Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area sits on rolling hills with oak trees 11 miles from the town of Cool. This seasonal camping destination offers water access for kayaking and swimming when lake levels are high, typically in spring months. The surrounding foothills turn from green to golden brown as summer progresses, changing the landscape character throughout camping season.
What to do
Spring wildflower viewing: At Peninsula Campground, the bloom season creates distinctive landscapes for hikers and photographers. "Beautiful secluded peninsula. Some of my favorite campsites. Awesome in spring where the flowers and grass are POPPING. A lot of awesome trails and little environmental signs to walk around and learn about the area," notes Christian N.
River rafting: The nearby American River provides excellent whitewater experiences from April through September. Campgrounds like American River Resort offer direct river access. "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," reports Chris U.
Gold Rush history exploration: Historic sites within short drives showcase California's mining heritage. "You can pan for gold, relax, or bike, hike along the river. You can also learn some history about the discovery of gold and check out Sutter Mill," explains a visitor to the area.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Many camping areas feature resident and migratory birds along with other wildlife. "In the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys. With only us and two other folks in the entire campground we enjoyed privacy and seclusion," shares Ray B. about Peninsula Campground.
Shade and water access: SacWest RV Park & Campground offers sites with natural tree cover and river access. "We parked in the back along the river which was ideal with grassy spots along the river and campfire spots to use," describes Yvonne T.
Privacy options: Many glamping close to Loomis, California includes private sites with good spacing. At Coloma Resort, "The sun shade provided in the tent sites came in handy when we had a short moment of rain. It was also much appreciated during the sunny weather," according to Karen T.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels at Peninsula Campground vary dramatically throughout the year. "Resevoir is beautiful when full. Relaxing, good facilities," notes Rebecca E.
Site selection tips: At American River Resort, campsite location matters significantly. "Nearly all of the tent sites are tiny and crowded very closely together with no privacy breaks at all between them. To make it even more claustrophobic, many of the near-river sites are terraced into the hillside."
Fire restrictions: During dry months, fire bans may be implemented at most campgrounds in the region. Always check current regulations before arrival, especially during summer and fall months.
Shower facilities: Auburn Gold Country RV Park maintains heated shower facilities that campers appreciate. "Clean, very well maintained but significant road noise," reports Bradley O.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Resorts with multiple play areas offer better options for families with different aged children. "Great family park," notes a reviewer about SacWest, which features "Pool, game room, wifi, SHOWERS!"
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas for safer water play. "The water was beautiful & perfect for swimming," shares one camper about lake access.
Educational opportunities: Placerville RV Resort offers activities beyond standard camping. "Mini train ride around park, great playground, mini golf, showed movie and a lot more awesomeness. Was not cheap but kept the kids entertained," shares Dan.
Tips from RVers
Utility considerations: Some campgrounds advertise hookups but have limitations. "Make sure it has septic at your site! Many of the sites are water and electric only, and you have to use the one dump station at the camp entrance for dumping. Kinda inconvenient and not what I would expect for $106 a night!" advises a camper at Placerville RV Resort.
Site leveling: Auburn Gold Country RV Park has some uneven sites. "Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level," notes Sebastian M.
Site spacing: When glamping near Loomis, California in RVs, space between sites varies widely. At Sacramento Shade RV Park, "The sites are a little tight but not bad at all and each one has a privacy fence and small concrete pad," according to Shelby F.
