Family-Friendly Camping Resorts Near Sacramento

For many families, summer camping trips are a rite of passage. Childhood memories are made exploring the outdoors, learning how to fish, and telling scary stories around the campfire. It makes sense that family camping trips are a must-do summer activity for kids and adults alike!

The greater Sacramento region is ideally located near some of the best camping areas in the state. The Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe region have numerous campgrounds, as does the Northern California coast and inland areas such as the Russian River and Gold Country.

For families, choosing a campground can be a struggle. Many families need amenities that other campers may not, such as restrooms, showers, nearby camp stores, and safe swimming areas. Families often want activities to keep their kiddos entertained, so some campgrounds offer campfire programs, ranger talks, guided nature hikes, and playgrounds.

Whether you prefer tent camping or the convenience of an RV, trailer, or cabin, there are plenty of family-centric campground resorts within just a few hours of Sacramento that are sure to meet your needs. The following are some options.

Photo Courtesy of Casini Ranch Family Campground

Casini Ranch Family Campground | Duncans Mills

Located along the Russian River near the Sonoma Coast, this family-friendly campground resort feels like a summer camp. There are swimming pools, playgrounds, arcade games and all kinds of organized activities during peak season. In addition, visitors can float, paddle, and swim in the river or hike the many nearby hiking trails. Not only do they offer tent and RV sites, but they also have cabins, cottages, and glamping-style accommodations.

Coloma Resort | Coloma

Nestled along the South Fork of the American River in El Dorado County, Coloma Resort is perfect for families looking for an active camping getaway. Families can swim, fish, and raft along the river, or take a hike along the easy, flat trails in the area. The resort is near Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where families can learn about Gold Rush history and even try their hand at gold panning. Riverfront cabins, glamping tents, and traditional campsites are available.

Photo Courtesy of Inn Town Campground

Inn Town Campground | Nevada City

Considered a boutique camping experience, this family-friendly campground in Nevada City feels like a world away. For kids, there’s a swimming pool, nearby creek, and lawn games. Nearby, guests can explore the many swimming holes on the Yuba River, go mountain biking, or even stroll through downtown Nevada City. Cabins and glamping tents are available, as are tent sites and RV hookups.

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort | Mt. Shasta

It may be a bit further away (around four hours to be exact), but this popular camping resort offers easy access to Mt. Shasta and its surrounding waterfalls, lava caves, and hiking trails. The lakeside campground has a swimming beach, boat rentals, fishing — even an inflatable water park on the lake! They even have an onsite restaurant and outdoor movie nights in the summer. Cabins, tent sites, and RV hookups are all available.

Photo Courtesy of Gualala River Redwood Park

Gualala River Redwood Park | Gualala

Families looking for a redwood adventure should consider this riverside camping resort. Visitors can swim, paddle or fish in the river or head west to explore the coast; there are plenty of beaches and tide pools nearby. They have riverfront sites and RV sites.

River Bend Resort | Forestville

Another Russian River resort, this one is located more inland. Guests can spend the day at the river, exploring the redwoods, or ziplining. They also have an arcade, an outdoor movie theater and games like horseshoes and basketball. There are cabins, a bunkhouse, vintage buses, and RV sites.

Gold Country Campground Resort | Pine Grove

Less than two hours from Sacramento, this resort balances the great outdoors with full-service amenities needed for modern life. There are swimming pools, a splash pad, sports courts, mini golf, and a playground to keep the kiddos occupied. But it’s also close to lakes, caves and caverns, and Gold Rush towns worth exploring. There are a range of accommodations available, from tent and RV sites to cabins and rental trailers.

Collins Lake | Browns Valley

Fishing is the main draw at this lake and recreation area in Browns Valley. They offer lakeside camping, including group sites and sites with hookups. Boat ramps are available if you have your own boat, or you can rent a patio boat, fishing boat, kayak or stand-up paddleboard at the marina. If you don’t have an RV and want to avoid tent camping, they also offer cabins and a bunkhouse.

Explore the Outdoors This Summer Near Sacramento

Whether your family prefers a quiet mountain getaway or an adventure-filled escape, there are plenty of camping resorts within a day’s drive of Sacramento. Some have attractions and activities for kids; others focus on the outdoor experience. Most offer camping spots as well as cabins, so no matter your tolerance for roughing it, you’re sure to find a spot to suit your needs.