A Look at Some of the Most Popular Free Campgrounds in California and New York

Added: 02/02/2006

Except for saving money, free campgrounds have other numerous advantages. Most often they are located close to rivers or lakes, offering plentiful recreational opportunities, like fishing, boating or water-skiing. Some of the free campgrounds are generally available in national forests, city parks, long-term visitor areas and truck stops. Sometimes visitors, willing to stay in these areas are required to purchase a long-term permit, allowing them to choose any of the sites in the designated area.

Some of the best fee and free campgrounds are available in the area of California Rivers. While fee camping usually offers more amenities, like potable water, toilets, showers and trailer pads, free campgrounds can be found in less developed, nevertheless scenic areas on public lands. Those rafting the North, Middle or South Forks of the American Rivers should take advantage of the seven-acre River Park Adventure Campground, filled with amenities. For tourists, venturing into the Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, there are two wonderful free campgrounds: Sandy Flat and Hobo, both located on the Old Canyon Road.

Located in the heart of Sequoia National Forest, the Kern River offers wonderful opportunities for white water rafting for everyone from beginners to experts. The River's major sections, including the Upper Kern, the Lower Kern and the renowned Forks of the Kern, range from mild wave to wild coasters, attracting rafters from all over the world. This is truly one of the greatest Southern Carolina rafting destinations for family reunions and celebrations, romantic getaways and trips for group of friends. Add to rafting some fishing, hiking, golfing, camping, water skiing, mountain biking, windsurfing, rock climbing and jet skiing in this vacation wonderland.

Located only three hours from Los Angeles, Kern River is the perfect escape from the city, offering lots of free campgrounds at plentiful sites around Lake Isabella. Kern River experience can be perfectly combined with a trip to the Owens Valley or Sequoia National Monument. Visitors on mega one-day and mega two-day trips are offered camping sites in the Kings River private base camp. Available in the area are Mill Flat, Kirch Flat and Camp 4, suitable for groups from 20 to 50 people.

These free campgrounds are equipped with vault toilets and tables, but have no drinking water. One of the most popular destinations for experienced paddlers, the Kaweah River is located next to the entrance to Sequoia National Park, home to giant Sequoias. Some of the greatest attractions in the area are Lake Kaweah, ideal for jet skiing, water skiing, camping and fishing.

Located nearby is town of Three Rivers, hosting a charming variety of hotels, resorts, restaurants, art galleries and retreats. Up the mountain slope to the South you'll find the spectacular high mountain valley of Mineral King, one of the major resorts. West of Yosemite National Park is the fascinating Merced River, racing through the succession of calms and rapids.

A four-season destination here is the Merced River canyon, with its slopes covered with wild flowers and clear sparkling water. The area offers wonderful opportunities for extraordinary camping, hiking, fishing, golfing, boating, waterfall viewing, shopping, lodging and dining. Free camping is available at Bureau of Land Management and National Forest campsites.

Some great fee and free camping sites can be found across New York. These include such popular NY campgrounds as Blue Water Beach Campground, Wildwood Campground and Chautauqua Campground to name a few.

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