Glamping close to Applegate, California offers unique outdoor accommodations in the Sierra foothills, approximately 50 miles northeast of Sacramento. The region sits at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet, creating mild spring and fall seasons ideal for outdoor recreation. Campers can enjoy oak woodlands and pine forests that transition to higher elevation wilderness areas, with many sites providing access to waterways for summer activities.
What to do
Gold panning adventures: Visit American River Resort where visitors can experience California's gold rush history firsthand. "If you ever want to experience the thrill of gold panning, and California history go here! You will not strike it rich, but with a couple hours of effort you can get a nice little bottle of gold flakes to take home with you," notes one camper.
Boat rentals and fishing: Collins Lake Recreation Area provides multiple water recreation options. A visitor mentions, "Great Lake and RV Park. We stayed in spot 110 with a lakefront view." The lake is regularly stocked with fish and offers boat rental options for those without their own watercraft.
Historic site exploration: Take a short walk from camping areas to visit local historic sites. "It was neat to walk across the bridge and check out the old historic mining town," reports a camper. The Marshall Gold Discovery State Park preserves the site where gold was first discovered in 1848, triggering the California Gold Rush.
What campers like
Private lakeside spots: Finnon Lake Recreation Area provides a quieter alternative to larger recreation areas. "Never crowded and has a great view. Small town community has occasional events going on too. Great little lake for a weekend getaway. Also there's a nice lakeside café. Did I mention the sites are huge?" reports one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Many glamping sites near Applegate maintain high cleanliness standards. A visitor to Inn Town Campground noted, "They have dish washing stations and the absolute nicest, cleanest bathrooms/showers I've ever seen in a campground." The campground also features a common area with a fully stocked kitchen.
Wildlife viewing: The natural environment supports diverse wildlife. One camper at Peninsula Campground remarked, "In the early spring it is quiet, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys." Bald eagles can sometimes be spotted fishing in the lakes, with one camper reporting, "Amazed to watch a bald eagle grab a fish and fly away."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The best times for glamping near Applegate are spring and fall. "Weather in the Sierra foothills in early March is perfect for a couple day getaway from the colder temperatures and snow in the higher elevations where we live," notes a visitor to Peninsula Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations require advance booking, especially for premium sites. "Definitely recommend visiting if you are able to make a reservation!" advises one camper. For waterfront accommodations, booking several months in advance is recommended, particularly during summer weekends.
Fire restrictions: Some campgrounds limit or prohibit wood fires. A visitor to Inn Town Campground noted, "They do not allow wood burning fires, but you can use a gas fire ring or rent one from the campground." Always check current fire regulations before your trip, especially during dry summer and fall months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ascension Ranch offers family-friendly attractions including farm animals. "This was my first time going and I got to say, I enjoyed it! Super relaxing and has a lake that is at the end of the trail. Super convenient. It was cool to experience the animals that were in the pastures as well," shares a visitor.
Swimming options: Seek out campgrounds with designated swimming areas during summer. "The lake was warm and it can get a little breezy in the afternoon. Make sure to bring a kayak or SUP board to enjoy the lake," advises a camper at Finnon Lake Recreation Area.
Activity planning: Schedule outdoor activities in morning hours during summer to avoid afternoon heat. "Very nice and beautiful campground but can be expensive. The sites are very close to each other but they are spacious. It's nice to wake up to the sound of the river and birds singing. This campground is ideal for families and small kids," notes a visitor to American River Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose your RV site carefully based on shade and proximity to facilities. "We camped here TWICE in 2019. Both campsites, #66 and #116 had power, water and sewage. They were both lake front campsites, which meant the water or shoreline was right at our 'front door' from our 27' travel trailer," reports a visitor to Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Access limitations: Some glamping areas near Applegate have narrow, winding access roads that may challenge larger RVs. "Keep in mind that the road (Mosquito) going here is narrow and too winding. The old bridge can only accommodate one vehicle at a time and RV's and trailers are advised to take the Rock Creek Road instead," cautions a reviewer at Finnon Lake.
Power management: Monitor electrical services at RV sites, as some have limited amperage. "I had to bypass the surge suppressor because it kept cutting out due to low voltage. Voltage was generally 104-105," notes one RVer at American River Resort.
