Sacramento County sits at the intersection of the Central Valley and Sierra foothills, creating diverse camping conditions around Fair Oaks. Elevations range from 200 feet near the American River to over 3,000 feet at higher elevation campsites to the east. The Mediterranean climate means most tent campsites near Fair Oaks remain accessible year-round, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F at lower elevations.
What to do
Water activities at the American River: OARS American River Outpost Campground offers rafting opportunities, with one visitor noting "This was our first time whitewater rafting, and it was a great experience. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, and we really enjoyed the BBQ on site."
Hiking around Jenkinson Lake: The trails at Jenkinson Campground provide access to a 9-mile loop around the entire lake. A camper mentioned "The trails are perfectly maintained and you can go around the whole lake in 9 miles. The hike to the waterfall is wonderful and depending where you start depends on length."
Fishing throughout seasons: Multiple campgrounds provide year-round fishing access with varying catch rates. One Camp Far West visitor shared their experience during winter months: "We visited Camp Far West for one night on a quick trip looking for somewhere remote, nearby, and slightly warmer during the winter months. It was green and beautiful."
What campers like
Swimming in clear water: Lake Clementine Boat In provides pristine water conditions. A visitor mentioned, "The river was crystal clear and beautiful" and another noted how "the river is extremely clean and clear with good temperature."
Quieter off-season experiences: Many campers highlight the benefits of visiting during less crowded periods. One reviewer at Lake Camanche shared, "We stayed at the lake for one night, mid-week, off season. We were only one of a few handful of RVs in the RV section of the campground...in the early spring, it was full of bird songs and a gorgeous sunset."
Oak woodland environments: Camp Far West North Shore offers a distinctive oak-dominated landscape. A visitor observed, "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 and overall I would say this is a beautiful place to come and be one with nature."
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Many sites prohibit fires during high-risk periods. At Lake Clementine, one visitor mentioned "there was a fire ban in effect" despite having fire rings at their site.
Site selection matters for comfort: The terrain at many campgrounds can affect your experience. At Jenkinson Campground, a camper noted "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."
Wildlife considerations: Rancho Seco Recreation Area requires proper food storage. One visitor warned, "make sure you put your food away at night raccoons will get your food and snacks" while another mentioned seasonal insect issues: "the whole park is infested with ground beetles that would just land all over you and your food. We couldn't stay up pass sunset to enjoy the fire and s'mores."
Tips for camping with families
Consider glamping options: For families new to camping, Camp Nauvoo offers glamping alternatives. A visitor described it as "Glamping heaven along a creek" and another noted "It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly."
Choose sites with nearby activities: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. At Rancho Seco, a family camper reported, "You can fish, hike, or swim here. The campsites are spacious and you don't feel over crowded if there is a family next to you."
Pack for variable weather: Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate significantly. An experienced winter camper at Lake Clementine shared, "Using hand warmers and a tent warmer we did fine with the cold nights."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites throughout the area require leveling equipment. At Lake Camanche, a camper mentioned "Clean, fairly spacious RV sites" but noted internet connectivity was "Poor."
Weekday timing recommendations: RVers consistently recommend weekday visits to avoid crowds. A Rancho Seco visitor shared, "Very busy on the weekends but very quiet and peaceful during our one night during the week."
Seasonal RV considerations: Water levels affect site quality and access. A Lake Camanche visitor noted that during drought conditions, "it's a bit of a haul to the water — cart/wagon recommended, as well as a shade pop-up AT water's edge."
