California State Parks rolls out new reservation upgrades to help campers find perfect site

(FOX 5/KUSI) — Planning a camping trip to one of California’s most iconic state parks just got a lot easier. The California Department of Parks and Recreation announced Thursday a series of customer-focused upgrades to its reservation system aimed at simplifying the way visitors search and book campsites.

Outdoor adventurists can now view nearly real-time campsite availability directly on Parks.ca.gov, the official website for California State Parks. Previously, this information was only accessible through ReserveCalifornia.com. While reservations will still be completed through the Reserve California website, the integration with the main site is designed to make trip planning more seamless and intuitive, according to state park officials.

“California’s state parks are home to some of the world’s best campgrounds, and we want to make it as easy as possible to find your perfect campsite,” said State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “Whether you prefer camping among the Redwoods, steps away from the ocean or high up in the mountains, your next state parks adventure is just a few clicks away.”

In addition to the website, California State Parks is expanding its popular reservation drawings, or lottery system, to include more in-demand campgrounds. After a successful pilot program at Mount Tamalpais State Park, drawings are now being introduced at Malibu Creek State Park starting this month, with Morro Bay State Park and McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park to follow later this summer.

The free lottery-style system is designed to give more people a fair shot at booking the state’s most sought-after campsites, officials explained. Since launching in 2023, the reservation drawings have seen more than 100,000 entries for the Steep Ravines Cabins at Mount Tamalpais, showing just how many people are interested in the popular campground.

Campers can enter drawings and check availability through the Reserve California website. For more information on how the drawing system works, visitors can refer to the Reservation Drawing FAQs.

With these new features, California State Parks hopes to make it easier for both residents and out-of-state visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Golden State — whether for a quick weekend getaway or full-blown outdoor vacation.