Folsom Lake Camping Day Use Year Round Activities

You will find Folsom Lake at the base of the Sierra Foothills. The Lake was once called the most extraordinary operative electrical plant on the American continent, and from 1885 through 1952, it generated electricity for Sacramento residents.

Almost anything you like to do, outdoor or nature-related, can be enjoyed at Folsom Lake. Popular activities include hiking on the many trails in the park. Running and horseback riding is also a treat at Folsom Lake and surrounding areas.

Hiking & Biking

If biking is your choice, you will have plenty of miles to log on the 32-mile path that begins at Folsom Lake State Park and ends in Old Sacramento. You will pass many of Sacramento County’s parks, all great destinations for a rest and a picnic lunch as you pedal the path.

Picnicking Folsom Lake

Speaking of picnicking, beautiful picnic grounds are peppered throughout the state park. Folsom State Park has many points worth visiting, including Granite Bay, Beals Point, Nimbus Flats, Negro Bar, and Brown’s Ravine.

Boat Launching

Several of these locations have launch ramps, so you can take your picnic to the water and enjoy some time on the Lake in your boat. There is a day-use fee that varies depending on the location. Folsom Lake offers excellent waterskiing, wakeboarding, and similar sports. If you prefer calmer water sports, consider Lake Natoma, where no powerboats over 5 HP are permitted.

Fishing Folsom Lake

If a fisherman is in your group, fishing can be had at Folsom Lake. Trout and catfish are among the fish often caught at Folsom Lake. The Lake also has populations of largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. Bluegill and crappie are standard, along with the occasional kokanee salmon.

Camping at Folsom Lake

Given the many fun things to do at Folsom Lake, it is a great vacation destination for a family who likes camping. There are campsites available for recreational vehicles measuring the length up to 31 feet. The most popular camping area is Beals Point which offers 49 sites, a snack bar, and a lifeguard on duty in the summer in the swim areas.

Boat-in camping

Boat-in camping is fun if you have a self-contained boat for you and your guest, including sleeping space onboard. There are designated places on the Lake for mooring/camping. If you prefer shore camping, there are over 100 sites at Peninsula Campground.

Nearby Attractions

Folsom Lake is a great destination, whether for the day or several days of camping. You might consider these other attractions as side trips if you are camping. California State Railroad Museum, The State Capitol Museum, Sutter’s Fort, and the Old Governor’s Mansion. All about 30 miles distance.

Getting to Folsom Lake

Folsom Lake is easy to find. It is 30 miles east of Sacramento and accessible from Highway 50 (exit Hazel or Folsom Blvd.) or Interstate 80 (exit Douglas)

Fun Sacramento Day Trip ideas

El Dorado County Day Trips

Folsom City Zoo