Cabins near Georgetown, California range from rustic accommodations to fully equipped units across several riverside properties. Located within the Sierra Nevada foothills at approximately 2,700 feet elevation, the region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making cabin camping a year-round option. Many properties maintain accessibility to regional attractions including gold panning sites and whitewater rafting put-ins on the American River.
What to do
Gold panning opportunities: Coloma Resort offers direct access to historic gold discovery sites along the American River. "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," notes a visitor to Coloma Resort.
Whitewater rafting access: Several cabin properties serve as launching points for river excursions. American River Resort features an on-site rafting company that offers full-day guided trips. As one camper reported, "We took a full-day rafting trip that launched right from the campground & we had a great time."
Historic site exploration: The cabin accommodations sit near significant Gold Rush landmarks. "It's walking distance from the historic town of Coloma and the Argonaut for breakfast and lunch (and Gelato!)" writes a recent visitor to Coloma Resort. The area around these cabins contains preserved mining structures and interpretive displays.
What campers like
Riverside locations: Most cabins offer direct water access for swimming and cooling off. A guest at American River Resort mentioned, "Campground was clean and well taken care of. 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."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts various wildlife. "RV site close to the river and some deers also crossing our ways on the campground," reports a visitor who stayed at American River Resort in September.
Recreation facilities: Many properties maintain additional amenities beyond basic cabin features. According to a camper at Thousand Trails Ponderosa: "The best thing about this campground is its location on the river. But the sites are packed in and many have little or no cover... It was incredibly hot when we were there so we spent most of our time lounging at the edge of the river. It really moved along and was fun to float down in a tube."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Cabin spacing differs dramatically between properties. A guest at American River Resort observed, "Nearly all of the tent sites are tiny and crowded very closely together with no privacy breaks at all between them. To make it even more claustrophobic, many of the near-river sites are terraced into the hillside."
Facility maintenance issues: Some properties struggle with upkeep of amenities. "The facilities have a lot of maintenance issues that just aren't being taken care of. For example: there are two bathroom buildings... Both bathrooms have multiple sinks and toilets that are out of order," noted one visitor.
Reservation timing matters: Summer bookings require significant advance planning. As one reviewer at Camp Lotus shared, "Had a wonderful time at Camp Lotus! Staff is very nice. Appreciate the grassy camping spots, showers, and restrooms! For your convenience, there is an on-site deli that serves breakfast, lunch, and pastries."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Most cabin properties offer structured recreation for children. "Pools, kids rooms and hot showers with laundry. For people looking for an rv facility, this would be a great option," reports a visitor to Ghost Mountain RV Campground.
Noise consideration: Weekends tend to be significantly louder than weekdays. A Coloma Resort camper mentioned, "It's highly stimulating environment but everyone was very friendly. Definitely recommend visiting if you are able to make a reservation!"
Safety measures: River access requires supervision. "In the warmer season stage a tent in the available campground then check out the local lakes, trails, and waterfalls," advises a visitor to Uncle Tom's Cabin Campground, highlighting the need for caution around water features.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Cabin and RV locations vary in size and features. At Placerville RV Resort, "Read the fine print! If you are expecting a full-hookup site, make sure it has septic at your site! Many of the sites are water and electric only, and you have to use the one dump station at the camp entrance for dumping."
Temperature management: Summer heat impacts cabin comfort significantly. "It was incredibly hot when we were there so we spent most of our time lounging at the edge of the river," notes a camper who stayed at Thousand Trails Ponderosa.
Service availability: Mobile reception varies across properties. At American River Resort, one visitor mentioned "there's decent AT&T service," though coverage may change in more remote cabin locations around Georgetown.
