California State Park Campground

California State park campground options range widely to give individuals everything they need to experience the outdoors. Prior to visiting any of the California State camping parks, it is important to know rules and regulations of using them.

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Fees at California State Park Campground

In the state of California, most parks can be used without fees or reservations. It is important to make sure of this prior to making plans though. Day use fees are generally only for parking. Individuals may walk or ride their bikes into the parks without any costs at all. In the cases of local historical parks or state run museums, there may be a per person fee associated with the visit.

Fees often include:

• Private Vehicle Parking: Fees run between $4 and $14 depending on the location. In areas which are undeveloped parking lots, fees range from $2 to $4. Metered parking is available in other locations for $1 per hour.

• Bus Parking: Buses pay a larger fee depending on the number of passengers on board. Buses with fewer than 24 people are charged a rate of $50 per day. Buses with more than 25 people pay $100 per use.

• Boat Launch: Boat launches have fees ranging between $5 and $8 depending on the location.

• Snow Parks: These facilities charge a daily rate of $5 or individuals can purchase a $25 season pass.

• Swimming Pools: Swimming pools at state parks, including campgrounds, are charged up to $2 per child and up to $5 per adult.

• Family Camping: For developed locations, campground fees are up to $25 at the location. In undeveloped locations, individuals are required to pay up to $15. Groups are higher, with fees for developed locations reaching $450 for reservations.

• Trail/Hike and Bike: Fees here range from $3 to $5 per person.

• Horse: If you plan to bring a horse, you will need to pay up to $30 for one or two horses, with an additional $2 per hour thereafter.

There are additional fees for any service during peak time. You may find minimal other charges including fees for bringing an extra vehicle (most sights limit this to no more than two vehicles.)

Making Reservations

Those who wish to stay at a campground in California should make reservations as soon as possible. Some of the more popular locations fill up seven months ahead of time. All campgrounds are on a first come, first served basis if there are no bookings. Prior to leaving, call the park to ensure they have facilities available. You can find a listing of first come first served campgrounds at the California State Parks website.

Since there is so much demand for California State park campground sites, there is a reservation system in place. The system allows individuals to call on the first of the month, up to seven months prior to the month you wish to visit. You can call anytime after this, but some locations fill up on the first day.

To make reservations at any state run park in California call:

• 1-800-444-PARK (7275)
• 1-916-638-5883
• TDD 1-800-274-7275

Or, you can visit the online reservation center, Reservation America as it is the official reservation system used.

What You Should Know Before You Visit

California State park campground facilities should always be left in the same or better condition it was received in. Individuals may begin to check into their campsite at 2 pm on the reservation start date. At Crystal Cove Cottages, the check in time is 4 pm. You will need to present a reservation voucher and a photo ID at the time of checking in.

Those sites listed as family sites allow up to eight people to use them. Be sure to check out the park online for the amenities they include. Each park offers different amenities with most offering a fire pit, picnic tables, a supply of water, showers and a cleared area for you to secure your tent.

To find parks, visit California State Parks where all parks are listed, including their amenities.

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