As an avid camper, I’m always excited to share my experiences and advice with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
This time, I’m bringing you along on my recent adventure camping at Beal’s Point at Folsom Lake, where I braved the elements with Barrett and Turtle Dove and explored the campgrounds to give you the inside scoop.
So, let’s dive in and learn about this unique location, its facilities, and some tips on making the most of your visit!
Arrival and First Impressions
We arrived at Beal’s Point right at the 2 pm check-in time, just as a break in the rain provided a perfect 45-minute window to set up camp. We managed to get a tent up over the picnic table and a large fly over the area where we would put our tent. But as if on cue, the rain started pouring again, followed by strong winds. Our whole camp almost blew away, but luckily, we kept the inside of our tent dry.
Battling the Elements and Savoring the Outdoors
The first evening was a struggle as we fought the weather.
Nevertheless, we whipped up some delicious foil packs with vegetables and tofu. The next day, we enjoyed making breakfast burritos, went fishing, and later cooked mouth-watering pizzas over an open fire.
Overall, we enjoyed our stay at Beal’s Point, but it’s worth noting that this isn’t a secluded forest or wilderness campground. With Park Rangers driving by often, it can feel like camping in a corporate park. You might look elsewhere if you’re seeking a more remote experience.
Finding the Perfect Campsite: Four Top Picks
During our stay, we had the chance to explore the campgrounds and identified some standout sites, each with its unique features and benefits.
- Site #3 – Ideal for those seeking more privacy, this site is set away from the others. We chose it because our Pomeranian can get a little barky around neighbors. While the campsite was somewhat slanted, we found a manageable spot to pitch our tent.
- Site #6 – A hilltop campsite near the bathrooms; this spacious site offers plenty of flat space and a beautiful tree for shade. However, its proximity to the amphitheater area may be distracting during planned events.
- Site #42 – Perhaps our favorite campsite, #42, boasts two dedicated parking spots, easy access to the bathroom, and a hilltop location. Note that there are steps and a short path from your car to the campsite.
- Site #45 – A unique site nestled in a small gully, this location offers ample space and easy access to the American River/Jedidiah Smith Memorial Trail.
Navigating Early Check-In Rules at California State Parks
Before I wrap up, I want to share some insights into early check-in rules at California State Parks, which I discovered during this trip.
If you arrive at a park after 2 pm without a reservation, you can still reserve a campsite in-person at the campground kiosk, provided there’s an attendant. However, day-of early check-ins are not allowed. In my case, we wanted to arrive at 10 am to beat the rain, but we couldn’t check in early even though our site was unoccupied the night before.
Embracing the Beal’s Point Camping Experience
Camping at Folsom Lake at Beal’s Point offers a unique and enjoyable camping experience, even if it’s not your typical secluded wilderness escape.
While the weather may sometimes be challenging, the delicious meals cooked over an open fire and the chance to enjoy the great outdoors more than make up for it. With various campsites to suit different preferences, it’s a destination worth considering for your next camping adventure.
As you plan your trip to Beal’s Point, consider the following:
- What type of campsite experience are you seeking? Seclusion, proximity to facilities, or easy access to trails?
- Are you prepared for potential weather challenges, and do you have the necessary gear to keep your campsite secure and dry?
- How can you maximize your time at Beal’s Point, incorporating activities like fishing, hiking, and cooking over an open fire?
By reflecting on these questions and keeping the tips and recommendations from this post in mind, you’re well on your way to an unforgettable camping experience at Beal’s Point.
Happy camping!
