McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
A comfy campout with 2 to 5 mile hikes
Driving to and sleeping at a campground
Perfect for families with young kiddos
Trip · 3-day camping trip
For · Friends and new campers
Vibe · Relaxing and chill
Reservations · Yes, reserve a site at Rim Campground
Drive · 4.5 hours from SF
Ideal dates · May to September
Pets · Welcome at camp, but not on trails
The star of McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park (BFSP) is its 129-foot high namesake: Burney Falls. People flock from all over to witness this natural wonder, which never fails to disappoint, but the park does get packed over summer weekends. Avoid the crowds by reserving a mid-week campsite and visiting the falls around 7 AM. As they say, early birds get Burney Falls for themselves!
Main image credit: Gracie Emory
Each campsite comes with a:
Rim Campground is located between Burney Falls and Lake Britton, an under-rated highlight within the park. Unlike Pioneer campground, Rim is located closer to the falls. The campground has heated cabins, RV, and tent campsites as well as a general store, restrooms and token-operated showers. Campsites can be reserved up to six months advance for peak summer months, and are first-come, first-serve between Labor Day and mid-May. If you have a flexible sked, keep an eye out for last-minute campsite cancellations over the summer!
Check-in: After 2 PM · Check-out: 12 PM
Quiet hours: 10 PM to 6 AM
Nightly Rate: $35
Burney Falls is named after Samuel Burney, who died in 1859. The McArthurs bought and later gifted the waterfall to the state in 1920.
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The Ilmawi were the first group of people to live near the falls. Today, they're part of the Pit River Tribe.
Burney Falls is one of the few known nesting sites for the Black Swift. You can often spot them soaring around the waterfalls
This colorful tent can fit 4 to 6 people, and is easy to set up and pack out!
Shelters
Bezzi's Picks
Lean back, and we mean all the way back, in this luxurious camp chair. You'll never want to sit up.
Essential Items
Bezzi's Picks
These are the cushiest sleeping pads we've tried! They come in Extra Wide and Double (for extra cuddles).
Essential Items
Bezzi's Picks
A sleeping bag that's designed for toddlers from ages 18-36 months.
Essential Items
Sleep
A sleeping bag designed for kiddos age 2-4 years old
Essential Items
Sleep
A cozy sweatshirt for ages 6 months to 4T designed for outdoor exploration.
Clothes
Bezzi's Picks
A durable and soft flannel shirt that's kid-sized from 6 months to 4T
Clothes
Bezzi's Picks
Bring your own or splurge on this pillow that's designed for outdoor fun.
Essential Items
Sleep
Picnic tables don't always cut it for cooking outside. This one is easy to use and has plenty of counter space.
Kitchen
Elevate your sleep system (literally) with this heavy-ish but easy to set up cot.
Essential Items
Sleep
Enjoy the small town charm and enchanting wilderness in Idyllwild for this beginner camping trip.
