Jenkinson Lake in Pollock Pines offers a 9-mile trail surrounding the water, making it accessible for hikers and paddlers visiting the Placerville area. Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the camping options range from rustic tent sites to upscale glamping accommodations with elevations between 1,800 and 3,500 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer days reach the 90s.
What to do
Gold panning at Sutter's Mill: History enthusiasts can try their luck at Coloma Resort, where the California Gold Rush began. "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," notes camper Jill F.
Paddle the lake: Jenkinson Lake at Sly Park Recreation Area offers calm waters perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. "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," advises Maria O. The 9-mile trail around the lake provides hiking opportunities for all skill levels.
Watch whitewater rafting: Even if you don't go rafting yourself, American River Resort offers prime viewing of rapids action. "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," shares Chris U. The campground's position provides a natural spectator area for viewing rafting trips.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The tent camping areas at Finnon Lake Recreation Area provide more room than many other options. "Never crowded and has a great view. Small town community has occasional events going on too. Great little lake for a weekend getaway. Also there's a nice lakeside café. Did I mention the sites are huge?" explains Brandon P.
Peaceful mornings: Early risers appreciate the natural soundtrack at many Placerville-area campgrounds. "Very nice area beautiful lake definitely recommend 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," writes Jason R. about Finnon Lake.
Clean facilities: The campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and shower areas. "Very pleasant, with a cool old bridge to cross the river. If it's hot outside, you need to be in the river!" says a Coloma Resort visitor. Even more rustic campgrounds keep facilities well-maintained throughout peak season.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring transforms Peninsula Campground with vibrant colors. "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. 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," explains Ray B.
Reservation requirements: Most popular glamping sites near Placerville, California book months in advance, especially for summer weekends. "Definitely recommend visiting if you are able to make a reservation!" advises a Coloma Resort camper. Water levels at lakes can fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach areas and boat launches.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Keep in mind that the road (Mosquito) going here is narrow and too winding. The old bridge can only accommodate one vehicle at a time and RV's and trailers are advised to take the Rock Creek Road instead," warns Maria O. about reaching Finnon Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Families with children enjoy the recreational amenities at Placerville RV Resort & Campground. "Mini train ride around park, great playground, mini golf, showed movie and a lot more awesomeness. Was not cheap but kept the kids entertained. Will be going back," shares Dan. The resort provides structured activities that complement outdoor adventures.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local fauna in safe settings. "In the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys," mentions Ray B. about Peninsula Campground. Deer sightings are common at several campgrounds, especially during early morning hours.
Shallow swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming spots for younger children. "We brought our paddle board and were walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly," notes Brian H. about Jenkinson Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection wisdom: Larger RVs should research campgrounds carefully before booking at American River Resort. "This park is located very close to Sutter's Mill where good was discovered. It also has a white water rafting business on site. The terrain is steep with mostly smaller sites. 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.
Electrical concerns: Power fluctuations can affect sensitive RV equipment. "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," notes David C. about American River Resort. Consider bringing a generator if your setup requires stable electricity.
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds offer dump stations, but not all sites have sewer hookups. "Read the fine print! If you are expecting a full-hookup site, make sure it has septic at your site! Many of the sites are water and electric only, and you have to use the one dump station at the camp entrance for dumping," cautions HandL C. about Placerville RV Resort.
