Camping near Colusa, California centers around the Sacramento River, with a mix of established campgrounds and riverside recreation areas. The Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area Campground offers year-round camping with both tent and RV sites along the river's edge. Other nearby options include Loveys Landing RV Park and Marina in Meridian, Colusa Landing, and the more rustic Cowboy Camp dispersed area about 30 miles west. Collins Lake Recreation Area, located approximately 40 miles northeast of Colusa, provides a popular destination for water recreation with lakeside camping. Campers at the Sacramento River State Recreation Area appreciate the riverside location for fishing and biking along the river path.
Summer temperatures in the Colusa region regularly exceed 90°F from June through September, with occasional heat waves pushing above 100°F. Winter brings cooler temperatures and potential fog in the valley. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though seasonal fire restrictions are common during the dry summer months. The Sacramento River State Recreation Area provides electric hookups and a dump station, but no showers. Reservations are recommended for weekend camping, particularly during summer months when water recreation is popular. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area due to its proximity to Interstate 5 and Highway 20.
The camping experience varies significantly between riverside and inland locations. Riverside campgrounds like Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area provide direct water access for fishing and boating, with some sites situated close to the water's edge. RV parks such as Loveys Landing offer full hookups for larger rigs, while Cowboy Camp provides a more primitive experience with basic facilities. Visitors note that the area is particularly quiet during off-season months, making spring and fall ideal for those seeking solitude. According to reviews, fishing opportunities are excellent along the Sacramento River, with multiple access points available for bank fishing or launching small watercraft.
"It’s a lovely meadow next to an RV park. Perfect little trail that lead right to a beach on the river !!!"
$28 - $45 / night
"I came to Colusa for work and only needed to stay for a couple of days, but I found the campground a comfortable spot to settle in for the week and catch up on some writing."
$35 / night
"There are plenty spots so we had our privacy, toilets were clean and it’s next to a road but there isn’t much traffic. Really calm and nice!"
"The site in in a valley between a small creek (that runs right next to the roadway) and a small mountain “range” on the opposing side."
"Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes."
"This campground is above Marysville California."
"They were both lake front campsites, which meant the water or shoreline was right at our "front door" from our 27' travel trailer."
GuideThis is the perfect time of year to visit Clear Lake. There’s just a few boats on the lake. The campground is less than half full. The bathrooms are clean, and our site is paved and fairly level. There’s tons of different types of birds. We’ve been watching an osprey fishing.
ScoutThe staff is friendly, flexible, and easy to communicate with. They placed me right next to the water with privacy on both sides. It's secure, and so peaceful. Highly recommend.
ScoutMy family and I had a great time. First time going and we went paddle boarding and swam a little bit. Very fun and family friendly. Purchased some very tasty ice cream as well. Staff was very nice and professional.
ScoutSpent a quick night here. Camp site is undergoing renovation so space is limited. Very safe and the free hot shower was a bonus! Definitely will visit in the summer to get some water time in, was too cold during trip to take advantage of the water.
TravelerSite was only open for day use - call ahead (no cell service) despite website
TravelerGreat promise (Jan 2026) 30a power issues . No cell in the area - all Starlink
ScoutNice place, nice staff. Noisy by the freeway but also close to everything.
TravelerAmazing location. Limited hookups - no electric , no water, at site. Has a dump station for a fee. Friendly staff. Boat launch.
GuideAffordable and beautiful spot! No hookups, but dump site and bathrooms available. Beautiful views of the lake!
Camping spots near Colusa, California primarily center on the Sacramento Valley and surrounding foothills. Located at approximately 60 feet above sea level, the area experiences temperature swings of up to 30°F between day and night during spring and fall camping seasons. Several campgrounds offer direct access to Cache Creek and the Sacramento River watershed, with options ranging from full-service RV parks to primitive dispersed camping.
Fishing opportunities: Cache Creek Regional Park Campground offers access to fishing spots with seasonal variations in water levels. "We stopped here on our way home from Mt. Shasta. It was very quiet. Bathrooms were clean. There were 4 other people pulled over for the night. Plenty of space for everyone," notes Chantelle Z.
Horseback riding trails: Cowboy Camp provides dedicated facilities for equestrians exploring the surrounding hills. "It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes. It's a hot spot for horses which of course have no stream problems," writes Jorg F.
Water recreation: Collins Lake Recreation Area offers paddleboarding, kayaking and boat rentals approximately 40 miles northeast of Colusa. "The spots are right next to each other and there are a ton of people. The only good thing it has is the lake. You can just play in the water all day and it is right there," mentions Julie B.
