Cabin camping near Foresthill, California offers rustic to semi-modern accommodations within the Sierra Nevada foothills, typically at elevations between 2,500-3,500 feet. Most sites enjoy mild spring and fall temperatures with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Cabin rentals typically require advance bookings of 2-6 months during peak summer season when weekend occupancy often reaches 100%.
What to do
Gold panning opportunities: Try your hand at finding gold flakes at Coloma Resort, where the historic Sutter's Mill gold discovery site is nearby. "If you ever want to experience the thrill of gold panning, and California history go here! You will not strike it rich, but with a couple hours of effort you can get a nice little bottle of gold flakes to take home with you," shares one visitor.
Whitewater experiences: Watch rafters tackle challenging rapids from American River Resort. "It is right in the American River and next to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker. It was awesome watching rafters and kayakers go through it," notes a camper.
Mountain biking access: Several cabin sites offer trail access for mountain biking, with trails ranging from beginner to advanced. "There is a nice dump station. There are trails to ride a mountain bike ride or hike," explained a visitor at Ghost Mountain RV Campground.
What campers like
River proximity: The American River access makes Camp Lotus a popular destination. "Great campground for tenting or RV camping. It's on the river. Friendly and helpful hosts," mentions one reviewer who appreciated the location.
On-site conveniences: Many cabin locations provide useful amenities for longer stays. "For your convenience, there is an on-site deli that serves breakfast, lunch, and pastries. There is also a store where they sell ice, drinks, ice cream, snacks, toiletries, and other items," a Camp Lotus visitor noted.
Wildlife viewing: Several cabin sites offer opportunities to see local wildlife. "RV site close to the river and some deers also crossing our ways on the campground," reported one American River Resort visitor who stayed in mid-September.
What you should know
Cabin reservation timing: Most cabins require advance planning. "One negative, is you have to book way ahead of time, but it's well worth it," noted a Coloma Resort visitor.
Site spacing concerns: Some cabin areas place units in close proximity. "The spaces are a bit small but clean," mentioned a visitor to Coloma Resort, while another camper at American River Resort explained: "Nearly all of the tent sites are tiny and crowded very closely together with no privacy breaks at all between them."
Seasonal water levels: Water access varies significantly by season at Collins Lake Recreation Area. "In the Spring, the water level is much higher so the water line is closer to the campsites, especially #66. In the fall, pre-winter, the water level is much lower. It was about a 50 yard walk down to the water from #116 camp site, which is a lake front site," observed a repeat visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Multiple family activities make cabin camping more enjoyable. "You can pan for gold, relax, or bike, hike along the river, and kids can play along several playgrounds for kids of different ages. A large grass area great for games," explained a Coloma Resort visitor.
Pool amenities: Several locations offer swimming pools for families, including Ghost Mountain RV Campground. "Nice park with amenities and family oriented with nice swimming pool during May thru October," notes a visitor.
Noise considerations: Sound carries between cabin units at most locations. "Quiet hours weren't enforced as people played music or loudly chatted until 1am the first night we were there. However, there's after hours staff you can contact if you have any concerns," reported a Coloma Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations: Some cabin and RV sites have limited electrical capacity. "Our site had 30 amp only and I doubt any of them have 50 amp. The power is not good. I had to bypass the surge suppressor because it kept cutting out due to low voltage. Voltage was generally 104-105," reported a visitor at American River Resort.
Size restrictions: Check cabin dimensions before booking if size is a concern. "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok," advised an American River Resort visitor.
Cabin alternatives: For those traveling with RVs, consider Ascension Ranch for a rustic experience. "Offering a serene environment, an abundance of farm animals, and good old fashion ranch activities, we invite you to spend some time with us out on the ranch," explains a visitor who appreciated the ranch atmosphere.
