Best Camping near Nicolaus, CA

Nicolaus is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Nicolaus is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Nicolaus, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Nicolaus, CA (153)

    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    1. Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    140 Photos
    328 Saves
    Granite Bay, California

    Beal's Point Campground is one of two locations on the lake that allows overnight camping in the campground. Barbecue pits, shade areas and large grassy areas can accommodate many family picnics and other activities. The Beal's Point Snack Bar also rents beach equipment. The beach equipment includes kayaks, standup paddleboards, shade canopies, and rafts of all sizes. Additionally, catering for family and company picnics, as well as group discount rental rates, are available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 - $48 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from SacWest RV Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from SacWest RV Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from SacWest RV Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from SacWest RV Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from SacWest RV Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from SacWest RV Park & Campground

    2. SacWest RV Park & Campground

    14 Reviews
    34 Photos
    78 Saves
    West Sacramento Vmf, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $52 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden

    3. Thousand Trails Lake Minden

    8 Reviews
    12 Photos
    40 Saves
    Nicolaus, California

    The beautiful Lake Minden RV Camping Resort is located in the grassy plains of the Sacramento Valley. Our private 41-acre lake is circled by eucalyptus trees and offers great fishing and boating adventures. The atmosphere of this RV campground in California is relaxing, the staff is friendly and helpful, and there is something for everyone. We are centrally located to several major cities and are a quick getaway as well as a convenient stop-over on the main North-South traveled highways 99 and 70. The area offers many local attractions and things to do. Cal Expo (State Fair), Arco Arena (home of the Kings basketball team) and Sleeptrain Amphitheatre are 20 minutes from the preserve. Old Sacramento is also close by Lake Minden RV Resort and offers the railroad museum and other nostalgic and historic sites as well as shopping and several eateries. Old Sacramento hosts an annual jazz festival, which is a huge event every year. The Yuba-Sutter area, located just outside the RV resort and in California's Central Valley, offers many festivals such as the Bok Kai, peach and prune festivals, and the Marysville Stampede Rodeo. In Lincoln, folks may tour the Feats of Clay pottery works or visit the Thunder Valley Casino. The city of Roseville offers Denio's Farmer's Market and Swap Meet as well as many shopping malls and restaurants. Guests of Lake Minden RV Resort come from all over the United States and Canada with some coming from Hawaii and even Europe and South Africa. The typical length of stay here is 2-3 weeks. Although we are open year round, our busiest time is April through October. If excitement and energy is what you crave, then you may want to visit our RV resort in California during this time. No matter what season you choose, the lake is brimming with stocked channel catfish and largemouth bass and fishing is a year-round pastime here. We offer a safe, secure and clean environment, 30 amp sites, and some full hook-up sites. Lake Minden and the RV resort also offer great hiking and abundant wildlife just steps from the RV resort in lovely California. Those who are looking for a place to have a reunion, company picnic or meeting will find facilities for all. Lake Minden RV Campground in California At Lake Minden RV Resort, we offer plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. With so much to choose from, there is bound to be a special activity for everyone. Be sure to check out the events and activities page to find out what activities are being offered during your visit.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Collins Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Collins Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Collins Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Collins Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Collins Lake Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Collins Lake Recreation Area

    4. Collins Lake Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    79 Photos
    293 Saves
    Oregon House, California

    Collins Lake is a favorite Northern California destination for families. This 1,600 acre recreation area offers LAKEFRONT RV& TENT camping with excellent fishing and wakeboarding. Collins Lake has California’s largest private trophy trout planting program of any lake north of Sacramento and equally famous for bass, crappie& catfish. Facilities include RV hookups, cabins, hot showers, laundry, marina, rental boats, sandy beach, playground, store with huge ice creams& espresso drinks. Family friendly with movies under the stars and live music every summer summer. Located only 70 miles northeast of Sacramento at 1200’ elevation. Family owned and operated since 1972.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    5. Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    14 Reviews
    80 Photos
    150 Saves
    Granite Bay, California

    Campsite reservations are made only during the on-season. In the off-season campsite availability is first-come, first-served.

