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Guide To Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

Folsom Lake is a recreational haven for Sacramento-area residents.  The lake is a great destination for boating, swimming, hiking, biking, camping and more.  The Folsom Lake State Recreation Area covers 19,500 acres and attracts about two million visitors each year.
folsom boating
(credit: flicr.com/sporadic)

Boating

There are several places around the lake for launching boat's including Brown's Ravine which also has boat slips that can be rented.  There is also a gas dock and snack bar.  You can also camp overnight on board your own boat in designated areas.  (Boats must have self-contained sanitary and sleeping areas for everyone on board.)

folsom lake camping
(credit: parks.gov.ca)

Camping

There are three designated camping areas Folsom Lake.  Peninsula Campground has 100 family campsites.  Beals Point Campground has 49 family campsite.  Both can accommodate trailers and motor homes.  They both also have restrooms with hot showers and piped drinking water.  Negro Bar Group Campsites have two site that can accommodate up to 50 people and third thatFolso can hold up to 25.
To reserve sites:
800.444.7274 or www.parks.ca.gov

folsom-heron
(credit: parks.gov.ca)

Hiking/Biking/Running/Horseback Riding

There are 95 miles of trails around the lake for people to enjoy.  The Oaks Nature Trail is wheelchair accessible.  The trails around Folsom Lake are perfect for horseback riding.  There is a staging area near Granite Bay with hitching rails, toilets and parking. Keep your eye out for deer, fox, wild turkeys, opossums, rabbits and coyotes.  The lake is also home to Canadian geese, heron, ducks and lots of birds. 

folsom-fishing
(credit: parks.gov.ca)

Fishing

If you like to a throw a line in once in awhile, Folsom Lake has some great fishing.  You can find trout, catfish, bass, perch and salmon.  You'll need a valid fishing license.

folsom lake picnic area
(credit: parks.gov.ca)

Picnicking

You can also go to the lake for the day and enjoy a picnic.  There are several picnic sites including Beals Point, Granite Bay and Folsom point.  All sites have barbecue sites and restrooms.

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

7755 Folsom-Auburn Road
Folsom
916.988.0205
Folsom Lake website

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