Best Camping near Placerville, CA

Are you in need of a campground near Placerville, CA? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Placerville campgrounds just for you. Discover great camping spots near Placerville, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Placerville, CA (317)

    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    1. Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    140 Photos
    328 Saves
    Granite Bay, California

    Beal's Point Campground is one of two locations on the lake that allows overnight camping in the campground. Barbecue pits, shade areas and large grassy areas can accommodate many family picnics and other activities. The Beal's Point Snack Bar also rents beach equipment. The beach equipment includes kayaks, standup paddleboards, shade canopies, and rafts of all sizes. Additionally, catering for family and company picnics, as well as group discount rental rates, are available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 - $48 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Coloma Resort

    2. Coloma Resort

    15 Reviews
    47 Photos
    227 Saves
    Coloma, California

    Coloma Resort takes pride in connecting guests with nature, adventure and history! Located on the South Fork of the American River, surrounded by the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, Coloma Resort is a destination vacation experience for everyone!

    Coloma Resort will accommodate your needs and exceed your expectations, whether you are looking for a family camping experience, educational facility, river-front wedding location or a place to host your next conference or group retreat. Our facilities include campsites, cabin rentals, swimming pool, event sites and more...

    Your adventure awaits in Coloma! Coloma Resort connects you with the activities that will make your stay one to remember. Experience Coloma through adventure based river trips, historic gold rush programs or on the climbing wall and zip line of our exciting ropes course!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sly Park Recreation Area

    3. Sly Park Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    53 Photos
    236 Saves
    Pollock Pines, California

    Sly Park Recreation Area is a wonderful place to bring the whole family for an unforgettable camping experience. Sly Park camping features 10 campgrounds that contain a total of 191 individual sites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and barbecue. Vault toilets and water faucets are conveniently located throughout the campgrounds.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    4. Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    14 Reviews
    80 Photos
    150 Saves
    Granite Bay, California

    Campsite reservations are made only during the on-season. In the off-season campsite availability is first-come, first-served.

    This secluded campground is located near the end of the peninsula between the north and south forks of the American River. You can reach the area by boat or you can drive in ten miles from the little town of Pilot Hill on Highway 49. The campground has 85 family campsites that will accommodate trailers up to 18 feet in length and motor homes up to 24 feet. Hookups are not provided at the individual campsites, but there is a sanitation dump station. Flush toilets and piped drinking water are available. There are two launch ramps and a day-use area near the park. Please be aware that both the boat launch ramps become unusable when the lake drops below 431 feet in elevation. This typically happens in late June to early July, but can vary annually. To check the current lake elevation you may visit the Department of Water Resources website. You can also camp ashore with your boat at Peninsula campground in a designated campsite. A secure tie-up is essential as the wind often rises during the night.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from American River Resort

    5. American River Resort

    9 Reviews
    9 Photos
    89 Saves
    Coloma, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice House Campground

    6. Ice House Campground

    16 Reviews
    25 Photos
    245 Saves
    Kyburz, California

    Overview

    Ice House Campground is surrounded by a mixed conifer forest on the shores of Ice House Reservoir. Just 12 miles from Riverton, CA, the campground offers hiking, biking, jet skiing and fishing. Ponderosa pine is a pleasing part of the surrounding region. The trees fill the air with a vanilla aroma and it's the tallest known pine tree in the country. To date, the tallest Ponderosa measured was an impressive 268.35 feet tall.

    Recreation

    Enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on Ice House Reservoir. Rainbow, brown, and trout swim in these waters. A boat ramp is located on-site. Hike or bike on the Ice House Mountain Bike Trail, which stretches for 3.1 miles along ridge tops and shaded northern slopes. The trail boasts views of the reservoir and the Crystal Range.

    Natural Features

    Some campsites at Ice House are right on the shoreline while others are set back just enough for plenty of shade from towering ponderosa pines, cedars and Manzanita bushes. The reservoir spans 700 acres at 5,500 feet elevation. The area is part of the Eldorado National Forest, which stretches across the famed gold mining territory of the 1800s. Its climate is similar to that of the Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters.

