guilty or kinda selfish the first few days, but this will fade as you learn to embrace the solo journey.
And it doesn’t hafta be all about roughin it either. While backpacking into the almighty wilds of the true wilderness has its good points – along with life threatening dangers possible every day, a simple quick weekend trip to a nearby small inn, fishing lodge, or a bed & breakfast could work for the pampered types. Choose something different and unique, yet know your own limitations (on comfort & on a physical level). Make sure your destination choice is surrounded by some nature and preferably wilderness.
You won’t miss the television one bit!
Spend One Full Day a Week Outside in Nature
Good California Maps are a must have! Don’t rely on digital cell service or count on online maps being readily available. The hard-copy versions are always the best back up plan. Old paper maps are the very best, cuz they can often show more hidden waterfalls, trails and old mines than the newer maps.
National Forest maps are best for getting and staying away from the tourist crowds. Visit Destinations to decide what kinda place you wanna explore this season.
which is why the golden state population always seems to be increasing, right? Helping you get away from your normal routine and the masses is what we do best here at Total Escape. Discover thousands of pages, photos and links on this site to create your very own unique retreat.
The mountains, deserts, coastal, rolling oak countryside & even urban escape inside city villages, are perfect starting points for planning your little escape. 
Desert camping in autumn, winter and springtime months is perfect timing for any kinda soul searching, catching up on a good book, or just gazing out at the vast vistas. Meteor showers fall within the latter part of the year, so stargazing and camping is excellent with the new moon. Temps start to drop come September, so be warned. Mountain cabins drop to their off season rates after summer, but be prepared for chilly temps and get proper outdoor gear.
|
|
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
SAFETY TIPS: Give your schedule to someone. Any bit of info is helpful. A map or written itinerary given to a neighbor or close friend will help ensure your safety and timely return. Bring your cell phone, plenty maps, bear mace, a firearm and emergency supplies for additional security.
California meadow is a common term people search for when dreaming of their mountain retreat vacation or upcoming weekend camping trip.
Meadows are places in the forest where cool air collects and settles. Deer among other wildlife, can often be found here grazing around dawn and dusk. Alpine meadows are usually surrounded by trees with lush green grasses, located at higher altitudes above 6000′ – the ‘highcountry’ as most like to say.
Find meadows on National Forest lands from 3000-10,000′ elevation, and it is not uncommon to see cattle grazing in these same regions. California National Parks have some of the most protected meadows in the golden state!
MT SAGE – mountain sage meadows
High desert mountains have drier landscapes, with large sage brush meadows surrounded by sparse pinon pine and/or juniper forest. The Mojave desert’s sagebrush reaches out westward to the peaks of West Kern County. High deserts and mountain meadows can both have significant wildflower blooms. The deserts start to show color in March & April, while the highest elevations of the Sierra Nevada can bloom as late as July & August. All California Wildflowers depend on autumn seasonal rains & snow melt.
Wilderness Meadows
The best places to find secluded wildflower meadows is on the high country trails of various mountains – Mount Pinos, Sierra Nevada, Shasta, Trinity & Lassen – all have marvelous meadows, some have easy access w/ parking nearby and others are hike-in only. Locate hiking trailheads for meadows and possibly find camp nearby.
Excellent near Meadows:
Stargazing, Wildflowers, Wildlife Viewing, Horse Camping
Explore dirt back roads of California to find your very own meadow. If you would like to explore at this level, a good topo map is highly advised. The Sierra Nevada mountains have the most beautiful meadows in the state (by far). Their scenery w/ granite outcroppings and wild flowers, surpasses all else. Although on rare occasions, even the Antelope Valley can look amazing — with poppies.
BEST PLACES TO FIND MEADOWS
Rules of the Meadow
Mountain Meadows are sacred spaces: Do not disturb the lush, grassy landscape, as wildlife rely on these areas for survival.
No driving on meadows. No camping on meadows; No Campfires; Camp next to (or nearby), but not on top of the meadow. Picnicking should be kept on the sidelines.
Stay on designated dirt roads: No tires across the meadow; No mountain biking, No dirt bikes, No off roading. You’re not spreading the seeds, you’re destroying a fragile ecosystem.
Ranch FENCING w/ barbed-wire is quite common around meadows, to keep cattle out of certain problem areas. Fences also help keep the wandering public out of private lands or sensitive areas.
