Camping near Sacramento provides convenient access to outdoor recreation while maintaining proximity to urban amenities. The region sits at elevations between 20-300 feet above sea level with a Mediterranean climate featuring hot, dry summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September. Winter camping offers milder conditions with daytime highs in the 50s, though occasional rain systems can create muddy conditions at riverside campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing access with no license required: At Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park, waterfront tent sites provide direct river access. "Outstanding location, Right on the river with a swimming beach and free fishing with no license required," notes Steve M., who appreciated the "tons of beautiful, shady spots overlooking or near the Sacramento river."
Cycling on connected trails: The American River Parkway offers miles of paved trails accessible from several campgrounds. At Cal Expo RV Park, the bike path provides extensive riding opportunities. According to Paul N., there are "Great Bike paths adjacent along the river into Downtown or up to Folsom."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early spring visits to Peninsula Campground offer unique wildlife encounters. Ray B. reports: "In the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys. With only us and two other folks in the entire campground we enjoyed privacy and seclusion."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the riverside camping options that provide extra space. Leslie D. considers Sherwood Harbor "largely undiscovered gem of a spot" with "beautiful spaces to park your RV with a view of the river and small local marina."
Private bathing facilities: Many Sacramento-area campgrounds feature individual bathroom setups. At SacWest RV Park & Campground, Leah L. noted the "wonderful ada bathroom/showers with a fold down bench," while highlighting that you can "order food and they will deliver."
Seasonal beauty: Spring visits offer distinctive advantages at Peninsula Campground. "We visited this camp ground last year for a pre-spring getaway and really liked it," writes Ray B., noting "the grass is green, and the leaves are out on all the oak trees which makes it more beautiful."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat requires careful planning. Brian A. observed at Beals Point Campground: "Very green early in the season, lake extremely low, warm evenings already," suggesting earlier spring visits might provide more comfortable conditions.
Shower facility requirements: Most campgrounds require deposits for shower access. Emmi O. advises: "The showers needs QUARTERS and we were out of coins. So remember to take quarters with you if you want to shower."
Varying site quality: Site selection matters significantly at Sacramento campgrounds. At Cal Expo RV Park, Julia M. recommends: "We got lucky and parked under one of the only trees in the park which made it feel more welcoming. We were by the dumpsters but it was never an issue."
Seasonal water levels: Folsom Lake's water levels fluctuate dramatically. Melissa S. noted in summer: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: SacWest offers extensive facilities for children. Tatiana I. highlighted "lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around!"
Safe swimming areas: Designated swimming beaches provide controlled environments for children. At Sherwood Harbor, Steve M. appreciated the "swimming beach" that complements the fishing access, calling it a "beautiful spot."
Noise considerations: Campground location affects noise levels. When staying at Mark J RV Park, Christian N. found it a "surprisingly nice spot" that's "real close to the freeway, a bunch of stores, and most importantly... an IHOP!"
Dog breed restrictions: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Sacramento often have specific policies. Sherwood Harbor rejected Kelly H. despite documentation: "I have a German shepherd service dog with medical paperwork to support that. They still said no and didn't care if my dog was a service dog or not."
Tips from RVers
RV age restrictions: Several Sacramento campgrounds limit older RVs. Mya C. reported about Mark J RV Park: "Couldn't even rent a space due to how old our RV was and had to keep looking."
Welcoming atmosphere: Community feel varies between parks. At Sacramento Shade RV Park, shelby F. found exceptional hospitality: "While setting up, every person that walked by said hi and welcome! We have never experienced that much friendliness in a campground."
Site selection strategy: Taking time to explore available sites can significantly improve your stay. At Peninsula Campground, Tommy L. advises: "Reserve a site online but when you get there tell the attendant that you would like to see what sites are available. Take a tour as the online pics do no justice."
