Folsom Lake, Roseville's backyard

Where to enter

• Granite Bay

  The closest entrance to Roseville — about 15 minutes east on Douglas Blvd. Sandy swim beach, big day-use lawn, boat launch and restrooms. Gets busy by 10am on summer weekends.

• Beals Point

  On the Folsom side via Auburn-Folsom Rd. Wide beach, campground and the northern trailhead of the American River Bike Trail.

• Folsom Point

  Primarily a boat launch with lake views, near the dam on the southeast shore.

• Rattlesnake Bar

  Quieter, up near Auburn on the north arm — good for kayaks, fishing and hiking away from crowds.

Know before you go

• Day-use fee: per vehicle at each entrance station; annual California State Parks passes are accepted.
• Water level matters: in low years the shoreline retreats a long way and some ramps close. Check current conditions before towing a boat.
• Go early in summer: Granite Bay parking often fills before 11am on hot weekends, and the lots close when full.
• Heat and shade: the trails are exposed. Bring more water than you think you need from June to September.
• Quagga mussel inspection is required for trailered boats — arrive with the hull clean, drained and dry.

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is managed by California State Parks. Fees, hours and closures change — confirm at parks.ca.gov before heading out.