    This secluded campground is located near the end of the peninsula between the north and south forks of the American River. You can reach the area by boat or you can drive in ten miles from the little town of Pilot Hill on Highway 49. The campground has 85 family campsites that will accommodate trailers up to 18 feet in length and motor homes up to 24 feet. Hookups are not provided at the individual campsites, but there is a sanitation dump station. Flush toilets and piped drinking water are available. There are two launch ramps and a day-use area near the park. Please be aware that both the boat launch ramps become unusable when the lake drops below 431 feet in elevation. This typically happens in late June to early July, but can vary annually. To check the current lake elevation you may visit the Department of Water Resources website. You can also camp ashore with your boat at Peninsula campground in a designated campsite. A secure tie-up is essential as the wind often rises during the night.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cal Expo RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cal Expo RV Park

    6. Cal Expo RV Park

    9 Reviews
    2 Photos
    22 Saves
    Sacramento, California
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort

    7. Coloma Resort

    15 Reviews
    47 Photos
    227 Saves
    Coloma, California

    Coloma Resort takes pride in connecting guests with nature, adventure and history! Located on the South Fork of the American River, surrounded by the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, Coloma Resort is a destination vacation experience for everyone!

    Coloma Resort will accommodate your needs and exceed your expectations, whether you are looking for a family camping experience, educational facility, river-front wedding location or a place to host your next conference or group retreat. Our facilities include campsites, cabin rentals, swimming pool, event sites and more...

    Your adventure awaits in Coloma! Coloma Resort connects you with the activities that will make your stay one to remember. Experience Coloma through adventure based river trips, historic gold rush programs or on the climbing wall and zip line of our exciting ropes course!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Ranch RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Ranch RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Ranch RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Ranch RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Ranch RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Ranch RV Park

    8. Sycamore Ranch RV Park

    5 Reviews
    15 Photos
    32 Saves
    Smartsville, California
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area

    10. Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    29 Photos
    16 Saves
    Cool, California

    Boat-In Sites 1-16

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    $38 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 153 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Nicolaus

Recent Reviews in Nicolaus

441 Reviews of 153 Nicolaus Campgrounds


  • Natalie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cowboy Camp
    Nov. 20, 2024

    Cowboy Camp

    Camp closed

    Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell.

  • joe & Isabel M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Thousand Trails Lake Minden

    Nice camp ground

    This is a nice place to camp. It has a big pond you can go fishing in and it’s quiet. The only thing that I could say needed to be updated is keeping the trees groomed unfortunately we scratched our motorhome coming into the park.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    Had to kick me out

    This place and his staff were absolutely amazing. I had a couple of different times where I needed to change the spot and without fail they were there to help. Quite CLEAN everything! I wanted to stop awhile 30 days later I was told goodbye👋 cause I know the rules at a State Park!🤦😔😔💩

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cal Expo RV Park
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Cal Expo RV Park

    No Skoolies

    Disappointed to be told they don't allow any buses unless they have the RVCIA (sp?) sticker. There were some really old and knackered looking caravans and daggy RV's in the park, but the place was pretty much deserted as it's November. All in all it was frustrating. ggggrrrrrrr

  • Adrian J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Solano County Park
    Oct. 24, 2024

    Lake Solano County Park

    Great County Park

    This is an excellent and straightforward country park. It feels like a state park.

    They have hookups and also dry camping. The better spots are near the water.

    Contrary to other posts, they take walkups. It is just on the website it requires 2 weeks out.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from El Dorado
    Oct. 17, 2024

    El Dorado

    Dyrts description sucked

    We could not find this place. Needs better description. Afterwards in another rv park I worked it out. Need to go to their website first better directions than just el dorado. Dyrt dropped the ball on this one.

  • Sebastian M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Auburn Gold Country RV Park
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Auburn Gold Country RV Park

    Okay

    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. Idk why because you end up doing it all by yourself as usual anyway. Feels like a bit of a rip off to be honest. The rest is nice, quiet (except for the geese) and clean.

  • Izzy H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores)
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores)

    Overnight stay

    I got there after they closed (closes at 5pm.) But there's a number to call that was posted for after hours. A camper in front of me had already called and someone arrived within minutes. They were very helpful and friendly. I got a beautiful spot secluded from everyone. I loved it! Just me and nature. I played some music dance by myself as if nobody was watching.