    Nearby Attractions

    Head to Bassi Falls, which can be reached via a 1.2-mile hiking trail. The glorious waterfall cascades over a 109-foot granite cliff.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Change Fee: A service fee may be charged at the time a modification is made depending on the changes. Cancellation Fee: A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refunds for a cancelled reservation. Cut-Off Window: The latest date and/or time that you can make an advanced reservation or a change to an existing reservation. Cut-off windows can vary by location, but are typically 4 days before your arrival date. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (see Late Cancellation below). Late Cancellation: If you cancel your reservation too close to the start date, additional service fees may be withheld. Refunds: Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee. All requests for the return of the non-refundable reservation fee and the cancellation fee will be declined by the campground concessionaire as they did not receive these fees (these are the fees retained by the reservation contractor, a different entity).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $28 - $56 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground

    7. Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    48 Photos
    3 Saves
    Volcano, California

    Indian Grinding Rock Campground

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Ponderosa

    8. Thousand Trails Ponderosa

    8 Reviews
    45 Photos
    71 Saves
    Coloma, California

    Located in the beautiful foothills of the Sierras, Ponderosa RV Camping is ideally situated on the South Fork of the American River, the most popular whitewater river in the western United States. Rafting, kayaking, fishing, swimming, gold panning and sunbathing are favorite pastimes for customers of our RV camp in California. Boasting more than 2,000 feet of river frontage, the sites at Ponderosa offer excellent RV camping with 30-amp, 50-amp, sewer, pull-thru, and tent spots. Come hook up with us at this popular RV camp in the California mountains. At Ponderosa RV Camping , our local attractions include award-winning wineries and vineyards, Red Hawk casino gaming, world-class skiing, Folsom Lake, and numerous golf courses, just to name a few. Whether this is your first experience at our RV camp in California , or another of many, we suggest venturing out into our local and surrounding areas to get a taste of the wonderful flavors and cultures that are so abundant in the Sierra foothills. We are proud to offer three wireless internet connection hot spots for your convenience, and a comprehensive recreation schedule during peak season. Mountain RV Camp in California Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Ponderosa RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest

    9. Dru Barner Campground — Eldorado National Forest

    7 Reviews
    32 Photos
    80 Saves
    Georgetown, California

    Overview

    Dru Barner Campground offers 48 campsites that are nestled in the forest just 6 miles from Georgetown, CA. The campground offers access to trails, creeks and is a short drive from some nearby reservoirs. This campground was designed for equestrians, but it can also be used by tent, camper, trailer and recreational vehicles. Common wildlife to the area includes turkeys, deer, bears, coyote and racoons. Portions of the campground have a canopy of trees, but many of the camp units have very little shade.

    Recreation

    Dru Barner Campground provides some good camping opportunities without having to drive long distances into the forest. Dru Barner Campground provides access to many non-motorized trails. It also is close to the Rock Creek Trail System that has both non-motorized, motorized, and multiple use trails. Several horse clubs have used Dru Barner Campground as the staging area for equestrian recreation events under special use permits. Several horse clubs have hosted barbecues and taco bars at the group kitchen area after their trail rides. Some couples have used the group kitchen area for weddings. Stumpy Meadows Reservoir is located only about 15 miles to the east for those seeking water-based recreation. There is a campground concessionaire that operates the Stumpy Meadows Boat Ramp and Picnic Area. A day use fee is charged for those facilities. Stumpy Meadows Reservoir has a 5-mile speed limit for motor boats. Rafts, canoes and kayakers frequently travel on the reservoir. There are some shorelines that provide access for swimming and wading.

    Natural Features

    Dru Barner Campground sits on a ridgeline of the Hornblende Mountains. To the north, Otter Creek has cut a forested canyon. To the south, there are the rolling ridges that surround Rock Creek. There are forests of Ponderosa pine, sugar pine, Douglas-fir, white fir and incense cedar with groups of black oak and madrone. This campground is about 15 miles west of Stumpy Meadows Reservoir.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (530) 334-6477.

