Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, camping near Sutter Creek offers access to multiple lakes at elevations between 200-1,000 feet. The region's Mediterranean climate features hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through September, while spring brings moderate temperatures and higher water levels at the reservoirs.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Camanche provides excellent fishing conditions, especially during off-peak seasons. "We camped twice at this campground on the South Shore. The lake has a North Shore Campground as well. We were the only ones camping on Christmas Weekend and we had a few neighbors when we went again in mid January. Fishing is awesome!"
Hiking trails: The area offers various hiking options with different difficulty levels. At Sly Park Recreation Area, visitors can access "nice trails to the waterfall. It's just a 1 mile walk along the lakeshore from the Hazel Creek day use parking area." Another camper mentioned, "I'm in my mid 40's and walked the south side waterfall trail from Hazel Creek to the first dam and back in about 3 hours…and I'm by no means a regular hiker."
Water activities: Beyond swimming and fishing, paddling is popular when lake levels permit. "We got in our kayaks for an awesome day paddle around the many coves of this reservoir. Since the lake level fluctuates there aren't many good beaches, but you can pull off to have a picnic lunch."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some glamping spots in Sutter Creek, California offer more seclusion than others. At Acorn Campground, "some are close enough together to make a great group camping set-up, while others were off on their own with a view of the reservoir. While there were many trees around for shade, we still had enough open sky for good solar gain."
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts abundant wildlife year-round. "We saw a tarantula near the tee box on 2. I woke up with 4 deer casually strolling through our campsite, a huge group of turkeys were cruising around the whole weekend." This natural element enhances the glamping experience near Sutter Creek.
Seasonal water features: Water levels vary significantly throughout the year, affecting the camping experience. "Early summer is the best time to go for high lake levels. Hiking, cycling, paddling and fishing are the name of the game here."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season requires planning ahead at popular glamping destinations. At Camp Nauvoo, "the owners of this campground have made it there mission that you have a wonderful experience if you are a newbie or seasoned camper. Great sites for families and romantic sites for couples."
Facility conditions: Amenities vary widely between locations. "The campground offers a range of pull-through and back-in campsites along the slopes of the rolling hills, but most of the individual sites were flat and could accommodate a wide variety of rig sizes."
Off-season advantages: Consider visiting during slower periods for a more peaceful experience. "During the week in the shoulder season, we pretty much had the place to ourselves." Another camper noted, "We stayed the weekend at a great site. It was cold with a little rain but was very fun. Water level was low and this time of year the water spickets are off."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: COE New Hogan Lake Coyote Point Campground offers water recreation suitable for children. "It was really nice and convenient and worth the money. It did get really hot, so my fiancé and I went to the local ice cream parlor. It was about 5-7 minutes away from the site."
Space considerations: Family groups should look for adjoining sites. "Lots of site variation, so do your homework or be flexible, you might get an amazing lake side spot with a view, but not enough room for a tent."
Safety precautions: Be aware of environmental conditions, especially with children. "Tho we were celebrating our 1 year anniversary and we would have wanted more space between campers. They don't have showers so heads up. Make sure you get water shoes because the lake does have sharp rocks and the local CVS has them."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Monument RV Park - Lake Camanche provides full hookups but with some configuration challenges. "This was our first time here. It was quiet and the sites were clean. There is no shower and only a couple outhouses so it's definitely only if you want to use your camper/rv bathroom. The hookups worked good but the sewer hookup is elevated so you will probably want sewer hose supports to lift your hose."
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "The full hookup rv spots are gravel & very dusty. Whole park is actually. Spots are a little tight for my 37' 5th wheel but it worked out pretty good. Back end of my trailer hung over a big hill."
Weather considerations: Temperature variations affect comfort in RVs. "Great location and full hook ups. Open year round, planning on coming back during the Winter!" Another RVer recommended, "Rainbow, Kam Loop, Dogwood and Hazel Creek camping loops are nicely shaded and stay much cooler than the camping loops toward the front of the park but it can be tough to get a larger motorhome or travel trailer into the back of the park."
