Cabins near Newcastle, California offer accommodations across oak savannas and riverside settings in the Sierra foothills. The region's elevation ranges between 1,000-2,500 feet, creating moderate temperatures that drop significantly at night even during summer months. Most cabin areas experience 30-40 inches of annual rainfall concentrated between November and April.
What to do
Fishing access: Coloma's riverfront sites feature access to the American River, where anglers can target bass and trout. "Campground is 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," notes a visitor at American River Resort.
Gold panning: Historical activities available within walking distance of several cabin locations. "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," reports a camper who stayed at Coloma Resort.
River recreation: Multiple water entry points ideal for summer activities during hot weather. "Great sites along the river too. One negative, is you have to book way ahead of time, but it's well worth it. You can pan for gold, relax, or bike, hike along the river, and kids can play along several playgrounds for kids of different ages."
What campers like
Private showers: Individual bathroom facilities ranked highly among cabin guests. "Super clean restroom facilities, access to the river, a nice store, and friendly customer service. The spots were a little close together, the parking and restrooms a little bit far from the spot but overall it's a pretty decent spot," writes a visitor at American River Resort.
River access: Proximity to water consistently mentioned as a top feature. "Beautiful spot to camp. We stayed in spot 33 with a large group and didn't feel crowded. One concern was the road along the river view spots. It is one way and people were constantly going opposite directions."
Oak savanna setting: Natural environment provides shade and habitat. Ascension Ranch offers "a serene environment, an abundance of farm animals, and good old fashion ranch activities," according to a guest who described it as "Heaven On Earth," noting the oak savanna landscape that surrounds the property.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Some facilities close during winter months. Camp Lotus operates seasonally, typically from late spring through early fall. "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."
Reservation requirements: Advance planning needed especially for larger cabins and summer stays. "It is a nice retreat. The spaces are a bit small but clean. The bathrooms are spotless and they offer a lot of amenities for families. We are two single adults and to no fault of their own there was a lot of children running around, riding bikes and it seemed like everyone had a dog."
Site variations: Size and placement differ significantly between properties. "The terrain is steep with mostly smaller sites. Water pressure is excellent. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Multiple playgrounds available at riverside locations. "Very nice and beautiful campground but can be expensive. The sites are very close to each other but they are spacious. It's nice to to wake up to the sound of the river and birds singing. This campground is ideal for families and small kids."
Animal encounters: Farm experiences at select properties near Newcastle. "This was my first time going and I got to say, I enjoyed it! Super relaxing and has a lake that is at the end of the trail. Super convenient. It was cool to experience the animals that were in the pastures as well," explains a guest at Ascension Ranch.
Summer cooling: Water access crucial during hot months. "We spent the weekend for my wife's birthday. It rained most of Friday and into Saturday but we had a great time. Steve at check in was very helpful, the little store is cool, and the campground is walking distance from the historic town of Coloma and the Argonaut for breakfast and lunch (and Gelato!)"
Tips from RVers
Electric limitations: Power constraints at older facilities affect larger RVs. Thousand Trails Ponderosa campsites have varying power capacities. "Gravel spots & pick nick tables. Only had 30amp service & the outlet moved around a bit. Had to prop up my plug with some blocks to keep it from moving or would lose power."
Tight spacing: Site dimensions impact awning and slide use. "Not a bad campsite, but was surrounded by RVs and people walking around. Can't bring dogs onto the beach area which was a bummer, but was too crowded anyways."
Seasonal water levels: Lake access changes depending on time of year. "We camped here TWICE in 2019. First time in mid April and 2nd time on the first weekend of November. Both times were AWESOME!!! 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."
