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BLM Camping

Cronan Ranch Trailhead

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

If you're interested in exploring unique natural areas, enjoying various forms of outdoor recreation, and sleeping in the fresh air under the stars, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) camping is right up your alley. The BLM is an agency responsible for maintaining hundreds of diverse sites around the United States, many of which contain established, well-kept camping areas. You can find opportunities in your region by searching "BLM camping near me."

There are many wonderful BLM sites found in California, and one of them is the Cronan Ranch Trailhead. Located roughly 25 miles northeast of Sacramento, the site is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to go hiking, horseback riding, biking, fishing, and bird watching. The area consists of 12 miles of scenic trails and features gentle hills, oak woodlands, and peaceful riverfront areas, meaning that visitors have plenty of lovely and diverse scenery to enjoy.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Gerle Loop Trail

One trail found near the Cronan Ranch Trailhead BLM site is the Gerle Loop Trail, which is a perfect route for both hiking and mountain biking. The loop trail is a great option for visitors of all fitness and ability levels, and it also features lovely views and lots of pretty wildflowers. The trail is dog-friendly, and the pups can even be off-leash in some areas.

Length: 2.4 miles

Intensity: Easy

Down and Up Trail Loop

Another trail found near the BLM site is the Down and Up Trail Loop. The route takes hikers through green hills and along the majestic American River, and the many colorful wildflowers really create a beautiful environment for the trek. The trail offers great bird-watching opportunities and is best visited between March and October. You can bring your pups on this trail as well, but they'll need to be leashed.

Length: 4.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate

West Ridge Trail to Satan's Cesspool

Don't be put off by the name; the West Ridge Trail to Satan's Cesspool is a beautiful hiking route that's worth checking out. The long out-and-back trail will take you along the nearby river and down to the Satan's Cesspool area, which serves as a perfect location to enjoy a picnic before you head back to the trailhead. This route features very little shade, so it's a good idea to bring sun protection and plenty of drinking water.

Length: 10.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

There are a few quality bodies of water near the Cronan Ranch Trailhead, but the best option for fishing in the area may be the North Fork American River. Rainbow trout are the primary inhabitants of the large stream, and you'll have an excellent chance of reeling a few in during your visit. You may also pull in a brown trout or two during your angling session. The river is also a fantastic destination for kayaking and canoeing, but boaters should be careful; some sections of the river feature relatively powerful whitewater. If you're not particularly experienced, you may want to stick to gentler sections of the river or head to nearby Folsom Lake, which is another great spot for fishing and boating.

Climbing

If you travel east of the Cronan Ranch Trailhead BLM site and into the Eldorado National Forest, you'll have a few popular rock climbing routes and areas to explore. One excellent option is the Phantom Spires area, which features an out-and-back trail to reach several unique rock formations. Another great destination where you can enjoy some bouldering is the Freel Peak from Armstrong Pass Trail.

Wildlife Viewing

Anyone looking to check out some awesome wildlife near the Cronan Ranch Trailhead will be in luck. While hiking the many beautiful trails or exploring the nearby Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, visitors will have good odds of spotting black-tailed deer, raccoons, skunks, opossums, coyotes, and gray foxes. The area is a top-notch bird-watching spot as well with egrets, herons, cormorants, Canada geese, blackbirds, quail, and many other avian creatures regularly seen soaring above.

Picnicking

Picnic tables may be scattered around the Cronan Ranch Trailhead BLM site, but it's also a wonderful area to find a peaceful spot and put down a blanket. The most enjoyable option may be to choose a location near the banks of the nearby South Fork American River or one of the other nearby small streams. Spending time near the water is always relaxing, so it should be a pleasant way to enjoy your lunch.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

You're welcome to enjoy RV camping near the Cronan Ranch Trailhead, but you'll need to do so outside of the BLM site. The Cronan Ranch Trailhead is strictly a day-use area, and there aren't any Bureau of Land Management campgrounds located at the site. Fortunately, though, you won't need to travel far to find top-notch RV camping accommodations. The nearby Coloma Resort and Ponderosa RV Resort each offer a beautiful setting, modern amenities, and RV campsites with hookups.

Free Camping

While you technically can't partake in Bureau of Land Management free camping within the Cronan Ranch Trailhead area, you're welcome to set up a dispersed campsite outside of the site's boundaries. One possibility is to travel near the shores of nearby Folsom Lake and select a secluded spot to stake out your primitive camping area.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Cronan Ranch Trailhead BLM trip

If you're planning a trip to the Cronan Ranch Trailhead, you should be aware that only non-motorized recreational activities are allowed at the site. It's also important to know that certain sections of the on-site trail system border areas of private property, so you should be careful to stay on designated routes and watch for any posted signs.

It's also a good idea to consistently watch your step while exploring the trails; rattlesnakes are known to inhabit the area, and accidentally stepping on one could be disastrous. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

While you're visiting the Cronan Ranch Trailhead, treat the land as you'd like your own home to be treated. If you come across any wildlife during your stay, only observe the creatures from a healthy, nonthreatening distance.