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Camping near Cedar Grove, CA

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Cedar Grove, California provides access to several well-maintained campgrounds in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Sly Park Recreation Area offers tent, RV, and glamping opportunities with multiple campground clusters along Lake Jenkinson. The area includes established sites at Ghost Mountain RV Campground with cabin options and the Ice House Campground, which accommodates both tent and RV camping. Campgrounds in this region typically feature fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, with some offering water hookups and electric sites for recreational vehicles.

    Campers planning trips to this area should note that many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer months when sites fill quickly. A camper noted, "We came to Sly Park for my sister's birthday in mid-July and had a fantastic time. The water level in Jenkinson Lake is low, as to be expected, but there's still enough for swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing." Most campgrounds in the area are accessible via paved roads, though some sites may require navigating unpaved forest routes. The camping season generally runs from May through October, with some facilities like Thousand Trails Ponderosa remaining open year-round. Winter camping is available at select locations, though water spigots are typically turned off during colder months.

    The natural setting represents a primary draw for visitors to Cedar Grove area campgrounds. Sites around Lake Jenkinson provide water recreation opportunities including fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Several visitors mentioned the exceptional stargazing conditions at Sly Park Recreation Area, with one review stating, "The stars are breathtaking at night. Gotta be my favorite part." For those seeking more privacy, campgrounds like Hilltop offer secluded sites tucked into forested areas away from the lake but within walking distance to water. Hiking trails circumnavigate Lake Jenkinson, providing scenic views and access to a small waterfall. Elevation in this region creates comfortable summer temperatures compared to lower-elevation areas, making it a popular destination for Sacramento residents seeking weekend getaways.

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    Best Campgrounds near Cedar Grove (381)

    Filters    Tent onlyRVDispersedCabinGlampingPetsEquestrian

      1. Sly Park Recreation Area

      4.8(13)5mi from Cedar GroveRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "They are set into the mountains with trees behind you. The park rangers are very present to keep people in check and the camp host drives by multiple times to keep the bathrooms clean."

      "The lake is GORGEOUS and amazingly cool during the summer, and we also love winter camping in the snow as well."

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      2. Ghost Mountain RV Campground

      3.8(12)3mi from Cedar GroveRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "It reminded me of Lake Pillsbury north of Clear Lake Ca where we as a family had been camping since 1981. But with just over 2hr drive not 6hr with trailer. There is a pool, and kids pool."

      "About 1.5hr from Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe. Built thick forest of the Sierra mountains. Nice size campsites. Water and Electricity only."

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      3. Coloma Resort

      4.7(15)13mi from Cedar GroveRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Beautiful fall surroundings right adjacent to the South Fork of the American River. Easy walk or car ride to numerous hiking trails."

      "If you ever want to experience the thrill of gold panning, and California history go here!"

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      4. Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area

      4.2(5)6mi from Cedar GroveTents, Glamping

      "We brought our paddle board and we’re walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly. Will definitely stay here again."

      "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation."

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      5. Ice House Campground

      4.2(16)17mi from Cedar Grove90 sitesRVs, Tents

      "It was disappointing to learn this by getting a visit by the black bear who comes down from behind our campsite (which is why I do not recommend campsite 3)."

      "Neighbors were close, though not so close to be crowded. Spot was very close to the restroom, advantage and disadvantage when a strong ordor would breeze on through."

      from $36 - $108 / night

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      6. American River Resort

      3.8(10)13mi from Cedar GroveRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Nice campground - close to river. .5 mile walk to town for shopping/eating. All sites have fire pit and picnic table. Bathrooms clean and private showers."

      "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."

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      7. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

      4.7(3)7mi from Cedar GroveRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "The lake was warm and it can get a little breezy in the afternoon. Make sure to bring a kayak or SUP board to enjoy the lake."

      "Very nice area beautiful lake definitely reccomend bringing ear plugs as the nature in the morning is a very early alarm clock over all a great site that we will come back to"

      from $30 / night

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      8. Camp Nauvoo

      4.7(3)7mi from Cedar Grove7 sitesTents, Glamping

      from $65 - $300 / night

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      9. Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest

      4.5(8)15mi from Cedar Grove48 sitesRVs, Tents

      "You’re also about 3 or 4 miles away from the Georgetown OHV which made it an easy ride to get to the dirt."

      "A lovely quiet spot midweek, quiet drive to Georgetown for some great breakfasts if you want some classic American diner fare."

      from $3 - $8 / night

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      10. Union Valley Reservoir

      4.3(9)16mi from Cedar Grove178 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Clean campground, friendly hosts, all the amenities you could need while enjoying time spent not too far away from the greater Sacramento area."

