Rancho Murieta sits at approximately 190 feet elevation in the Sierra Nevada foothills, characterized by oak woodland and rolling grasslands. Summer temperatures often reach 95°F with mild winters, creating year-round camping conditions. The area features several creeks and small tributaries that feed into nearby lakes and reservoirs, though water levels fluctuate seasonally.
What to do
Water activities at Folsom Lake: Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers excellent water recreation options. "Folsom lake is a great place to take the boat, beals point has a snack bar, life guards and equipment rentals," notes Cassidy Y., who adds that "there are plenty of places you can drive or boat to get away from the crowds if you prefer."
Gold panning adventures: American River Resort provides direct access to the river where gold was first discovered. "We stayed in spot 33 with a large group and didn't feel crowded," shares Lloyd C. The site sits "next to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker. It was awesome watching rafters and kayakers go through it," according to Chris U.
Wildlife observation: Acorn Campground at New Hogan Reservoir offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend," explains Christy L., who also spotted "a tarantula near the tee box" while disc golfing.
Biking trail access: For cyclists, Cal Expo RV Park provides strategic access to regional trails. "Great Bike paths adjacent along the river into Downtown or up to Folsom," mentions Paul N., while another visitor notes, "There is direct access to the bike path which goes for miles and miles and connects to other trails which made our stay really great."
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Lake Camanche offers swimming opportunities during warmer months. "The water isn't freezing, it's usually pretty warm," explains Kellie D., who visits annually. She advises: "Weekends are filled up and busy, but during the week days it's nice and quiet."
Yurt camping near Rancho Murieta: Coloma Resort features comfortable yurt accommodations along the American River, about 30 minutes from Rancho Murieta. "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," notes Susan S.
Off-season tranquility: Lake Camanche provides exceptional winter camping experiences. "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend," shares Ed E., adding that "Fishing is awesome! We stayed in the Riverview site where there is no alcohol permitted."
Waterfront tent sites: American River Resort offers premium sites directly on the water. According to Michael, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels affect experience: Water levels at many area lakes fluctuate dramatically. At Lake Camanche, "We've been there during drought years and when the water is back at normal levels," says Kellie D., who visits in summer. She notes: "The shores in certain areas are filled with big rocks and don't make it very fun for trying to swim in the water."
Campsite privacy varies widely: Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake offers more secluded options. "With only us and two other folks in the entire campground we enjoyed privacy and seclusion," shares Ray B., who recommends visiting in early spring when "it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys."
Reservation requirements change seasonally: Lake Amador Resort has different booking policies throughout the year. "There was no room for a tow vehicle and we did not put our awnings out," notes Dennis W. about their 41-foot motorhome at site 62. Another camper shares: "There were plenty of campsites to choose from this weekend, but in summer we've needed reservations."
City campground noise levels: For urban camping options, be prepared for some noise. "It's a gravel lot next to the fair grounds," says Gary B. about Cal Expo RV Park. Another visitor more directly states: "It is very noisy at night with traffic, sirens and other noise."
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated swim areas for kids: Lake Amador Resort features specially designed swimming spots for children. "The man made pond is nice for the kids. It has a slide they can use," mentions Mike L. Another visitor confirms: "They have a water hole with a fun slide, which is all kept nice and clean with tables you can sit at."
Multi-activity campgrounds: SacWest RV Park & Campground offers numerous amenities for children. "Hospitality and professionalism- that how you can describe this place! Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!" shares Tatiana I.
Farm animal interactions: Ascension Ranch offers unique camping experiences with farm animals. "It was cool to experience the animals that were in the pastures as well," says Ashlynn L. Another visitor elaborates: "Some of things you'll come across at Ascension Ranch include baby farm animals, sheep, goats, cattle, horses, more horses, ranch dogs, puppies."
Historical learning opportunities: Coloma Resort provides access to Gold Rush history. "It is walking distance from the historic town of Coloma," mentions Dustin C., who enjoyed "the Argonaut for breakfast and lunch (and Gelato!)" with his family.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: American River Resort requires careful planning for bigger vehicles. "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., who also notes that "the terrain is steep with mostly smaller sites."
Power considerations: Some campgrounds have limited electrical capacity. American River Resort has "30 amp only and I doubt any of them have 50 amp. The power is not good," warns David C., who experienced voltage around "104-105" during his stay.
Weekly and monthly options: For longer stays, explore extended stay discounts. Cal Expo RV Park offers "daily, weekly, monthly rates," according to one camper who stayed "a couple of times for sons events at college there."
RV-friendly shower facilities: Acorn Campground provides accessible facilities. "The restrooms and showers were very clean, although some campsites are located quite a long walk from them," notes Darin D., who appreciated the convenience despite the distance.
