Mount Shasta is both a small town (around 4,000) and a mountain. Located just off Interstate 5, about an hour south of the Oregon border, you'll find this area a recreation paradise. The area surrounding the mountain is gorgeous any time of year, but especially in the spring and fall. There are numerous trails, from easy to difficult, waterfalls, boating and fishing, as well as both public and private campgrounds if you decide to stay a while.

Columbia, nestled at the western base of the Sierra Nevada range, is a gold-mining area with a vibrant (and rich) history. Be sure to visit Columbia State Historic Park, a 'living history' park that will bring the gold rush alive. While there isn't RV camping in the park itself, there are several RV parks very close. The 2nd Saturday of each month is Gold Rush Day, with hands-on activities and docents in period attire to tell you about the time that changed the State.

Drive a little farther south to the high desert ghost town of Bodie. At one point this was a thriving metropolis of 10,000 gold-hungry prospectors. Today only 10 people are officially listed as residents, but the area still retains abandoned mines and buildings that will make you feel as if an old prospector is going to step out to greet you. Also, just off highway 395 you'll find Travertine Hot Springs. While there's no camping at the hot springs itself, you'll find several campgrounds, like the Green Creek Campground, which will allow you to bask in the steaming waters without much trouble.

If you're in the southern portion of the state, head toward California's eastern border and the little town of Tecopa. Situated on the Old Spanish Trail Highway off Highway 127, this area has oases of green surrounded by stunning rock formations and often-gorgeous desert sunsets. It's situated at the southern end of Death Valley, and the entrance to the valley is the town of Shoshone. A semi-ghost town now, it has a mining and explorer history, as well as several nearby campgrounds. China Ranch is a working ranch where you can buy (and eat) date palms and other goodies. There are walks and hikes around the area, which is surprisingly lush. But that might be because of the hot springs in the area. Tecopa Hot Springs is an ancient place where people have come for healing for centuries. But be warned: the bathing is nude, with a shower required before. Still, it's an experience you won't forget, and most people come away feeling rejuvenated.

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