      "We arrived after dark and had no idea what was around us. We were so pleasantly surprised when the sun came up to find ourselves surrounded by trees and so close to the lake."

      from $36 - $145 / night

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    Recent Camping Photos near Cedar Grove, CA

    522 Photos of 381 Cedar Grove Campgrounds

    Recent Reviews near Cedar Grove, CA

    1336 Reviews of 381 Cedar Grove Campgrounds

    • DThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 31, 2026

      Pipi Campground

      Wooded, set along a small river with a boardwalk along the entire length

      The campsite is set along one side of the middle fork of the Cosumnes River and is quite lovely. It is a popular campground on weekends so reservations are recommended. There are outhouses and fresh water available. Cell service is very spotty (we have Verizon) but drive up the road a half mile and you'll get a signal. There are places to fish and swim in the river, with several day use areas in the campground.

    • V L.
      Jul. 30, 2026

      El Dorado National Forest, off Cal Hwy 88

      Decent site for first timers but better for dirt motor bike enthusiasts

      We did two nights and left in the morning on the third day. The ranger drove by briefly both days but didn't stop to give us any feedback. We followed the coordinates using GPS out to this site just fine without losing signal. But once there, definitely no cell signal. We didn't see any posts labeled"8N54" or"8N55". We did see posts for Motorized Trailhead 13E33.

      Overall this was a good little spot for first time dispersed campers like us. We did some light hiking and there was plenty opportunity for star gazing. Oddly enough there was rave music playing all night into the early morning hours. Unexpected, but distant enough that one of us was able to sleep through it ok, but not the best or most peaceful sleep. We're not really sure if it was coming from a nearby campsite or private property but, oh well. At times throughout the day time the rave music would come on briefly.

      Also, this site is really well suited for folks who love dirt motor biking, driving ATVs and that sort of thing. We don't have anything like that but we chose this site because it was easy to get to and not too far from home and civilization. There were several folks riding around both days from about 9 am to 4 pm. We recommend using a copy of the MVUM Map for El Dorado NF Placerville area to see all of the trails and road types. During the peaceful quiet moments, we heard several woodpeckers, crickets, loud deer mooing. And there was even a small heard of cows that came into the campsite a little bit. For about 45 minutes we heard them clinking around with their cowbells on. But it was at night so it was pitch black and the bells were a bit distracting along with the music. One of them even decided to smudge our truck(see photo).

      Also, be prepared to shake out your shoes and clothes often as this site featured dirt floor that was particularly dusty. Any time the riders would go by, a big cloud of dust would flow our way. Plenty of tree cover for shade. We didn't use the fire pit because of fire restrictions right now, but we got a fire permit anyway before heading out there. Instead we used a mini stove with butane canister. Definitely plan to pack everything out and clean up your trash. There were a few straggler pieces of debris clearly left behind by less mindful folks, but overall the site was clean in that sense. We were here in late July and it wasn't too hot or cold. We got a mix of warm and cool breezes that were really nice!

    • Alivia M.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 30, 2026

      Lower Blue Lake Campground

      Hidden gem

      This campground is a true hidden gem. It’s a small Primitive campground with vault toilets and dumpsters. Most of the sites sit of multiple Levels as the grounds are sloped along the lake’s edge.
      The lake front sites have direct beach access.
      We were blown away when we arrived. A truly amazing destination. We stayed at site 10 which has a sloped driveway with a level platform at the lowest point. Our 25ft RV sat perfectly on the flat area. This site is on the waters edge and has a tiered area with table, bear locker and fire pit.
      The water is clear and the crowds are minimal.

    • Adam M.
      Jul. 28, 2026

      Silver Creek Campground

      The campground is excellent. I had a great time there and it is nostalgic.

      Sheila Edelen is an excellent camp host! She taught me the campers rule and that the campers rule is to always leave a place better than when you got there. I honestly believe if that was a law for every person and thing in existence, every person and thing in existence would have a better existence and life. Truly potent wisdom from a fun and cool artistic person! Remember how simple philanthropy is to continue to teach that important teaching, and that those excellent nostalgic Forest of wisdom philanthropy could be grown from one teaching idea in the form of the thought of a pine cone that had pinecones, and that was one seed from a pine cone teaching that life needs to learn and teach more.

    • B
      Jul. 28, 2026

      Silver Creek Campground

      Truckee River Nirvana! The ultimate hidden gem.

      An absolute hidden gem! The camp hosts greet you like family, and the bathrooms are spotless. Our site was huge with plenty of breathing room. The best part? You can hear the Truckee River roaring just a short walk away and you're in pure paradise!

    • G
      Jul. 28, 2026

      Silver Creek Campground

      The standard

      Good, functional layout. Campsites offer excellent spacing and privacy. Facilities are exceptionally clean, and the hosts are highly efficient. Safe, direct foot path leads to the Truckee River in under two minutes. Optimal choice for a quick escape under an hour from Reno.

    • R
      Jul. 28, 2026

      Silver Creek Campground

      Family friendly camping by the Truckee

      Host was attentive and helpful! Sites were clean and pristine. The river was an awesome way to cool down in this heat! We will be back next year!