When hiking – stay out of the muddy spots and know that if you choose to hike directly across meadow, you may encounter water and deep, sinking mud. HINT: There is usually a shallow creek running through most meadows, during all times of the year.
Winter snow usually blankets these fragile areas in winter, and when deep enough – making this terrain prime destinations for snowmobilers.
| campground | elev | spots | veg | toilet | water | notes |
| Bandido Campground | 5,700′ | 120 | pines | vault | piped | Group Camp |
| Coulter Campground | 5,200′ | 50 | pines | vault | piped | Group Camp |
| Jackson Flat | 3,400′ | 180 | pines | flush | piped | Jackson Lake |
| Los Alamos Campground | 2,600′ | 75 | sage | flush | piped | Pyramid Lake |
| Meadow Group Camp | 5,200′ | 100 | pines | flush | piped | Lower Chilao |
| Lightning Point | 6,200′ | 200 | pines | vault | none | Group Camp |
nearby towns –
Angeles Maps – hiking, OHV & mountain biking –
alphabetically listed; cross reference by lake or campground name. reservations may be accepted for certain locations; follow links.
Most of the lake campgrounds listed below are traditional style campgrounds with easy access: paved driveways, toilets, tables, maybe piped water. Various agencies manage these park campsites and additional links are provided.
Some of the campgrounds may be more primitive than others, with long dirt road access, gravel driveways, and minimal facilities. This list includes a wide range of lakes, from reservable group camps, to private RV resorts to back road beauties. Even a few campgrounds without fees!
Higher elevation locations close-up for the seasonal winter snow, which can last from NOV-MAY (or later, depending on snowmelt).
Each lake camp is different, so know what is available at the location before you get out there. Many spots do not have a boat ramp. Some lakes do not allow swimming. Some might be 4×4 access only, w/ hairy granite rock road, 12 miles long. If you require a general store within walking distance, then get the maps out, follow links and make sure.
ACORN CAMPGROUND
New Hogan Lake, Valley Springs, Stockton CA
ALMANOR CAMPGROUND
Lake Almanor, Westwood, Chester, California
ANTELOPE LAKE – Plumas NF, Indian Valley, Greenville, CA
Anthony Chabot Park
Lake Chabot Campground
East Bay San Francisco, Oakland, Alameda, CA
ANTLERS RV CAMPGROUND
Lake Shasta, Lakehead, O’Brien CA, Interstate 5
ASPEN GROUP CAMP
Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Tahoe NF, Truckee, California
ASPEN GROVE CAMPGROUND
Eagle Lake, Lassen NF, Susanville, California
ASPEN HOLLOW GROUP CAMP
Sequoia, Kings Canyon National Park, Hume Lake
AUBURN SRA BOAT-IN CAMPING
Auburn State Recreation Area, Gold Country
Folsom Lake, American Arm, Auburn, CA
BAILEY COVE CAMPGROUND
Lake Shasta, California
BASS LAKE – Sierra National Forest, South of Yosemite NP
BEAR RIVER GROUP CAMP
Lower Bear Reservoir, Eldorado National Forest
BENBOW LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA
Mendocino Benbow Lake, NorCal Redwoods US 101
BERGER CAMPGROUND
Packer Lake @ Lakes Basin Recreation Area, Yuba River, North Gold Country California; Sierra City, Downieville CA
BIG COVE CAMPGROUND
Frenchman Lake, Feather River, Plumas NF, Portola CA
BIG SILVER GROUP CAMP
Union Valley Reservoir, US Hwy 50, Placerville, Gold Country
BLACK BUTTE LAKE – North Sac Valley, NorCal
BLACK OAK CAMPGROUND
Stumpy Meadows Reservoir, Eldorado NF
East of Georgetown, CA
BLACKROCK RESERVOIR
North fork of Kings River, Sierra NF
Western Sierra Nevada
BLUE LAKES, South of Lake Tahoe
PGE Campgrounds @ Carson Pass, Hwy 88
BLUE LAKE DISPERSED CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass, Truckee, CA
