Folsom Lake State Recreation Area: A Sierra Foothills Paradise
Discover outdoor adventures at Folsom Lake: boating, hiking, camping, and history in the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, just east of Sacramento.
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1956, the park's two reservoirs, Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma, provide ample opportunities for water sports, camping, hiking, and exploring California's rich history and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
- 7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd, Folsom, California, 95630, US
- +1916-988-0205
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit during spring or fall for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot, especially for hiking.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike or spend time on the lake.
- Check the park's website for current lake levels, fire restrictions, and campground availability.
- Explore the Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park to learn about the area's history and the importance of hydroelectric power.
- Consider purchasing an annual California State Parks pass for frequent visits to Folsom Lake and other state parks.
Getting There
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Driving
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is accessible via Highway 50 or I-80. From Highway 50, take the Folsom Boulevard exit and head north to Folsom-Auburn Road. From I-80, exit at Douglas Boulevard and follow signs to the park entrance. Parking is available at various entrances, including Granite Bay, Beals Point, and Black Miners Bar. Day-use fees are typically $12 per vehicle. Parking can be limited during peak season, so arrive early. Note: Some roads leading to campgrounds, like Rattlesnake Bar Road to Peninsula Campground, are narrow and winding.
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Public Transport
Sacramento Regional Transit offers bus service to areas near Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. From Sacramento, take the line 109 bus to Hazel Ave & Nimbus Rd. From there, it's approximately a 25-minute walk to the park. Sacramento Regional Transit bus fare is around $3. Note: Bus service may be limited, especially on weekends and holidays. Check the Sacramento Regional Transit website for schedules and routes.
Discover more about Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Griffith Quarry (California Historical Landmark No. 885)
10.0 km
Explore Griffith Quarry, a captivating historical landmark in California that reveals the rich quarrying past and stunning natural beauty of Penryn.
Griffith House
10.2 km
Explore Griffith House, a historical landmark in Penryn, California, and immerse yourself in its rich heritage and captivating architecture.
Pleasant Grove House State Historic Landmark
11.3 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Pleasant Grove House State Historic Landmark in Rescue, California, a hidden gem for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Bloomer Cut
11.9 km
Step back in time at Bloomer Cut, an original segment of the Transcontinental Railroad, showcasing the grit and engineering marvels of the 1860s in Auburn, California.
The Square (formerly Pioneer Village)
12.2 km
Discover the captivating history of Folsom at The Square, a museum featuring engaging exhibits and artifacts that bring the local heritage to life.
Mormon Tavern California Registered Historical Landmark No.699
13.6 km
Uncover the rich history of California at the iconic Mormon Tavern in El Dorado Hills, a registered historical landmark showcasing the legacy of the Gold Rush era.
Gold Country Medical History Museum
14.0 km
Explore the fascinating evolution of healthcare at Gold Country Medical History Museum in Auburn, California, where the past meets the present.
Mountain Quarries Railroad Bridge (California Historical Landmark No. 1051)
16.6 km
Explore the historic Mountain Quarries Railroad Bridge in Auburn, California, a remarkable landmark surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
No Hands Bridge
16.6 km
Explore No Hands Bridge in Auburn, CA, a stunning bridge offering breathtaking views, rich history, and access to beautiful hiking trails.
Sutter's Mill
19.0 km
Explore Sutter's Mill, a historical landmark in Garden Valley, CA, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Gold Rush era amidst stunning natural beauty.
Gold Discovery Site
19.1 km
Discover the historic Gold Discovery Site in Garden Valley, CA, where the Gold Rush began, and explore its rich legacy amidst stunning natural beauty.
Downtown Placerville
27.0 km
Discover the charm of Downtown Placerville, a historical landmark in California's Gold Country, featuring unique shops, dining, and rich cultural heritage.
Walk Old Hangtown Placerville California
27.2 km
Explore Old Hangtown in Placerville, CA - a historical landmark where the spirit of the Gold Rush era comes alive through charming streets and rich heritage.
Old Dry Diggins (California Historical Landmark #475)
27.3 km
Explore Old Dry Diggins, a historical landmark in Placerville, California, and step back into the Gold Rush era of the American West.
California State Historical Landmark No. 799
32.2 km
Explore California State Historical Landmark No. 799 in Grass Valley, a captivating journey into the heart of California's gold rush history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Folsom Dam
8.4 km
Discover Folsom Dam: An iconic landmark offering vital services and outdoor adventures in the heart of Northern California.
Sierra College Natural History Museum - SCNHM
9.3 km
Discover the Sierra College Natural History Museum, where nature's wonders come to life through engaging exhibits and educational experiences in Rocklin, California.
Griffith Quarry Park & Museum
9.8 km
Discover the historical charm of Griffith Quarry Park & Museum in Penryn, California, where nature meets rich quarrying history.
Folsom Prison Museum
10.0 km
Discover the gripping history of Folsom Prison at the Big House Prison Museum, exploring exhibits and stories from behind the walls.
