Best Campgrounds near Lincoln, CA
The Lincoln, California area encompasses several established campgrounds and RV parks within a 30-mile radius, ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities and cabin rentals. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers two significant camping areas—Beals Point and Peninsula campgrounds—providing tent and RV accommodations with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities. Private options include Thousand Trails Lake Minden in Nicolaus and Auburn Gold Country RV Park, both catering to RV travelers with hookups and additional amenities. Several campgrounds feature cabin accommodations, including Coloma Resort and American River Resort along the American River.
Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though summer brings increased demand and potential heat concerns. "The weather was HOT during early May. Our site was surrounded by some shade but could definitely feel the heat," noted one camper at Folsom Lake. Sites typically range from $28 for basic dry camping to $70 for full-hookup RV spots. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak season (May through September), particularly for weekend stays. Many facilities provide drinking water, flush toilets, and coin-operated showers, with dump stations available at select locations. Camp Far West North Shore offers lakeside camping but experiences significant seasonal fluctuations in water levels, while facilities near Auburn provide access to both water recreation and hiking trails.
Campers consistently highlight water access as a primary draw at many sites. Peninsula Campground and Beals Point at Folsom Lake receive particularly high ratings for lake proximity, though water levels can vary dramatically by season. One visitor observed, "The reservoir is currently nearly dry, so the 'beach' is just a field. Luckily, I was only there for the site and the hiking." Several reviews mention noise considerations, with Beals Point described as "a major draw for people who are just camping to be loud and drink heavily." By contrast, Camp Far West receives praise for off-season solitude, with one camper noting, "We were the only people anywhere except for folks in the full hook-up area. Not a sound except for the birds." Most campgrounds feature oak tree cover providing partial shade, particularly important during hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
