Best Campgrounds near Folsom, CA
Campgrounds near Folsom, California cluster around Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, with two primary developed sites: Beals Point and Peninsula Campground. Both offer tent and RV camping with varying levels of hookups and amenities. Folsom Lake campsites accommodate diverse camping styles, from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent camping areas. Beyond the lake, several private campgrounds like Coloma Resort and American River Resort provide additional options including cabins and glamping accommodations. Most camping areas lie within 25 miles of downtown Folsom, with concentrations along the American River corridor and surrounding foothills.
The Folsom Lake area experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable camping conditions. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, though water levels at Folsom Lake fluctuate significantly with the seasons. Peninsula Campground requires navigating "a long windy narrow road," while Beals Point offers easier access from Folsom-Auburn Road. Most developed sites require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when lakefront sites fill quickly. Wildlife encounters are common at Peninsula Campground, where one camper noted, "Wildlife is off the chain here. Bears have been seen on occasion, cougars, bobcats, and coyotes all stop by from time to time, and there are so many skunks it can get annoying."
Campers consistently rate waterfront access as a key feature, with both Peninsula and Beals Point campgrounds providing lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating. The American River Bikeway connects to Beals Point, offering recreational opportunities beyond the campground. Sites vary considerably in terms of shade and privacy, with Peninsula described as having "spacious unique sunny sites" but limited flat areas for camping. Several visitors mention the proximity to wildlife as both a draw and potential concern. The combination of water access, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing creates a camping experience that feels remote despite being relatively close to urban amenities. Noise levels vary by location, with roadside campgrounds experiencing more traffic sounds than those deeper in the recreation areas.