Quarry Park Adventures
11.2 km
Experience thrilling adventures in a historic setting at Quarry Park Adventures in Rocklin, CA, featuring zip lines, rock climbing, and family-friendly activities within a transformed granite quarry.
Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary
11.2 km
Explore Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, a wildlife refuge offering close encounters with rescued animals and a commitment to conservation in California.
Folsom Valley Railway
11.2 km
Experience the enchanting Folsom Valley Railway, a nostalgic journey through picturesque landscapes perfect for families and train enthusiasts alike.
Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
11.8 km
Explore the rich history of hydroelectric power and unwind in the scenic beauty of Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park, a must-visit California attraction.
Sutter Street Theatre
12.2 km
Experience live theater in Folsom's Historic District with diverse shows, acting classes, and award-winning productions at Sutter Street Theatre.
Folsom Historic District
12.2 km
Discover the charm of Folsom's Historic District: a vibrant blend of Gold Rush history, unique shops, dining, and community events.
Folsom History Museum
12.3 km
Explore the fascinating history of Folsom, California, at the Folsom History Museum—where the past comes to life through captivating exhibits.
Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Folsom
12.4 km
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Maidu Museum & Historic Site
12.5 km
Explore the rich heritage of the Maidu people at the Maidu Museum & Historic Site in Roseville, California.
Roseville Golfland Sunsplash
13.0 km
Experience the ultimate family adventure at Roseville Golfland Sunsplash, bursting with fun attractions and thrilling rides for all ages.
Turkey Vulture Watch Site
13.3 km
Explore the Turkey Vulture Watch Site in Auburn, CA, and witness the stunning migration of turkey vultures in their natural habitat.
Essential places to dine
Plan B Restaurant
32.3 km
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Seasons 52
33.6 km
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Zinfandel Grille
34.0 km
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Poppy by Mama Kim
36.2 km
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Allora
37.4 km
Discover Allora in Sacramento - where authentic Italian flavors meet fresh seafood delights in a charming ambiance.
La Trattoria Bohemia
37.7 km
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Bacon & Butter
37.9 km
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OBO' Italian Table & Bar
38.4 km
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Kru | Contemporary Japanese Cuisine
38.4 km
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Canon | East Sacramento
38.6 km
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Moxie Restaurant
38.7 km
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Hawks Public House
38.7 km
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Paragary's
38.8 km
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Ink Eats & Drinks
38.8 km
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Tapa the World
38.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas at Tapa the World in Sacramento, where every dish tells a story of rich culinary tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Antique Annie's
35.2 km
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Article Consignment Boutique
36.3 km
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57th Street Antique Mall
36.4 km
Explore the charm of the past at 57th Street Antique Mall, Sacramento's ultimate destination for unique vintage finds and timeless treasures.
Camellia Center
37.3 km
Discover the Camellia Center in Sacramento: Your ultimate shopping haven with diverse stores and delightful dining options to enjoy.
Altar Room
37.4 km
Explore the Altar Room in Sacramento – a unique metaphysical supply store, antique shop, and event venue, perfect for spiritual seekers and history lovers.
Timeless Thrills
37.7 km
Explore Timeless Thrills, a vibrant art gallery in Sacramento blending art, fashion, and community events for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Summer Porch
38.0 km
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Krazy marys boutique
38.4 km
Explore unique fashion finds at Krazy Marys Boutique, Sacramento's charming women's clothing store, perfect for trendy styles and exclusive pieces.
Sugar Shack Boutique
38.5 km
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Sutter's Fort Museum Store
38.6 km
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The Pomegranate Boutique
38.6 km
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The Bus Stop Vintage
38.6 km
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Mixed Bag
38.7 km
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Más Bueno Boutique
38.7 km
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Kulture
38.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Berkley Bar
34.3 km
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Chargin's Bar & Grill
37.0 km
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Club 2 Me
37.1 km
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Hilltop Tavern Bar
37.5 km
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The Green Room
37.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Green Room in East Sacramento, where trendy meets cozy for an unforgettable lounge experience.
Bonn Lair
37.7 km
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Limelight Bar, Cafe & Cardroom
38.2 km
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Star Lounge
38.4 km
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The Jungle Bird
38.5 km
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The Flamingo House Social Club
38.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine of The Flamingo House Social Club, a must-visit bar and lounge in Midtown Sacramento.
The Cabin
39.1 km
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Streets Pub and Grub
39.1 km
Experience the heart of Sacramento dining at Streets Pub and Grub, where local flavors and vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable outing.
Kupros Craft House
39.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and gourmet grilled dishes at Kupros Craft House in Sacramento, a culinary hotspot for food lovers.
The Rooftop
39.2 km
Unwind at The Rooftop, Sacramento's chic bar and lounge offering stunning city views, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
58 Degrees & Holding Co.
39.3 km
Experience the charm of 58 Degrees & Holding Co. in Midtown Sacramento, where exquisite wines and delightful bites await in a cozy atmosphere.
