Sacramento camping areas span both urban-adjacent facilities and more secluded sites along waterways and reservoirs. Most campgrounds within 30 minutes of downtown offer year-round accessibility due to the Central Valley's mild winters, though summer temperatures routinely climb above 95°F between June and September. Water access becomes particularly valuable during peak season when overnight temperatures remain warm.
What to do
Bike trail access: At Cal Expo RV Park, campers can directly connect to the American River Parkway bike trail system. "Great for bikers," notes one reviewer, highlighting the extensive paved trails that connect the park to downtown Sacramento and beyond.
Lake swimming: Peninsula Campground at Folsom Lake provides summer swimming opportunities when water levels permit. "The water was beautiful & perfect for swimming," reports one camper, though they caution about "sooo much dust & so many flies" during drier months.
Wildlife viewing: SacWest RV Park & Campground features a surprising amount of wildlife for an urban-adjacent park. "Serene and full of fowls," comments one visitor. Another mentions "more than 100 ducks going around" throughout the property, creating unexpected wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fishing access: At Sacramento-area marinas, fishing requires no additional permits in certain designated areas. "Free fishing with no license required," notes one visitor at Sherwood Harbor, making it convenient for casual anglers.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Sherwood Harbor Marina & RV Park receives high marks for its riverside location. "Tons of beautiful, shady spots overlooking or near the Sacramento river," writes one camper. The park also features "a swimming beach and free fishing with no license required" according to recent visitors.
Clean facilities: Beals Point Campground maintains exceptional bathroom facilities. One camper describes the showers as "very big, its actually quite peaceful and nice. The shower rooms have very high ceilings with thicker glass windows way up high as well. Almost like a spa experience."
Family amenities: Families appreciate the recreational options at Sacramento Shade RV Park. The community atmosphere stands out to visitors, with one noting, "While setting up, every person that walked by said hi and welcome! We have never experienced that much friendliness in a campground."
Privacy features: Unlike many urban RV parks, Sacramento Shade offers site separation. "Each one has a privacy fence and small concrete pad," reports one camper, providing more seclusion than typical parking-lot style parks.
What you should know
Site selection timing: For Peninsula Campground — Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, arrive early for site selection. "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," recommends one visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Spring visits to Folsom Lake offer distinct advantages over summer. "We visited this camp ground last year for a pre-spring getaway and really liked it. The grass is green, and the leaves are out on all the oak trees which makes it more beautiful," notes a March visitor.
Shower logistics: Multiple Sacramento-area state parks require quarters for showers. At Beals Point, "showers needs QUARTERS and we were out of coins. So remember to take quarters with you if you want to shower," advises one camper.
RV age restrictions: Some Sacramento RV parks enforce appearance standards. At Mark J RV Park, a potential guest reports they "Couldn't even rent a space due to how old our RV was and had to keep looking." Similar policies exist at other parks that require photo approval before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for summer relief: When temperatures climb, Beals Point Campground offers swimming areas with safety features. "Fun friendly environment, easy trails to take your four legged friend on and of course the beach," notes one visitor. Some areas provide "the provided lifejacket area" making it more suitable for younger children.
Playground availability: SacWest RV Park provides dedicated play areas. "Lots of things to do for kids: great playgrounds, swimming pool," reports one family, making it suitable for multiple-day stays with children.
Weather protection: Spring camping offers more comfortable temperatures and greener surroundings. "In early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys," notes a Peninsula Campground visitor, contrasting with summer when "the lake is very busy and the hills are brown with dried grass."
Accessibility considerations: The Peninsula Campground access road requires careful driving. "Eleven twisty, narrow, miles back to the city of Cool, where you can buy the essentials," cautions one camper, suggesting families bring all necessary supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some Sacramento RV parks require additional equipment for leveling. At Cal Expo, sites are "nose-down, not necessarily level," according to visitors.
Weekday advantages: For more space and privacy, schedule non-weekend visits. Peninsula Campground "weekends get crowded during peak season but if you visit mid-week you will have the place almost to yourself," shares one RV camper.
Internet connectivity: Remote work is possible from certain Sacramento campgrounds. "GREAT cell service for working remotely. 5G with 5 bars," reports a Beals Point camper, making it viable for digital nomads needing reliable connections.
Utility positioning: Some parks have unusual hookup configurations. Prepare with extra-length connections, particularly for sewer hookups which may be positioned uphill from parking spots at certain facilities.
