Folsom Lake State Recreational Area is just a short drive east of Sacramento. The lake lies in the beautiful Sierra foothills and offers a wide range of activities. Hiking, camping, horseback riding, and especially boating are all very popular. The Folsom Lake boating scene is very active and welcoming to both locals and visitors alike.
If you’re interested in boating at Folsom Lake, but have never visited before, here are some things that will help you get familiar with the area before your first visit.
Marina, Facilities, And Fees
The Folsom Lake Marina is located at Browns Ravine located just off Green Valley road at the southern end of the lake. The marina offers two put-in ramps, restrooms, snacks, and pontoon boat rentals. There are 685 wet slips and 175 dry storage spaces at the marina, but the waiting list for both is quite long.
Additional put-in ramps are located at Folsom Point, Granite Bay, the Peninsula, and Rattlesnake Ramp.
Fees for a single boat/day use are $22. This will allow you to bring one vehicle and one boat into the park on the date of purchase. Additional boats cost $10 each.
Boating Activities
Most types of boats and water activities are welcomed at Folsom Lake. Popular activities include:
Water skiing/wakeboarding
Jet skiing
Sailing
Windsurfing
Paddle boats and pontoon boats
Boat camping
Folsom Lake boaters are allowed to sleep overnight on board their vessels as long as they have self-contained sanitation and greywater system. Your boat must also provide sleeping accommodations for all persons aboard. There are specially designated moorings for overnight boat camping.
About Folsom Lake
Folsom Lake covers approximately 11,450 acres. There are about 75 miles of shoreline, and the maximum elevation is 466 feet. The average water temperature during the summer is a very pleasant 75 degrees, and the maximum water depth is 250 feet.
The water level at the lake varies from year to year, depending on rainfall and other factors. You can check the current water level on our watch page.
The Folsom Lake boating season reaches its peak from mid-May through mid-July. During that time, parking and launch ramps tend to be very full and visitors should expect longer wait times.
Additional Activities
Hiking, camping, and fishing are popular at Folsom Lake. If you’re looking for things to do before or after you get on the water, you’ll have plenty of choices.
Hiking - There are dozens of hiking trails to explore at the lake and nearby foothills. Make sure to carry plenty of water during the summer months to avoid dehydration.
Camping - There are three main campgrounds at Folsom Lake: Beal’s Point, Avery’s Pond, and Peninsula. You can find more information about each campground via the California Parks and Recreation Department.
Fishing - Fishing is popular at the lake. Anglers can expect to find trout, catfish, large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, salmon, and kokanee. A valid California fishing license is required.