Best Camping near Diamond Springs, CA

Searching for the best camping near Diamond Springs, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Diamond Springs, CA (302)

    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    1. Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    140 Photos
    328 Saves
    Granite Bay, California

    Beal's Point Campground is one of two locations on the lake that allows overnight camping in the campground. Barbecue pits, shade areas and large grassy areas can accommodate many family picnics and other activities. The Beal's Point Snack Bar also rents beach equipment. The beach equipment includes kayaks, standup paddleboards, shade canopies, and rafts of all sizes. Additionally, catering for family and company picnics, as well as group discount rental rates, are available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 - $48 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort

    2. Coloma Resort

    15 Reviews
    47 Photos
    227 Saves
    Coloma, California

    Coloma Resort takes pride in connecting guests with nature, adventure and history! Located on the South Fork of the American River, surrounded by the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, Coloma Resort is a destination vacation experience for everyone!

    Coloma Resort will accommodate your needs and exceed your expectations, whether you are looking for a family camping experience, educational facility, river-front wedding location or a place to host your next conference or group retreat. Our facilities include campsites, cabin rentals, swimming pool, event sites and more...

    Your adventure awaits in Coloma! Coloma Resort connects you with the activities that will make your stay one to remember. Experience Coloma through adventure based river trips, historic gold rush programs or on the climbing wall and zip line of our exciting ropes course!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area

    3. Sly Park Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    53 Photos
    236 Saves
    Pollock Pines, California

    Sly Park Recreation Area is a wonderful place to bring the whole family for an unforgettable camping experience. Sly Park camping features 10 campgrounds that contain a total of 191 individual sites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and barbecue. Vault toilets and water faucets are conveniently located throughout the campgrounds.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    4. Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    14 Reviews
    80 Photos
    150 Saves
    Granite Bay, California

    Campsite reservations are made only during the on-season. In the off-season campsite availability is first-come, first-served.

    This secluded campground is located near the end of the peninsula between the north and south forks of the American River. You can reach the area by boat or you can drive in ten miles from the little town of Pilot Hill on Highway 49. The campground has 85 family campsites that will accommodate trailers up to 18 feet in length and motor homes up to 24 feet. Hookups are not provided at the individual campsites, but there is a sanitation dump station. Flush toilets and piped drinking water are available. There are two launch ramps and a day-use area near the park. Please be aware that both the boat launch ramps become unusable when the lake drops below 431 feet in elevation. This typically happens in late June to early July, but can vary annually. To check the current lake elevation you may visit the Department of Water Resources website. You can also camp ashore with your boat at Peninsula campground in a designated campsite. A secure tie-up is essential as the wind often rises during the night.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort

    5. American River Resort

    9 Reviews
    9 Photos
    89 Saves
    Coloma, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground

    6. Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    48 Photos
    3 Saves
    Volcano, California

    Indian Grinding Rock Campground

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground

    7. Ice House Campground

    16 Reviews
    25 Photos
    245 Saves
    Kyburz, California

    Overview

    Ice House Campground is surrounded by a mixed conifer forest on the shores of Ice House Reservoir. Just 12 miles from Riverton, CA, the campground offers hiking, biking, jet skiing and fishing. Ponderosa pine is a pleasing part of the surrounding region. The trees fill the air with a vanilla aroma and it's the tallest known pine tree in the country. To date, the tallest Ponderosa measured was an impressive 268.35 feet tall.

    Recreation

    Enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on Ice House Reservoir. Rainbow, brown, and trout swim in these waters. A boat ramp is located on-site. Hike or bike on the Ice House Mountain Bike Trail, which stretches for 3.1 miles along ridge tops and shaded northern slopes. The trail boasts views of the reservoir and the Crystal Range.

    Natural Features

    Some campsites at Ice House are right on the shoreline while others are set back just enough for plenty of shade from towering ponderosa pines, cedars and Manzanita bushes. The reservoir spans 700 acres at 5,500 feet elevation. The area is part of the Eldorado National Forest, which stretches across the famed gold mining territory of the 1800s. Its climate is similar to that of the Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters.

