Tent camping near El Dorado Hills provides access to diverse terrains ranging from the foothills to higher Sierra elevations between 500-4,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures routinely exceeding 90°F from June through September, while spring and fall offer milder conditions. Many campgrounds maintain seasonal operations with closures typically beginning in mid-October when overnight temperatures start dropping below freezing at higher elevations.
What to do
Explore waterfalls and swimming holes: The area surrounding Lake Clementine Boat In features crystal clear water perfect for swimming during summer months. According to a visitor, "The river was crystal clear and beautiful" with opportunities to enjoy the water when temperatures rise.
Kayak on calm waters: Rancho Seco Recreation Area offers excellent paddling opportunities on its small lake. One camper notes it's "A great place for novice and experienced sailors and sailboarders" with reasonable boat rental prices. The lake is particularly peaceful during weekdays when "it's nice and quiet" compared to busy weekends.
Visit Gold Rush historical sites: Tent campers can explore nearby historical attractions. "If you have some extra time, be sure to check out Marshall Gold Discovery Park, home of Sutter's Mill, and the nearby wine country," recommends a visitor who stayed at OARS American River Outpost Campground.
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Many tent sites offer remarkable quiet during non-peak times. At Lake Clementine, campers enjoy the tranquility: "We camped during the off season (November) so we had our pick of the campsites" with significantly reduced crowds compared to summer months.
Lake access: Jenkinson Campground provides excellent water proximity. "We brought our paddle board and were walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly," reports one camper. Another adds that "the hike to the waterfall is wonderful" with a "33ft and the perfect spot to swim when it warms up."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife watching opportunities at many campgrounds. Campers report seeing deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. The environment at Camp Nauvoo is particularly noted for its natural setting, with one visitor describing it as "85 acres of beauty, but close enough to amenities and adventures."
What you should know
Limited water availability: Many tent sites require bringing your own drinking water. A Lake Clementine camper advises, "No showers or running water...there are only toilets available. Bring your own water to drink, wash dishes and pans, or wash yourselves."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are common, especially from July through October. Even established campgrounds with fire rings may prohibit fires during high-risk periods, so check current restrictions before your trip.
Terrain variations: Campsite elevation and exposure vary significantly. A camper at Camp Far West North Shore notes: "We must have come at the best time of year because everything was so green and beautiful. The Oak trees that grow here are truly majestic."
Reservation timing: For summer camping, book well in advance. One Lake Camanche visitor recommends securing spots "at least 6 months out" for popular holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Creek swimming spots: Camp Nauvoo offers kid-friendly water access according to visitors. "This place is a hidden gem! It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly," reports one family who enjoyed creek swimming during their stay.
Day trip activities: Plan visits to nearby attractions. Families appreciate the historical sites near El Dorado Hills, with one parent noting their children particularly enjoyed "learning about the Gold Rush while getting to play in the water."
Campsite selection: Choose sites away from water during spring runoff for safety. During summer, waterfront sites are preferred for cooling off, but one camper warns that at some locations "the shores in certain areas are filled with big rocks and don't make it very fun for trying to swim."
Tips from RVers
Off-season camping: RV campers find winter and early spring ideal for avoiding crowds at Rancho Seco. One RVer called it "a wonderful spot to stay for a few days in the off season," noting "We stayed in February. Summers would be very hot and I imagine the area would be packed with day use folks."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the foothills feature sloped sites. A visitor to Jenkinson Campground observed: "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation. There may have been some that were on normal level ground but from what we experienced and the ones we mainly saw they were not."
Power options: Limited hookup sites exist in the region, so come prepared with alternative power sources if needed. Most tent-focused campgrounds offer few or no electrical connections.