    Nearby Attractions

    A nearby attraction is the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma, CA. This attraction is located about 16 miles southeast of Dru Barner Campground. It is where James W. Marshall discovered gold in 1848. This started the California Gold Rush. Historic building such as the blacksmith shop, mill workers cabin and the Coloma schoolhouse are available to see. There are gold panning demonstrations. There is a Gold Discovery Trail to learn the history and see the sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $4 - $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Loon Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Loon Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Loon Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Loon Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Loon Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Loon Lake

    10. Loon Lake

    16 Reviews
    42 Photos
    273 Saves
    Tahoma, California

    Overview

    Loon Lake Campground is situated on the south shores of Loon Lake, and attracts many visitors with its variety of campsites and beautiful waterfront setting. Popular activities include boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and exploring off-road vehicle trails.

    Recreation

    Anglers delight in fishing for rainbow and brown trout, while boaters head out for water skiing. Five picnic areas in the campground and a day-use area provide visitors with nice lake views.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits just west of Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains at an elevation of 6,500 feet. The climate is similar to that of the Mediterranean with warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (831) 245-6891.

    Nearby Attractions

    The 18-mile Rubicon Jeep Trail begins nearby. An exciting stretch of scenic, un-maintained, rocky road awaits off-road thrill seekers.

    Charges & Cancellations

    .Change Fee: A service fee may be charged at the time a modification is made depending on the changes. Cancellation Fee: A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refunds for a cancelled reservation. Customers who cancel a GROUP overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.. Cut-Off Window: The latest date and/or time that you can make an advanced reservation or a change to an existing reservation. Cut-off windows can vary by location, but are typically 4 days before your arrival date. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (see Late Cancellation below). Late Cancellation: If you cancel your reservation too close to the start date, additional service fees may be withheld. Refunds: Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee. All requests for the return of the non-refundable reservation fee and the cancellation fee will be declined by the campground concessionaire as they did not receive these fees (these are the fees retained by the reservation contractor, a different entity).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $28 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 317 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Placerville

Recent Reviews in Placerville

1098 Reviews of 317 Placerville Campgrounds


  • joe & Isabel M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Lake Minden
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Thousand Trails Lake Minden

    Nice camp ground

    This is a nice place to camp. It has a big pond you can go fishing in and it’s quiet. The only thing that I could say needed to be updated is keeping the trees groomed unfortunately we scratched our motorhome coming into the park.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
    Nov. 5, 2024

    Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    Had to kick me out

    This place and his staff were absolutely amazing. I had a couple of different times where I needed to change the spot and without fail they were there to help. Quite CLEAN everything! I wanted to stop awhile 30 days later I was told goodbye👋 cause I know the rules at a State Park!🤦😔😔💩

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cal Expo RV Park
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Cal Expo RV Park

    No Skoolies

    Disappointed to be told they don't allow any buses unless they have the RVCIA (sp?) sticker. There were some really old and knackered looking caravans and daggy RV's in the park, but the place was pretty much deserted as it's November. All in all it was frustrating. ggggrrrrrrr

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great 1 night stay

    Came on a Saturday around 4pm, there were 2 other campers other than me so it wasn’t busy at all. No service for at&t. Overall had a good stay here with my 2 dogs

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Summit Dispersed
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Echo Summit Dispersed

    Not dispersed camping

    This spot is national forest, and overnight camping is not allowed. We had a knock from someone with the forest service the next morning who was very kind and let us know that overnight is not allowed.

    Look up lakes and forest in this area on google — not many places allow dispersed camping

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from El Dorado
    Oct. 17, 2024

    El Dorado

    Dyrts description sucked

    We could not find this place. Needs better description. Afterwards in another rv park I worked it out. Need to go to their website first better directions than just el dorado. Dyrt dropped the ball on this one.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Campground by the Lake
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Campground by the Lake

    Great option if available for Lake Tahoe

    Camped here for what we thought would be a couple of nights for an event. However, event was canceled due to massive wild fire (air quality index was horrible, so stayed 1 night and left ASAP next morning). Campground is right on the main drag through town and just across the street and a short walk to the lake, although the lake does not permit dogs in this area. Nice walking/biking paths, but heavily commercial district means lots of traffic going by. Site (#E06) is huge with enough space for several RVs, but we parked sideways adjacent to the picnic table and had spot near to bathrooms/showers which are clean but a bit ragged around the edges. 

