Camping options near Elk Grove, California range from lakeside resorts to riverside campgrounds, all within a short drive of the city. The area sits at the intersection of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Central Valley, with elevations typically under 50 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F from June through September, making water access particularly valuable for campers seeking relief from the heat.
What to do
Fishing for multiple species: Lake Amador Resort offers year-round fishing opportunities with several fish species available. "The lake is stocked with Trout, Bass and Catfish. Tackle Box Cafe is really good, weekends only, and the staff is kind and helpful," notes a regular visitor who has camped there during different seasons.
Biking along waterways: Cal Expo RV Park provides access to extensive bike trails along the river. "Great Bike paths adjacent along the river into Downtown or up to Folsom," reports one reviewer who stayed at the RV park multiple times for college events in the area.
Water recreation with equipment rentals: Ko-Ket Resort offers equipment for water activities. "Very clean facilities, it's right on the water—the California delta river. They have paddle boards you can rent and go out on the water in the morning," shares a visitor who enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere.
What campers like
Clean facilities with extras: SacWest RV Park & Campground maintains well-kept shower and bathroom facilities. "Wonderful ada bathroom/showers with a fold down bench. Friendly staff. Near freeway (lots of traffic noise). Quiet morning," reports a tent camper, mentioning the added benefit that "you can order food and they will deliver."
Waterfront locations: Lake Camanche provides waterfront sites that campers appreciate for their convenience. "We were a party of six, in 2 adjacent sites nearest the lake... Great, QUIET time. When the lake is down (like now) it's a bit of a haul to the water — cart/wagon recommended, as well as a shade pop-up AT water's edge," advises one visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake offers nature observation in a quieter setting. "In the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys. With only us and two other folks in the entire campground we enjoyed privacy and seclusion," notes a visitor who appreciated the mid-week tranquility.
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Lake conditions vary dramatically throughout the year. "We've been camping here for 10 years now. Always 4+ campsites for 4-5 days around July 4th weekend (reserve at least 6 months out) to start our year off," shares a Lake Camanche reviewer who adds that "water is really nice!! Showers and laundry areas are cleaned daily."
Facility limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted hours or services. "The shower house has a $20 deposit for a key. This is refunded on return of the key. Showers/restrooms are average but clean," notes a Cal Expo camper who stayed for four nights.
Weather considerations: Heat can be intense during summer months. "We loved the pool. Had pizza delivered right to the spot," mentions a SacWest visitor who found ways to cope with the heat during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in family camping with numerous activities. "Nice playground, basketball court, volleyball, bouncy pillow, outdoor movies, pool, lazy river, water park, bumper boats, laser tag, boat rentals on the delta, restaurants and quick bites," lists a parent who visited with children aged 5-13.
Swimming options for hot days: Designated swimming areas provide relief from summer heat. "Lake Camanche South Shore... has a slide they can use. RV areas are clean. Tent camping is okay!" reports a family camper who appreciated the kid-friendly water features.
Seasonal programming: Many campgrounds offer special events during peak season. "For October, we did an outdoor movie, magic pumpkins, costume contest, trick or treating, hay ride, and haunted house. My daughter loved everything except the haunted house, which she said was 'too scary!'," shares a Jellystone Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Brannan Island State Recreation Area offers varied RV spots with different amenities. "Upper loop has hookups and tight sites, no bathrooms or showers. Lower loop has no hookups but has two bath houses," notes an RVer who visited during March, adding that "site was nice and big and along River."
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't guaranteed at all sites. "We got a PW(power/water) site that was $20 cheaper a night than full hookup. Only stayed two nights while traveling through and there is an RV dump there, so easy enough," mentions a SacWest visitor who found this arrangement workable for a short stay.
Urban camping options: Some campgrounds provide city access with RV amenities. "Inter city RV Park at Cal Expo. Great Bike paths adjacent along the river into Downtown or up to Folsom. All Full hook up sites on gravel or asphalt, daily, weekly, monthly rates," reports a repeat visitor who used the campground while attending college events.
