where are the best places to camp in northern california?

i am looking for places that are kindof in the wilderness, don't require permits or reservations (preferably) and maybe have swimming holes in the summer. Also, hopefully they are within 3-4 hours drive of the bay area. thanks

Public Comments

1. Big Sur.
2. sly park/jenkinson lake in pollock pines about 3 hours also ice house or union valley res is just past pollock pines i have been to both and they are nice. however sly park is reserved but union valley has reserved and unreserved. folsom lake area sucks my favorite is tulloch lake in jamestown