PGE Campground, first come
4×4 roads and hike-in access only 
BOCA RESERVOIR – Tahoe NF, Truckee, California
BOULDER GULCH CAMPGROUND
Kern Canyon, Lake Isabella, California
BOWMAN LAKE (5665′ elev)
Tahoe National Forest, N of Donner Pass
BRANNAN ISLAND STATE RECREATION AREA
Sacramento River @ California Delta, Lodi CA
BUCKS LAKE – North Sierra, Plumas National Forest
BURNEY FALLS STATE PARK CAMPGROUND
Lake Britton SRA, Burney, California
BUSHAY CAMPGROUND
Lake Mendocino, California
BUTT VALLEY Reservoir – PG&E Campgrounds
West of Lake Almanor
BUTTE LAKE – Lassen Volcanic National Park
CARR LAKE CAMPGROUND
North of Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
hike-in camp sites
Castaic Lake RV Park
North Los Angeles County, Castiac, CA Interstate 5
CHEKAKA CAMPGROUND
Lake Mendocino, Wine Country California, US Hwy 101
CHERRY LAKE (wildfire 2013)
West of Yosemite NP
CHILCOOT CAMPGROUND
South of Frenchman Lake, East Plumas NF, Feather River, Portola CA
Chowchilla Recreation Area
Eastman Lake, Central Valley, Fresno CA
CHRISTIE CAMPGROUND
Eagle Lake, south shore; Plumas NF, Susanville, California
CLEAR LAKE SP – Wine Country, California
CODORNIZ RECREATION AREA
Eastman Lake, San Joaquin Valley, Central Valley
COLLEGE CAMPGROUND
Huntington Lake, Western Sierra Nevada
CONVICT LAKE CAMPGROUND
Eastern Sierra, US Hwy 395, Mammoth Lakes
COTTONWOOD SPRINGS CAMPGROUND
Frenchman Lake, Feather River, North Sierra Nevada
COURTRIGHT RESERVOIR 
Le Conte Divide, John Muir Wilderness
Sierra NF, Western Sierra Nevada
CROWLEY LAKE
Eastern Sierra, South of Mammoth Lakes
CRYSTAL LAKE
Angeles National Forest, Azusa, CA
DE VALLE LAKE SRA
Central Valley Reservoir
D.L. BLISS SP
DL BLISS CAMPGROUND
DL Bliss State Park, Lake Tahoe, California
DINKEY CREEK
Dinkey Creek CA; near Dinkey Lakes Wilderness Area
Sierra NF, south of Shaver Lake CA
DONNER STATE PARK
Donner Lake, Sierra Nevada, Donner Pass, Tahoe NF, Truckee, CA
EAGLE LAKE – Lassen NF, Susanville, California
EASTMAN LAKE – California Central Valley, Fresno CA
CAMP EDISON @ SHAVER
EDISON CAMPGROUND
California Edison Campground
@ Shaver Lake, CA, Western Sierra
ELLERY CREEK
McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, California
EMERALD BAY SP
South Lake Tahoe California
FALLEN LEAF CAMPGROUND
South Lake Tahoe California
FASHODA CAMPGROUND
Union Valley Reservoir, Mid-Sierra, ElDorado NF
FAUCHERIE GROUP CAMP
Faucherie Lake, Donner Pass Area, Tahoe NF, Truckee, California
FAWN CAMPGROUND
Trinity Alps Highway 3, NorCal, Trinity Lake CA
FIR COVE CAMPGROUND
Ruth Lake, Mad River CA @ Hwy 36, Six River NF
FISH LAKE CAMPGROUND
Hwy 96, Six River National Forest, Orleans CA
FLORENCE LAKE
Sierra National Forest
FOLSOM LAKE SRA
Folsom State Recreation Area, Sacramento CA
FORKS CAMPGROUND
Bass Lake, Sierra NF, South Yosemite
FREMONT CAMPGROUND
near Lake Cachuma, Santa Barbara Camping
FRENCH MEADOWS RESERVOIR – American River
FRENCHMAN LAKE – Plumas NF, Feather River, Portola CA
FULLER LAKE
Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
No more Campground; Day Use Only
see – RUCKER LAKE for camping
GLORY HOLE RECREATION AREA
GLORY HOLE CAMPGROUND
New Melones Reservoir
Angels Camp, California Gold Country
GOLD LAKE, CALIFORNIA
Lakes Basin Recaretion Area, Northern Sierra
GREEN VALLEY CAMPGROUND
Green Valley Lake, Big Bear Lake Area, San Bernardino NF
GRIZZLY CAMPGROUND
Lake Davis, Plumas National Forest, Portola CA
LAKE HAVASU
Colorado River @ California – Arizona border
HAYWARD FLAT
Trinity Lake, NorCal Highway 3, Weaverville CA
LAKE HEMET
Idyllwild, CA – RV Camping, Southern California
HETCH HETCHY RESERVOIR
NPS Campground, West of Yosemite NP
HIGHLANDS LAKES
Ebbetts Pass Hwy 4, Sierra Nevada
HORSE CREEK