Quiet riverfront locations: Live Oak Riverfront Park provides peaceful riverside camping east of Colusa. "I tent camped and loved it. Very quiet and beautiful scenery. A water faucet and picnic table at every campsite," reports Les S.
Wildlife viewing: The areas around Cache Creek offer opportunities to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat. "The elk come in the early morning," notes Angie R. about her experience at Cache Creek Regional Park.
Off-season solitude: Cowboy Camp and other dispersed areas become notably less crowded during fall and winter months. "We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills," says a regular visitor.
Seasonal closures: Some camping areas close during winter months without advance notice. "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell," reports Natalie T. about Cowboy Camp.
Insect preparation: Bring adequate protection against flies and ticks, especially in grassy areas near water. "It was crazy how thick they were. An almost dry creek runs alongside the open field of camping pads," warns Patricia Y.
Water level fluctuations: Loveys Landing RV Park and Marina and other riverside locations experience significant changes in water access depending on season. "Update: Loved this place. Is exactly as described. It's a lovely meadow next to an RV park. Perfect little trail that lead right to a beach on the river!!!" shares Sunshine M.
Limited facilities: Many camping areas offer basic amenities only. "Bathrooms were horribly maintained. We ended up going to Truck Stop for a shower," notes Suzanne H. about her stay at Loveys Landing.
Beach access: Find riverside spots with gentle water entry points for safe wading. "The lake views were beautiful, the campsites were clean and spacious, and the staff was friendly. Plenty of activities for the family, like fishing and hiking," writes John L. about Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Shade considerations: Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area Campground offers tree cover important during hot summer days. "Nice picnic tables, standing wood BBQ, big trees, some trash, on the edge of a town. Camp host very nice," notes Matthew R.
Ice cream stops: Collins Lake Recreation Area offers a popular treat spot for children. "The only good thing it has is the lake. You can just play in the water all day and it is right there. **the ice cream is sooooo worth it!! DO IT!!!," emphasizes Julie B.
Tick prevention: When camping at dispersed sites like Cowboy Camp, perform regular tick checks after hiking. "Camped mid-May 2018. Mostly dry land/brush. Prickers everywhere. Tall grass, ticks, black widows, lizards, rattles and gardner snakes," warns Allyson D.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional equipment to achieve a stable setup. "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding," notes Jorg F. about Cowboy Camp.
Dump station access: Happy Time RV Park provides convenient facilities between longer stays at more primitive locations. "Reasonably priced campground off I5 between Yuba City and Sacramento at the 505 split. Full set ups and dry camp. Very friendly staff," shares Jeffrey A.
Space limitations: Some RV parks near Colusa cater more to long-term residents than overnight travelers. "Long drive on a narrow bumpy levy road to find a full time trailer park. NOT A RV RESORT!" cautions Bill T. about one location.
Seasonal site selection: For Collins Lake, spring and fall offer different camping experiences. "In the Spring, the water level is much higher so the water line is closer to the campsites. In the fall, pre-winter, the water level is much lower. It was about a 50 yard walk down to the water from #116 camp site," explains Ed E.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is camping available at Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area?
Yes, camping is available at Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area Campground. The recreation area offers comfortable camping spots that are suitable for both short and extended stays. Campers can enjoy recreational activities like biking on the path along the river and fishing in the evenings. The campground serves as a good base for exploring the town of Colusa while enjoying the natural riverside setting.
Where can I find campgrounds in Colusa, CA?
Colusa offers several camping options in and around the area. Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area Campground provides a comfortable spot along the river with biking paths and fishing opportunities. Another nearby option is Colusa Landing, which offers drive-in and boat-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilets. Within driving distance, you'll find additional campgrounds in surrounding areas like Clear Lake and along the Sacramento River, providing a variety of camping experiences from state parks to private facilities.
What RV camping options are available near Colusa?
Several RV-friendly campgrounds are available near Colusa. The Parkway RV Resort & Campground offers spacious sites with amenities including a pool for cooling down during hot summers and easy access to I-5. Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot provides large pull-through sites with vegetation between spaces, clean restrooms, and convenient access to casino restaurants and entertainment. Other nearby options include Happy Time RV Park near Dunnigan and Loveys Landing RV Park and Marina, both offering full hookup sites for RVs.
Can you camp along the Sacramento River in Colusa?
Yes, you can camp along the Sacramento River in Colusa. The primary riverside camping option is Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area Campground, which sits right on the banks of the river. The recreation area allows campers to enjoy riverside activities like fishing and biking along river paths. Another option slightly further from town is Live Oak Riverfront Park, which offers both drive-in and boat-in access to the Sacramento River with basic amenities like water and toilets.
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