Camping in the Sierra Nevada Foothills along the American River
Tent Camping in an Oak Forest along the River
Mountain View Campsites along the American River
American River Resort has numerous Mountain View campsites located amongst our groves of native oaks, buckeyes, and pines. These campsites can accommodate groups small and large. Our Mountain View campsites are located on the main level of the resort near all the campground amenities. View our Resort Map to find your preferred spot. Several of our Mountain View sites are located near full-hookup RV sites, which are perfect for groups that have tent campers and RVs. The Mountain View sites are also ideal for those who like to car camp.
River Access
With easy access to the American River and the world-famous Troublemaker rapid, you will find relaxation and adventure during your stay. Enjoy majestic views of Mount Murphy and the hills beyond. During the spring season, Mount Murphy is green and covered in California Poppies and native wildflowers. During the summer months, the hills turn California gold; this is classic California scenery. Relax and unplug, leave the city behind and escape to nature. Camp under a beautiful native oak canopy, sleep under a million stars, and enjoy your restful getaway!
What’s the difference?
The main differences between Mountain View and River View campsites are the distance from the campsites to the river, the views, and the vehicle parking location. In the Mountain View sites, you will enjoy views of Mount Murphy, the pond, or the natural beauty of our oak grove. The Mountain View campsites can be found up Horseshoe Road, Gold Nugget Road, Festus Road, and Main Street.
Mountain View campsites include free parking and are spacious enough to accommodate one or more vehicles, depending on the size of your group, the size of your tent(s), and how much camping equipment you want to set up.
The campsites are spacious enough to allow for you to car camp or to spread out your tents and enjoy camp games.
What are the sites like?
Each Mountain View campsite has a private fire pit and picnic table(s). If you are planning on cooking your meals, please remember to bring fire grates, grills, or camp stoves. The Mountain View campsites are a short walk to the restroom and shower facilities. Potable water spigots are located in common areas and in select sites throughout the campground. For a detailed and visual list of our campground amenities, please go to our Amenities Page.
Experience
The American River offers never-ending experiences for adventure seekers and families with kids. Camping with friends and families helps make memories that will last a lifetime. The Resort is a perfect family camping getaway. Spend time with your children learning to fish in our stocked catch and release pond, or head down to the river fish along the river bank. You can enjoy our in-ground swimming pool or find a fun swimming hole on the river. You can also spend an afternoon river tubing down the easier and calmer parts of the American River, but don’t forget life jackets!
Spend hours exploring our valley’s Gold History with a visit to James Marshall Gold Discovery State Park. Gold was discovered here in 1848 and the park is an easy 5-minute walk from the Resort.
Adventures
Add some adventure to your camping getaway, bring your bikes or schedule your whitewater rafting trip. You can easily plan a river rafting trip during your stay at the Resort! The American River offers rafting trips for all experience levels. Family rafting trips are available for ages 6 and older. You can add a whitewater rafting trip to your camping reservation at any time before or during your stay. We have rafting trips departing from the American River Resort daily! The Sierra Foothills is an adventurer’s paradise and you are welcome to use the Resort as your basecamp for activities in our area. Everything from Wine Tasting to the world-famous Rubicon Trail is just minutes away.
Can we bring our Pet?
Your Pets are family too, and they are welcome at the Resort! You will be camping in a wilderness environment. Therefore, for the safety of your pets, as well as the safety of other guests, we have Pet Rules that must be followed during your stay.
Mountain View Campsite Rates
Rates based on a 2-person minimum per site. Due to size, some sites may require a higher minimum occupancy. No charge for up to 2 children under 3 years old in each campsite. Campsite Check-In time is 3:00 PM and Check-Out time is 12:00 PM.
Peak Season Rates (May through Labor Day)
Weekend & Holiday Rates (2-Night Minimum on weekends, 3-Night Minimum on holidays)
Mountain View: $25 per person/night
Weekday Rates
Mountain View: $20 per person/night
Off-Peak Season Rates (September after Labor Day through April)
Weekend Rates (2-Night Minimum)
Mountain View: $20 per person/night
Weekday Rates
Mountain View: $15 per person/night
Pet Fee: $10 per pet and a maximum of two pets per campsite. Please read our Pet Rules for more information.
Groups of 24 or more qualify for Group Camping Rates. You can also contact our office for more information at 530-622-6700.
What to bring when camping?
It depends on how long you plan to camp and on other variables, such as the weather and whether you prepare your own meals or eat at local food places. We provide picnic tables and fire pits, bathrooms, and shower facilities. You provide basically everything else, including toiletries, towels, etc., for bathrooms and shower (though we do provide toilet paper). Here are printable lists of camping items suggested by REI and Coleman. Don’t forget to bring your camp games and your favorite campfire recipes.
We have a small store onsite where you can purchase firewood, ice, refreshments, beer, and wine, as well as souvenirs. Tent rentals are also available when reserved in advance.