Lake Kaweah, South Sequoia National Park, Three Rivers CA
HUME LAKE – Kings Canyon & Sequoia NP, Hume Lake
HUNGRY GULCH CAMPGROUND
Lake Isabella, Kern River, Kernville CA
HUNTINGTON LAKE – Western Sierra Nevada
HUTCHINS CAMPGROUND
Bucks Lake, CA, Plumas National Forest
ICE HOUSE CAMPGROUND
Ice House Reservoir, US Hwy 50, El Dorado NF
INDEPENDENCE LAKE 6949′
N of Donner Pass; N of Truckee, CA
ISLAND PARK CAMPGROUND
Pine Flat Reservoir, Kings River, Sierra NF
JACKSON FLAT GROUP CAMP
Jackson Lake, Angeles NF, Wrightwood CA
JACKSON MEADOWS Reservoir – Tahoe NF, Truckee
JUANITA LAKE GROUP CAMP
near Butte Valley Wildlife Area, Klamath NF, Weed CA
JUNE LAKE CAMPGROUND
June Lake Loop, Hwy 158, June Lake, CA Eastern Sierra
JUNIPER LAKE – Lassen Volcanic NP
KASPIAN CAMPGROUND
hiking trail to Barker Peak @ Lake Tahoe CA
LAKE KAWEAH
just outside Sequoia NP, Three Rivers, CA
KIDD LAKE GROUP CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass @ Soda Springs, CA
kayak, canoe, hike-in camp sites
KINGS BEACH SRA
State Recreation Area Lake Tahoe CA
LAKE ALMANOR – Northern Sierra Nevada
LAKE BERRYESSA – Wine Country California
LAKE BRITTON – Burney Falls Park
LAKE CACHUMA – Santa Barbara Mountains
LAKE DAVIS – Plumas National Forest, Portola, CA 
LAKE EDISON – Sierra NF, John Muir Wilderness
LAKE ISABELLA – Kern River, South Sierra Nevada
LAKE MENDOCINO – North Wine Country CA, US Hwy 101
LAKE MOJAVE
Lake Mohave National Recreation Area
Colorado River 4×4 Camping, AZ, CA, NV
LAKE OROVILLE SRA
Oroville Lake State Recreation Area
Loafer Creek, Equestrian Camp, Feather River Oroville CA
LAKE PERRIS SRA
Inland Empire, Southern California
LAKE PILLSBURY
Mendocino NF, N of Ukiah, CA
LAKE SONOMA – Wine Country California, Geyserville
LAKE SPAULDING
PG&E Campground, Donner Pass, Interstate 80
LAKE TAHOE – Sierra Nevada Mountains
LAKE VALLEY Reservoir
Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
LAKES BASIN CAMPGROUND
Lakes Basin Recreation Area, North Gold Country
LAKESHORE EAST
Shasta Lake, Northern California
LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND
Prosser Reservoir, OHV Camping, Truckee, California
LEWIS CAMPGROUND
French Meadows Reservoir, American River, W of Lake Tahoe
LIBERTY GLEN CAMPGROUND
Lake Sonoma, Wine Country California
LIGHTNING TREE CAMPGROUND
Lake Davis, Plumas National Forest, Susanville, California
LINDSEY LAKE CAMPGROUND
North of i80 Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
LODGEPOLE CAMPGROUND
Lake Valley Reservoir
i80 Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
LOGGER FLAT CAMPGROUND
near Hume Lake, near Sequoia & Kings National Parks 
LONE ROCK
Antelope Lake, Plumas NF, Indian Valley, Greenville, CA
LONG POINT
Antelope Lake, Plumas NF, Indian Valley, Greenville, CA
LOON LAKE CAMPGROUND
ElDorado NF High Country, Georgetown, CA
LOON LAKE CHALET
ElDorado NF High Country, Georgetown, CA
LOS ALAMOS CAMPGROUND
Pyramid Lake, North Los Angeles, Interstate 5
(no campgrounds on the lakeshore)
LOWER TWIN LAKES
Twin Lakes CA, BRIDGEPORT, Eastern Sierra
LUNDY LAKE CAMPGROUND
Eastern Sierra, East of Yosemite NP
LUPINE CAMPGROUND
Bass Lake, Sierra NF, South Yosemite
MAMMOTH POOL RESERVOIR – Sierra NF, South of Yosemite NP
MANZANITA LAKE – Lassen Volcanic NP
MARY SMITH CAMPGROUND
Lewiston Lake, Trinity River, Lewiston CA
MEADOW LAKE CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass, Truckee, CA
PGE Campground, high clearance vehicles only
MEEKS BAY CAMPGROUND
Lake Tahoe California, west shore
LAKE MENDOCINO
Lake Campground Mendocino, Ukiah CA, US Hwy 101
MERRILL CAMPGROUND
Eagle Lake Recreation Area, Susanville CA
MESA CAMPGROUND
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, Cajon Pass L.A.
