Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area spans across rolling hills with oak trees at an elevation of 400 feet. Located 11 miles from the town of Cool via twisty, narrow roads, this area provides access to both lakeside recreation and Gold Rush history. Water levels fluctuate significantly between spring and fall, affecting campsite proximity to shoreline.
What to do
Explore Gold Discovery Park: Visit Marshall Gold Discovery Park and Sutter's Mill in Coloma where gold was first discovered. "It was neat to walk across the bridge and check out the old historic mining town," notes a camper at Coloma Resort. The resort sits minutes from these historic sites.
Try gold panning: Experience California's gold mining heritage firsthand. "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 a visitor to Coloma Resort.
Mountain biking: Access extensive trail networks from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. A camper reports, "Good bike riding too," while another mentions the "plenty of great hiking trails" around the lake.
What campers like
Uncrowded spring camping: Visit Peninsula Campground in early spring for a quieter experience. "Weather in the Sierra foothills in early March is perfect for a couple day getaway from the colder temperatures and snow in the higher elevations where we live. Peninsula campground on Folsom Lake is in the rolling hills and oak trees, remote from the more popular side of the lake," writes one camper.
Lakeside camping options: Select waterfront sites at American River Resort for direct water access. "We had a great time at this resort. We stayed in spot 33 with a large group and didn't feel crowded," shares a visitor who enjoyed river proximity.
Wildflower viewing: Spring transforms the landscape with vibrant colors. "Awesome in spring where the flowers and grass are POPPING. A lot of awesome trails and little environmental signs to walk around and learn about the area," describes a visitor to Peninsula Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Folsom Lake's water level varies dramatically through the year. "In the Spring, the water level is much higher so the water line is closer to the campsites. 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," explains a camper at Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Site selection matters: Peninsula Campground has nearly 100 sites with varying features. "Reserve a site online but when you get there tell the attendant that you would like to see what sites are available. Take a tour as the online pics do no justice, and with almost 100 sites, you will find the perfect site that will suit your specifics," advises a visitor.
Fire regulations: Some glamping areas near Gold Hill restrict wood fires. At American River Resort, several sites feature fire pits, but some properties have limitations. One visitor to Inn Town Campground notes, "They do not allow wood burning fires, but you can use a gas fire ring or rent one from the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Ranch experiences: Ascension Ranch offers unique glamping with farm animal interactions. "It was cool to experience the animals that were in the pastures as well. I'd definitely come back," shares a first-time visitor, providing different options from traditional glamping near Gold Hill, California.
Swimming options: Different water bodies offer various swimming experiences. At Peninsula Campground, a visitor notes, "The water was beautiful & perfect for swimming," while Collins Lake visitors mention the lake is "very nice for paddle boarding and kayaking."
Shaded sites: Summer heat makes shade crucial. "The sun shade provided in the tent sites came in handy when we had a short moment of rain. It was also much appreciated during the sunny weather," explains a camper at Coloma Resort, referring to the structures at tent sites.
Tips from RVers
Power considerations: Some RV sites have electrical limitations. At OARS American River Outpost Campground, sites are primarily for tent camping or those with minimal electrical needs, making it ideal for self-contained units or luxury glamping near Gold Hill, California.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Had a standard Hookup-RV-Spot. Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level," reports a camper at Auburn Gold Country RV Park, suggesting bringing additional leveling equipment.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds limit RV length. American River Resort warns, "The terrain is steep with mostly smaller sites. Our site had 30 amp only and I doubt any of them have 50 amp. I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok."
