RV Camping in the Bay Area – Where You Can RV in Northern California

There are so many places to see in the Bay area and Northern California that it may be difficult to choose where you would like to go. Here, we will make a few suggestions and highlight some of the private RV camping spots that other RV owners have scored as the best.

Best Camping Spots for RV Camping in the Bay Area in Northern California

The Western US is known for its beautiful array of sights, and California is most certainly one of the most popular RV trip destinations. Sitting right on the coast, California has it all – from beaches and deserts to mountains and forests, the amount of natural beauty is astounding. Along with the natural beauty, California is home to the Hollywood entertainment industry, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island. With so many different attractions, it’s no wonder why so many people choose the Golden State as a destination for their family trips.

With a plethora of RV parks in the state, it can be hard to narrow down your choices. We’ve compiled a list of three RV parks in California that have great reviews, great amenities, and will provide you with a world-class vacation. And don’t forget, there are numerous National and State Parks to visit, with many that offer RV camping. 

1. Mountain Gate RV Park and Cottages

Located in Northern California, near the town of Redding, lies an award-winning park with luxurious amenities. As a Good Sam affiliated campground, it’s one of the best RV parks in all of California. The main draw of this park is its close proximity to Lake Shasta, the Shasta Cascades, and the Lake Shasta Caverns. Enjoy a quiet stay under the shade or take advantage of the activities nearby such as boating, hiking, and kayaking.

This RV park is perfect for traveling in comfort, with its pristine bathrooms, a convenience store, a fenced pet park, and a pool and brand-new hot tub. When you’re not enjoying the many amenities that Mountain Gate RV Park offers, you can head to Mt. Shasta for a breathtaking hike, head to one of the many local wineries and breweries for a day of wine and beer tastings, or head into the city of Redding to spend the day shopping. Staying at this park gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to enjoying California’s natural beauty and experiencing city life.

2. Clio’s Rivers Edge RV Park

One of the few parks out of 16,000 to receive the Best Rated Park Award in the U.S., Clio’s Rivers Edge RV Park is without a doubt one of the best in the country. Located near Graeagle, California, this park is nestled in the perfect spot to get a great view of the Sierra Mountains, as well as an opportunity for horseback riding, golfing, ATV’ing, and much more. While the great view and the local attractions may be what bring people to Clio’s at first, the top-notch service is what keeps them coming back!

This award-winning park offers plenty of things to keep you active. A dog park, playground, volleyball court, putting green, and horseshoes are just the beginning! You’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful Sierra Mountains while staying in absolute comfort. Spacious sites, full hookups, free Wi-Fi, and cable tv, and even a personalized RV escort service all ensure that you’ll have every need cared for.

3. Boulder Creek RV Resort

Another choice for a luxurious vacation is the Boulder Creek RV Resort, located near the Eastern Sierra Nevada. This park truly lives up to being called a resort; with a pool and hot tub, hot showers, mini-mart, and laundry facilities. It’s one of the best long-term RV parks in California; you can stay for an extended period of time without feeling homesick at all!

Boulder Creek RV Resort is a favorite of families all over. Since it’s a small, family-run park, they have a host of different events at their park every year, including an annual Easter egg hunt, Fourth of July fireworks, Thanksgiving potlucks, and more! It’s also the perfect place for avid fishermen, hikers, golfers and rock climbers, with places nearby for all of that and more

Best Historic Landmarks to See in Northern California

And, don’t forget to visit some of the scenic and historic spots around the Bay area while you are there. Muir Woods and other National Parks in California are just the beginning. Here are some historic landmarks to take in California History while you are there.

With numerous national historic landmarks, the Golden State is a history buff’s nirvana. California is rich in historical and cultural significance; so much to discover, so take your time. The landmarks are scattered throughout the state, so deciding where to head first may be a little overwhelming. 

Just a few highlights near San Francisco; 

PRESIDIO OF SAN FRANCISCO

Now a national park site and a San Francisco historical landmark, The Presidio was first a Spanish military fort; established in 1776 before being controlled by Mexico. The Presidio became a U.S. Army post in 1846, and then in 1962, it was recognized as one of California’s registered historical landmarks. Though the Presidio didn’t open its gates to the public until 1994, the 1,500-acre park perched atop wooded hills attracts droves of locals and visitors. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the lush expanse features over 790 buildings with diverse architectural styles, exhibitions, scenic Golden Gate Bridge views, beaches, and hiking trails. 

THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE 

The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic California state historical landmark. Indulge in a Bay Area photo session at the suspension bridge, which connects the city of San Francisco with the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula and Marin County. The bridge not only revolutionized transportation, but it also became the symbol of San Francisco and is considered an indispensable part of San Francisco tours and weekend getaways. Designed by Joseph Strauss in 1917, the Golden Gate Bridge is a showcase of Art Deco design in its structure and lighting scheme. Upon completion in 1937, it was the world’s longest and tallest suspension bridge—hence all the hype around this San Francisco symbol. 

CONSERVATORY OF FLOWERS

The Conservatory of Flowers is California’s first municipal greenhouse and one of the first municipal conservatories in the U.S. The botanical garden is now home to a collection of rare and exotic plants, inspired by England’s Victorian-style Kew Gardens. Completed in 1879, the Conservatory of Flowers is the oldest building in Golden Gate Park—one of the Bay Area’s most beautiful parks. The building features an elaborate Victorian greenhouse with a 60-foot central dome and sits atop a slope overlooking Conservatory Valley. 

ALCATRAZ ISLAND

Alcatraz is on the list of top 10 attractions in San Francisco and is among the national landmarks of California. This historically significant island held the oldest operating lighthouse on the West Coast and has served as an early military fort, military prison, and federal prison. Infamous federal prison criminals included Al Capone, Alvin Karpis, and George Kelly. 

In 1972, Alcatraz became a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and later was registered as a National Historic Landmark in California. For a historic tour, head to Alcatraz’s Main Cellhouse, Dining Hall, Lighthouse, and ruins of the Warden’s House. Take a ferry from the Embarcadero in San Francisco to reach the island.

TREASURE ISLAND

Another California Historical Landmark is Treasure Island—the artificial island constructed for the Golden Gate International Exposition in 1939. The U.S. Navy later purchased the island’s nearly 300 acres but eventually sold the land to the City of San Francisco for $108 million. Since then, the city has redeveloped the island, so visitors can now enjoy restaurants, wineries, breweries, and festivals. The first phase of housing is expected to be completed by 2021. 

El Monte RV Sales also offers many Pre-Owned RV Specials. If you are looking for an RV to own, check out our website and check back often.