Tips for Finding Campgrounds

By Michael Martinez, San Jose Mercury News, Calif.

Jun. 24–California has hundreds of options for campers — state and national parks, U.S. Forest Service campgrounds, even private campgrounds for tents and RVs. So how do you find the spot that’s right for you, and how do you make a reservation?

If you’re looking at popular areas such as Yosemite National Park or state beaches, get busy. Both usually book well in advance, although you might be able to find a site if you’re visiting in the middle of the week. But forget the July 4 holiday — you’re probably out of luck.

Web sites list parks, contact information, directions and amenities. To find one, visit any of these sites:

CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS: For information, go to www.parks.ca.gov, click on “Find a Park.” For reservations, (800)444-7275, www.reserveamerica.com.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE: For information, go to www.nps.gov, then “Find a Park” or click on the state of California on the map. For reservations, www. recreation.gov, (877)444-6777.

U.S. FOREST SERVICE: For information, go to www.fs.fed.us/r5, then click on “Web sites of the National Forests in California.” From the map of California, click on a national forest, then “recreational activities,” then “developed campgrounds.” For reservations, (877)444-6777, www.recreation.gov.

PRIVATE CAMPGROUNDS: Check out the Web site for the California Travel Parks Association: www.rvandcampout west.com. You can make a reservation directly through each campground or RV facility.

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