Camping opportunities around Oroville range from quiet riverfront sites to forested mountain campgrounds at elevations from 200 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F from June through September, while winter nights can drop below freezing at higher elevation campgrounds. Most Oroville area campgrounds are accessible year-round at lower elevations, though mountain sites typically operate April through October.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: South Yuba Campground provides direct access to productive fishing spots along the Yuba River. "The campground itself is pretty standard, sites are decent size, and lots of shade. There is a path down to the Yuba River, where you can get in the water or float on a tube. The best part about this campground is the river," notes reviewer Julie D.
Casino entertainment: The Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot offers camping with nearby entertainment options. "We came in too late to enjoy the comedy shows they have every first Saturday. If you happen to make it on time, 'Carlinos' or the place the host it is in the North Tower," shares Katrina C. The casino also features an arcade suitable for families.
Lake activities: Lake Francis Resort provides water recreation opportunities beyond simple swimming. "They have a large portable toilet there for use. We spent our time at the pool which is near the flushable toilets and the ice cream parlor, restaurant, and camp store. The pool goes from 3.5' ft to 5' back to 3.5' ft," explains Gina C., who rented one of their cabins.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs campers regularly spot deer throughout the property. "Each day a family of deer came thru our site and were so tame they ate fruit right out of the kids' hands. So cool!" reports Nicole G. The campground offers both lake access and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its multiple camping loops.
River views: River Reflections RV Park earns praise for its location along the Feather River. "The campsite we had was feet from the feather River. Who wouldn't be able to relax and enjoy with this as a background," writes Kathleen G. The park maintains grassy areas extending to the riverbank, creating peaceful spots to enjoy the water.
Clean facilities: Many campers note the well-maintained facilities at campgrounds throughout the region. "The bathrooms are pretty clean and you have to pay for showers (which we didn't use). Portapotties are located in the campground, not sure why, maybe the restrooms are too far away?" observes Suzanne S. at Sycamore Ranch RV Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Multiple campgrounds in the region report connectivity challenges, which may affect remote workers. "Cell service is nonexistent outside of one small area," notes Pamela H. about Lake of the Springs. At Sycamore Ranch RV Park, reviewers mention "This place is dark at night so really good for star watching," indicating minimal light pollution but potentially limited connectivity.
Traffic flow considerations: Some campgrounds have specific traffic patterns that can impact convenience. At Lake Minden, reviewers note: "The park is built around a lake, and the road looping around it is one-way, enforced with a strict 5 mph speed limit. What should've been a quick grab turned into a 10-minute drive out, a 10-minute drive back in, and then... yep, 10 minutes out again."
Seasonal amenities: During peak summer months, many facilities offer additional amenities not available year-round. "We went during COVID so the pool and some other amenities were closed," reports Nicole G. at Lake of the Springs, highlighting how seasonal availability affects experience. Always check current operating status when planning visits.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds often feature play areas. "The spaces are nice wide front porch to sit on and enjoy the view, communal tables and bbq for all the cabins," notes Gina C. about Lake Francis Resort. "There's a playground with a raised soft-chip base, multiple slides, and just the right level of challenge for a toddler."
Consider swimming options: With summer temperatures often above 90°F, water access becomes important. "It was over 100 degrees the wknd we were there so we spent practically the whole wknd in the lake. It was the perfect temperature to sit in for hours. No motorized water craft kept it quiet," shares Nicole G. about Lake of the Springs.
Check for on-site food options: Lake Minden offers regular community activities that can help entertain children. "There's an ice cream social every Saturday, and it's as delightful as it sounds. Tons of toppings, lots of conversation, and just a genuinely happy way to spend a weekend afternoon," reports a recent visitor, adding value for families seeking structured activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should carefully consider site options when reserving. "The spaces are perfect size and flat (even ground), which is imperative for the type of RV that we have." Others note issues with electric hookups: "First electric hookup was faulty, but the second was fine. Rest of the site utilities performed without issue. Easy to park and level."
Electrical service variations: Different parks offer varying electrical service capacities. "We had 4 spots and all were easy to back in," notes Eric P. about Lake of the Springs, but adds: "there wasn't a single day when some campsite didn't have electrical issues, in fact they turned a lot of their RV sites into Tent Sites because of electrical issues."
Propane availability: For RVers needing propane service, Quail Ridge RV Park offers fill stations on site, making it convenient for longer stays. The park's layout accommodates various RV sizes while maintaining reasonable site spacing, with one reviewer noting the place was "Very peaceful and quiet, however, there were many people here who are permanent residents of the park."