  • Catherine L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cowboy Camp
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Cowboy Camp

    Quiet

    Quiet stop, but I wouldn't call it the most beautiful stop I've ever stayed. Camping spots are to the left and the right I'd the day use. Pit toilets. No garbage.

  • OThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nevada County Fairgrounds
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Nevada County Fairgrounds

    Quiet camping

    It’s $30 a night for dry camping and goes up from there depending on what hookups you need. Very peaceful and the fairgrounds are open during the day to walk around.

  • Julie M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Ranch RV Park
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Sycamore Ranch RV Park

    Clean, comfortable spot

    Very clean campground with a helpful host. Bathrooms/showers for paid guest have a code to get in. The day use area has porta potties. This place is dark at night so really good for star watching.

  • Dustin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 49er Village RV Resort
    Aug. 12, 2024

    49er Village RV Resort

    Great weekend!

    49er was great! We stayed here for the last weekend of the summer before the kids went back to school. We were advised on our arrival that the site I picked was in full sun, and we were moved to“Shady Lane”, site 18. We checked out the pond, playground, volleyball and shuffleboard areas, but spent most of the time in the pool, it was a hot weekend. The flies were pretty bad, but apparently this is not normal and it was just after the county fair ended(fairgrounds is right next door). Full hookups, nice little store with ice cream and coffee, we will have to come back when the weather(and flies) is a little better. I added a handful of 360 photos to show the place off, and I’m working on a street view of the campground. Will be back!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Quail Ridge RV Park
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Quail Ridge RV Park

    Serene RV Trailer Park?

    Place wasn’t too bad. Very nice people, very peaceful, and quiet, however, there were many people here who are permanent residents of the park, some of their areas are a little trashy looking for lack of a better word. Definitely not a bad spot if you’re on the way to another campground, but there are probably better ones to head to, especially if you have children with you. We were also looking for a place to camp with two days notice and this was all we could find. Cheap too!

  • Tatiana I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from SacWest RV Park & Campground
    Jul. 27, 2024

    SacWest RV Park & Campground

    Great Rv parking

    It is the only RV parking in Sacramento that will allow you to stay for one night. Great campground! Hospitality and professionalism- that how you can describe this place! Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around! Beautiful place! Thank you!

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park

    Outstanding location, Right on the river with a swimming beach and free fishing with no license required

    Tons of beautiful, shady spots overlooking or near the Sacramento river. Very Breezy and well maintained park with good prices for electrical and water hookup and a dump station. Clean bathrooms and showers at no cost and the laundry room with free detergent . Decent prices in the store and overlooks the Marina and the river at includes free fishing and swimming and is a beautiful spot! was only going to stay one night and ended up staying two.

  • Sharon B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Collins Lake Recreation Area
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Collins Lake Recreation Area

    Lakeside

    *pros: great little market, very nice staff, clean, great views *cons: rocky watch your step, especially at the beach and a long the shore. Recommend water shoes, although this may only help a little as the rocks are quite large and when can trip over them as much as step on them. they are not round river rocks, but pointy and painful to traverse. *my stay: I was only here for two nights and on the second morning some people pulled in and pitched a tent at 4:30 in the morning. They weren’t particularly loud, but they did curse and had their flashlight bright enough that it shone into my site and RV. Overall, it was still a very pleasant stay for the two nights.

  • Sara H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Thousand Trails Lake Minden

    Pack those trailers as tight as you can!

    There was absolutely no space between the trailers, to the point I hit my head on my neighbors slide out while setting up.  There was no mention of the WIFI being out, but you got to only find that and your space number out when you got there.  70 bucks a night what a RIP!  The second star was at least they had shade, but too tight to even put out the awning.  NEVER again,

  • Jim L.
    Camper-submitted photo from The Hirst Horse Ranch
    Jun. 26, 2024

    The Hirst Horse Ranch

    Great Place for Travelling!!

    Thank you for sharing your experience at Hirst Horse Ranch! It sounds like a perfect getaway with its peaceful 10-acre property, shaded by trees and dotted with delightful horse pastures. The children’s playground, with its sandbox, treehouse, and impressive 17-foot swing, promises endless fun for the young and the young at heart. The opportunity to interact with horses and enjoy breathtaking sunsets makes it truly special. For more captivating moments and updates, make sure to follow them on Instagram. Download the Instagram app through this link and stay connected with Hirst Ranch!

