Best Tent Camping near Sacramento, CA

Tent camping near Sacramento, California provides access to several waterfront campgrounds within an hour's drive of the city. Lake Clementine Boat In at Auburn State Recreation Area offers 18 designated tent sites along the North Fork of the American River, while Rancho Seco Recreation Area in Herald features approximately 50 tent-only sites, some just feet from the lake. Lake Camanche in Wallace and Camp Far West North Shore in Wheatland also accommodate tent campers with lakeside options. These campgrounds are particularly popular during summer months when Sacramento temperatures soar, making water access a welcome relief.

Most tent campgrounds in the Sacramento region require advance reservations during peak season (May through September), though some operate on a first-come, first-served basis during off-season months. Lake Clementine's tent sites are reservable from May 1 to October 15, with limited sites available afterward. Primitive tent camping at Lake Clementine requires self-registration with exact cash payment ($28/night) and offers no potable water, only vault toilets. Rancho Seco provides more amenities for tent campers, including water spigots, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making shade a critical consideration when selecting a tent site.

Walk-in tent sites at Lake Clementine offer a more secluded experience, with parking at the top of the hill and tent setup below. According to reviews, sites 5 and 6 are among the most level options. One camper noted, "Many of the sites are more suitable for tent campers" with "the river crystal clear and beautiful." Winter tent camping is possible at several locations, with Lake Camanche's South Shore described by visitors as "full of bird songs and gorgeous sunsets" during off-season stays. Weekday camping generally provides a quieter experience than weekends, when many campgrounds fill to capacity. Camp Far West offers tent campers a chance to camp under majestic oak trees, though reviews mention broken glass can be an issue at some sites.

Best Tent Sites Near Sacramento, California (18)

    1. Rancho Seco Recreation Area

    15 Reviews
    Herald, CA
    25 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."

    2. Lake Camanche

    18 Reviews
    Wallace, CA
    37 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."

    3. Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    Cool, CA
    35 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."

    "It's only about an hour from Sacramento, including that windy road down into the canyon. The river was VERY low, but it was still fun to play around and float away the hot early fall afternoon. "

    4. Delta Bay RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Rio Vista, CA
    32 miles
    +1 (916) 777-5588

    5. Steele Canyon (formerly Lupine Shores)

    6 Reviews
    Yountville, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 966-9192

    $5 - $55 / night

    "It got really cold at night (32 degrees), but my fault for not checking the weather. Beautiful views. Nice landscape. Spacious sites. There was no one else in the cluster of 6 spots that I stayed at."

    "Our favorite spot to take the kids to the lake. If your looking for something calm this is the spot at Lake Berryessa."

    6. Camp Far West North Shore

    3 Reviews
    Beale Air Force Base, CA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 633-0803

    "I did feel the camping spots need some maintenance because the fire pits and bbqs are non functioning, we had to build our own fire ring. And the broken glass....... man it was everywhere!"

    "We visited Camp Far West for one night on a quick trip looking for somewhere remote, nearby, and slightly warmer during the winter months.  It was green and beautiful. "

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

    1 Review
    Coloma, CA
    35 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."

    8. Camp Nauvoo

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

    $65 - $300 / night

    9. Putah Canyon - Lake Berryessa USBR

    2 Reviews
    Witter Springs, CA
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 966-9051

    "Loads of space, security driving around, noise limit is 10pm. Toilets are clean and trash cans are provided. They sell ice and propane on-site ."

    "Lake Berryessa is a large lake that has many turnouts to fish or even stop for a quick stretching of the legs , even saw a few turnouts with picnic tables and clean bathrooms."

    10. Manzanita Canyon - Lake Berryessa - USBR

    2 Reviews
    Witter Springs, CA
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 966-9088

    $5 - $37 / night

    "There’s a pretty awesome cliff jump nearby as well. Dogs are allowed. The lake is a very popular day use area as well. Does get very hot make sure you bring your bathing suit."

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Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Sacramento, CA

462 Reviews of 18 Sacramento Campgrounds



Guide to Sacramento

Tent camping near Sacramento, California offers a variety of scenic locations and outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. From serene lakes to vibrant recreational areas, there’s something for everyone looking to escape the city.

Affordable Tent Camping Options

  • Prices for tent camping can range from $20 to $45 per night, depending on the campground and amenities offered.
  • At Camp Far West North Shore, you can enjoy a peaceful lakeside experience with spacious sites, perfect for a family getaway.
  • Lake Camanche provides well-maintained facilities and a variety of activities, making it a popular choice for campers.

Local Activities for Adventurers

Tent Camping Features to Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sacramento, CA is Rancho Seco Recreation Area with a 4.3-star rating from 15 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Sacramento, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.