Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area features dog-friendly trails running along the shoreline with elevation changes of 300-600 feet. Campsites sit among rolling hills and oak trees at approximately 500 feet elevation, offering moderate temperatures most of the year. The region has numerous private and public campgrounds that welcome pets with varying policies regarding size, number of pets, and designated relief areas.
What to do
Gold panning experiences: Try gold panning at Coloma Resort, where you'll experience California gold rush history firsthand. "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 Jill F.
Swimming in Jenkinson Lake: Cool off during summer months at Sly Park Recreation Area, where the clear water provides relief from heat. "Jenkinson late 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," notes Bea I.
Hiking with dogs: Take advantage of the many pet-friendly trails throughout the region, particularly in spring when wildflowers bloom. "Peninsula campground on Folsom Lake is in the rolling hills and oak trees, remote from the more popular side of the lake. In the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys," says Ray B.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Campers consistently praise the well-maintained facilities at American River Resort. "They have a nice shower and there's decent AT&T service," mentions David C. The resort offers private shower options that make post-activity cleanup much more comfortable.
Spacious waterfront sites: Riverfront camping spots provide direct water access for cooling off during hot months. "Our site was perfectly shaded and good sized right on the waterfront. Will definitely be back," reports J A. during their stay at Coloma Resort.
Winter camping options: Unlike many Sierra foothill destinations, some campgrounds remain open year-round. "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," notes Lloyd C. about his winter fishing trip to Sly Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campsites require advance booking, especially during summer months. "You have to book way ahead of time, but it's well worth it," advises Rosina A. about Peninsula Campground, where weekends fill quickly.
Campsite proximity issues: Many campgrounds feature sites positioned close together, limiting privacy. "The spaces are a bit small but clean. The bathrooms are spotless and they offer a lot of amenities for families," explains Susan S. about her experience at a local resort.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are common during summer and fall months due to extreme fire danger. Always check current fire regulations before your trip, as conditions change rapidly in this region. Some campgrounds prohibit wood fires entirely during peak fire season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Camp Nauvoo provides excellent family-friendly activities. "The owners of this campground have made it there mission that you have a wonderful experience if you are a newbie or seasoned camper. Great sites for families and romantic sites for couples. Hiking, swimming, fishing and places for quiet time," explains Jeannie.
Pet management: Keep dogs leashed outside designated pet areas and bring plenty of waste bags. Multiple campgrounds enforce strict leash policies to protect wildlife and other campers. Many sites allow up to two pets per reservation with additional fees for extra animals.
Noise considerations: Most pet-friendly campgrounds enforce quiet hours starting at 10 pm. "At 10:00 pm it did get very quiet. So, it's a great place for families," notes Susan S., making these campgrounds suitable for families with younger children who need consistent sleep schedules.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection: Choose your site carefully at Placerville RV Resort & Campground based on hookup needs. "Read the fine print! If you are expecting a full-hookup site, make sure it has septic at your site! Many of the sites are water and electric only, and you have to use the one dump station at the camp entrance for dumping," warns HandL C.
Size limitations: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Diamond Springs have restrictions on RV length. "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok," advises David C. about American River Resort, noting the terrain can be challenging for larger rigs.
Power considerations: Some campgrounds struggle with consistent electrical service. "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," reports an RVer about regional electrical hookups, suggesting bringing a generator backup if permitted.
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