Cabin accommodations near Orangevale, California range from basic units with limited amenities to fully-equipped cottages with premium features. Situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills approximately 25 miles east of Sacramento, the area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making cabin camping a year-round option. Most cabins in this region require reservations at least 3-4 months in advance during peak summer season.
What to do
Gold panning activities: Visitors to Coloma Resort can try their hand at gold panning in the American River. "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," notes one visitor. The historic Sutter's Mill site is within walking distance of the cabins.
Fishing opportunities: The small lake at Rancho Seco Recreation Area provides fishing access for cabin guests. "This is a small but lovely place. I pitched a tent in site 43 right next to the lake. Excellent place," reports one camper. The lake is stocked regularly and allows for canoe and kayak use. Another visitor mentions, "Nice quiet campground good fishing lake to fish just make sure you put your food away at night raccoons will get your food and snacks."
Water recreation: Multiple cabin properties offer river access for swimming, tubing, and water play during summer months. One visitor to American River Resort states, "Campground was clean and well taken care of. 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."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cabin guests consistently praise the bathroom and shower facilities at American River Resort. "I stayed here for a spontaneous mid-week campout and was impressed. Super clean restroom facilities, access to the river, a nice store, and friendly customer service," reports one camper. Bathroom cleanliness is particularly important for cabin guests who often share communal facilities.
Riverside locations: Many cabin guests appreciate properties with direct river access. "Beautiful spot to camp. Nice sites along the river," notes a visitor to Coloma Resort. Another camper at Thousand Trails Ponderosa shares, "The best thing about this campground is its location on the river. We spent most of our time lounging at the edge of the river. It really moved along and was fun to float down in a tube."
On-site activities: Beyond natural features, cabin properties with additional recreational amenities receive positive feedback. A camper at Placerville RV Resort & Campground reports, "Mini train ride around park, great playground, mini golf, showed movie and a lot more awesomeness. Was not cheap but kept the kids entertained. Will be going back."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many cabin properties pack units closely together. A visitor to SacWest RV Park & Campground notes, "There was absolutely no space between the trailers, to the point I hit my head on my neighbors slide out while setting up." Alternatively, Ascension Ranch offers more spacious cabin arrangements with only 8 total sites on the property.
Seasonal considerations: Summer cabin rentals frequently book 3-6 months in advance and command premium pricing. Some properties enforce fire restrictions during dry summer months, limiting the use of campfires near cabins. Water levels in the American River fluctuate seasonally, affecting swimming and rafting opportunities for cabin guests.
Noise factors: Multiple cabin properties are situated near highways or busy roads. A visitor to Placerville RV Resort mentions, "Is very noisy near the 50 freeway, not much you can do about that." Additionally, weekend crowds can create noise issues at popular properties during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin properties feature playground equipment for younger visitors. A camper at Ascension Ranch comments, "Super relaxing and has a lake that is at the end of the trail. Super convenient. It was cool to experience the animals that were in the pastures as well." The property offers unique family experiences with farm animals and equestrian activities.
Swimming safety: American River currents can be swift and dangerous, especially during spring runoff. Life jackets are essential for children in or near water. Most properties do not provide river supervision or lifeguards.
Meal planning: Most cabin properties require guests to bring their own cookware and utensils. Some units include small refrigerators, while others provide only basic sleeping accommodations. Ice is available for purchase at most on-site camp stores, though prices typically exceed nearby grocery options.
Tips from RVers
Limited space for large rigs: Many cabin properties also accommodate RVs but have size restrictions. American River Resort visitors caution, "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok." Navigation through cabin areas can be challenging for larger vehicles.
Power considerations: Electrical service at several properties has limitations. A camper at American River Resort notes, "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."
Water and sewer hookups: Not all cabin properties offer full hookups for RVs. Thousand Trails properties in the area often have limited full-hookup sites. "There is only some sites with full hookups. There are 4 different lots around the lake, most no hookups," explains a visitor to Lake Minden.