MILLERTON LAKE SRA
Millerton Lake Campground, Fresno CA
MODESTO RESERVOIR REGIONAL PARK
Western Sierra Foothills, Modesto, Merced, Central Valley
MONO LAKE, CALIFORNIA
Eastern Sierra, US Hwy 395 @ Lee Vining, CA
NELSON POINT
Shasta Lake, Northern California
NEVADA BEACH CAMPGROUND
Lake Tahoe, south shore @ Nevada state line, US Hwy 50
NEW BULLARDS BAR RESERVOIR
Hwy 49, North Gold Country
NEW HOGAN LAKE – Valley Springs, Gold Country
NEW MELONES Reservoir – Angels Camp, Gold Country
NORTH FORK CAMPGROUND
Bass Lake, Sierra National Forest, Yosemite South
NORTH SHORE
Lake Arrowhead, San Bernardino National Forest
OAK KNOLL CAMPGROUND
New Hogan Reservoir, San Andreas, Gold Country
OAK SHORES
Lake Berryessa, RV Camping in Wine Country
OH RIDGE
June Lake, California, Eastern Sierra
PACKER LAKE
North Sierra Nevada, Lakes Basin Recreation Area
PAHA CAMPGROUND
Twin Lakes, Bridgeport CA, Eastern Sierra
PARADISE COVE
Lake Isabella, Kern River California
LAKE PILLSBURY
Mendocino National Forest, N of Ukiah, CA
PINECREST LAKE
Sonora Pass, Hwy 108, Stanislaus National Forest
PINE FLAT RESERVOIR – Kings River, Sierra NF
PINE POINT
Shasta Lake, Shasta National Forest
PIONEER POINT
Lake Isabella, Kern River, South Sierra
PROSSER Reservoir – Truckee Camping w/ OHV Trails
PYRAMID LAKE – North Los Angeles, Interstate 5
(no campground on the lakeshore)
ROUND VALLEY Reservoir
North Sierra @ Indian Valley, Greenville, CA
RUCKER LAKE CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
RUTH LAKE – Mad River, Six River NF
SAGE HILL
Lake Cachuma, Santa Barbara Mountains
SALTON SEA SRA
Salton Sea State Recreation Area, Imperial Valley Desert
SAN LUIS RESERVOIR SRA
Central California, Interstate 5 @ Hwy 152
SARDINE LAKE
Lakes Basin Recreation Area, North Gold Country
SHASTA LAKE – Northern California
SILVER LAKE @ BUCKS
Plumas NF w/ dirt road, Bucks Lake Wilderness & PCT
SILVER LAKE @ CARSON
Carson Pass – Hwy 88, El Dorado NF, Markleeville CA
SILVER LAKE @ JUNE
June Lake Loop – Hwy 158, Eastern Sierra
SILVER LAKE @ LASSEN
Lassn NF, E of Lassen Volcanic National Park
SILVERWOOD LAKE SRA
Cajon Pass, San Bernardino NF, Southern California
SNAG LAKE
North Sierra Nevada, Lakes Basin Recreation Area
SNAKE LAKE CAMPGROUND
Plumas NF, in between Bucks Lake and Quincy, CA
SOUTH SHORE CAMPGROUND
Lower Bear River Reservoir, El Dorado National Forest
SPAULDING LAKE CAMPGROUND
i80 (freeway close) Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
STONY GORGE Reservoir – North Valley
LAKE SUCCESS
Tule River, Porterville, CA
SUGAR PINE POINT SP
Lake Tahoe California, west shore
SUGAR PINE Reservoir
American River, Tahoe National Forest
NE of Foresthill, CA
SUGARLOAF RIDGE SP
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Santa Rosa, Wine Country
SUMMIT LAKE – Lassen Volcanic National Park
SUNSET CAMPGROUND
Union Valley Reservoir, El Dorado NF, US Hwy 50
SWEETWATER CAMPGROUND
Mammoth Pool Reservoir, Sierra NF, North Fork CA
TAHOE SRA Campground
Tahoe State Recreation Area, Lake Tahoe California
TANNERY GULCH
Trinity Lake, Shasta Trinity NF
TRIMMER CAMPGROUND
Pine Flat Reservoir, Kings River, Sierra National Forest
Trinity KOA Kampground
Trinity Lake, Hwy 3, Northern California
TRINITY LAKE – Shasta Trinity NF, Weaverville CA
TROUT CREEK CAMPGROUND
Lake Pillsbury, Mendocino National Forest
TRUMBULL LAKE
Virginia Lakes, US Hwy 395, Eastern Sierra
TURLOCK LAKE SRA
