Camping near Coloma, California spans elevations from 600 to 2,500 feet in the Sierra foothills, creating diverse camping environments across seasons. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow at higher elevations. River camping options generally remain open year-round while higher elevation sites typically close from November through April.
What to do
Gold panning adventures: Try your hand at finding gold flakes at Coloma Resort. "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," shares one camper.
Horseback riding: Explore ranch property trails at Ascension Ranch, which offers equestrian activities among its amenities. "Some of things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, more horses, ranch dogs, puppies, equestrian activities, secluded campsites, amazing views, access to endless trails."
Lake activities: Paddleboard or kayak on Jenkinson Lake at Sly Park Recreation Area from spring through fall. "Jenkinson lake is beautiful to kayak or paddleboard on and you can also rent for $20/hr + $10/hr after that. This is a nice campground to stay in and paddling around the lake is wonderful."
Hiking: Explore the waterfall trail at Sly Park for an easy trek suitable for most ability levels. "There is also a lovely, short hike to a waterfall! It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area."
What campers like
Lake Jenkinson stargazing: The clear night skies at Sly Park Recreation Area offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. "The stars are breathtaking at night. Gotta be my favorite part. It's also fun to look across the lake and see all of the campfires sparkling in the distance."
Whitewater rapid viewing: American River Resort provides front-row seats to watch river action. "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," notes a visitor.
Historic exploration: Walk to gold rush sites directly from your campsite at Coloma Resort. "You can also learn some history about the discovery of gold and check out Sutter Mill! It was neat to walk across the bridge and check out the old historic mining town."
Swimming options: Finnon Lake offers warm water swimming during summer months. "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."
What you should know
Off-season benefits: Winter camping at Sly Park offers increased privacy and unique experiences. "We stayed the weekend at a great site. It was cold with a little rain but was very fun. I really enjoy this campground. Water level was low and this time of year the water spickets are off."
Wildlife noise levels: Early risers will appreciate the natural alarm clocks at Finnon Lake. "Very nice area beautiful lake definitely recommend bringing ear plugs as the nature in the morning is a very early alarm clock."
Site selection importance: Research specific sites carefully, especially during busy seasons. "The terrain is steep with mostly smaller sites. Water pressure is excellent. Our site had 30 amp only and I doubt any of them have 50 amp. The power is not good."
Reservation timing: Book months in advance for popular summer weekends at Sly Park. "Our group has been camping at Sly Park together and respectively since 1996, and we can't ever get enough. It's a very popular camping spot, so I recommend planning and reserving sometimes several months in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly glamping in Coloma: Camp Nauvoo offers tent glamping with amenities for beginners. "The owners of this campground have made it their mission that you have a wonderful experience if you are a newbie or seasoned camper. Great sites for families and romantic sites for couples."
Playground access: Consider Coloma Resort for multiple play areas. "You can pan for gold, relax, or bike, hike along the river, and kids can play along several playgrounds for kids of different ages."
Swimming areas: American River Resort provides water access with family-friendly areas. "We had a great time at this resort. We stayed in spot 33 with a large group and didn't feel crowded."
Off-peak timing: Visit mid-week for quieter experiences at Sly Park. "It does get very busy on weekends, so if you would rather not deal with the 'Weekend Warrior' type of campers, book your stay for mid-week (Mon-Thurs) and probably avoid camping in July altogether."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: At American River Resort, RV length restrictions apply. "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok."
Navigation challenges: Double check directions to American River Resort. "Be aware that Garmin nav might take you the wrong way. Apple Maps had it correct though."
Power considerations: Bring surge protection equipment for variable power quality. "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."
Low season benefits: Visit in September for fewer crowds at American River Resort. "During our stay (mid of September) the place was empty and we had the most relaxed time we could have. RV site close to the river and some deers also crossing our ways on the campground."
