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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
