Glamping options near Gold Run provide comfortable camping experiences in California's Sierra Nevada foothills at approximately 3,200 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally snowy winters. Several campgrounds offer luxury camping accommodations with varying levels of amenities and proximity to local attractions.
What to do
River recreation: 5-20 minutes from most campgrounds. At American River Resort, visitors can enjoy white water activities right on site. "We stayed in spot 33 with a large group and didn't feel crowded. One concern was the road along the river view spots," notes a camper. The campground sits next to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker, providing entertainment even for non-rafters.
Gold panning: Historical experiences year-round. Several campgrounds near Gold Run offer access to gold panning opportunities. Coloma Resort provides easy access to Sutter's Mill and historical sites. "You can pan for gold, relax, or bike, hike along the river, and kids can play along several playgrounds for kids of different ages," writes a reviewer.
Swimming lakes: Perfect for summer cooling. Multiple campgrounds feature lakes for swimming away from river currents. "We spent the days at Fuller Dam, and the Yuba River and Scotts Flat Reservoir are nearby too," mentions a visitor. Summer temperatures often reach 90-100°F, making water activities essential for comfort.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Lake of the Springs RV Resort, campers appreciate the natural separation. "Campsites on the outer rings had shrubbery for site separation and inner rings are great for groups," notes one visitor. This creates more seclusion than many other area campgrounds.
Wildlife encounters: The area offers regular wildlife viewing opportunities. "Each day a family of deer came thru our site and were so tame they ate fruit right out of the kids' hands. So cool!" writes a Lake of the Springs visitor. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing times.
Clean facilities: Lodgepole Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "There are plenty of places to fill up potable water, recycle and dump trash," comments a camper. Another adds, "Bathrooms were the least favorite part, only one bathroom (with 4 stalls?) for one large loop of campsites."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Vary by campground. Some locations prohibit wood fires entirely. At Thousand Trails Snowflower, "we found there to be a lot of rules at this campground such as no fires, however there is a community fire pit. No driving over 5 MPH, no charcoal grills or smokers, only electric and propane grills."
Bug protection: Essential in summer. Mosquitoes can be problematic at certain campgrounds. "Our group's collective joy was short lived after we were beseeched with mosquitoes. We spent the weekend trying to figure out why this camp is more bug-ridden than others and concluded that it is likely due to limited air currents through this secluded part of the forest."
Cell service: Limited at many sites. Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. "No cell service in any of the loops and WiFi isn't great," reports a Lake of the Springs visitor. Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming pools: For safer swimming alternatives to rivers. "We spent two nights doing a family and friends reunion. We loved our rv spot, the rest of the group had great tent sites and glamping tents. Facilities were super clean and nice. Pool was small but the pool area was really nice," notes a Coloma Resort guest.
Consider glamping tents for easier family camping: High Camp offers three yurts with basic amenities. "Jake here from the Dyrt! I had the opportunity to talk with Bonnie about her yurt and the great camping experience she hopes to provide for everyone who stops by," shares a reviewer about High Camp.
Seek campgrounds with playgrounds: Some locations offer recreational facilities specifically for children. A Coloma Resort visitor mentioned, "You can also learn some history about the discovery of gold and check out Sutter Mill! Pool, playground, basketball and soccer - will definitely be back with the kids soon."
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Had a standard Hookup-RV-Spot. Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level," reports a visitor to Auburn Gold Country RV Park.
Size restrictions matter: Some campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok," advises an American River Resort camper. "Be aware that Garmin nav might take you the wrong way. Apple Maps had it correct though."
Electrical reliability varies: Voltage issues occur at some campgrounds. "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," notes an American River Resort visitor.
