Looking for a low-stress, high-reward weekend plan in Cameron Park? If you want a place where you can walk a scenic loop, play a quick game, or picnic with friends, Cameron Park Lake delivers. You will find clear paths, easy amenities, and a calm setting that makes it simple to unplug. In this guide, you’ll get the essentials on hours, fees, rules, and the best ways to spend your time, plus a few local tips to make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in.
Why Cameron Park Lake works for weekends
Cameron Park Lake sits at 2989 Cambridge Road and is managed by the Cameron Park Community Services District (CSD). You get a paved 1.1‑mile shoreline loop, restrooms, picnic spots, a playground, and first-come tennis courts. It is a convenient, family-friendly setting for walks, meetups, and casual play. Review amenities and current notices on the CSD’s official page for Cameron Park Lake.
Know before you go
Park hours and access
Most CSD parks open at 7:00 AM and close at dusk unless posted otherwise. Check current details on the CSD’s park hours page before you head out.
Entrance fees and annual passes
There is a year-round per-vehicle entrance fee at the lake. The CSD’s update notes a posted amount of $5.50 per vehicle, paid by card at the automated parking arm. Frequent visitors often use a CSD Annual Pass. For current pricing and the parking arm update, see the CSD’s Cameron Park Lake update.
Pets and wildlife
Pets are not permitted at Cameron Park Lake. Service animals are allowed. Respect posted signs and help protect local wildlife. Review lake details on the official Cameron Park Lake page.
Safety and behavior rules
Know the basics before you go: no feeding wildlife, no glass, and keep music at a respectful level. For boating and other sitewide rules, the CSD outlines guidance in its general rules.
Things to do at the lake
Walk, jog, or roll the loop
The paved 1.1‑mile path is ideal for relaxed walks, jogging, and stroller or wheelchair access. Early morning and late afternoon often offer the most comfortable temperatures in summer.
Play a round of disc golf
The 18‑hole course at the lake draws casual and regular players alike. Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours for a round, and use the main lot for parking. For course layout and community notes, check the Cameron Park Lake course page.
Cast a line with catch-and-release
Fishing at the lake is catch-and-release only. Use barbless hooks, one rod per angler, and no live bait. Anglers 16 and older must carry a valid California sport fishing license. Review the CSD’s fishing rules and get licensing info through California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Tennis and playground time
First-come tennis courts and the on-site playground make it easy to mix activities. Check the lake page for any temporary notices on court availability.
Picnics and small gatherings
Bring a blanket and enjoy open picnic areas, or inquire about reserving the gazebo or flagpole area for a group. For larger events, coordination with the CSD is required. Call the CSD main line at 530-677-2231 for rental questions.
Water access: what’s open now
Swimming in the lake is not currently a promoted amenity. The CSD notes the Swimming Lagoon is closed. If you want to swim, look to the CSD-run Community Center Pool for lap and recreational sessions. Check schedules on the CSD’s aquatics page.
For boating, follow CSD rules. Gas-powered boats are not allowed. Electric motors and non-motorized craft are permitted per current guidelines. Review the CSD’s general rules before you launch.
Plan for seasons and special events
Cameron Park’s warm, dry summers mean mornings and evenings are your friend for walks and play. On event weekends, expect bigger crowds and different access patterns. The CSD’s annual Summer Spectacular is a major draw, with special parking and shuttle plans. Get dates and logistics on the Summer Spectacular page.
Sample weekend itineraries
- Easy active morning
- Arrive near opening, walk the shoreline loop, then grab a lakeside picnic. Add a relaxed disc golf round late morning if you have time.
- Family mix-and-match
- Combine a playground stop and a short loop walk. Follow up with swim time at the Community Center Pool if it fits your schedule.
- Event day game plan
- Check event parking and shuttle info in advance, arrive early, and pack light to speed through bag checks when required.
Nearby parks to add to your day
Rotate in neighborhood parks to keep things fresh. Rasmussen Park and Christa McAuliffe Park are nearby CSD options for fields, play spaces, and open areas. For a full list of parks and facilities, use the CSD site and posted maps.
Ready to explore Cameron Park?
With a simple fee structure, clear rules, and a range of low-key activities, Cameron Park Lake makes weekend planning easy. If you are weighing a move to Cameron Park or nearby foothill communities and want smart, local guidance, reach out to Ryan Grob for a clear, disciplined plan that gets you where you want to go.
FAQs
What are the current hours at Cameron Park Lake?
- Most CSD parks are open 7:00 AM to dusk unless otherwise posted; check the CSD site before your visit.
How much is parking at Cameron Park Lake?
- The CSD posts a year-round per-vehicle entrance fee, paid by card at the parking arm; verify the current rate on the CSD update page.
Can I bring my dog to Cameron Park Lake?
- No. Pets are not permitted at the lake, with the exception of service animals.
Is swimming available at Cameron Park Lake?
- The Swimming Lagoon is closed; for swimming options, use the CSD Community Center Pool when open and scheduled.
Do I need a fishing license at the lake?
- Yes. Anglers 16 and older need a valid California sport fishing license, and must follow CSD catch-and-release rules with barbless hooks and no live bait.
Are gas boats or rentals available?
- Gas-powered boats are not allowed. Electric motors and non-motorized craft are permitted per CSD rules. The CSD site does not list on-site boat rentals, so confirm options before you go.