    Nearby Attractions

    Head to Bassi Falls, which can be reached via a 1.2-mile hiking trail. The glorious waterfall cascades over a 109-foot granite cliff.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Change Fee: A service fee may be charged at the time a modification is made depending on the changes. Cancellation Fee: A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refunds for a cancelled reservation. Cut-Off Window: The latest date and/or time that you can make an advanced reservation or a change to an existing reservation. Cut-off windows can vary by location, but are typically 4 days before your arrival date. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (see Late Cancellation below). Late Cancellation: If you cancel your reservation too close to the start date, additional service fees may be withheld. Refunds: Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee. All requests for the return of the non-refundable reservation fee and the cancellation fee will be declined by the campground concessionaire as they did not receive these fees (these are the fees retained by the reservation contractor, a different entity).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $28 - $56 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa

    8. Thousand Trails Ponderosa

    8 Reviews
    45 Photos
    71 Saves
    Coloma, California

    Located in the beautiful foothills of the Sierras, Ponderosa RV Camping is ideally situated on the South Fork of the American River, the most popular whitewater river in the western United States. Rafting, kayaking, fishing, swimming, gold panning and sunbathing are favorite pastimes for customers of our RV camp in California. Boasting more than 2,000 feet of river frontage, the sites at Ponderosa offer excellent RV camping with 30-amp, 50-amp, sewer, pull-thru, and tent spots. Come hook up with us at this popular RV camp in the California mountains. At Ponderosa RV Camping , our local attractions include award-winning wineries and vineyards, Red Hawk casino gaming, world-class skiing, Folsom Lake, and numerous golf courses, just to name a few. Whether this is your first experience at our RV camp in California , or another of many, we suggest venturing out into our local and surrounding areas to get a taste of the wonderful flavors and cultures that are so abundant in the Sierra foothills. We are proud to offer three wireless internet connection hot spots for your convenience, and a comprehensive recreation schedule during peak season. Mountain RV Camp in California Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Ponderosa RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground

    9. Acorn Campground

    27 Reviews
    67 Photos
    160 Saves
    Valley Springs, California

    Overview

    Acorn Campground is a sunny campground in the brush-covered hills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The area is generally characterized by a warm, dry climate with summer temperatures regularly soaring above 90 degrees.With sites just a short walk from the shores of the popular New Hogan Lake, visitors will have no problem finding relief in the comfortable clear waters.

    Recreation

    Boating is a popular pastime, with boat ramps conveniently located around the lake. The large surface area allows for plenty of water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing and more. Year-round fishing for stripers, bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish is perfect for experts and beginners alike. Some of the largest fish are found in less than 25 feet of water. The "River of Skulls" hiking trail is located below the dam at the Monte Vista Recreation Area. There is also a staging area for an eight mile equestrian trail on a scenic loop that winds along the lake and through the foothill chaparral. Trail guides are available at the park office. Bicycle trails suitable for the beginner as well as the advanced rider are found on the west side of the lake and next to the group camping area. An easy 3-mile trail connects the park office with Acorn Campground. Hunting with bow or shotgun during the open season is permitted in certain areas of the lake. Upland game such as turkey, quail and dove is available and waterfowl includes a variety of duck and geese.

    Natural Features

    The 4,400 surface-acre lake was created in 1964 with the completion of New Hogan Dam. When full, the lake has 50 miles of shoreline and extends nearly eight miles upstream to the confluence of the north and south forks of the Calaveras River. The dam was built to provide flood protection to the city of Stockton and water for irrigation, drinking and hydroelectric power, and it now offers recreation opportunities for thousands of visitors each year. The New Hogan area supports a wide variety of wildlife. The foothills location is home to grey fox, mule deer, coyote, turkey, mountain lion, bobcat and rattlesnakes. New Hogan is also a wintering home for bald eagles. The south shore of the lake has been designated as a wildlife viewing area.

