Located in the northern Sierra Nevada foothills at an elevation of 1,800 feet, Loma Rica offers diverse camping options with mild spring temperatures ranging from 50-75°F and hot summer days often exceeding 90°F. The area features oak woodlands transitioning to pine forests with seasonal creeks that typically run from winter through early summer. Camping opportunities include lakeside sites, secluded forest spots, and yurt accommodations throughout the region.
What to do
Fishing and water recreation: Collins Lake Recreation Area stocks rainbow trout regularly, with additional fishing for bass and catfish. A reviewer noted, "The fishing is awesome on Collins Lake! We fished from kayaks and always caught fish for dinner." Many campgrounds also rent boats for those without their own equipment.
Wildlife viewing: Sycamore Ranch RV Park offers exceptional bird watching along Dry Creek. A camper shared, "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."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds maintain walking paths ranging from easy loops to more challenging terrain. A visitor to Inn Town Campground reported, "We spent the days at Fuller Dam, and the Yuba River and Scotts Flat Reservoir are nearby too." Many hiking trails connect to swimming holes along the Yuba River, especially popular during summer months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds in the Loma Rica area maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. A camper at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs shared, "Clean and Rustic. WiFi is very very limited - drive to top of hill or lodge (very sporadic). Great Lake for swimming, fishing and small boats. Store on site. Clean swimming pool."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Loma Rica, California, several resorts offer these accommodations. One visitor to Lake Francis Resort mentioned their cabin experience: "Two bedrooms, each with twin bunk beds and a full bottom bunk and twin above. Small bathroom with shower, mini fridge, hot plates, microwave, and dishes. Dining table and futon in the living area."
Campsite privacy: Many campgrounds feature site separation with vegetation or natural spacing. At Collins Lake Recreation Area, a camper reported, "We stayed at site 60A Lake Front View, which had stunning water views and a spacious setup. 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!"
What you should know
Summer crowds: Lakeside facilities fill up quickly during peak season. A visitor to Collins Lake observed, "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."
Weather considerations: The foothills experience significant seasonal temperature variations. For yurt camping in Loma Rica California during summer, prepare for heat. A camper at Peninsula Campground noted, "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."
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have poor cell service or limited WiFi. A visitor to Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs mentioned, "No cell service in any of the loops and WiFi isn't great." Consider downloading maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be abundant near waterways. Pack repellent and screen tents, especially for evening meals. A visitor to Golden Trout Campground warned, "Beware there are TONS of mosquitoes!" noting that protection is essential for comfortable outdoor dining.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several lakes offer gradual entry points ideal for children. At Lake Francis Resort, a reviewer observed, "We spent our time at the pool which is near the flushable toilets and the ice cream parlor, restaurant, and camp store. The pool goes from 3.5' ft to 5' back to 3.5' ft."
Wildlife opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see deer, birds, and small mammals. A visitor to Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs shared, "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!"
Tips from RVers
Electrical reliability: Some RV sites experience power issues during peak season. A visitor to Auburn Gold Country RV Park mentioned, "Had a standard Hookup-RV-Spot. Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level. If you don't have the premium hookup spots, you got to pay 20$ 'Service Fee' for dumping."
Leveling challenges: Many foothill campgrounds have uneven sites requiring leveling blocks. At Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs, a camper noted, "From what I could tell when driving around the majority of the sites were level; we had 4 spots and all were easy to back in."
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend touring available sites before settling. A visitor to Peninsula Campground advised, "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."
