Best Campgrounds near El Dorado Hills, CA
Campgrounds near El Dorado Hills, California range from developed state recreation areas to private resorts along waterways. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers two campgrounds—Beals Point and Peninsula—with tent and RV sites within 10 miles of El Dorado Hills. Several private campgrounds including Coloma Resort and American River Resort provide cabin options and glamping accommodations along the American River. Most locations feature mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering full hookups for recreational vehicles and others maintaining more rustic settings for tent campers.
Road conditions and campground accessibility vary significantly by season, with many sites requiring advance reservations, particularly during summer months. Water levels at Folsom Lake and other nearby reservoirs fluctuate throughout the year, affecting shoreline camping and water recreation opportunities. A camper noted, "The lake has receded quite a bit that one of the docks is about 100 yards from the actual lake now due to California drought." Temperatures in the region can reach over 90 degrees in summer months, making water access a priority for many visitors. Cell phone coverage is generally available at campgrounds closer to towns like Folsom and Coloma, but becomes less reliable in more remote locations. Most established campgrounds provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, with some offering shower facilities for an additional fee.
Campers consistently rate waterfront locations highest among area campgrounds. The American River corridor provides popular access points for swimming, fishing, and gold panning activities. According to one visitor, "Beautiful campground and Lake. Fishing there was wonderful lakeside and great hikes." Sites at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offer direct access to the American River Bikeway, a paved multi-use trail popular for cycling and walking. Wildlife sightings, including deer, are common at several campgrounds, with one reviewer mentioning that deer were "people friendly" and frequently visited their campsite. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with campgrounds closer to highways experiencing more traffic sounds, while those in more remote settings like Giant Gap provide a more secluded experience. Most campgrounds in the area implement fire restrictions during dry summer months, though established fire rings are typically available at developed sites.
