First-time camping guide: Plan your trip in 5 easy steps

If you’ve always wanted to go camping and are setting out to make your dreams a reality, you’re in for a real treat. Camping can be an accessible, safe, and beginner-friendly way to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, make memories with family and friends, and plan an affordable vacation. Across California, state parks offer the opportunity to sleep in misty redwood forests, along golden beaches, in serene deserts, and on peaceful lakesides. California’s state parks are perfect for first-time campers looking to unplug, explore, and ease into the outdoors. 

If you’ve never gone camping before, it can feel a little intimidating. What do you pack? How do you cook? What do you do all day without cell service? If you’re feeling nervous, or simply want to make your life easier, we have your trip planned from start to finish, in five easy steps. Read on for easy-to-follow tips designed specifically for camping in California’s state parks, so you can feel confident and prepared before your first night under the stars. 

Ready for your first (of many!) great camping adventures? Let’s go! 
 

1. Start with the right spot: Choosing a state park 

California’s state parks contain over 15,000 campsites spread throughout many of the 280 state park units in all parts of the state. With that many options, how do you choose? 

• Consider a park close to home: Less travel time means more time to relax and explore. Use this map to find parks nearby.
• Use park websites to learn about park amenities: Some parks contain camp stores, allowing you to easily grab any essential item you forgot, such as toothpaste or even marshmallows for s’mores. Others even have restaurants or cafes, so you don't need to worry about cooking!
• Not ready to pitch a tent? No worries! Check out these 25 state parks that have alternative lodging options including cabins and yurts! 

2. Ready to reserve? Book early or get creative! 

When you’re looking to camp, you’re in good company. Reservations for many of California’s most popular campsites (especially those in coastal parks, redwood parks, and parks close to major cities) fill up when reservations become available, exactly six months prior to your trip date. Don’t let this deter you. When planning your first trip: 

• Try camping mid-week: Take advantage of slower days in the park when others might be working or in school and consider a trip Monday–Thursday.
• Consider the offseason: Fall and winter are beautiful times to enjoy California state parks. Bring an extra blanket and you’re all set!
• Plan ahead (way, way ahead): Set a calendar reminder for six months ahead of your desired camp date. Make sure you set up your account at reservecalifornia.com ahead of time so that when reservations open at 8 AM, you are ready to book.
• Don’t give up: Check back closer to your desired trip to see if others have canceled their reservations at popular campgrounds. You can set up an alert via reservecalifornia.com to get notified if a specific campsite becomes available for your desired date(s).  

3. When packing, balance is key 

It’s simple to say, “pack what you need, and leave what you don’t at home,” but what gear do you need?  When you’re just getting started, don’t get distracted by all the gear you see. Aim for simplicity, safety, and basic comforts by: 

• Prep your list: Review our packing list and cross out what you don’t need. Sleeping in a cabin? Cross out the tent. Bringing ready-made meals? Cross out kitchen supplies! When you’re ready to pack, you’ll already have your plan.
• Rent before you invest: Many sporting goods or outdoors stores (such as REI, Sports Basement, and more) offer gear rentals. If you’re not ready to purchase a tent, stove, or cooler (or want to test different models before you buy), consider renting by the night or borrowing from friends, family, or neighbors.
• Plan for screen-free fun: Campers of all ages can enjoy downtime at camp by bringing a deck of cards, watercolors, or a good book. Bonus — these small items pack hours of fun, but don’t take up space in your car.  

4. Know before you go 

Before you head out, take a few minutes to review the park’s website for important information, campsite rules, accessibility, and park programming. It’ll save you surprises later, and have others convinced you’re an expert! Park websites can help you answer questions such as: 

• What kind of weather should I expect and pack for? (Tip: Check out the weather forecast in the closest town to the park you’re visiting.)
• What should I do in an emergency? (Tip: Download or print maps ahead and bring a first aid kit, just in case!)
• Can I have a campfire? (Tip: look to see if a burn ban is in effect. If not, review guidance for where campfires are allowed, and where you can get firewood.)
• Is my dog allowed? (Tip: dogs may be allowed in campsites and buildings but not on trails, so review regulations for the full park.)
• How can I respect nature (and fellow campers)? (Tip: check out information on quiet hours, trash disposal, and Leave No Trace principles.)
• What can I do there? (Tip: check out upcoming events, trail maps, visitor center hours, and more!)  

Be sure to follow general safety guidance as well, like these tips provided by California State Parks.  
 

5. Explore and Enjoy  

Once your campsite is set up, the possibilities for how to spend your time at camp expand in front of you. Take full advantage of your chance to explore, learn, and enjoy everything California’s state parks have to offer by: 

• Connect with a ranger or park staff to get oriented. The visitor center or entrance booth will have maps and updates on current trail or beach conditions.
• Join staff-led programs to learn about local plants and wildlife or the park’s history. Visitor centers often contain exhibits and family-friendly activities. Some parks even host campfire events, complete with s’mores!
• Have a question? Campground hosts and park staff are always happy to help first-time campers feel welcome and informed. 

Download our FREE Camping Guide. We hope you enjoy your trip! Want exclusive access to additional tips and campsite recommendations? Check out our camping guide for California State Parks.