Tent campsites near Coloma, California offer varied options for outdoor experiences in the Sierra foothills. Located at elevations ranging from 600 to 3,000 feet, the area experiences hot summers with daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters. Most camping areas remain open from April through October, with seasonal closures during winter months at higher elevations.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing opportunities: Jenkinson Lake at Sly Park Recreation Area offers excellent non-motorized boating. "The small portion of the lake with no wake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing and fishing has been good to excellent near the water fall," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: The area features several interconnected trail systems. "The trails are perfectly maintained and you can go around the whole lake in 9 miles. The hike to the waterfall is wonderful and depending where you start depends on length," shares a camper who recommends not missing the 33-foot waterfall.
Gold Rush history exploration: The region's mining heritage remains accessible at several sites. "If you have some extra time, be sure to check out Marshall Gold Discovery Park, home of Sutter's Mill, and the nearby wine country," suggests a visitor who stayed at OARS American River Outpost Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful off-season camping: Many tent campsites near Coloma become significantly less crowded outside summer months. "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," reports a camper at Lake Clementine Boat In.
Riverfront locations: Camping near water ranks among visitors' top preferences. "We stayed at the group site at the event center. There was a nice pretty steep but short trail that led from our site to the lake which was gorgeous as we sipped on our coffee," explains a camper at Jenkinson Lake.
Privacy at select sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options. "We lucked out with Site 6 – it was large and level and directly across from the vault toilets. A fire pit/grill, large concrete picnic table, and bear box complete the site," shares a Lake Clementine visitor describing their off-season stay.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and limited availability: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. "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," advises a camper who attempted to visit Fashoda Campground.
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense. "Wicked August heat, BUT there's the lake!" notes a Lake Camanche visitor, emphasizing the importance of water access during hot months.
Wildlife precautions: Bears and other wildlife necessitate proper food storage. "Clean Bathrooms, running water, showers on Union Valley Reservoir what more can you ask for!" shares a Fashoda camper, while others note the importance of using provided bear boxes.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas suitable for children. "The river was crystal clear and beautiful," reports a Lake Clementine visitor, while another notes it would be "very popular with rafters" during season.
Camp amenities for comfort: Look for campgrounds with adequate facilities. "This place is a hidden gem! It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there. The hospitality was excellent," shares a visitor to Camp Nauvoo who appreciated the family-oriented setup.
Preparation for temperature variations: Bring appropriate gear for temperature changes. "Using hand warmers and a tent warmer we did fine with the cold nights," advises a November camper at Lake Clementine who was prepared for off-season conditions.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle length. "There is a sign prohibiting trailers; our 18-foot camper van did fine but anything much larger would definitely be challenged," cautions a Lake Clementine visitor describing the narrow, winding access road.
Leveling considerations: Uneven terrain requires preparation. "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation," explains a camper at Jenkinson Lake, suggesting careful site selection.
Limited hookup availability: Most Lake Camanche sites offer partial hookups. "Clean, fairly spacious RV sites," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "paved roads, no trees but clean bathrooms," indicating the developed but somewhat exposed nature of the RV camping areas.