Calpine sits in California's Sierra Nevada mountains at approximately 5,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F to 85°F, with cooler nights even during peak season. Most campgrounds near Calpine close during winter months due to heavy snowfall that makes mountain roads impassable from November through April.
What to do
River swimming: Loganville Campground provides direct access to the Yuba River where campers can swim or float on tubes. "There is a path down to the Yuba River, where you can get in the water or float on a tube. The best part about this campground is the river," notes Julie D.
Hiking to lakes: The region surrounding Snowflower RV Resort offers multiple hiking trails to alpine lakes within a 20-minute drive. "There's also legit fishing lakes within about a 20 minute radius," according to Paul R., who adds that mountain bikers can find "some decent trails close by to ride."
Mini golf excursions: Graeagle offers family-friendly mini golf within walking distance of Movin' West RV Park. Corinne D. mentions, "Short walk to town for a morning of mini golf," making it an easy activity without driving.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sierra Valley RV Park maintains exceptionally clean shared facilities. Teresa E. reports, "The shower and laundry facilities were clean," noting this was particularly important during her first RV trip.
Swimming lakes: Snowflower RV Resort features a small lake popular for summer recreation. Kathy C. describes it as a "great little Lake for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding," though notes it's "too warm for trout and too small for kayaks/SUPs."
Communal events: Holiday weekends at campgrounds often include special activities. At Memorial Day weekend, Movin' West hosts community meals. "Memorial day weekend George hosted camp-wide dinner of BBQ tri-tip and kielbasa. Was nice not to have to cook and it was delicious!" shares Corinne D.
What you should know
Mosquito activity: Some campgrounds in densely forested areas experience significant mosquito populations. At Snowflower, one camper observed: "Our group's collective joy was short lived after we were beseeched with mosquitos... likely due to limited air currents through this secluded part of the forest."
Site spacing concerns: At Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park, site proximity can impact storage access. Mar S. notes "every space is so close to each other, you have next to you their services and it's impossible to access your storage without bothering your neighbors."
Age restrictions: Some RV parks impose age limits on recreational vehicles. Sparks Marina RV Park implements a 10-year age policy that isn't prominently displayed. Leah T. warns, "There is NO mention of an age restriction on their website... they WILL take the reservation online, take your money, then call to check the age of your rig."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Loganville Campground offers safe river access perfect for children. "The weather was perfect in early October! It was not busy, there was on other occupied campsite not to close to where we were. It has water, bathrooms and a bear box," shares Lily G.
Activity amenities: Little Bear RV Park includes dedicated spaces for children. Kelsea R. mentions, "There is no special loyalty to this place, so I promise I am not biased. The grass is so green, dogs have an area to play, you are right next to a river that you can tube down."
Road safety: Family-oriented campgrounds typically enforce speed limits for child safety. Corinne D. notes about Movin' West, "The kids scootered and rode bikes along the camp roads, and drivers were cautious and patient."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many rv sites near Calpine, California require leveling equipment. Paul R. observed at Snowflower that "RV sites are mostly electric and water only, and many aren't anywhere near level," suggesting campers bring leveling blocks.
Larger rig considerations: For motorhome camping near Calpine, Sierra Skies RV Park accommodates larger vehicles but with limitations. Craig V. explains it's a "Small park with RV sites. Many with trees, some without and those get warm during summer months."
Dump station timing: At peak season, plan for dump station waits at campgrounds. At Snowflower, Kathy C. reported "Only one dump station was open (there are 3) so waited 30+ minutes to dump," adding that "they do offer a honey wagon service for $40.00 available 2 times a week" as an alternative.
