Camping near Sonora, California sits within Gold Country's historic foothills at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. Distinct seasonal conditions create summer temperatures that typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours, while winter brings occasional snow at higher elevations with nighttime temperatures often dropping below freezing. Campgrounds throughout the region experience significant visitation increases during spring wildflower season and autumn when oak trees display fall colors.
What to do
Swimming holes access: McCabe Flat Campground provides direct river access where campers can cool off during hot months. "There is a great little swimming hole just up the path. I was in spot 29. It had its own little path down to the river, and it was mostly away from everyone else," notes Julian R., who appreciated the relative seclusion.
Wine tasting excursions: 49er Village RV Resort serves as a convenient base for exploring local wineries. Lee D. confirms the convenience factor: "This worked for us since we met friends at a nearby winery, this worked for us since we did not want to drive far."
Petting zoo experiences: Yosemite Pines RV Resort offers unique animal encounters not found at standard campgrounds. "The Llamas were an absolute plus as well," writes Emily Grace M., while another camper mentioned, "We stayed in a Yurt and it was absolutely amazing."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Tulloch provides accessible fishing with campsites near the water. "We spent one night right in front of the water, amazing view for the sunset. We went swimming in the lake: what a pleasure," reports Clara T., highlighting the dual recreational benefits.
What campers like
Proximity to historic sites: Marble Quarry RV Resort sits adjacent to Columbia State Historic Park. "Really really pretty area and the town of Columbia is very cute," notes Holly, referencing the preserved Gold Rush-era town within walking distance.
Clean facilities: Angels Camp Campground receives consistent positive feedback for maintenance standards. "Very clean and making improvements. Lots of activities for kids (pool, horseshoes, playground)," writes John G., appreciating the family-friendly amenities.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings. "Deer are fearless & majestic, several 'packs' walked through our campsite all throughout Sunday night when everyone else was gone. They walked up to us to smell our campfire & our food," explains Katie K. from Lake Tulloch RV Campground.
Water recreation: Lake Tulloch offers water-based activities beyond swimming. "The kids had fun playing at the playground, jet skiing, and making sand castles at the beach," shares Elisabeth, highlighting the family-oriented recreational options.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating challenging routes. "What a scary drive up a curvy mountainous road to get to it," Sarah L. warns about the approach to Yosemite Pines.
Cell service limitations: Communication remains inconsistent throughout the region. At Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, campers note complete disconnection: "There is no cell service," reports one visitor, while another mentions, "No cell service. Have to drive about 4 miles to west to get signal. Sporadic signal in the park."
Insect considerations: Campgrounds may experience seasonal pest issues. "Ants will get in there. We had ants all over our dishes in the morning, but not our stuff in tubs, so make sure your things are ant proof," advises Ben R. from McCabe Flat.
Weather preparation: The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F, while winter camping requires preparation for potential freezing conditions and occasional snow at elevations above 3,000 feet.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Jackson Rancheria RV Park offers child-friendly amenities. "We had our 6 year old with us and she loved to scooter around the walking path with us. We used the free WiFi to homeschool as well," shares Chesney S.
Swimming pools: Several rv campgrounds near Sonora feature pools for children when river or lake swimming isn't preferred. "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," reports Syd D.
Educational opportunities: Gold Rush history provides learning experiences throughout the region. "First time up and it's so nice and peaceful... There's a small hiking trail that had some horses nearby that came and said hi to us," Amanda V. notes about Angels Camp Campground.
Movie nights: Yosemite Pines hosts family film events. "With a pool, petting zoo, a corral where they have a fire and s'mores followed by a movie, this is a great place to camp with the kids," Jeanette D. explains.
RV tips
Site selection: Many Sonora-area rv campgrounds offer varying degrees of privacy and shade. "We were advised on our arrival that the site I picked was in full sun, and we were moved to 'Shady Lane', site 18," shares Dustin C. from 49er Village RV Resort.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds provide full utility connections. "There are only a handful of 50amp spots and people move to them quickly after someone leaves, lots of 30amp though so you might want to bring an adapter," advises William V. at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "It was late in the season, so there were only a few campers at each location. The narrow road winds along the steep canyon wall with occasional pull-outs to allow oncoming cars to pass. I was glad not to meet any vehicles on my way," explains Meg R. about McCabe Flat Campground's access challenges.
Reservation timing: Popular RV sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "We were lucky to have a spot at the dead center of the top of the mountain looking out at the lake (site 13) with a big shade tree," notes Katie K., emphasizing the importance of early booking for premium locations.
