Camping options near Orangevale, California provide access to both Folsom Lake and the American River while staying within 30 minutes of Sacramento's urban amenities. The region sits at approximately 200 feet elevation in the Sierra foothills, creating a transitional zone between valley and mountains. Many campsites offer oak tree shade which proves essential during summer months when temperatures frequently climb above 100°F from June through September.
What to do
Water activities at Folsom Lake: Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers boating, swimming and fishing opportunities with direct lake access. "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," reports Christian N.
Gold panning history: The Coloma Resort connects campers with California's gold rush heritage through panning activities. "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," shares Jill F.
Biking trails: Many campgrounds connect to extensive trail networks. "Great Bike paths adjacent along the river into Downtown or up to Folsom," notes Paul N. about Cal Expo RV Park. The American River Parkway extends over 30 miles and links multiple camping areas, providing paved paths suitable for all skill levels.
What campers like
Lakefront access: Sites at Peninsula Campground provide seasonal water proximity. "Depending on time of year camp site may be within a few yards from the water. We bring our kayaks and paddle all day there are plenty of miles of lakeside to explore," notes Francisco N.
Seasonal wildflowers: Spring camping brings colorful displays at multiple sites. "We visited this camp ground last year for a pre-spring getaway and really liked it... The grass is green, and the leaves are out on all the oak trees which makes it more beautiful," shares Ray B. about Peninsula Campground.
Animal encounters: Ascension Ranch provides unique wildlife experiences with its working farm setting. "It was cool to experience the animals that were in the pastures as well... Some of things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, more horses, ranch dogs, puppies," notes Fawad A.
What you should know
Water levels fluctuate: Folsom Lake experiences significant seasonal changes. "The lake is very low and a half mile walk from park to get to. The sites are surrounded by dry tall grass," reports Melissa S. about Beals Point Campground. Water access is best in spring after winter rains.
Shower preparations: Many campgrounds require quarters for shower operation. "The showers take quarters and have hot water most of the time. The showers are very big its actually quite peaceful and nice," shares Abigail S. about Beals Point. Bring a roll of quarters ($5-10 worth) for your stay.
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites book quickly, especially during spring and fall shoulder seasons. "Reserve a site online but when you get there tell the attendant that you would like to see what sites are available. Take a tour as the online pics do no justice," advises T L. about Peninsula Campground.
Poison oak awareness: Several areas contain this irritating plant. "I did one summer go collecting wood for a fire and not knowing that poison ivy was common in this campgrounds ended up unknowingly collecting alot of it setting it in the fire pit and the combination of the poison ivy branches and smoke covered my entire body," warns Abigail S.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: SacWest RV Park & Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond natural features. "Great family park... Pool, game room, wifi, SHOWERS!" notes Christy L. The swimming pool provides a safer alternative to river swimming for younger children.
Playground options: Multiple sites feature kid-specific facilities. "Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!" shares Tatiana I. about SacWest RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Peninsula Campground offers educational opportunities through nature observation. "We enjoyed privacy and seclusion. Good bike riding too... with green grass and wild turkeys," reports Ray B.
Noise considerations: Select sites away from main roads for quieter family experiences. "It can be a little noisy with the close proximity to the road. But park is clean with lots of trees," explains Melissa S. about Beals Point Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Loomis RV Park requires attention to leveling needs. "Our spot was not that great for our 40ft bus due to the tree limbs and the ground was very uneven, which made it difficult to level. We would stay here again, however I would make sure it's in a spot that's level," advises Tonya B.
Shade importance: Many RV sites lack natural coverage. "The Sacramento area gets very hot in the summer, and this campground provides some but not a ton of shade," notes one camper about the region. Request sites with oak tree coverage when available.
Train noise awareness: Some RV parks experience railroad disturbance. "The train is near by and can be heard in the park. It comes by about twice in a 24 hr period," mentions Gwen K. about Loomis RV Park. Bring earplugs if you're sensitive to occasional noise.
Connectivity options: Remote workers can find suitable sites with reliable signals. "GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars," reports Brian A. about Beals Point, making it viable for digital nomads needing connectivity.
