Time to Plan your Summer Camping Trips!

It’s cold and very wet in San Francisco today, and while we’re gearing up for King of the Hammers, summer camping season still feels a long way off. But if you're hoping to score a campsite at a popular national or state park, now is the time to start looking for those mid-summer reservations.

The photo above is of our little guy nearly 16 years ago at Sugar Loaf Ridge State Park in Sonoma, a favorite spot close to our house. Some of the best camping experiences happen in places like this—state and county parks that offer a more relaxed atmosphere, especially for families with young kids. When I was growing up camping in Wisconsin’s state parks, my favorite part was discovering shortcuts (and sometimes long-cuts) through the dunes between campsites. We were never far from our parents, but we had plenty of room to roam and feel independent.

If you missed out on your favorite spot, don’t worry—there are more options than ever for finding great campsites. Many folks already know about Hipcamp, which helps campers find unique stays on private land. In fact, last year’s Gary’s Jamboree, hosted by the Bay Area and Sierra Nevada Rivian Clubs, took place on a Hipcamp site near Plymouth, CA. Another great resource is Campspot, which offers everything from primitive tent sites to glamping accommodations.

For public lands, the National Park Service now has its own app, and federal campground reservations can be made through Recreation.gov. Whether you’re heading to a national park, a hidden gem on private land, or a quiet state park with room to explore, now is the perfect time to start planning your next adventure. Happy camping!