Camping near Lincoln, California provides access to multiple waterways and recreational lakes with year-round opportunities. The region sits at the edge of the Sierra Nevada foothills with elevations ranging from 150 to 1,200 feet. Winter camping sees temperatures averaging 35-60°F, while facilities throughout the area maintain different reservation policies depending on season and popularity.
What to do
Fishing at stocked lakes: Camp Far West North Shore offers fishing opportunities throughout the year, particularly during quieter seasons. "We did a bike ride along the lake through the undeveloped overflow area and beyond to the north east end of the property," notes one visitor to Camp Far West North Shore.
Visit historic gold rush sites: Coloma offers access to California's gold rush history within walking distance of campsites. "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 one camper who stayed at Coloma Resort.
Kayak and paddling: Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake provides direct access to paddling opportunities with multiple coves to explore. "We bring our kayaks and paddle all day there are plenty of miles of lakeside to explore. The peninsula camping site is a bit longer drive but worth it!" explains a camper from Peninsula Campground.
What campers like
Seasonal beauty: Spring visits to Peninsula Campground showcase completely different landscape than summer. "We visited this camp ground last year for a pre-spring getaway and really liked it. Tried it again this week, and it was great again. The grass is green, and the leaves are out on all the oak trees which makes it more beautiful," reports a March visitor.
Quiet off-season solitude: Many campgrounds in the Lincoln area transform during off-peak months. A winter visitor to Camp Far West North Shore noted, "We were the only people anywhere except for folks in the full hook-up area, which was far from us. We were right on the lake at the end of a peninsula. Not a sound except for the birds."
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities despite heavy usage. At American River Resort, a visitor observed, "Super clean restroom facilities, access to the river, a nice store, and friendly customer service."
What you should know
Varying water levels: Lake levels fluctuate dramatically throughout the year, particularly at Folsom Lake. "In the summer months the lake is very busy and the hills are brown with dried grass. But in the early spring it is quiet, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys," notes a visitor to Peninsula Campground.
Quarters for showers required: Multiple campgrounds operate coin-operated shower facilities, requiring campers to bring quarters. At Beals Point Campground, a visitor warns, "Dyrt says that it has wifi but couldn't find one and the showers needs QUARTERS and we were out of coins. So remember to take quarters with you if you want to shower."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: Fire regulations vary throughout the year. During summer fire seasons, restrictions may prohibit open flames. At Auburn State Recreation Area, "There is a sign prohibiting trailers; our 18-foot camper van did fine but anything much larger would definitely be challenged."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation fields: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's facilities. At Ascension Ranch, families appreciate unique features: "Some of things you'll come across include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, more horses, ranch dogs, puppies, chickens, equestrian activities, secluded campsites, amazing views, access to endless trails."
Shallow water access: Seek out campgrounds with graduated water access for safer swimming with children. American River Resort offers multiple points to access the river, though sites have varying proximity: "Nearly all of the tent sites are tiny and crowded very closely together with no privacy breaks at all between them."
Organized activities: Some resorts coordinate regular family activities. At Coloma Resort, a visitor shared, "There's a large grass area great for games, and if you are up for it, rafting, kayaking and fishing in the cold American river."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and leveling: Many established campgrounds have size limitations and leveling challenges. At Thousand Trails Lake Minden, a visitor cautioned, "The 'resort' advertises full hookups, but the reality is they have about 20 full hookup sites that can't accommodate RVs over 35 feet."
Power considerations: Electrical service can be unreliable at some locations. At American River Resort, a review notes, "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. Voltage was generally 104-105."
Cell coverage for remote work: When camping in Lincoln, CA, connectivity varies by location. One remote worker at Beals Point Campground reported, "GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars. Dry camping spot 28.00/per night."
