Calaveras County, CA..Now that summer is here, it is time to head to the great outdoors! Sunshine and fresh air are calling, and what a great way to spend a family vacation this year. Camping with kids is so much fun, and Calaveras County has got some incredible (and surprisingly easy to snag) camping spots. Make sure to check out the full list of camping and RV parks in Calaveras County. Here are some places we think are worthy of sleeping-under-the-stars type family vacation.

Camping at Calaveras Big Trees
Big Trees State Park – There are only a few places in the world where you can sleep under giant Sequoias, so why not have a once-in-a-lifetime experience camping at Big Trees State Park? The kids won’t be the only ones amazed beyond belief. Camping is available in two established campgrounds March through November. You can also reserve a cabin if tents aren’t your thing, and still enjoy the beautiful park. To make reservations call (800) 444-7275 or visit www.parks.ca.gov.

Sourgrass Recreation Area
Sourgrass Recreation Area – For a more off-the-beaten-path camping experience, WaKaLuu Hep Yo (Wild River) Campground alongside the North Fork of the Stanislaus River is breathtakingly beautiful and feels secluded despite being only a short drive off of Highway 4. While the kids will love the riverside trails and the rushing water of the river, parents will want to keep in mind that swimming here can be dangerous. However, there are plenty of safe little areas that can be discovered for quick dipping in the heat of the summer. Camping is first-come, first-serve. There are 49 spots with flush toilets.

Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway
Spicer Lake
Spicer Reservoir – For a high-country adventure at 6,500 feet, picturesque Spicer Lake offers ideal camping especially good for families that enjoy kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Open June to October, Spicer Campground and Group Campground is a bit more primitive than the rest, but gives you the feeling that you’re in the backcountry without having to hike for hours to get there. The kids will be thankful. The campground has around 50 sites on a first come, first serve basis. Sites can be tough to snag on holiday weekends, so try to come earlier in the week.

Frogtown RV Park – Camping at the pond
Frogtown RV Park – Camping at the pond
Golden Pines RV & Campground -With over 22 RV sites, 22 tent sites, and a few sleeper cabins, this family friendly park is a great location just 20 minutes from Murphys and just down the road from Calaveras Big Trees. Golden Pines RV

Angels Camp RV Resort – Angels Camp RV Camping Resort is a family-friendly park with over 100 full hookup sites, comfortable lodges, rustic cabins and premium tent sites available year-round. Located just a few miles south of historic downtown Angels Camp, you’ll have a perfect, central location to relax between your adventures through California’s Gold Country. Amenities include: seasonal pool, fire pits, dog park, playground, sand volleyball, horseshoes, kitchen pavilion, meeting room, laundry, propane, and WiFi.

Photos by Ben Davidson