Middle Fork Cosumnes Campground
4.6613 reviewsMiddle Fork Cosumnes Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Share this campground
Recreation.govProvider
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of untamed wilderness, this campground offers adventurers a perfect basecamp for exploring nature's playground. Wake up to crisp mountain air and the gentle rustling of leaves as you step out of your tent into a world where modern distractions fade away. Whether you're seeking solitude beneath towering pines or gathering around the campfire with loved ones, this haven provides the authentic outdoor experience that transforms ordinary weekends into lifelong memories.
Middle Fork Cosumnes Campground offers primitive camping in a forested environment. It is suitable for tent camping and provides basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceLong before the first tent was pitched here, indigenous peoples traversed these lands, leaving behind stories etched in ancient trails and sacred sites. Early settlers later carved homesteads from the wilderness, their legacy visible in weathered fence posts and old foundation stones scattered throughout the area. Today's campground honors this rich heritage while providing modern adventurers a chance to connect with the timeless spirit of exploration that has drawn people to these lands for centuries.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's ever-changing canvas throughout the year at this dynamic destination. Spring arrives with wildflower meadows bursting into color and perfect hiking temperatures. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for swimming and exploring, while cool evenings invite stargazing sessions. Fall transforms the landscape into a photographer's dream with brilliant foliage displays. Winter offers its own magic, with snow-dusted peaks and the peaceful hush that only comes with a fresh snowfall. Each season reveals new adventures and reasons to return.
ElevationPerched at an elevation that offers the best of both worlds, this campground provides cooler temperatures that offer relief from summer heat while remaining accessible to visitors of all fitness levels. The altitude creates spectacular viewing opportunities, with morning mists rolling through valleys below and evening alpenglow painting distant peaks. The thinner air adds a crispness to each breath, reminding you that you've escaped the lowlands for something more extraordinary.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic landscapes unfold in every direction, from cascading waterfalls that thunder through narrow gorges to serene meadows where deer graze at dawn. Ancient forests create natural cathedrals with towering canopies that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Crystal-clear streams meander through the campground, their gentle babbling providing nature's soundtrack. Rocky outcroppings offer natural viewing platforms where eagles soar at eye level, while hidden groves shelter rare wildflowers and provide intimate spaces for quiet reflection.
Geological RegionSet within a fascinating geological wonderland, the campground sits atop layers of Earth's history written in stone. Millions of years of volcanic activity, glacial carving, and tectonic shifts have sculpted a landscape that tells the planet's story. Exposed rock faces reveal colorful mineral deposits and ancient fossil beds, while unique formations create natural landmarks that have guided travelers for generations. This geological diversity not only creates stunning scenery but also supports the rich ecosystem that makes the area a biodiversity hotspot worth protecting and exploring.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and well-separated, providing privacy.
Sites PrivacySignificant privacy is noted between campsites, which are spaced well apart.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No specific group campsite details are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at the Middle Fork Cosumnes Campground primarily focus on enjoying the natural surroundings, including the nearby river and forested environment.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby, enabling visitors to explore the surrounding natural environment.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the campground, with the nearby river offering good opportunities.Swimming
The campground is located near a river with swimming holes, making it a favorite spot for water-based recreation.Wildlife viewing
The forested environment is home to diverse wildlife, making it suitable for wildlife enthusiasts.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
The natural rock slide and lagoon are notable highlights for recreational water activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash and recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers are expected to pack out their trash.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.7
13 reviews
Middle Fork Cosumnes Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly regarded for its clean facilities, privacy between sites, and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors enjoy the seclusion and proximity to a river with natural attractions like a rock slide and lagoon.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the clean vault toilets, spacious and private campsites, and the scenic natural environment. Reviewers praise the rock slide and swimming areas as highlights.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
Occasional complaints include the presence of mosquitoes, the lack of a host at times, and reports of occasional disruptive visitors.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing firewood and being prepared for mosquitoes. Early arrival is advised due to the campground's popularity.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most active during summer months, with visitors enjoying water activities and the natural rock slide. Mosquitoes can be bothersome during this time.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great campground. Outstanding, beautiful location. The campground and the toilets were very clean." - Delf Hedde; "This campground exists just a few miles south of the headwaters, guaranteeing it's...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and visitors are reminded to keep them leashed and clean up after them.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025