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area, Central Valley
TUTTLETOWN RECREATION AREA
New Melones Reservoir, Angels Camp, Gold Country
TWIN LAKES – Eastern Sierra, Bridgeport CA
%
The list below is of awesome California locations that do have off-road trails surrounding them. Some destinations listed are heavy use off-road – with OHV parks or camping nearby, while others are simply scenic dirt backroads or forest roads for easy driving. Topographic maps can be found for most areas, and should have all roads displayed, dirt and paved routes, as well as campgrounds, hiking trails and trailheads.
This California “off road towns” list was originally part of the California Off Road Maps page, but it surely deserves it’s own unique post, since it is an ever expanding list. Ongoing.
Searching for Off Road Parks inside California?
Try these links –
State Vehicular Recreation Areas
California OHV Parks
CA Camping Fishing / Camping Lakes in California
Wanna camp at a California lake surrounded by pine forest & blue skies? And you want to fish the lake too? Well, you’ve come to the right spot. Total Escape features tons of great California destinations such as these listed below. Small lakes, big reservoirs, alpine favorites, plus some high country, hidden gems.
Twin Lakes Campground California
Multiple developed campgrounds & resort facilities surround these two gorgeous lakes in the Eastern Sierra, next to Bridgeport CA. Hoover Wilderness trail access to the High Sierra & Yosemite too.
Also known as Gold Lake, this Northern Sierra Nevada region features many small secluded lakes to hike to. Campgrounds are located near the lakes, but not on the lake edge. Some of these locations have cabin rentals that are open seasonally. Sierra Buttes is the key granite feature & attraction. Frazier Falls is also close by.
Just north of Mammoth Lakes, the June Lake area is one of the best places to fish in the Autumn season. The Eastern Sierra aspens start changing colors in late September. Make your reservations well in advance for cabins or campgrounds.
Sierra Nevada alpine bliss, Pine Crest Lake offers camping & fishing, but no motorized boats. Plenty side creeks & hiking trails nearby
Known as a huge fishing destination, great boating & plentiful camping resorts, this Northern California lake is situated south of Lassen Peak, near Chester CA. Family vacation favorite.
This is the jewel of the Sierra Nevada mountains, centrally located for anyone to enjoy. A huge alpine lake surrounded by parks & outdoor recreation. Campgrounds book up months in advance, so make your reservations. Or you may end up camping the back roads, Total Escape style!
And a bunch more California Lakes with prime camping & fishing…
California 4×4 access to Fishing Lakes
Black Rock Reservoir, in the Western Sierra Mountains
Listed on this page are California cities and towns that are well known for their shopping – downtown villages, boutiques, art galleries, gift shops, antique stores, shopping plazas, factory outlets, malls and restaurants.
Road trip weekends, all local – for super unique Christmas presents or romantic Valentine’s gifts.
This Pumpkin Festival is the one in Half Moon Bay, up near San Francisco. Been running nearly 50 years. Traditional, wholesome, family fun outdoor weekend on the coast near the Bay Area. Plenty of Campgrounds and Lodging nearby for visitors.
