Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area sits at approximately 466 feet elevation in the Sierra foothills, creating a distinctive transition zone between Sacramento Valley and the higher mountains. The surrounding oak savanna ecosystem features blue oak and interior live oak woodlands interspersed with grasslands. During early spring, the campground transforms with green grass carpeting the typically brown summer landscape, while seasonal water levels in Folsom Lake fluctuate significantly throughout the year.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: The diverse riparian ecosystem around Peninsula Campground supports exceptional wildlife viewing. According to one visitor, "Wildlife is off the chain here... bears have been seen on occasion, cougars, bobcats, and coyotes all stop by from time to time, and there are so many skunks it can get annoying." The campground also hosts vibrant lizard populations: "I've seen some of the most beautiful emerald and sapphire colored lizards. They breed here in late spring. It's kind of hilarious to watch the males do push-ups then chase the females."
River exploration: The American River offers extensive kayaking and paddling routes from American River Resort. The campground sits adjacent to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker, providing entertainment even for non-paddlers. One camper noted, "It was awesome watching rafters and kayakers go through it." The resort also features an on-site rafting company for guided experiences.
Educational trails: Several nature paths offer learning opportunities about local ecosystems. At Peninsula Campground, "A shorter accessible trail (Oaks Nature Trail) is entirely contained within the campground and takes you through some great examples and educational signs regarding the riparian ecosystem." The 8-mile Darrington Trail terminates at the campground and accommodates mountain bikes but not road bikes.
What campers like
Seasonal advantages: Spring visits provide unique experiences at Peninsula Campground with fewer crowds and greener surroundings. One reviewer shared, "We visited this camp ground last year for a pre-spring getaway and really liked it. Tried it again this week, and it was great again. About 3 weeks later in March than last year so there were a few more people. The grass is green, and the leaves are out on all the oak trees which makes it more beautiful."
Farm animal interactions: Unique among glamping options close to Orangevale, California, Ascension Ranch provides direct contact with various farm animals. A first-time visitor commented, "It was cool to experience the animals that were in the pastures as well," while another detailed the range: "Some of things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, more horses, ranch dogs, puppies, chickens."
Luxury camping amenities: Coloma Resort combines outdoor experiences with comfort-focused facilities, including a swimming pool and spotless facilities. One camper noted, "Super clean restroom facilities, access to the river, a nice store, and friendly customer service." Another reviewer appreciated "the pool, playground, basketball and soccer" facilities that enhanced their family stay.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds in the area feature uneven terrain. At Peninsula Campground, sites "aren't very flat. I got around the latter problem by folding a sleeping bag under one side of my sleeping pad to keep that side elevated." The campground's layout also creates a terraced effect with sites stacked on hillsides.
Seasonal changes in water levels: Water access varies dramatically throughout the year. During summer months, water levels at Folsom Lake typically drop, potentially limiting shoreline access. By contrast, spring visitors often enjoy higher water levels but cooler temperatures for water activities.
Access considerations: Some glamping locations near Orangevale require navigating challenging roads. For Peninsula Campground, "You have to drive down a long windy narrow road to get here, which is the worst part, so it's best to come prepared to stay put for as long as possible once you're here." Similarly, at American River Resort, "Garmin nav might take you the wrong way. Apple Maps had it correct though."
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak visits: For families seeking quieter glamping close to Orangevale, consider mid-week or shoulder season stays. A reviewer at SacWest RV Park & Campground advised, "The weekends get crowded during peak season but if you visit mid-week you will have the place almost to yourself." This allows families to enjoy amenities with less competition.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific facilities for children. Coloma Resort features "the pool, playground, basketball and soccer," while SacWest provides "great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!" These activities help keep children engaged during camping stays.
Space selection strategy: When reserving sites, review the online maps but consider asking for alternatives upon arrival. As one camper at SacWest suggested, "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, and with almost 100 sites, you will find the perfect site that will suit your specifics."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for noise management: Highway proximity affects some RV parks in the region. At Auburn Gold Country RV Park, visitors note "significant road noise" despite the otherwise "clean, very well maintained" facilities. RVers should request sites furthest from highways when making reservations.
Utility considerations: RV hookups vary significantly between parks. American River Resort provides limited electrical options: "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." RVers with larger rigs should verify both amperage and demonstrated voltage stability.
Size limitations: Several glamping areas near Orangevale have restrictions for larger RVs. American River Resort advises 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." The terrain's steepness further complicates navigation for longer rigs.
