Best Camping Near Chico, CA

Discover the Best KOA Campgrounds and Outdoor Adventures in Chico, CA for an Unforgettable Camping Experience

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Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

4.7

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Chico, California

5 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Chico, California

  • Bidwell Park - This expansive park in Chico offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking. The park features scenic trails, swimming holes, and beautiful landscapes.

  • Yahi Trail - Located within Bidwell Park, this 8-mile out-and-back trail provides stunning views of grassy fields, rocky hills, and a rushing creek. It's perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

  • Oroville Wildlife Area - About 25 miles from Chico in Oroville, this wildlife area is ideal for bird watching, fishing, hunting (in season), and exploring diverse habitats along the Feather River.

  • Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - Approximately 25 miles from Chico in Oroville. This recreation area offers boating, fishing, camping opportunities as well as scenic views from various lookout points around the lake.

  • Table Mountain Ecological Reserve - Located about 30 miles south of Chico near Oroville. Known for its spring wildflower blooms and unique geological formations like waterfalls cascading over basalt cliffs.

  • Butte Creek Canyon - Just a short drive from Chico; this canyon is great for kayaking during high water seasons or simply enjoying a peaceful day by the creek with family-friendly picnic spots available throughout its length.

  • Honey Run Covered Bridge & Park - Situated about 10 miles east of Chico; it’s one-of-a-kind covered bridge that spans Butte Creek offering picturesque settings perfect for photography enthusiasts or those looking to enjoy serene surroundings while learning some local history at nearby interpretive displays within adjacent park grounds.

Ways to camp near Chico, California

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Popular outdoor activities near Chico include hiking at Lassen Volcanic National Park and exploring the beautiful hiking trails in the area.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park offers a family-friendly educational experience with its exhibits and interactive displays.

You can visit McArthur - Burney Falls Memorial State Park and William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park for scenic views and historical insights.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, Subway Cave, Lake Shasta Caverns, and Shasta Dam are unique natural attractions worth exploring.

You can enjoy water-based recreational activities at Whiskeytown Lake and on the Red Bluff Boating Trails.

The Red Bluff Brew Battle is an event that beer enthusiasts would likely enjoy attending.

Plan a trip to Chico, California

Plan a trip to Chico, California

Planning a camping trip to Chico, CA, promises an adventure filled with natural beauty and outdoor fun. Nestled in Northern California, Chico is surrounded by stunning landscapes and offers easy access to several KOA campgrounds that make for perfect home bases during your visit.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Chico is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall offers vibrant foliage.

Weather Expectations

  • Spring: Expect mild temperatures with occasional rain showers. Perfect for hiking and exploring.
  • Summer: Warm days ideal for swimming in local creeks or lakes; evenings can be cooler.
  • Fall: Crisp air with beautiful autumn colors; great for outdoor activities like hiking.
  • Winter: Cooler temperatures with potential rain; still enjoyable if you’re prepared.

What to Pack

Packing smart ensures a comfortable trip:

  • Clothing: Layered outfits are key. Bring lightweight clothing for daytime hikes and warmer layers for cooler evenings.
  • Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are essential for exploring trails.
  • Gear: Don’t forget your camping essentials—tent, sleeping bag, cooking gear—and consider bringing a portable grill or camp stove.
  • Extras: Sunscreen, bug spray, reusable water bottles, swimsuits (for summer), rain gear (for winter).

Important Considerations

  1. Reservations: Book your KOA campground early as spots can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  2. Activities: Plan ahead by researching local attractions such as Bidwell Park’s Yahi Trail or nearby waterfalls like Bent Run Falls.
  3. Safety: Always check weather forecasts before heading out on hikes or other outdoor activities. Carry a first aid kit and know basic safety procedures.

Staying at one of the nearby KOA campgrounds—like Mt. Lassen / Shingletown KOA Holiday or Oroville / Feather Falls Casino KOA Journey—provides convenient access to all that Chico has to offer while ensuring you have comfortable amenities at hand after a day of adventure.

Whether you're soaking in natural hot springs at Burney Falls / Hat Creek KOA Holiday or enjoying lake views from Red Bluff KOA Journey, your camping trip near Chico will be both memorable and rejuvenating!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Chico, California with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Chico, California, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.