Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers scenic lake views within 11 miles of the nearest town. The campground features nearly 100 sites situated in the rolling Sierra foothills, where spring brings green grass and wildflowers while summer months see dried brown hillsides. Tent and RV campers can choose from waterfront sites or secluded spots away from crowds, with coin-operated shower facilities available. Many visitors appreciate the quieter experience at this less-crowded side of the lake compared to the more popular recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing at Collins Lake: This lake north of Lincoln provides excellent fishing opportunities year-round. "We bring our kayaks and paddle all day there are plenty of miles of lakeside to explore," notes Francisco N. about Peninsula Campground.
Gold panning in Coloma: Experience California's gold rush history with hands-on activities. "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," recommends Jill F. about Coloma Resort.
Hiking and environmental education: Peninsula Campground offers educational nature trails with interpretive signs. "A lot of awesome trails and little environmental signs to walk around and learn about the area. Highly recommend!" shares Christian N.
Wildlife watching at Sycamore Ranch: The creek and riverside areas attract diverse wildlife. "My favorite thing about this campground is the birds! I use the Merlin app to identify the birds here and so far this place holds my record of around 18 birds not including the more silent ones we saw. There are turtles and otters in the creek to check out as well," explains B. Douglas J. about Sycamore Ranch RV Park.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Many sites at American River Resort provide direct river access. "Campground was 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," writes Chris U. about American River Resort.
Proximity to historic sites: Coloma offers camping near significant Gold Rush landmarks. "Campground 'resort' caters to the cabin and RV crowd. Very pleasant, with a cool old bridge to cross the river. If it's hot outside, you need to be in the river!" explains Jill F.
Green spring landscapes: The best visual experience comes during spring when the hills are lush. "Another mid-week quick adventure two weeks before spring. 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. In the summer months the lake is very busy and the hills are brown with dried grass. But in the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys," shares Ray B.
Farm animal interactions: Ascension Ranch offers unique camping with livestock access. "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," says Ashlynn L. about Ascension Ranch.
What you should know
Seasonal variations affect experience: Water levels at Collins Lake change dramatically through seasons. "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 Ed E. about Collins Lake Recreation Area.
Crowding differs by location and timing: Some campgrounds become quite busy during peak season. "The grounds are very well kept and the staff is available but keep their distance. The weekends get crowded during peak season but if you visit mid-week you will have the place almost to yourself," notes T L.
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds offer diverse sites with varying levels of privacy. "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 T L.
Distance from services: Peninsula Campground is remote. "Try not to forget anything because it is eleven twisty, narrow, miles back to the city of Cool, where you can buy the essentials," warns T L.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt camping in Lincoln, California area: For families seeking comfort without tent setup, yurts provide an excellent option. "This place was amazing. It was our first trip in our new RV and it couldn't of been more beautiful. There were super cute cabins available as well as tent sites," shares Whiffaroni M.
Swimming areas for kids: Look for designated swimming spots with amenities. "The site gets a lot of sun in the morning and afternoon, so bring a popup canopy for shade—it made a big difference for us! Overall, the campground is clean, peaceful, and perfect for a relaxing getaway," advises John L.
Playgrounds and recreational facilities: Some campgrounds offer multiple play areas. "We spent the weekend for my wife's birthday. Pool, playground, basketball and soccer - will definitely be back with the kids soon," notes Dustin C.
Consider mid-week visits for quieter experience: Weekends can be crowded at popular locations. "Weekdays are the best when there are few people but on weekends it does fill up," recommends B. Douglas J. about Sycamore Ranch RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Had a standard Hookup-RV-Spot. Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level," cautions Sebastian M. about Auburn Gold Country RV Park.
Hookup availability varies: Check what connections are provided before booking. "They do have a nice dump station row just outside the camping sites, so it is not necessary to have RV sewage at your campsite, which saves you a few $," advises Ed E.
Shade considerations: Many sites lack adequate shade. "The site gets a lot of sun in the morning and afternoon, so bring a popup canopy for shade—it made a big difference for us!" recommends John L.
Size limitations: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok," warns David C. about American River Resort.
