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Canoeists and kayakers who want a genuinely car-free riverside camp. The James River frontage is the whole point, and reviewers consistently call these sites clean, private, and peaceful with regular ranger presence.
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Price
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Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
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The campground is op...
Cell
No Service
Pets
No Pets
Select a month, then check for open campsites
Price
Varies
Booking
Reservable
Sites
Varies
Season
The campground is op...
Cell
No Service
Pets
No Pets
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37.6640, -77.9232
Canoeists and kayakers who want a genuinely car-free riverside camp. The James River frontage is the whole point, and reviewers consistently call these sites clean, private, and peaceful with regular ranger presence.
High bluffs cut off direct riverbank access at several spots, fishing from shore is limited, and there's no designated swim area. No pets allowed, no cell signal, and the only way in is by paddle or trail.
Context for the broader area surrounding Canoe-In Campsites Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.
<A HREF="http://www.usbr.gov/dataweb/dams/ca10174.htm">Nimbus Dam</a>, on the American River 7 miles below <A HREF="http://www.usbr.gov/dataweb/dams/ca10148.htm">Folsom Dam</a> formed Lake Natoma to reregulate the releases for power made through Folsom Powerplant. The Nimbus Fish Hatchery was built on the left bank below the dam to compensate for the spawning areas of salmon and steelhead that were inundated by construction of Nimbus Dam. Nimbus Dam is a feature of the <A HREF="http://www.usbr.gov/dataweb/html/folsom.html">Central Valley Project - American River Division - Folsom and Sly Park Units</a>. Open year-round for fish rearing and educational actvities. Fish spawning demonstrations provided during the salmon and steelhead runs. Call 916-358-2884 for more information.
The hatchery is located on the west side of Hazel Avenue off Gold Country Blvd. Located between Sacramento and Folsom, north of Highway 50, off Sunrise Blvd.
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Summer brings the longest paddling days and warmest water, with daytime highs in the mid-80s to low-90s °F and humid nights in the 60s–70s °F. Thunderstorms roll through more often in warm months. The park stays open year-round, though equestrian trails close during heavy rain to prevent erosion. Spring and summer see the most canoe and tube traffic on the river.
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
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River Bend Campground has 29 campsites with electric (20/30/50 amp) and water hookups for various equipment – tents, popups and RVs up to 60 feet long. The campground has a bathhouse with restrooms with hot showers. Sites have fire-rings, picnic tables and lantern holders.
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