R
Ryan J.
Traveler
TravelerCapps Crossing
Campground closed
Fire swept through. It’s no more :( but it’s still a great spot to stop and fish!
5/26
Best Campgrounds near Cedar Grove, CA
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.
Best Camping Sites Near Cedar Grove, California (379)
1. Sly Park Recreation Area
13 ReviewsPollock Pines, CA5 milesWebsite+1 (530) 295-6810"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."
2. Ghost Mountain RV Campground
11 ReviewsPollock Pines, CA3 milesWebsite+1 (530) 644-5476"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."
3. Coloma Resort
15 ReviewsColoma, CA13 milesWebsite"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!"
4. Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area
5 ReviewsPollock Pines, CA6 milesWebsite+1 (530) 644-2545"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."
5. Ice House Campground
16 ReviewsKyburz, CA17 milesWebsite+1 (831) 245-6891$36 - $108 / night
"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."
6. American River Resort
10 ReviewsColoma, CA13 milesWebsite+1 (530) 622-6700"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."
7. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
3 ReviewsPlacerville, CA7 milesWebsite+1 (530) 409-5515$30 / night
"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"
9. Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest
8 ReviewsGeorgetown, CA15 milesWebsite+1 (530) 333-4312$3 - $8 / night
"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."
10. Union Valley Reservoir
9 ReviewsKyburz, CA16 milesWebsite+1 (831) 245-6891$36 - $145 / night
"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."
Recent Camping Photos near Cedar Grove, CA
515 Photos of 379 Cedar Grove Campgrounds
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Sly Park Recreation Area- Sierra Point
Carly D.
Sly Park Recreation Area
Adventure M.
Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area
Lloyd C.
Hilltop - Sly Park Recreation Area
Jeannie .
Camp Nauvoo
Amy K.
Camp & Glamp 🏕️Gold Dust Vineyard
Ashley F.
Reverie Retreat
Heather W.
Stumpy Meadows
April N.
American River Resort
Rosina A.
Coloma Resort
Troy S.
Fox Sparrow RV Resort and Campground
Kate A.
Thousand Trails Ponderosa
Recent Reviews near Cedar Grove, CA
1284 Reviews of 379 Cedar Grove Campgrounds
- VVictoria M.
ScoutPeninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Peninsula Campground
I wanted to find a spot somewhat close by and came across this one. I think it was because I went on a weekday but upon entering there’s no one at the front so there is no check in so you just go straight to your camp site. I wasn’t expecting there to be a distance from the campsite to your parking space but if you’re looking for a spot for van/SUV camping it’s a little difficult to find a spot. Some spots are better than others of course! Camp host was really friendly as well! Spotted some turkey, deer, and quail!
- MMatt W.Scout
Lake Forest Campground
Great location good price
I stayed one night in my 19 foot travel trailer. The spots aren’t big enough for much larger rigs. Lots of tint campers as well. Nice location. You can walk down to the lake Forest boat ramp and there’s a beach where you can go swimming it’s only 2 miles from Tahoe city $30 a night no hook up and porta potties but a great location.
Vidalia S.
LegendBeals Point Campground Glamping — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area Glamping
Convenient
5 minutes to stores and restaurants, with swimming, fishing, boating, biking trails, ADA sites available. Large well separated campsites among scattered pines and oaks providing nice shade. Showers water and flush toilets. Several sites with electric hookup. I did not see a pump out station. The only problem is the reservation site through the state of California. $28 for a site without a hookup. The "glamping" refers to a canvas tent (yurt) with 2 full bed frames and foam mattresses in it. The "glamping' sites also have a fabric shelter over the picnic table, and a raised grill as well as a campfire ring, all for the affordable price of $279 a night, and you still have to walk to the bathroom. Use a communal shower and carry your own water. There seem to always be sites available, and I think they added the glamping to attract more people, but what they really need to do is fix the website where you make reservations. The glamping also seems to be run by a separate vendor, although you still reserve through the state of California. The reservation site said there was one site available but when we got here there were many many sites.
- NNorman J.Traveler
El Dorado National Forest, off Cal Hwy 88
Dispersed in mature pine and fir forest
This is a fairly easy to reach dispersed site in the El Dorado NF, north of HWY 88 and about 1-2 miles from a developed NF campground called PiPi (pr PiePie). Its off of Forest Service road 8N55 (although the map on the Dyrt site has it mislabelded as 8N54 as of 05/26). Reach it from 88 to Omo Ranch Road, then about 4 miles out on North-South Road [aka 10N83] to 8N55. Only a 1/2 mile on 8N55 although the ranger said there were other sites further out. You'll need to bring everything (and pack it out too). Camp site is a big flat spot on a hill crest under mature pine and fir trees. I was able to easily maneuver my SUV and teardrop within the trees and I think even a modest sized RV could do so.
John L.
GuideAscension Ranch
Eagles Nest 🦅
We booked the Eagles Nest campsite, and the views were awesome! We stayed two nights and had a good time. There are two spots down below the main road that are accessible but recommend at minimum AWD, especially if visiting during the rainy season. The host was very helpful got us a case of water and even had fresh eggs that we bought. 👍🏼
- HHope H.Guide
Skillman Horse Camp
Tall, Tall Trees
This is quintessential California no frills forest camping under trees that are so tall they muffle all sound, where the dirt is so infused with pine needles that it smells like incense. Although this is a horse camp, anyone can camp here. It is primitive, but if you have your own toilet you'll be ok. Otherwise, you can use the old pit toilets provided. Because this is a horse camp, the sites are spacious. Kick back and enjoy.
- DDawn C.Guide
Pardee Reservoir Recreation Area
Beautiful in Spring
Beautiful. Not crowded. All the RVs are on one shaded hillside. Nice to park in the trees. Electric, water, sewage hook up all easy access. Each site comes with fire ring and picnic table, all also in the shade.
Lauren M.GuideScotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
Closed
Drove here to camp but a gate blocked the entrance. Looks like a stunning place- must just be closed for the season.
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?
What camping is available near Cedar Grove, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Cedar Grove, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 379 campgrounds and RV parks near Cedar Grove, CA and 28 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Cedar Grove, CA?
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?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cedar Grove, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 free dispersed camping spots near Cedar Grove, CA.
What parks are 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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