Cabin camping near Penryn, California offers diverse lodging options along the American River watershed. Located in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, this region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters. Water levels in the American River fluctuate seasonally, affecting both camping conditions and recreational opportunities.
What to do
Gold panning opportunities: At Coloma Resort, visitors can experience California's gold rush history firsthand. "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," reports one visitor.
Historic town exploration: Cabins at American River Resort put you within walking distance of Coloma's historic sites. "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," writes one camper. Another notes it's a ".5 mile walk to town for shopping/eating."
Whitewater rafting: Several cabin accommodations provide direct river access for water activities. "We took a full-day rafting trip that launched right from the campground & we had a great time," explains a visitor about American River Resort, which has an on-site rafting company that operates directly from the property.
What campers like
River access: Camp Lotus offers grassy tent sites and cabins along the river. "Great campground for tenting or RV camping. It's on the river. Friendly and helpful hosts," notes one camper. Another appreciates "the grassy camping spots, showers, and restrooms!"
On-site food options: Unlike some facilities that require self-catering, Camp Lotus provides convenient dining. "For your convenience, there is an on-site deli that serves breakfast, lunch, and pastries. There is also a store where they sell ice, drinks, ice cream, snacks, toiletries, and other items," one visitor reports.
Family-friendly amenities: Placerville RV Resort & Campground offers numerous activities for families staying in their cabins. "Mini train ride around park, great playground, mini golf, showed movie and a lot more awesomeness. Was not cheap but kept the kids entertained," writes one visitor. Another mentions "a pool area and hot tub."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Cabin proximity can impact privacy levels. "The spots are a little close together, but clean. The bathrooms are spotless and they offer a lot of amenities for families," notes one Coloma Resort visitor. Another cautions that at Thousand Trails Ponderosa, "the sites are packed in like sardines making privacy and personal space hard to come by."
Reservation timing matters: Popular cabin sites fill quickly, especially riverfront locations. "Thank goodness we were able to move a few sites away, and then everybody cleared out the next day. The best site is #31. If you're going on a weekend or any time during the summer, don't make any reservation at all if you can't get #31," advises one American River Resort visitor.
Facility maintenance varies: Cabins and amenities receive different levels of upkeep. "The facilities have a lot of maintenance issues that just aren't being taken care of," reports one American River Resort guest who found multiple restroom facilities needing repair. Conversely, at Coloma Resort, a visitor notes "bathrooms are a five, upkeep in park is great, one of the best parks we have stayed in."
Tips for camping with families
Seek shaded sites during summer: "It can be hot. Not a lot of tree cover for the RV sites—make sure you bring shade with you. Luckily, there's a nice cool river to swim in!" advises a visitor to Thousand Trails Ponderosa. Temperature management is crucial for family comfort in cabin accommodations.
Consider noise levels: Sound carries throughout many cabin areas. "Multiple groups were blasting music & even though that's against the rules nobody seemed to make them stop," reports one American River Resort visitor. At Coloma Resort, another camper notes, "It's highly stimulating environment but everyone was very friendly."
Check pet policies: SacWest RV Park & Campground allows pets in cabin areas, but Camp Lotus prohibits dogs completely. "Great campground for tenting or RV camping. It's on the river. Friendly and helpful hosts. No dogs are allowed though," emphasizes one visitor about Camp Lotus.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives for RVers: Many locations offering cabins also accommodate RVs with varying hookup levels. "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," cautions one American River Resort RVer.
Size restrictions apply: American River Resort has terrain limitations. "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok," advises one visitor. This applies to parking near cabins as well.
Navigation challenges: Access roads can be confusing. "Be aware that Garmin nav might take you the wrong way. Apple Maps had it correct though," warns an American River Resort visitor, highlighting the importance of checking directions specifically for cabin access points.
