Tent Camping near Cedar Grove, CA

Cedar Grove camping options span across the Sierra Nevada range at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 feet, providing cooler summer temperatures than the Sacramento Valley. Tent camping near Cedar Grove, California typically features natural forest settings with pine trees offering partial shade at most sites. The camping season runs primarily from May through October, with some areas closing during winter months due to snow and access limitations.

What to do

Kayaking and fishing at Union Valley Reservoir: The reservoir near Fashoda offers calm waters perfect for paddling and fishing. "Perfect! Right on the water! Big sites lots of shaded areas. Great temperature outside of the valley!" notes camper Kristen S.

Hiking the lake perimeter: The 9-mile trail around Jenkinson Lake provides a moderate day hike with lake views. A camper at Camp Nauvoo mentioned, "85 acres of beauty, but close enough to amenities and adventures. Hiking, swimming, fishing and places for quiet time."

Rafting on the American River: For adventure seekers, the American River offers whitewater experiences. "We stayed at the American River Outpost campground for a rafting tour with OARS a few years ago, and it was such a blast! This was our first time whitewater rafting, and it was a great experience," reports a visitor to OARS American River Outpost.

What campers like

Secluded sites away from crowds: The back sections of Jenkinson Campground offer more privacy. "The real gems are further back into the campground where if you plan it right you can talk to nobody except your camp host," writes Jeff B. "The front half of the lake is sometimes quite close quarters full of large RVs and campers."

Boat-in camping options: Lake Clementine offers unique boat-access sites. "I've been here about 8-10 times and every time I love my stay, it's a quiet getaway around 45 mins away from me and the sound of the river is amazing," shares Cooper L. about Lake Clementine Boat In.

Glamping alternatives: Some locations provide glamping experiences for those wanting comfort. "This place is a hidden gem! It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there. The hospitality was excellent," says Beth G. about Camp Nauvoo.

What you should know

Seasonal closures and limitations: Many campgrounds have restricted seasons. "Closed until June! Would have been great but, closed until June. Just drive down ice house road you will find lots of dispersed free camping," warns Toni K. about Fashoda.

Varying toilet facilities: Bathrooms range from vault toilets to full facilities. "Clean Bathrooms, running water, showers on Union Valley Reservoir what more can you ask for! Highly recommend you get a reservation," advises a camper at Fashoda.

Site access challenges: Some sites require hiking in. "BEAUTIFUL!! Don't bring to much down cause you have to carry it back up lol learned my lesson! 1/2 mile hikish downs and back to vehicle," cautions Jamie A. about Azalea Cove Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Pack for weather fluctuations: Mountain temperatures can vary significantly. "We camped during the off season (November) so we had our pick of the campsites, which was a great considering the spots are right next to each other. Using hand warmers and a tent warmer we did fine with the cold nights," shares Anna V. from Lake Clementine.

Choose sites based on lake access: Families with children often prefer easy water access. "We brought our paddle board and we're walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly," reports Brian H. about Jenkinson Campground.

Look for dedicated family areas: Some campgrounds have sections better suited for children. "The campground is a great spot for a family trip. Beautiful scenery, good folks, and a great time," mentions Syd D. about Silver Creek Group Campground.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling considerations: Many Sierra foothill campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation. There may have been some that were on normal level ground but from what we experienced and the ones we mainly saw they were not," advises Adventure M. about Jenkinson Campground.

Limited large rig access: Many forest roads are narrow and winding. "The access road is about six miles of curvy, hilly, and narrow (sometimes only one lane) pavement. There is a sign prohibiting trailers; our 18-foot camper van did fine but anything much larger would definitely be challenged," warns Lee D. about camping at Lake Clementine.

Self-contained requirements: Some sites lack water and power. "No potable water or flushable toilets, so be prepared!" notes Anna V. about primitive camping areas around Auburn State Recreation Area.