What is the best tent camping spot in California?

Question

We live in Tracy, CA which is about an hour east of San Francisco. We would rather not drive more than a few hours. I know I can read about all the sites online but I want to know from a real person who knows first hand, someone not bias. We are looking for a tent spot, preferrably not close to other campers, obviously gorgeous scenery, and would like to be very close to some kind of water. We are aware that reservations need to be made far in advance. We are planning for summer of 09'. Anybody? Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

http://www.co.sanmateo.ca.us/smc/departm...

Campsites are close but nice and there is a creek located in the park and Pescadero State Beach is 9 miles away.

http://reservations.eparks.net/index.asp...

Answer 2

Hands down Yosemite.

You can "camp" in housekeeping camp and you can almost always find a few days available for the summer.

Get a spot tent camping the first day they become available by reserving at 7 am

Answer 3

Big Sur, California!

I've been camping there for 10 years and it's my favorite spot for camping! If you like to be alone, you should try Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, if you can handle being around people, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is the best place ever! Both are about 5 minutes away from Pfeiffer Beach, a great surfing spot.