    Nearby Attractions

    A number of historic sites are located nearby, including Carson Hill, the discovery site of the largest gold nugget ever found, and The Black Bart Inn, located in San Andreas, where the famous outlaw Black Bart was captured. Groceries, gas, camping supplies and more can be found in the nearby town of Valley Springs, California.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Seco Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Seco Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Seco Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Seco Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Seco Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Rancho Seco Recreation Area

    10. Rancho Seco Recreation Area

    14 Reviews
    21 Photos
    129 Saves
    Herald, California

    Get back to nature at Rancho Seco Recreational Area. A short 25-minute drive from downtown Sacramento, you’ll find the 400-acre park that makes up the Rancho Seco Recreational Area. Take a short vacation and enjoy bird watching, boating, camping, fishing, hiking and even a sanctuary for rescued exotic animals and wildlife. Camp in comfort with recreation and concession buildings, shade structures, laundry facility, boathouse, and newly renovated restrooms and showers. This Rancho Seco camping destination offers RV sites, tent camping sites, and group sites, some with gorgeous lake views.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
Showing results 1-10 of 302 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Diamond Springs

Recent Reviews in Diamond Springs

1029 Reviews of 302 Diamond Springs Campgrounds


  • joe & Isabel M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Thousand Trails Lake Minden

    Nice camp ground

    This is a nice place to camp. It has a big pond you can go fishing in and it’s quiet. The only thing that I could say needed to be updated is keeping the trees groomed unfortunately we scratched our motorhome coming into the park.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    Had to kick me out

    This place and his staff were absolutely amazing. I had a couple of different times where I needed to change the spot and without fail they were there to help. Quite CLEAN everything! I wanted to stop awhile 30 days later I was told goodbye👋 cause I know the rules at a State Park!🤦😔😔💩

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cal Expo RV Park
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Cal Expo RV Park

    No Skoolies

    Disappointed to be told they don't allow any buses unless they have the RVCIA (sp?) sticker. There were some really old and knackered looking caravans and daggy RV's in the park, but the place was pretty much deserted as it's November. All in all it was frustrating. ggggrrrrrrr

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great 1 night stay

    Came on a Saturday around 4pm, there were 2 other campers other than me so it wasn’t busy at all. No service for at&t. Overall had a good stay here with my 2 dogs

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Summit Dispersed
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Echo Summit Dispersed

    Not dispersed camping

    This spot is national forest, and overnight camping is not allowed. We had a knock from someone with the forest service the next morning who was very kind and let us know that overnight is not allowed.

    Look up lakes and forest in this area on google — not many places allow dispersed camping

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from El Dorado
    Oct. 17, 2024

    El Dorado

    Dyrts description sucked

    We could not find this place. Needs better description. Afterwards in another rv park I worked it out. Need to go to their website first better directions than just el dorado. Dyrt dropped the ball on this one.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Campground by the Lake
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Campground by the Lake

    Great option if available for Lake Tahoe

    Camped here for what we thought would be a couple of nights for an event. However, event was canceled due to massive wild fire (air quality index was horrible, so stayed 1 night and left ASAP next morning). Campground is right on the main drag through town and just across the street and a short walk to the lake, although the lake does not permit dogs in this area. Nice walking/biking paths, but heavily commercial district means lots of traffic going by. Site (#E06) is huge with enough space for several RVs, but we parked sideways adjacent to the picnic table and had spot near to bathrooms/showers which are clean but a bit ragged around the edges. 

    Food aside: Dinner of Curly's pork with cheese and Hatch green chile tortillas. Good to come back here at some point when not high season and can stay more in camping zone, this is a pretty commercial district.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tahoe Valley Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Tahoe Valley Campground

    A little pricey

    We were only after a night, so didn’t need much. Travelling this time of year when campgrounds are closed makes for desperate last minute decisions. BUT if you’re staying here, go across the road to Lake Tahoe Pizza Co. the best pizza!

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Acorn Campground

    Great Stop in the Sierras

    We’ve stayed at this campground a couple of times on our way to/from Yosemite National Park, and it is a nice place to spend a couple of nights.  Many campers come here to get on the lake in their powerboats, or fish from the shore, and there will be no shortage of anglers most weekends; but, during the week in the shoulder season, we  pretty much had the place to ourselves. 

    The campground offers a range of pull-through and back-in campsites along the slopes of the rolling hills, but most of the individual sites were flat and could accommodate a wide variety of rig sizes.  Some are close enough together to make a great group camping set-up, while others were off  on their own with a view of the reservoir. While there were many trees around for shade, we still had enough open sky for good solar gain and Starlink. 

