Sacramento-area RV parks serve travelers needing access to both city amenities and natural surroundings. Located in California's Central Valley with elevations ranging from 25-30 feet above sea level, the region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F from June through September. Winter camping offers milder conditions with daytime temperatures typically between 50-65°F, though occasional rain can create muddy conditions at unpaved sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Minden provides stocked fishing areas for families. "Last trip we caught 3 bass and 12 bluegills. This trip we caught a personal record size bass. Great place for fishing all day," notes one visitor to Thousand Trails Lake Minden.
River access: American River offers swimming and floating options near several campgrounds. "The River is nice with man made trails to easily walk down to a beach area," explains an RVer who stayed at Thousand Trails Ponderosa. The river current can be strong during certain seasons, requiring appropriate safety equipment.
Biking trails: American River Parkway connects multiple camping areas with paved paths. A camper at Cal Expo RV Park mentions, "Great Bike paths adjacent along the river into Downtown or up to Folsom." Cyclists should bring water during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 95°F.
What campers like
Marina views: Waterfront sites offer scenic surroundings at certain locations. "Beautiful spaces to park your RV with a view of the river and small local marina. Everything you need to 'get away' is here and big city amenities a short drive away," writes a reviewer about Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park.
Recreational facilities: Some parks maintain family activities beyond standard amenities. At SacWest RV Park, one camper appreciates the "great playgrounds, swimming pool, more than 100 ducks going around! Beautiful place!" These additional features provide entertainment during extended stays.
Wildlife viewing: Canadian snow geese and other birds frequent certain riverside locations. A visitor to Sherwood Harbor notes, "Having Canadian snow geese in our site upon waking up was a real treat." Bird watching opportunities peak during migration seasons.
What you should know
Age restrictions: Several Sacramento RV parks enforce policies regarding older vehicles. One visitor to Cal Expo RV Park reported, "Disappointed to be told they don't allow any buses unless they have the RVCIA sticker. There were some really old and knackered looking caravans and daggy RV's in the park."
Site configurations: Many parks feature parking lot-style layouts with limited separation between units. "You can't even extend your awning all the way... the sites are so, so small," notes a camper about Thousand Trails Ponderosa. Site measurements typically range from 30-45 feet in length with varying widths.
Train noise: Some locations experience railroad disruptions. A visitor to Loomis RV Park explains, "There is a train track across the way but not a bother with the horn twice a day." Noise-sensitive campers should request sites furthest from tracks.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks maintain pools for children during hot months. "Pool, game room, wifi, SHOWERS!😍" writes an enthusiastic visitor to SacWest RV Park & Campground. Most pools operate seasonally from May through September.
Kid-friendly activities: Some Sacramento-area RV parks offer organized entertainment. A Placerville RV Resort visitor shares, "Mini train ride around park, great playground, mini golf, showed movie and a lot more awesomeness. Was not cheap but kept the kids entertained." Activity schedules typically concentrate on weekends and summer months.
Allergy considerations: Seasonal tree pollen affects certain camping areas. One camper warns, "If you allergic to pollen, especially trees you should be careful at the moment. The campsites are directly located under mulberry trees. They triggered severe hay fever symptoms in me." Spring brings highest pollen counts, particularly April-May.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Certain parks have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. "Our spot was not that great for our 40ft bus due to the tree limbs and the ground was very uneven, which made it difficult to level," reports a visitor to Loomis RV Park. Carrying extra leveling blocks is recommended.
Delivery services: Food delivery extends camping convenience at select locations. "You can order food and they will deliver. Wonderful ada bathroom/showers with a fold down bench," notes a camper about SacWest. Most national delivery apps service Sacramento-area RV parks located within city limits.
Weather protection: Limited shade at certain parks requires preparation for summer heat. A visitor to Placerville RV Resort advises, "Not a lot of tree cover for the RV sites- make sure you bring shade with you." Temperatures frequently reach 100°F during July and August, making awnings and portable shade structures essential.