Annual event; October
The Heritage Days is held at McArthur-Burney Falls State Park. On the Sunday of Columbus Day weekend, the park hosts Heritage Day, featuring demonstrations and recreations of activities and crafts common to people during the late 19th century.
Annual event; October
530-335-2777
Many old west towns are still in existence in California, but few are as unique as the Randsburg Mining Camp in the Northern Mojave desert, where Hwy 395 meets the 14. The sleepy desert town is a hub of activity ( on weekends) for car clubs, dirt bikers, of-roaders & travelers passing through. Mid week you’ll see the locals and fewer tourists.
This high desert annual event is on the third Saturday in September every year, music street fair is the biggest day of the year for local residents & tourists alike. Historic sights, donkeys, horses, cowboys, live music, food & all the fun you can imagine in the middle of nowhere. One day only!
Sponsored by the Rand Desert Museum
Annual event: September
760-793-3147
Sespe Wilderness is located in the mountains W of Interstate 5, North of Los Angeles. The chaparral region lies in between Lockwood Valley and the Santa Clara River Valley (Hwy 126). Higher elevation Mount Pinos lies to north side of Sespe and Ojai Valley to the south. The infamous 4×4 Miller Jeep Trail is located on the north side near Alamo Mountain, which is also accessible via Hungry Valley.
The 2006 Day Fire burnt a good portion of the Sespe Wilderness, so you can expect to see some black and toasted areas. Sespe Creek is also referred to as Sespe River. and certain waterways may dry up during drier months. Piru Creek, Alder Creek, Aqua Blanca Creek, Tarr Creek, Mutau Creek, Snowy Creek are several worthy of note. Expect heat and high temperature in the summer & fall month, and possible campfire restrictions during extreme wildfire season.
219,700 acres
6 areas of hiking trails
Los Padres National Forest
Lockwood Ranger Station
661-245-3731
Sespe hiking trailheads located at –
Highway 126 – Fillmore, CA
Sespe Condor Sanctuary – Dough Flat Trailhead
Highway 150 – Ojai, CA
Sisar Canyon Day Hike / Road #4N15
Highway 33 – Ojai, CA
Rose Valley Road #6N31, Rose Valley Falls, Day Hike
Piedras Blanca Trailhead for the National Recreation Trail
Pine Mountain Rd # – Reyes Peak Trailhead
Lockwood Valley Road – Frazier Park, CA
Reyes Creek, Camp Shiedeck – Pine Mountain Trailhead
Half Moon Mutau Flat Trailhead, Sespe Hot Springs
Interstate 5 Tejon Pass @ Hungry Valley
Hard Luck Trailhead
Los Padres Campgrounds near Sespe Wilderness
nearby parks & lakes –
nearby towns –
Indian Flat Campground is located on the seasonal San Luis Rey River in rural North San Diego County. From I-15 @ Temecula, CA travel eastbound on Highway 79. Look for the tiny turn off (on left side) for forest road #9N05, sorta near glider airport located west of Warner Springs. This poorly paved backcountry route (half dirt/mud at times) is also known as both Indian Flats Road or Lost Valley Road.
Graded dirt road (paved in some portions) travel is approximately 6.5 miles to campground, look for gate and turn off on the left side. When you see the giant boulder near the entrance, you’ll know you’ve made it to the right place.
Oak trees and a few pines, plenty shade, boulders and mountain scenery, this is a great small campground that is well away from everything in Southern California. Seasonal creek-sized river and boulder waterfall often dries up in late summer. This means a wet spring is the best time to visit this camp. Hiking, mountain biking trails and hammock spots. Pacific Crest Trail access.
Cleveland National Forest
Palomar Ranger District
760-788-0250
• Elevation: 3,600′
• Number of Sites: 17
• Camping Reservations: None
• Sites Available: First come, First serve
• Vehicle Accessibility: Length 15′ max.
• Length of Stay: 14 Days
• Water: No Piped; Seasonal creek nearby
• Toilet: Vault
• Season: Closed for mud & snow during winter months
• Fee: Yes
• Operated By: National Forest Service
• Closest Town: Warner Springs, CA
Live jazz festival in South Bay. 1 weekend, 80+ performances, 10 stages located downtown San Jose CA Come experience all flavors of jazz: Blues, Latin, Salsa, big band, jazz and more. International & homegrown favorites, jazz legends , plus rising stars.
Annual event; August