    The main bathroom building had clean flush toilets and showers, but there were a few extra vault toilets scattered around.  Fresh water taps and recycling/ trash bins were plentiful. 

    Hiking, cycling, paddling and fishing are the name of the game here, and we got in our kayaks for an awesome day paddle around the many coves of this reservoir.  Since the lake level fluctuates there aren’t many good beaches, but you can pull off to have a picnic lunch. 

    There is a nearby gas station with a few supplies, ice, and firewood. Sonora is the closest town with larger grocery stores and restaurants.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground

    A Surprise in the Sierras!

    We ended up at this small campground because our potential boondocking spots were completely snowed in up top.  So glad we did as it is tucked away on the grounds of an amazing state park!

    Most of the sites are small with a lot of tree coverage. It was quiet, quaint, and clean. We found a good site that provided just enough sky for both our 400W portable solar panel and Starlink to work pretty well. The bathroom building has flush toilets, was kept clean, and warm showers. 

    But the campground isn’t the reason to come here...it’s the history! This little park tucked into the Western Sierras will blow your mind. It is a significant Miwok Native American historical site, with home sites, ancient Oak trees, and literally thousands of grain, and acorn grinding stones located in the central part of the park. 

    The visitor’s center is a must-see and brings the location to life. In cooperation with the local tribes, the state manages the site and visitor’s center for the public. Take a walk on the interpretive trail, hike the adventure trails, fish in the creek, or attend a special program. It is a beautiful place to spend a few days. 

    The nearby town of Pine Grove has a few restaurants and grocery stores to get what you might need.

  • h
    Camper-submitted photo from North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    Beautiful park

    Very nice park, great walking trails, beautiful trees. Many of the buildings are older, but well kept. Showers are coin operated and nice. No trailer hookups, but very site has a water but can’t connect it with the trailer. Park does have a dump station and is included in the space rent. Only issue is being by the road and having road noise. Plenty of restrooms and showers (coin operated). The only Wi-Fi is at the visitor center and VERY limited cell service, no great loss.

  • Sebastian M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Auburn Gold Country RV Park
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Auburn Gold Country RV Park

    Okay

    Had a standard Hookup-RV-Spot. Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level. If you don't have the premium hookup spots, you got to pay 20$ "Service Fee" for dumping. Idk why because you end up doing it all by yourself as usual anyway. Feels like a bit of a rip off to be honest. The rest is nice, quiet (except for the geese) and clean.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Lodgepole Campground
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Lodgepole Campground

    Perfectly Situated in the Sequoias

    I thought this campground was pretty decent for being NPS run and due to its large size. The campsite was close to other campers, but not right on top of them. The location is ideal. Bathrooms were the least favorite part, only one bathroom (with 4 stalls?) for one large loop of campsites. Check-in was a breeze. Nearby visitor center and camp store was convenient. There were hiking trails nearby. Be bear aware!

  • OThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    Large dirt pull off

    Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time but even if the main spot is occupied there’s a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp. A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around. Completely free and peaceful but 0 amenities so come prepared. Currently there is an abandoned red semi truck cab so it’s easy to find not sure if that will ever be moved in the future though!

  • OThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Fork Campground
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Silver Fork Campground

    Peaceful getaway

    Beautiful river area, friendly people, hills to hike around! There’s a fire pit and bbq set up at each site and bathrooms and drinking water around the campgrounds. Seems like an amazing spot for a family camping trip! I believe it was $28 a night for a single spot or $14 with a discount. Cons for a nomad is there’s 0 service out there even hiking to the top of the mountain. It’s also about an hour of winding roads from the nearest town to get there. IMO not worth it when there’s plentyyyy of free camping pull offs you pass on the way there.

  • Stephen B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful, popular, treacherous

    I’m motorcycle camping and the ground level was about half full, mostly RVs, so I attempted to head up Scott Lake Road.

    The dirt was manageable but there are sections of large rocks difficult to pass on two wheels. I crossed several but I dropped my bike before the second circle. Defeated and exhausted from a long day’s ride, I headed back down to set up my camp among the RV set.

    No shade to the lifestyle but this is an awfully long drive to watch TV at top volume.

