Camping in El Dorado Hills occurs in the Sierra Nevada foothills between 600-1,200 feet elevation, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and winter nights drop below freezing. The region spans multiple ecosystems from oak woodlands to pine forests, creating distinct camping environments throughout the year. Water levels at many area lakes fluctuate significantly between seasons.
What to Do
Waterfall hikes: Take the 1-mile trail from Hazel Creek day use parking at Sly Park Recreation Area to see a waterfall. "There is also a lovely, short hike to a waterfall! It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area," notes a camper.
Disc golf courses: Lake Amador Resort features multiple disc golf courses suitable for all skill levels. "As disc golfers, of course we love camping here, having 3 courses to choose from. But there is something for everyone in the family here, there is amazing fishing, boating and swimming," explains one visitor.
Winter fishing: Fish at Sly Park Recreation Area during off-season for a less crowded experience. "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," reports a winter visitor.
Gold panning: Try gold panning at Ruck-A-Chucky Campground on the American River. "if you're lucky and know how to read the river, gold panning is a must! bring your kayaks and rafts," advises one visitor, though they caution to "bring extra cash in case you need a tow out of there."
What Campers Like
Water activities: Jenkinson Lake at Sly Park offers kayaking and paddleboarding with rentals available for $20 first hour plus $10 each additional hour. "Jenkinson late is beautiful to kayak or paddleboard on and you can also rent for $20/hr + $10/hr after that," explains a camper.
Wildlife viewing: Lake Amador Resort hosts abundant wildlife with regular animal sightings. "The wildlife is RIGHT THERE! We saw a tarantula near the tee box on 2. I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend," recounts one visitor.
Solitude at Dru Barner: Dru Barner Campground offers a secluded forest experience despite being only 15 minutes from Georgetown. "You get the feeling you are in the middle of nowhere, but yet, still only 15 minute drive to Georgetown," explains one camper, while another noted "This has been my favorite spot after traveling all across US. I wanted to hide in the forest. Nothing but trees and the wind blowing through them."
Private campsites: Specific site recommendations can make a difference. At Sly Park, "Lot 38 on Pinecone Strip, really private. No other campsite really visible. Close to bathrooms and water," while at Hilltop, "Spot 117 is one of the best on Hilltop. Decent amount of shade and large area to park and set up tents."
What You Should Know
Water availability: Several campgrounds face water limitations. At Dru Barner Campground, "Bring water as there is none available due to poor quality," warns a camper. At Sly Park during winter, "this time of year the water spickets are off."
Heat considerations: Temperatures vary drastically by season and location. "The Sacramento area gets very hot in the summer, and this campground provides some but not a ton of shade," reports a camper at Beals Point Campground.
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely across the region. At Loon Lake, "there's no cell service in the area," while at Beals Point Campground, one camper found "GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars."
Reservations timeline: Popular campgrounds book quickly during peak season. A camper at Sly Park advises, "Our group has been camping at Sly Park together and respectively since 1996, and we can't ever get enough. It's a very popular camping spot, so I recommend planning and reserving sometimes several months in advance."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly amenities: At Lake Amador Resort, families appreciate the dedicated swimming area. "Amador is a laid back camping spot that never disappoints. Great for families. Not a party destination but you can still have a great time! They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at."
Beach and trail access: Beals Point Campground offers easy trails suitable for children and pets. "Easy trails to take your four legged friend on and of course the beach," mentions one camper, while another notes "Folsom lake is a beautiful location, great bike and hiking trails. Clean and safe area. Great place to bring the family."
Campsite selection for families: Choose locations with adequate space for children to play safely. At Hilltop in Sly Park, "You can see to the right we were able to fit 3 cars and a 10x20 tent. To the left is our screen tent where we kept the food since it was shaded all day."
Safety considerations: Water safety is important at area lakes. "I suggest staying on the main beach with the provided lifejacket area if with children as the other rock areas near the beach suddenly can drop off underwater very deep," advises a Beals Point visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: At Ghost Mountain RV Campground, "We're in an okay spot, small and angled funky but still it's a wonderful place." Another RV camper at Sly Park notes, "Hilltop sites are better for smaller campers. I have an 18' trailer and sites 126-128 are really nice."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. For Ruck-A-Chucky Campground, "The 3 mile road down is a bit treacherous (maybe don't take your RV) but makes you feel 'out there'," and another visitor confirms, "The trek down to the campsite was slightly difficult and we decided to utilize the four wheel drive as we navigated to and from."
Equestrian-friendly campgrounds near El Dorado Hills: For those traveling with horses, several options exist. "Must visit for horse lovers!" says one camper about Dru Barner Campground, which offers facilities for equestrians. At Loon Lake, campers can access trails directly from sites.
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