Dispersed camping options near Coloma, California include primitive sites in the surrounding Sierra Nevada foothills. The area sits at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet above sea level where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Afternoon thunderstorms occur during summer months, making morning arrival times preferable for setting up camp.
What to do
River activities: Access points along the American River provide day-use areas for swimming, fishing, and gold panning. Coloma Resort connects visitors directly to these activities with "River was stunning and it was neat to walk across the bridge and check out the old historic mining town. We are going back in august and can't wait. Looking forward to rafting in the river!" according to visitor Whiffaroni M.
Gold panning: American River Resort offers direct access to the same river that sparked the California Gold Rush. Chris U. notes, "Campground was clean and well taken care of. It is right in the American River and next to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker. It was awesome watching rafters and kayakers go through it."
Hiking trails: Nearby Folsom Lake State Recreation Area features multiple trail networks less than 30 minutes from Coloma. A visitor at Peninsula Campground reports, "The near by Otter Creek Trail is a nice day hike though a bit of switch backing elevation to get down to the creek. Lots of wild turkeys, deer, and birds."
What campers like
Direct river access: Coloma Resort campsites place visitors steps from the American River where summer water activities center. Karen T. comments: "Beautiful view of the river but it was certainly crowded. Group sites we were near played loud music. Quiet hours weren't enforced as people played music or loudly chatted until 1am the first night we were there."
Covered tent sites: Many campsites offer shade structures important for summer camping when temperatures regularly reach 90-100°F. One camper mentioned, "The sun shade provided in the tent sites came in handy when we had a short moment of rain. It was also much appreciated during the sunny weather."
Historical attractions: Dru Barner Campground provides a quiet base for exploring Gold Rush history. A visitor shared, "I drove into Georgetown (6 miles) one day and had the best time exploring the shops and talking to the locals. Gas station has propane. Back in or pull through sites."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Summer fire bans frequently affect the area during peak camping season. At Auburn State Recreation Area, a visitor noted, "A fire pit/grill, large concrete picnic table, and bear box complete the site (although there was a fire ban in effect)."
Water conditions: Camp Lotus sits on the American River with water levels changing seasonally. Kevin L. explains, "Great campground for tenting or RV camping. It's on the river. Friendly and helpful hosts. No dogs are allowed though. This is one of our favorite campgrounds."
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly during summer months. A guest at Dru Barner Campground advises, "You can call and reserve or just show up and find an open spot. I was there in May 2021."
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. Brian A. at Beals Point Campground reported, "GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars. Dry camping spot 28.00/per night."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: Rivers near Coloma have strong currents, especially during spring runoff. Abigail S. warns about Folsom Lake: "If not camping overnight I love to get a day pass and just hang out on the beach! I suggest staying on the main beach with the provided lifejacket area if with children as the other rock areas near the beach suddenly can drop off underwater very deep."
Bathroom access: Beals Point Campground offers coin-operated showers and clean facilities. One visitor mentioned, "The shower rooms have very high ceilings with thicker glass windows way up high as well. Almost like a spa experience if you ask me. Although I did get hit with a cold shower one time here during the winter."
Recreational options: Many campgrounds offer additional family-focused amenities. Rosina A. shares about Coloma Resort: "You can tent camp (it's covered sites for camping too), rent a cabin or RV camp. Great sites along the river too. Kids can play along several playgrounds for kids of different ages. A large grass area great for games."
Tips from RVers
Site size restrictions: Peninsula Campground accommodates smaller RVs better than large rigs. Ray B. explains: "We picked a site away from everyone else at the other end of the campground with a stunning view over the lake. Highly recommended for a spring visit."
Power limitations: Many campgrounds offer only 30-amp service or no hookups at all. One American River Resort visitor noted, "The power is not good. I had to bypass the surge suppressor because it kept cutting out due to low voltage. Voltage was generally 104-105."
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads. David C. warns: "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok. Be aware that Garmin nav might take you the wrong way. Apple Maps had it correct though."