  • p
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Aug. 27, 2024

    Acorn Campground

    Extended stays

    A good clean campground, popular in central California. Reasonably priced $20 per night. They do accept golden age passes which reduces your nightly expense to $10 per night maximum 15 days for the month. Geared mostly for small trailers and tents, however, they do have some sites for larger RVs drive-through 40 foot max and roadside, slide outs might cause a problem. Park managers are very professional, courteous and pleasant. Bathrooms are a problem for cleanliness dump station is available for RVs. If you have a portable black tank, it would work out better for you on extended stays when dumping your black tank. If you are self-contained, you won’t have any difficulties at all.

  • Azizah T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Ice House Campground

    Quiet campground with frequent bears

    I made reservations here a week prior to our trip because I was looking for a warmer place to camp. I previously had reservations at Pinecrest, but it was going to be in the 50s during the day and 30s at night. Which isn’t ideal since I have a 7 month old and a 3 year old. But it ended up getting pretty chilly here as well - high 50s, low 40s. I do not recommended campsite 3, where we camped. It is a double site and is spacious enough for two families. But the campground had 3 bears that were visiting every night. One huge black bear, and a mama black bear with her cub. It was disappointing to learn this by getting a visit by the black bear who comes down from behind our campsite (which is why I do not recommend campsite 3). Luckily, our kids were asleep when the black bear came around 9pm. The camp host never came by to check us in, even though we were right next to their site. They did not inform us of the three bears that would be coming by. Obviously we are in bear country, so precautions were taken. But it would have been nice to know, since we have little ones exploring the area behind us (where one of the bears was coming down). When my husband informed the camp host of the bear that came by she wasn’t surprised at all and said “oh there’s three that come every night. One big black bear who is about 4.5ft tall on all fours - he’s a big guy! And a mama bear with her cub.” This was very strange to me that she didn’t come by and tell us this, nor did she tell the other campers around us. We went and informed the two sites by us so that they were aware of this. Aside from that, the campground is beautiful. You can chop your own wood, since there was a couple of dead trees around. The walk to the reservoir is short and sweet. The water isn’t freezing either, our dog enjoyed her daily swim. I recommend this campground for its beauty but be prepared for a bear visit.



Guide to Diamond Springs

Camping near Diamond Springs, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, perfect for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, “Many excursions and hiking trails. Breathtakingly beautiful,” while enjoying their stay at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe.
  • Water Sports: If you love being on the water, check out Folsom Lake. A reviewer noted, “Folsom Lake with all water-related activities” at Beals Point Campground.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park shared, “We had a bear visit our campsite, so it’s crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes.”

What campers like

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review from Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe said, “Camping spots are spaced out enough that you are not right on top of your neighbor.”
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Beals Point Campground remarked, “This is a very clean and well-maintained State campground.”
  • Beautiful Views: Many campgrounds offer stunning views. One camper at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground said, “The site is gorgeous and so close to the Lake.”

What you should know

  • Bear Activity: Be prepared for bear encounters. A camper at Eagle Point Campground warned, “The campground staff enforces this rule diligently” regarding food storage.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground noted, “The General Market was randomly closed for 4 days, for inventory.”
  • Crowded Sites: During peak seasons, campgrounds can get busy. A reviewer at Zephyr Cove Resort mentioned, “The campground was completely full,” which might not be ideal for everyone.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One family enjoyed their time at Tahoe Valley Campground, saying, “This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort.”
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on your kids, especially near water. A camper at Beals Point Campground emphasized, “Easy access to lake beach swim area.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area suggested, “Ice cream at the store is a must.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe mentioned, “The spots were so beautiful! And you were not so close to the others.”
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds have dirt roads that can get dusty. A camper at Tahoe Valley Campground noted, “My biggest issue with this campground is the dirt.”
  • Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially in summer. A visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area advised, “Have to reserve well in advance to get a great spot close to the water.”

Camping near Diamond Springs, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Diamond Springs, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Diamond Springs, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 302 campgrounds and RV parks near Diamond Springs, CA and 21 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Diamond Springs, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Diamond Springs, CA is Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Diamond Springs, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near Diamond Springs, CA.

  • What parks are near Diamond Springs, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 parks near Diamond Springs, CA that allow camping, notably Eldorado National Forest and New Hogan Lake.