Dru Barner Campground offers 48 sites for tent and RV camping in a secluded forest setting six miles from Georgetown. The campground remains open year-round with direct access to Eldorado National Forest trails. Campsites include picnic tables and fire rings, with vault toilets available throughout the grounds. Campers should bring their own water supply as the water at the campground can be unreliable. The equestrian facilities feature well-maintained corrals with trail access, making it popular with horse owners exploring the surrounding woodland terrain.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: The equestrian facilities at Dru Barner Campground provide an excellent base for exploring. "You get the feeling you are in the middle of nowhere, but yet, still only 15 minute drive to Georgetown," notes reviewer Digs R. The campground has corrals for horses and access to forest riding paths.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: At Loon Lake, visitors can enjoy water activities in a mountain setting. "Warm, clear water with sandy/grassy beaches all around," reports Jordyn A. The lake prohibits motorized craft, creating a peaceful environment for paddlers exploring the lake's features, including "a nice section of river channels at the back of the lake toward the Twin Lakes Trailhead."
Day hiking: Trails near Wrights Lake connect to Desolation Wilderness with alpine lakes as destinations. "Twin Lakes Trailhead takes you to desolation wilderness and some great day hikes. If you're in decent shape you can easily do the Twin Lakes/Boomerang/Island Lake trail," advises Colleen F., who recommends packing "a rain jacket for surprise alpine thunderstorms."
What campers like
Secluded forest sites: The wooded settings at Ghost Mountain RV Campground offer privacy among tall pines. "Built thick forest of the Sierra mountains. Nice size campsites," reports Craig & Linda L. While primarily an RV park, the campground maintains a natural setting with "nothing but trees and the wind blowing through them."
Swimming opportunities: Folsom Lake provides accessible beach areas for summer recreation. "The lake itself is beautiful! If not camping overnight i love to get a day pass and just hang out on the beach!" writes Abigail S. The recreation area includes designated swimming zones with "provided lifejacket area" for families with children.
Winter camping options: For off-season adventure, Fallen Leaf Campground remains accessible in colder months. "Even in the summer it can snow...BE WEATHER AWARE," cautions Ryan W. The location offers "nice bear boxes, are very well maintained by the hosts (multiple hosts per loop), newer firepits that aren't too tall, and picnic tables."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: During fire season, regulations may limit campfires. "They also follow fire season safety and you should plan for that," notes Carly D. at Sly Park. Campers should check current fire restrictions before arrival and obtain necessary permits when required.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely across campgrounds in the region. "Cell service is unlikely," reports Ryan W. at Fallen Leaf, while at Pine Cone - Sly Park Recreation Area, Jordie G. notes "No cell service, but close to a main road where service can be found."
Bear safety: Throughout the area, proper food storage is essential. "You really need to pay attention to your food. Bears are not just possible here, they are likely," warns Ryan W. Most established campgrounds provide bear boxes at each site for secure storage.
Water availability: Some campgrounds have unreliable water systems. "Bring water as there is none available due to poor quality," advises Cheri S. about Dru Barner. Campers should research current water conditions before arrival and bring supplies if needed.
Tips for camping with families
Quiet weekday options: For a more peaceful experience with children, consider midweek reservations. "It does get very busy on weekends, so if you would rather not deal with the 'Weekend Warrior' type of campers, book your stay for mid-week (Mon-Thurs)," suggests Michell C. at Sly Park Recreation Area.
Swimming safety: Lake water temperatures and conditions vary seasonally. "The surrounding lakes are cold as an icicle–colder. Cold as a frozen heifers nose," warns Ryan W. about Fallen Leaf Lake, while at Sly Park, Alyssa S. mentions "nice beaches to hang out at" with "kayak and paddle board rentals make exploring the lake relaxing and fun."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local wildlife in many campgrounds. "Lots of wild turkeys, deer, and birds," reports Lily S. about the area around Dru Barner, while Abigail S. notes "the big sinks outside the showers usually have little frogs in them" at Folsom Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Navigation can be challenging for big rigs in some areas. "Rainbow, Kam Loop, Dogwood and Hazel Creek camping loops are nicely shaded and stay much cooler than the camping loops toward the front of the park but it can be tough to get a larger motorhome or travel trailer into the back of the park," advises Michell C. about Sly Park. "The roads are very narrow with plenty of blind corners."
Hookup limitations: Most forest service campgrounds offer minimal facilities. At Beals Point Campground, Brian A. reports "Dry camping spot 28.00/per night" with "clean bathrooms and coin op showers." While at Ghost Mountain RV Campground, Linda L. notes "Water and Electricity only. There is Honeybucket truck that comes around Monday Wednesday and Friday. A dump station on site."
Shower facilities: When available, showers typically require payment. "The showers take quarters and have hot water most of the time," reports Abigail S., who describes Beals Point shower rooms as having "very high ceilings with thicker glass windows way up high as well. Almost like a spa experience."
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