Camping sites near Meadow Vista, California range from primitive tent areas to full-service resorts within the Sierra Nevada foothills. The area sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, serving as a transition zone between the Sacramento Valley and higher mountain terrain. Summer nighttime temperatures typically drop into the mid-50s even when daytime highs reach 90°F, making evening campfires a welcome comfort during peak season.
What to do
River activities: Coloma Resort offers direct access to the American River with opportunities for water recreation. "We came in the beginning of March and it was fairly empty so that made it really nice as well. River was stunning and it was neat to walk across the bridge and check out the old historic mining town. We are going back in august and can't wait. Looking forward to rafting in the river!" reported one camper.
Gold panning: Coloma Resort provides a unique opportunity to try your hand at gold panning where California's Gold Rush began. A visitor noted: "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."
Boating and fishing: Greenhorn Campground at Rollins Lake offers multiple water-based recreation options. According to a review, "Great boating lake. The camp ground is located in a bay off the lake. Lots of open dirt where you camp. Best camping is in the early summer when the lake is full. Activities include boating, swimming and fishing."
What campers like
Private riverfront sites: Campers appreciate sites with direct water access. At Ruck-A-Chucky Campground, one visitor shared: "Stayed one night and pitched our tent along side the American River. The spots were a little spread out, so night time was a little too quiet. Our site was next to the raft launch/pickup, so there were a couple of groups picked up during the day."
Off-season solitude: Lake Clementine Boat In offers peaceful camping during quieter months. "We camped during the off season (November) so we had our pick of the campsites, which was a great considering the spots are right next to each other. Using hand warmers and a tent warmer we did fine with the cold nights. Really nice site right by the water," wrote one camper.
Clean facilities: Inn Town Campground stands out for well-maintained amenities. A camper noted: "The campground is exceptionally clean and meticulously maintained. We even had a heated mattress pad in our glamping tent to keep warm. The owners, Dan and Erin Thiem, really have thought of everything."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many campgrounds in the area have specific fire policies. At Inn Town Campground, "They do not allow wood burning fires, but you can use a gas fire ring or rent one from the campground."
Cell service: Beals Point Campground offers excellent connectivity for remote workers. One visitor reported: "GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars. Dry camping spot 28.00/per night."
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity requires proper precautions. At American River Resort, sites include safety features: "A fire pit/grill, large concrete picnic table, and bear box complete the site."
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds charge for showers. At Beals Point, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: For families with children, look for campgrounds with safe water access. A visitor to Greenhorn Campground noted: "Nice places to swim, fish, and jump off docs."
Playground availability: Peninsula Campground and surrounding recreation areas offer family-friendly amenities. At Coloma Resort, campers find "A large grass area great for games, and if you are up for it, rafting, kayaking and fishing in the cold American river. You can also learn some history about the discovery of gold and check out Sutter Mill!"
Shade importance: During hot summer months, seek shaded sites. At Rollins Lake, one camper advised: "The reason I like this spot is because campsites C3-C10 have the most shade you can hope for! There is a little waterfall and creek running behind the campsites so you get the trickling water sound."
Quiet time enforcement: Family-friendly campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. At Greenhorn Campground: "Beautiful little camp site quiet time is at 10pm but friendly staff!"
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: RV campers should check site conditions before reserving. At Auburn Gold Country RV Park, one reviewer cautioned: "Had a standard Hookup-RV-Spot. Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level."
Size limitations: Giant Gap campground requires careful navigation for larger rigs. A camper warned: "We were surprised to get availability! We were treated to a site close to the reservoir. No hookups, but spectacular beauty. Be warned though, Google maps will suggest driving up Iowa Hill. DO NOT. Follow the directions of the campground, that road is not for the faint of heart. And NOT for RVs or trailers."
Power quality: Some campgrounds have power issues. At American River Resort, a camper reported: "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. Voltage was generally 104-105."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities. At Auburn Gold Country RV Park: "If you don't have the premium hookup spots, you got to pay 20$ 'Service Fee' for dumping. Idk why because you end up doing it all by yourself as usual anyway."
