Camping options near Diamond Springs, California range from basic tent sites to full-service RV resorts situated between 1,800-3,000 feet elevation in the Sierra foothills. The area experiences distinct seasons with hot, dry summers reaching 90°F+ and cooler winters with occasional snow at higher elevations. Winter camping in the region requires preparation for temperature drops, particularly at night when temperatures can fall below freezing.
What to do
Water activities at American River: Thousand Trails Ponderosa provides direct access to river recreation. "The best thing about this campground is its location on the river. We spent most of our time lounging at the edge of the river. It really moved along and was fun to float down in a tube," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Ponderosa.
Mountain biking trails: The foothills offer varied terrain for cycling enthusiasts. "Lots of great trails to weave through the campground on a mountain bike," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Ponderosa, making it ideal for active visitors.
Winter snow camping: For cold-weather adventurers, Tahoe Valley Campground remains open year-round. A winter camper recalls, "We ended up camping in a truck camper at Tahoe Valley Campground after being caught in a snow storm. Nothing beats making a fire in the snow and waking up to a couple of feet of white fluffiness!"
What campers like
Spacious sites with views: Jackson Rancheria RV Park offers panoramic vistas from select spots. "We specifically stayed in spot 24, but any of the spots along the back have a beautiful view of the canyon," shares a camper at Jackson Rancheria RV Park, which maintains a perfect 5-star rating.
Kid-friendly amenities: Family campgrounds in the area provide recreational options. "Mini train ride around park, great playground, mini golf, showed movie and a lot more awesomeness," explains a visitor about Placerville RV Resort & Campground, highlighting its family appeal.
Walking trails: Several campgrounds feature dedicated paths for exercise. "There's an awesome walking trail around the park. We had our 6 year old with us and she loved to scooter around the walking path with us," reports a Jackson Rancheria RV Park visitor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: During peak seasons, booking ahead is essential. A visitor to 49er Village RV Resort advises, "We called a day ahead to see if there was room and on a weekday in early May, there was plenty of availability. We even received a Spring Flash Sale (40% off) rate."
Membership requirements: Some campgrounds operate on membership models. "This resort is part of Colorado River Adventures and is private," explains a camper at Ghost Mountain RV Campground, noting "When you're here it's a great campground...the only catch is that your first visit you sit through a 1.5 hour long presentation."
Site selection considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. At French Meadows, a camper warns, "Two thirds of the campsites were on a slope with no where to setup a tent on level ground. If you have never been and don't know what sites to pick while making reservations online then you are rolling the dice."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access during summer heat: Several RV parks maintain swimming pools as summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F. "This campground is right in town but there's enough space and trees to give it a natural setting. Looks great for families and there's a dog park, pool and trails," notes a visitor to Tahoe Valley Campground.
Educational opportunities: Campground activities can supplement summer learning. "We used the free WiFi to homeschool as well. This is a great place to visit," shares a family who stayed at Jackson Rancheria RV Park.
Site accessibility: Choose locations with age-appropriate terrain. A French Meadows visitor cautions, "Depending on where your site was, the walk to the water was steep," which might be challenging for families with young children or mobility issues.
Tips from RVers
Utilities and services: For extended stays, understand hookup limitations. A Ghost Mountain RV Campground visitor explains, "The sites are a nice size with water and electricity only. There is a honeybucket truck that comes around Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. A dump station on site."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts accessibility throughout the region. "The pool and spa are under renovation but should open soon. Our last trip we had our 20' boat with us and they let us park it near their maintenance building," notes a visitor to Jackson Rancheria.
Parking configurations: Site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds. At RV Village Campground At Camp Richardson Resort, "The sites toward the back, away from the road, are much quieter and more private," while at 49er Village RV Resort, "Pads are paved and level. The back-in sites in the center back up to each other with no divider between them."
