Settlement of the basin began about 1844. In 1848, discovery of gold near the present site of Coloma precipitated a great influx of gold seekers from all parts of the country. At the height of the gold rush, the American River foothill area was one of the most populous in the State. Early miners quickly recognized the
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 916.988.1707
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Folsom Dam — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Folsom Dam. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Welldale Trail, Hell's Grannies, Browns Ravine Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
The Oaked Ridge / CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Reclamation Folsom Lake
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
The Oaked Ridge / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Reclamation Lake Natoma
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.