Best Campgrounds near Placerville, CA

Placerville camping areas connect to South Lake Tahoe, where you'll find many spots with good views of the water and places for different activities. Many of the Lake Tahoe sites work well if you're bringing kids, with things to keep them busy throughout your stay. You can drive from Placerville to Bighorn Campground on a pretty route, and once there, you'll be close to several hiking trails in quiet surroundings. The roads to campgrounds can get tricky in winter when snow falls, so check conditions before heading out. The campgrounds around Placerville and South Lake Tahoe generally have good facilities, but you should pack your own water and supplies just in case. Bears and other wildlife live throughout the area, so store your food properly to avoid problems. Some campsites sit tucked among trees for more privacy, while others are in open areas with better views. The lakes and rivers near Placerville give campers good chances to catch trout and bass if you like fishing. Trails for both beginning and experienced hikers run through the region, with great views along the way. The best camping weather typically runs from late spring through early fall, though summer days can get quite hot, so bring sun protection. While camping, you can also visit historic sites and small towns around Placerville for something different. The area has camping options that work for people wanting either active or quiet trips. Planning ahead helps make camping around Placerville much better overall.

Best Camping Sites Near Placerville, California (315)

    1. Coloma Resort

    15 Reviews
    Coloma, CA
    7 miles
    Website

    "Beautiful fall surroundings right adjacent to the South Fork of the American River. Easy walk or car ride to numerous hiking trails."

    "If you ever want to experience the thrill of gold panning, and California history go here!"

    2. American River Resort

    10 Reviews
    Coloma, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 622-6700

    "Nice campground - close to river. .5 mile walk to town for shopping/eating. All sites have fire pit and picnic table. Bathrooms clean and private showers."

    "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."

    3. Sly Park Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Pollock Pines, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 295-6810

    "They are set into the mountains with trees behind you. The park rangers are very present to keep people in check and the camp host drives by multiple times to keep the bathrooms clean."

    "The lake is GORGEOUS and amazingly cool during the summer, and we also love winter camping in the snow as well."

    4. Ghost Mountain RV Campground

    12 Reviews
    Pollock Pines, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-5476

    "On my mtb I followed Badger Hill Rd which is a gravel road that gradually descends 500 ft over 2.5 miles through the forest then turned right onto a trail just prior to a bridge crossing a creek. "

    "It reminded me of Lake Pillsbury north of Clear Lake Ca where we as a family had been camping since 1981. But with just over 2hr drive not 6hr with trailer. There is a pool, and kids pool."

    5. Beals Point Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    32 Reviews
    Granite Bay, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 791-1531

    $48 / night

    "As with most of California everything is dry. The lake is very low and a half mile walk from park to get to. The sites are surrounded by dry tall grass and spaced out nicely."

    "As full timers- we thought we hit the jackpot for the area in order to be near the towns we wanted to explore and also have service for good wifi."

    6. Thousand Trails Ponderosa

    8 Reviews
    Coloma, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "It’s great for kids that want to ride bikes around the sites- but be careful of the river, it’s swift."

    "Great spot if you can get in half of the camp got washed away from the rain this year though ."

    7. Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Granite Bay, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 988-0215

    $28 / night

    "Very quite camping spot very clean.coin operated showers😭 lake is very close by."

    "Folsom lake is a great place to take the boat, beals point has a snack bar, life guards and equipment rentals, there are plenty of places you can drive or boat to get away from the crowds if you prefer"

    8. Placerville RV Resort & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Rescue, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 676-2267

    $75 - $107 / night

    "We had a great experience at the Placerville KOA."

    "I like the place pros would be doing just water and electric hook up so your away from the croud,clean and quiet, great wifi, cons next to freeway, expensive,no firepit but have a communal fire pit,but"

    9. Camp Nauvoo

    3 Reviews
    Diamond Springs, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 207-9441

    $65 - $300 / night

    10. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

    3 Reviews
    Placerville, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 409-5515

    $30 / night

    "The lake was warm and it can get a little breezy in the afternoon. Make sure to bring a kayak or SUP board to enjoy the lake."

    "Very nice area beautiful lake definitely reccomend bringing ear plugs as the nature in the morning is a very early alarm clock over all a great site that we will come back to"

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Showing results 1-10 of 315 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Placerville, CA

1094 Reviews of 315 Placerville Campgrounds



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 315 campgrounds and RV parks near Placerville, CA and 20 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 Coloma Resort with a 4.7-star rating from 15 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.