Community Forums

OB1234 · 04-28-2012, 07:51 PM

Hello, we are new to Boondocking style of camping, and I am wondering if anyone knows any good spots within 2 hr radius of San Francisco? Thx!

sticcino · 05-05-2012, 10:23 AM

There are many NF areas in the Sierras, but that's closer to 3hrs away once you deal with Sacto or Suckton (Stockton).

I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND LASSEN NATIONAL FORREST! It's about 4 hours away, but if you can handle the drive there's nothing better.

There are a bunch of campgrounds around Marin, Diablo and up and down the coast, but not much I know of for Boondocking. You can also go to Lake Berryessa or Clear Lake.

What kind of scenery do you like?

badtip · 06-07-2012, 09:15 AM

Look at east park reservoir, It is a little over 2 hrs, but free and a pretty nice, a little busy on holiday weekends

elkhornsun · 06-07-2012, 10:59 AM

There are many state beaches along Highway 1 and there are even a few places where you can stay overnight for free if you leave by 9:00 AM. Fees at the parks for campsites are usually $25 and $35 depending upon the services provided. Most will have at least water and pit toilets. A few have showers and some of the sites with hookups.

Also the redwood groves parks both north and south of San Francisco. Check the California State Parks website which is very informative and you can make reservations in advance if you want to do so.

Avoid crossing the bridges as much as possible as this is where the traffic jams occur most often, especially during commute hours of 6-10 AM and 4-7 PM.