Visiting Sacramento, the capital of California, gives visitors a chance to explore the history of California. Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, California State Capitol Museum and the California State Railroad Museum are all close to shopping and restaurants in downtown Sacramento and Sacramento’s Old Town. There are several campgrounds near Sacramento, from the primitive to those with resort amenities, to suit any camping preference. When camping near Sacramento keep in mind that the summers are hot, often reaching over 100 degrees F, and winters are cold; below 30 degrees F at times.
Just 20 miles east of Sacramento is the Folsom Lake State Recreation area. Open year round, this park offers three campground areas along the banks of Folsom Lake for tent and RV camping. In addition to hiking and boating, visitors can see the Folsom Dam or bike the 32-mile bike path that winds along the American River to Old Sacramento. Within the park is the Oaks Nature Trail, a 1.5-mile roundtrip trail with disability access and educational plaques along to way describing the local habitat. There are fire rings, bathrooms and showers within the campgrounds. Dogs are only permitted in the campsites and must be leashed or otherwise confined at all times.
Folsom Lake SRA
7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd.
Folsom, CA 95630
(916) 988-0205
parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=500
Travel 25 miles north of Sacramento to reach the small town of Nicolaus, CA and Lake Minden campgrounds offering resort style camping. This is a privately run campground with full hookups for RV or trailer camping only, no tent spots are available. There are lots of outdoor and family friendly activities such as fishing, hiking trails, miniature golf, a family center, playground, boat rentals and laundry room. A limited number of trailers and cabins are also available for rent. This is a member-based campground; however non-members receive a complimentary trial weekend.
Lake Minden
1256 Marcum Road
Nicolaus, CA 95659
(800) 656-5006
1000trails.com/getaways/california/lakeminden.asp
Forty miles northeast from Sacramento, along the shores of Lake Clementine in the Auburn State Recreational Area, are several boat-in campsites. The only access to these secluded spots is from the boat launch on Lake Clementine road. Boating, water skiing, swimming, fishing and hiking are the popular activities here. These are primitive camping sites; only pit toilets are available, no showers or garbage services. Dogs are not allowed. Lake Clementine Road is a narrow mountainous road; the maximum trailer length recommended is 24 feet.
Auburn Sra Boat-In
Lake Clementine Rd.
Auburn, CA
(530)885-4527
parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1348
