RV camping near Rancho Murieta, California sits at an elevation of about 130 feet in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Located in Sacramento County approximately 25 miles east of downtown Sacramento, the area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through September. Winter camping typically features mild daytime temperatures in the 50s with occasional frost and rain.
What to do
Fishing access: The American River near Thousand Trails Ponderosa offers good fishing spots with access points along the riverbank. One camper noted, "Great spot if you can get in half of the camp got washed away from the rain this year though," indicating seasonal water level changes affect camping areas.
Wine tasting tours: Several campgrounds near Rancho Murieta provide convenient bases for wine country exploration. As one visitor to 49er Village RV Resort mentioned, "This is not our usual type of camping experience, but since we met friends at a nearby winery, this worked for us since we did not want to drive far."
Mountain biking trails: Ghost Mountain RV Campground features trails suitable for mountain biking through pine forests. A camper described, "Trails to ride a mountain bike ride or hike. There is a nice dump station. There is also a honey bucket truck that comes around to all camp sites Mon, Wed, and Fridays to dump your gray and black tanks."
What campers like
River proximity: Sites along waterways rank highly among camper reviews. One visitor at SacWest RV Park described, "One of the better parks I've visited but for the money I was still disappointed in what is offered. I parked in the back along the river which was ideal with grassy spots along the river and campfire spots to use."
Clean facilities: Jackson Rancheria RV Park receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. A reviewer emphasized, "Very well maintained. The grounds are clean, nice level concrete spaces with lots of grass around them. Easy to social distance."
Walking paths: Many RV parks feature dedicated walking areas. One camper at Jackson Rancheria noted, "We love how clean it is, and the staff is friendly. The surrounding areas are woodsy and our dogs love the dog park!" Another mentioned, "Beautiful walking trail around the park."
What you should know
Site availability challenges: During peak season, advanced planning is necessary. A camper at Placerville RV Resort advised, "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."
Variable WiFi quality: Internet connection remains spotty throughout the region. A reviewer at Placerville RV Resort commented, "Clean restrooms and cable and Wifi have been improved. Is very noisy near the 50 freeway, not much you can do about that."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit near major roads, creating noise issues. One camper noted of Flag City RV Resort, "Brilliantly located asking I-5 is this park. We paid $58 for the night, a clean concrete patch, small trees with little or no shade but full hookups. The free WiFi is for email checking only, you want better? You pay extra."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools that operate seasonally. A visitor to Ghost Mountain RV Campground shared, "It is a beautiful campground. We enjoyed walking around with our pets and getting ice cream. The only annoyance was loud music past curfew, but it was only on the weekend."
Recreation facilities: Kid-friendly features vary widely between parks. One guest at 49er Village described, "The kids loved the stocked fishing ponds, and even better was the immaculate 2 swimming pools and playground! Everyone was busy having fun the whole time and the grounds were perfectly kept."
Entertainment options: Some parks provide organized activities. A camper at Placerville RV Resort noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site surface conditions: Flag City RV Resort features concrete pads while others have gravel or dirt surfaces. One reviewer observed, "Clean and safe overnight stop along I-5. Friendly and helpful staff. Security on patrol in golf carts. A little expensive, but not bad when considering the alternatives."
Power considerations: Amperage availability varies between locations. At Cal Expo RV Park, a camper reported, "FHU and pretty level. Easy pull thru site. Would stay again, but for a shorter time."
Space limitations: Site sizes differ dramatically across parks. A camper at Thousand Trails Ponderosa warned, "The park is a little more 'stack and pack' than we like, but the view of the river made up for it. Nice park to spend the holidays."