    • S
      Jul. 28, 2026

      Silver Creek Campground

      Scenic and Peaceful

      We can’t wait to go back! We absolutely loved this camping spot, from the hiking trails, to the Truckee River, from the amenities, to the clean bathrooms and easily accessible facilities.

      The hosts were great, they answered a few of our questions and gave great pointers to beautiful scenery in the area! 

      This experience has placed a new standard on what to expect for a 10/10 camping spot, thank you!

    • Karah D.
      Jul. 28, 2026

      Silver Creek Campground

      Wonderful Experience

      This is a Beautiful camp ground. Right on the truckee river. Close to Tahoe! Lots of shopping near by as well. Cleanest bathrooms I’ve ever encountered in a campground. The camp host Shelia and Marty were so pleasant. Great hospitality. We will definitely be coming back!! 😊

    Guide to Cedar Grove

    Cedar Grove camping areas sit between 5,000-7,000 feet elevation in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, creating moderate summer temperatures compared to lower valleys. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from May through October, with water access varying seasonally. Winter camping options exist but require preparation for colder conditions.

    What to Do

    Paddling and water activities: At Sly Park Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy fishing and leisurely water activities. "Kayak and paddle board rentals make exploring the lake relaxing and fun! And the hike to the waterfall is fun and easy for all ages," notes a visitor at Sly Park Recreation Area.

    Fishing spots: Ice House Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities throughout the season. A camper reported, "We had a nice family campsite (53) very large, flat campsite. Across our site was the reservoir. Fishing was excellent! Overall a great campground in the El Dorado National Forest."

    Historic exploration: The Cedar Grove area sits near California's gold country history. At American River Resort, "It is right on the American River and next to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker. It was awesome watching rafters and kayakers go through it," according to a recent camper.

    What Campers Like

    Waterfall hikes: Several campgrounds offer access to waterfalls within walking distance. "There is also a lovely, short hike to a waterfall! It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area," reports a camp host at Sly Park Recreation Area.

    Privacy options: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. At Pine Cone in Sly Park, "Lot 38 on Pinecone Strip, really private. No other campsite really visible. Close to bathrooms and water. Awesome hiking around the Lake Jenkinson," shares one camper.

    Winter camping: For those seeking off-season experiences, Ice House Campground remains accessible with certain limitations. A visitor noted, "We stayed the weekend at a great site. It was cold with a little rain but was very fun. I really enjoy this campground. Water level was low and this time of year the water spigots are off."

    What You Should Know

    Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in this area require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Jenkinson Campground, "We camped out at Jenkinson at Sly Park Recreation area... The campsites were shallow (relatively close to the road) and pretty close together."

    Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire regulations affect camping plans throughout the area. "They follow fire season safety and you should plan for that," advises a camper who visited Sly Park.

    Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves navigating narrow mountain roads. At Ghost Mountain RV Campground, roads can be challenging with one visitor noting, "Poor hookups, no sewer, roads not paved, dusty."

    Campsite variations: Terrain at many Cedar Grove area campgrounds slopes, affecting tent placement. A visitor at Jenkinson explained, "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation."

    Tips for Camping with Families

    Best family locations: Look for campgrounds with dedicated facilities for children. Camp Nauvoo gets praise as a "Hidden gem! It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there."

    Bike-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer good biking terrain for children. At Sly Park, "Unsupervised children on bicycles, hikers, and other campers walking dogs on the roads is very common," notes a camp host - suggesting supervision is needed.

    Swimming safety: Water temperature varies significantly at different reservoirs. A camper at Ice House Campground reports, "The water is freezing cold all year long but everyone still gets in it to either ski or fish."

    Tips from RVers

    Size limitations: Many Cedar Grove area campgrounds have tight turns and space constraints. At Ghost Mountain RV Campground, "We're in an okay spot, small and angled funky but still it's a wonderful place," reports an RVer.

    Dump station access: Plan for limited sewer hookups at many sites. A Thousand Trails Ponderosa camper explains, "They don't have sewer so you can dump it yourself at a dump area on the campground or have a service come to you and do it for $25."

    Elevation considerations: Higher elevation affects temperature fluctuations. "Hilltop sites are better for smaller campers. I have an 18' trailer and sites 126-128 are really nice. They are set into the mountains with trees behind you," notes a visitor at Sly Park.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What camping is available near Cedar Grove, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Cedar Grove, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 381 campgrounds and RV parks near Cedar Grove, CA and 29 free dispersed camping spots.

    Which is the most popular campground near Cedar Grove, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cedar Grove, CA is Sly Park Recreation Area with a 4.8-star rating from 13 reviews.

    Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cedar Grove, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Cedar Grove, CA.

    What parks are near Cedar Grove, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Cedar Grove, CA that allow camping, notably Eldorado National Forest and Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.

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