Family Friendly Camping

Spring is right around the corner and summer just after that! With warmer weather comes more options to opt outside and camp! Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you can’t get away with them for some quality time in nature. Here are my top 5 family friendly camping options in California.

1. Yosemite National Park – While there are many spots to camp within the Park, Yosemite Valley has some of the most beautiful hiking trails, many which are kid friendly. If you’re still unsure about going full fledged camping in a tent with your littles, might I suggest “glamping” at Housekeeping Camp. The camp features 3 wall structures with 2 bunk beds in each and a small patio. Another option can be found at Yosemite Pines with an array of activities for kids; playground, swimming pool, bocce ball, etc. At Yosemite Pines, you can camp in a tent or rent one of the site’s fully furnished RVs. Or, if you’re like me and looking for a traditional camping experience, why not try your luck at getting a reservation at the Lower Pines Campground. It’s close to Curry Village and the General Store, so you’re never too far from any must haves you may have forgotten.
2. Idyllwild, San Jacinto State Park – Located atop Mount San Jacinto is the small quaint town of Idyllwild. Littered with amazing restaurants and locally owned shops, this small town will not disappoint. Camping near town in Lake Hemet is a great spot for the kids. A general store, café, and lake fishing are just a few of the activities that await! Not to mention, they have a water park!!! Say what? But, if you’re not into all the extras, I suggest checking out the Idyllwild Campground; located right on the edge of town.
3. Big Bear– It wouldn’t be a California camping list without mentioning the go to mountain resort; Big Bear Lake. This beautiful mountain town offers families the more traditional camping experience. If you’re looking to camp near the lake, I definitely recommend you check out the Serrano Campground. It’s a pretty popular family specific site (check out my blog post about it HERE), but it does have very strict quiet hours from 10pm to 6am. If you’d rather camp closer to the resorts, Pineknot Campground is for you! Pineknot is also a great spot for mountain biking if your family likes riding on the trails!
4. The CA Coastline – When people around the world think of California, they think of two things; the “big city” of Los Angeles and the beach. And what better way to get the kids to sleep than by listening to the sound of waves? Another “funventure” campground is Campland on the Bay in San Diego. This place has so many activities, you might actually think you’re on a cruise ship! From swimming to bike rentals and arcade games to movies, this place literally has it all! A little closer to Los Angeles, and right off of PCH is my personal favorite; Leo Carrillo State Beach. With numerous hiking trails, tide pools, and the cleanest ocean water in LA County, it really is a diamond in the rough that any family can enjoy year round! Looking to go further north? A few hours up the coast is Pismo Beach. The white sand and tree lined shores make this one of California’s more popular sites. So, be sure to reserve early!
5. Joshua Tree National Park – Your family will be thrilled camping at any of the 8 campgrounds in Joshua Tree. The park is littered with beautiful wildflowers during the Spring, abundant in animal life and filled to the brim with rocks to be climbed on. It’s like a giant playground for adults that your kids will love watching you explore! Want a little more seclusion? If you’re up to doing it with the kiddos, I can’t recommend backcountry camping in Joshua Tree more highly. Read more about it in my blog post HERE.

Did I miss your favorite campground? Let me know in the comments below where your favorite family friendly camp is!