    Food aside: Dinner of Curly's pork with cheese and Hatch green chile tortillas. Good to come back here at some point when not high season and can stay more in camping zone, this is a pretty commercial district.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tahoe Valley Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Tahoe Valley Campground

    A little pricey

    We were only after a night, so didn’t need much. Travelling this time of year when campgrounds are closed makes for desperate last minute decisions. BUT if you’re staying here, go across the road to Lake Tahoe Pizza Co. the best pizza!

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Campground
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Acorn Campground

    Great Stop in the Sierras

    We’ve stayed at this campground a couple of times on our way to/from Yosemite National Park, and it is a nice place to spend a couple of nights.  Many campers come here to get on the lake in their powerboats, or fish from the shore, and there will be no shortage of anglers most weekends; but, during the week in the shoulder season, we  pretty much had the place to ourselves. 

    The campground offers a range of pull-through and back-in campsites along the slopes of the rolling hills, but most of the individual sites were flat and could accommodate a wide variety of rig sizes.  Some are close enough together to make a great group camping set-up, while others were off  on their own with a view of the reservoir. While there were many trees around for shade, we still had enough open sky for good solar gain and Starlink. 

    The main bathroom building had clean flush toilets and showers, but there were a few extra vault toilets scattered around.  Fresh water taps and recycling/ trash bins were plentiful. 

    Hiking, cycling, paddling and fishing are the name of the game here, and we got in our kayaks for an awesome day paddle around the many coves of this reservoir.  Since the lake level fluctuates there aren’t many good beaches, but you can pull off to have a picnic lunch. 

    There is a nearby gas station with a few supplies, ice, and firewood. Sonora is the closest town with larger grocery stores and restaurants.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Indian Grinding Rock State Historical Park Campground

    A Surprise in the Sierras!

    We ended up at this small campground because our potential boondocking spots were completely snowed in up top.  So glad we did as it is tucked away on the grounds of an amazing state park!

    Most of the sites are small with a lot of tree coverage. It was quiet, quaint, and clean. We found a good site that provided just enough sky for both our 400W portable solar panel and Starlink to work pretty well. The bathroom building has flush toilets, was kept clean, and warm showers. 

    But the campground isn’t the reason to come here...it’s the history! This little park tucked into the Western Sierras will blow your mind. It is a significant Miwok Native American historical site, with home sites, ancient Oak trees, and literally thousands of grain, and acorn grinding stones located in the central part of the park. 

    The visitor’s center is a must-see and brings the location to life. In cooperation with the local tribes, the state manages the site and visitor’s center for the public. Take a walk on the interpretive trail, hike the adventure trails, fish in the creek, or attend a special program. It is a beautiful place to spend a few days. 

    The nearby town of Pine Grove has a few restaurants and grocery stores to get what you might need.

  • Mason W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Zephyr Cove Resort
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Zephyr Cove Resort

    Simple, clean, but loud

    Very simple and clean park but it is right next to the highway with very limited amenities. Their “amenities” they list online are not accurate but again it’s nice and clean. Also make sure you have a secondary form of transportation since this place is secluded due to private neighborhoods so there is no access to town via bike or on foot.

  • h
    Camper-submitted photo from North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park

    Beautiful park

    Very nice park, great walking trails, beautiful trees. Many of the buildings are older, but well kept. Showers are coin operated and nice. No trailer hookups, but very site has a water but can’t connect it with the trailer. Park does have a dump station and is included in the space rent. Only issue is being by the road and having road noise. Plenty of restrooms and showers (coin operated). The only Wi-Fi is at the visitor center and VERY limited cell service, no great loss.

  • Sebastian M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Auburn Gold Country RV Park
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Auburn Gold Country RV Park

    Okay

    Had a standard Hookup-RV-Spot. Was very uneven, couldn't get the RV level. If you don't have the premium hookup spots, you got to pay 20$ "Service Fee" for dumping. Idk why because you end up doing it all by yourself as usual anyway. Feels like a bit of a rip off to be honest. The rest is nice, quiet (except for the geese) and clean.

  • Raymond V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Zephyr Cove Resort
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Zephyr Cove Resort

    Tight spaces but close to lake

    Tight spaces but close to the lake if you want to enjoy the water and beach. Toilets and showers where filty but okay. Lots of chipmunks to enjoy..

