Best Tent Camping near Placerville, CA

The forested mountains surrounding Placerville, California feature several tent campgrounds where visitors can experience the Sierra Nevada foothills. Jenkinson Campground at Sly Park Recreation Area offers designated tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings, while Camp Nauvoo provides walk-in tent camping opportunities with basic amenities. Lake Clementine Boat In at Auburn State Recreation Area offers tent sites accessible via a narrow, curvy road that prohibits trailers, making it particularly suitable for tent campers.

Tent camping conditions vary considerably throughout the region. Sites typically feature dirt or gravel pads with picnic tables and fire rings, though levelness can be inconsistent. Many campgrounds include bear boxes for food storage, an essential feature given the active wildlife in the area. Walk-in tent sites often require campers to park at a designated lot and carry gear a short distance to their campsite. Vault toilets are common at established sites, while dispersed camping areas generally lack facilities entirely. One visitor noted the challenging access road to Lake Clementine: "The access road is about six miles of curvy, hilly, and narrow (sometimes only one lane) pavement. There is a sign prohibiting trailers."

Walk-in tent locations often provide a more secluded experience than drive-up sites. Azalea Cove Campground offers tent sites that provide waterfront access and scenic surroundings, with quieter camping conditions than larger, developed campgrounds. The terrain at many tent campgrounds is predominantly forested, offering natural shade during hot summer months. Higher elevation tent sites may be inaccessible until late spring due to snow conditions. A camper at Onion Valley Campground shared: "There aren't many spots and they are well spaced out. Tables and fire rings in most of them. Vault toilet near the entrance was in surprisingly good condition." For tent campers seeking solitude, weekday visits typically offer more availability and quieter conditions than weekends, particularly during summer months.

Best Tent Sites Near Placerville, California (75)

    1. Camp Nauvoo

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

    $65 - $300 / night

    2. Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Pollock Pines, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2545

    "The sites were mostly all at a slant so it was a bit uncomfortable in terms of the sleep situation."

    "We brought our paddle board and we’re walking distance to the lake front. Lake was quiet, trails well maintained and facilities were cleaned regularly. Will definitely stay here again."

    3. OARS American River Outpost Campground (Rafting Guests Only)

    1 Review
    Coloma, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 626-5600

    $30 - $99 / night

    "If you have some extra time, be sure to check out Marshall Gold Discovery Park, home of Sutter's Mill, and the nearby wine country."

    4. Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    Cool, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 885-4527

    $38 / night

    "The parking area is at the top of the hill, and you set up your tent below. Most of the sites that have a “driveway” were not level, except for Sites 5 and 6."

    "Place the cash ($28 a night) in the envelope and put it in the post that’s on the parking entrance."

    5. Rancho Seco Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Herald, CA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 748-2318

    "About 50 tent only sites, some just feet from the lake. RV sites are farther from the lake on mostly level gravel pads with picnic table, fire rings, and a trash can at each site."

    "I pitched a tent in site 43 right next to the lake. Excellent place."

    6. Mother Lode River Center

    Be the first to review!
    Coloma, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 626-4187

    $20 - $150 / night

    7. Fashoda

    3 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (831) 245-6891

    $36 / night

    "Big sites lots of shaded areas. Great temperature outside of the valley!"

    "Just drive down ice house road you will find lots of dispersed free camping. No fire pits. Pack your stuff away please! Lots of broken glass in some pull off spots off of bassi falls road."

    8. Azalea Cove Campground

    3 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    25 miles
    Website

    "Sites were empty, clean, had toilets, bear boxes and next to the lake. If you don’t mind bears then this is a great spot. Great views and fresh mountain air. You can hike and boat in as well."

    "Beautiful location."

    9. Lake Camanche

    18 Reviews
    Wallace, CA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 763-5121

    $50 / night

    "Wicked August heat, BUT there’s the lake!

    5 Stars — were it not for the SLOBS who preceded us!!"

    "I come here with my family every year around 4th of July. I would book way ahead for busy holidays like that. 

    The water level really varies on the year."

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Showing results 1-10 of 75 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Placerville, CA

1024 Reviews of 75 Placerville Campgrounds



Guide to Placerville

Nestled in the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, Placerville, California, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and tranquility.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy the serene beauty of the North Fork of the American River at Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area, where you can relax by the water and listen to the soothing sounds of nature.
  • Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting with a stay at OARS American River Outpost Campground, located in the heart of Gold Rush country, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
  • Explore the picturesque trails and stunning landscapes at Fashoda, where you can hike and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Campground amenities that enhance your stay

Specific local attractions to explore

  • Visit the stunning Bridal Veil Group Area And Picnic Ground, where you can enjoy a short hike to beautiful waterfalls, making it a great spot for a day trip.
  • The nearby Hazel Creek - Sly Park Recreation Area offers a tranquil setting with drinking water and easy access to hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Experience the charm of Deerwood - Sly Park Recreation Area, where you can set up camp and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while being close to various outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Placerville, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Placerville, CA is Camp Nauvoo with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Placerville, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 75 tent camping locations near Placerville, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.