  • Lori L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Snug Harbor RV Park & Marina
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Snug Harbor RV Park & Marina

    Loved it

    My husband and I stayed for two nights. It is difficult to get to when in an RV towing Two skis (still haven’t found out if the ferry can take vehicles that are towing) , but it was worth the drive. It is an older park, but the bathroom was clean (and free) , there is a fantastic beach, the managers were super friendly, and best of all….. our RV window looked out over our very own doc!

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Placerville RV Resort & Campground
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Placerville RV Resort & Campground

    Great place

    We had a great experience at the Placerville KOA. In this place, I can join many activities such as playing geometry dash lite .The staff was very welcoming and the grounds are organized and clean. The only thing I would suggest is to put in a few more bathrooms around the site. The main building are the only bathrooms. I would suggest a visit. They also have a pool area and hot tub Our friends stayed in the cabins. They were clean and comfortable

  • Rebecca W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA
    May. 29, 2024

    Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA

    GREAT Stay in Oroville

    BEST campground (resort) we’ve ever stayed!

    Even without the countless amenities, this KOA has incredible staff & service. The front desk was super welcoming. They gave us treats and toys for each of our pups. Every time we’ve been into the store the customer service was superb and security drives around at all time to check the place out. 🤩

    The amenities were great but some surprise bonus’ were the big game room, TWO doggy pens. A doggy bath and the most clean campgrounds I’ve ever seen. This place is VERY well cared for. We drove 40mins daily in & out of here to visit family and I’d absolutely stay here again.



Guide to Nicolaus

Camping near Nicolaus, California, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From serene lakes to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Water activities: Folsom Lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. One camper mentioned, “The lake was stocked with fish, and ice cream at the store is a must” at Collins Lake Recreation Area.
  • Biking and hiking: The American River Bikeway is great for biking and walking. A visitor at Beals Point Campground noted, “The paved American River Bikeway was good for walking, running, and horseback riding.”
  • Wildlife watching: Many campgrounds, like Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs, have deer roaming around. One camper shared, “Each day a family of deer came through our site and were so tame they ate fruit right out of the kids' hands.”

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Collins Lake Recreation Area stated, “The facilities are clean, and the staff is very nice.”
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at SacWest RV Park & Campground said, “Hospitality and professionalism—that’s how you can describe this place!”
  • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Peninsula Campground offer beautiful landscapes. A reviewer remarked, “Some of my favorite campsites. Awesome in spring where the flowers and grass are POPPING.”

What you should know:

  • Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Cal Expo RV Park noted, “This would be a great stop for a few days, but it is just a parking lot with no frills.”
  • Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or stores nearby. A visitor at Lake Minden RV Resort mentioned, “There was absolutely no space between the trailers, to the point I hit my head on my neighbor's slide out while setting up.”
  • Seasonal access: Some campgrounds, like Lake Clementine Boat In, are only open from May to September. A reviewer said, “The access road is about six miles of curvy, hilly, and narrow pavement.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One parent at SacWest RV Park & Campground said, “Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!”
  • Plan for meals: Some campgrounds have markets nearby, while others do not. A camper at Thousand Trails Ponderosa mentioned, “The store on the grounds was well stocked.”
  • Bring outdoor games: Having games can keep kids entertained. A visitor at Beals Point Campground suggested, “The sites are clean, and easy access to the lake beach swim area.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A reviewer at Lake Minden RV Resort warned, “There was no mention of the WIFI being out, but you got to only find that out when you got there.”
  • Look for pull-through sites: These can make parking easier. A camper at Cal Expo RV Park noted, “Easy pull-thru site. Would stay again, but for a shorter time.”
  • Bring extra supplies: Some campgrounds may not have everything you need. A visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area mentioned, “Dogs aren’t allowed on the beaches, so we didn’t go down to the lake, which would have been nice to cool off.”

Camping near Nicolaus, California, has its perks and quirks, but with a little planning, you can have a great time outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Nicolaus, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Nicolaus, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 153 campgrounds and RV parks near Nicolaus, CA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Nicolaus, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Nicolaus, CA is Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Nicolaus, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Nicolaus, CA.

  • What parks are near Nicolaus, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Nicolaus, CA that allow camping, notably Plumas National Forest and New Hogan Lake.