  • k
    Camper-submitted photo from Nevada Beach Campground and Day Use Pavilion
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Nevada Beach Campground and Day Use Pavilion

    Peaceful lake

    Large sites very peaceful. Most sites close to the lake. We visited the last week of August. Expect to see bears. Hosts were clear about the need to keep campsites clear of food. Since you could not dump dish water on ground because of the bears it was more effort to wash up after meals. It would be nice if there was a dish washing station . We have seen this at other campsites we have been to. The have AT&A cell service had good service

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Lodgepole Campground
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Lodgepole Campground

    Perfectly Situated in the Sequoias

    I thought this campground was pretty decent for being NPS run and due to its large size. The campsite was close to other campers, but not right on top of them. The location is ideal. Bathrooms were the least favorite part, only one bathroom (with 4 stalls?) for one large loop of campsites. Check-in was a breeze. Nearby visitor center and camp store was convenient. There were hiking trails nearby. Be bear aware!

  • OThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    Large dirt pull off

    Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time but even if the main spot is occupied there’s a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp. A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around. Completely free and peaceful but 0 amenities so come prepared. Currently there is an abandoned red semi truck cab so it’s easy to find not sure if that will ever be moved in the future though!

  • OThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Fork Campground
    Sep. 4, 2024

    Silver Fork Campground

    Peaceful getaway

    Beautiful river area, friendly people, hills to hike around! There’s a fire pit and bbq set up at each site and bathrooms and drinking water around the campgrounds. Seems like an amazing spot for a family camping trip! I believe it was $28 a night for a single spot or $14 with a discount. Cons for a nomad is there’s 0 service out there even hiking to the top of the mountain. It’s also about an hour of winding roads from the nearest town to get there. IMO not worth it when there’s plentyyyy of free camping pull offs you pass on the way there.

  • Stephen B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful, popular, treacherous

    I’m motorcycle camping and the ground level was about half full, mostly RVs, so I attempted to head up Scott Lake Road.

    The dirt was manageable but there are sections of large rocks difficult to pass on two wheels. I crossed several but I dropped my bike before the second circle. Defeated and exhausted from a long day’s ride, I headed back down to set up my camp among the RV set.

    No shade to the lifestyle but this is an awfully long drive to watch TV at top volume.



Guide to Placerville

Camping near Placerville, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the proximity to hiking trails, with one reviewer noting, "The lake is a 5 min walk away not to mention near the start of many hiking trails in desolation wilderness" at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming. A camper at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park mentioned, "We took down our inflatable kayaks and paddled to the Island," highlighting the fun water access.
  • Fishing: Many lakes in the area are stocked with fish. One visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area shared, "The lake is stocked with fish," making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like

What you should know

  • Bear Activity: Be aware of wildlife, especially bears. A camper at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park warned, "We had a bear visit our campsite, so it’s crucial to store your food in the provided bear boxes."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "The building closest to us had three toilet/sink combos... No soap, paper towels, or air dryers in any of the toilet rooms."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy campgrounds during holidays. A camper at Zephyr Cove Resort expressed frustration, saying, "The campground was completely full."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with activities for kids. One reviewer at Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "Staff was very friendly and helpful," which can make a family trip smoother.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or water toys. A camper at Collins Lake Recreation Area suggested, "Bring your bikes if you have them because the ride to the dam is nice."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with easy snacks. A visitor at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe noted, "The stars are my favorite to watch," so having treats on hand can enhance the experience.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "Site 36 was in a small spur with just four sites and direct access to the American River Bikeway."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A camper at Acorn Campground said, "They do accept golden age passes which reduces your nightly expense."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where to dump your tanks. A visitor at Collins Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "Dump station is available for RVs," which is crucial for longer stays.

Camping near Placerville, California, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to bustling campgrounds. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Placerville, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Placerville, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 317 campgrounds and RV parks near Placerville, CA and 21 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Placerville, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Placerville, CA is Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.2-star rating from 30 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Placerville, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near Placerville, CA.

  • What parks are near Placerville, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 parks near Placerville, CA that allow camping, notably Eldorado National Forest and New Hogan Lake.