Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake sits in California's Sierra foothills at approximately 450 feet elevation. The campground features sites within walking distance of the water's edge when the lake is at full capacity, though water levels fluctuate seasonally. Spring camping offers green grass and oak tree shade while summer months bring higher temperatures and increased visitor traffic.
What to do
Bike riding on local trails: Peninsula Campground provides access to miles of trails through oak-studded hills. "Another mid-week quick adventure two weeks before spring. Weather in the Sierra foothills in early March is perfect for a couple day getaway from the colder temperatures and snow in the higher elevations where we live... Good bike riding too," notes camper Ray B. from Peninsula Campground.
Kayaking on Folsom Lake: Launch directly from some campsites when water levels are high. "Excellent camping area, 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," shares Francisco N. about his experience at Peninsula Campground.
Gold panning experiences: Learn about California's mining history with hands-on 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," explains Jill F. from Coloma Resort.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Spring and fall offer quieter camping experiences. "Peninsula campground on Folsom Lake is in the rolling hills and oak trees, remote from the more popular side of the lake. In the summer months the lake is very busy and the hills are brown with dried grass. But in the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys," describes Ray B. at Peninsula Campground.
Waterfront access: Some sites provide direct lake or river proximity. "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," writes Christian N. about Peninsula Campground.
Glamping amenities near Penryn: Luxury glamping sites offer upgraded experiences. "This was my first time going and I got to say, I enjoyed it! 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," reports Ashlynn L. about her stay at Ascension Ranch.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Expect more visitors during peak times. "The weekends get crowded during peak season but if you visit mid-week you will have the place almost to yourself. Reserve a site online but when you get there tell the attendant that you would like to see what sites are available," advises T.L. from Peninsula Campground.
Weather considerations: Spring offers green landscapes while summer brings heat and dust. "We camped by the lake... there was sooo much dust & so many flies. The water was beautiful & perfect for swimming," notes Dawn C. at Peninsula Campground.
Drive times to supplies: Some locations require significant travel for groceries or supplies. "It is eleven twisty, narrow, miles back to the city of Cool, where you can buy the essentials," points out T.L. from American River Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Kids' activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "This is a nice retreat. The spaces are a bit small but clean. The bathrooms are spotless and they offer a lot of amenities for families," says Susan S. about Coloma Resort.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for animal sightings. "Lots of great things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around! Beautiful place!" explains Tatiana I. from SacWest RV Park & Campground.
Bathroom access: Consider distances between sites and facilities. "The spots were a little close together, the parking and restrooms a little bit far from the spot but overall it's a pretty decent spot," notes Rollie C. about American River Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs. "The terrain is steep with mostly smaller sites. Water pressure is excellent. Our site had 30 amp only and I doubt any of them have 50 amp. 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 David C. from American River Resort.
Power considerations: Some sites offer limited electrical options. "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," David C. also notes about American River Resort.
Pull-through availability: Some parks offer easier access options. "Lots of pull through spots. Good showers. Loved the pool. Had pizza delivered right to the spot," mentions Tanya B. about her experience at SacWest RV Park & Campground.
