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Top 24 Hotels Near Finnon Lake
9100 Rock Creek Rd Placerville, CA 95667
Gold Trail Motor Lodge
In Placerville, Gold Trail Motor Lodge is located a direct run from Finnon Lake, a position that helps for an easy, low-stress commute.
Gold Trail Motor Lodge typically features a modest reception, available parking outside rooms, and vending options that maintain simple travel ease. Each guest room may provide compact fridges, cable access, and modest bathrooms, supporting consistent convenience during stays. Facilities may showcase compact breakfast areas, vending machines, and modest lobbies that sustain clear balance across guest routines.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, vending corners, laundry access, and parking, reinforcing practical routines during short-term budget stays.
National 9 Inn Placerville
From the lobby of National 9 Inn Placerville, Finnon Lake is a direct run to start the day right, simplifying the visit.
National 9 Inn Placerville typically offers quick desk service, self-serve beverages, and on-site parking so guests can settle in with minimal delay. Rooms may include curated décor, modest seating, and coffee stations, allowing guests to recharge and maintain daily routines with ease. Shared spaces may present modest lobbies, vending stations, and laundry rooms that reflect the consistent focus of budget hotels.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, breakfast counters, vending machines, and laundry rooms, reinforcing daily clarity for travelers.
Mother Lode Motel
Reaching Finnon Lake from Mother Lode Motel is a simple drive, a quality that weaves ease into the start of any day.
Arrivals at Mother Lode Motel may highlight exterior parking, front desk check-in, and vending corners that help sustain reliable guest routines. Accommodations may highlight Wi-Fi, compact desks, and microwaves, maintaining reliable daily balance for budget travelers. Shared spaces may present vending corners, modest seating, and laundry facilities that reinforce simple routines for traveling guests.
A stay may include Wi-Fi, vending access, ice machines, and parking, helping maintain straightforward support for daily travel needs.
Boutique Retreat in Wine & Gold Country
From Boutique Retreat in Wine & Gold Country, the minimal trip to Finnon Lake removes travel complications to keep things simple before the stay unfolds.
Arrivals at Boutique Retreat in Wine & Gold Country may include a basic reception setup, vending machines, and accessible parking that support budget travel needs. Each guest room often highlights plush bedding, hardwood floors, and Wi-Fi, creating a reliable and comfortable base for overnight stays. Facilities often feature vending machines, breakfast corners, and compact business areas that support everyday productivity and ease.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, laundry access, continental breakfast, and parking, reflecting the consistent focus of budget accommodations.
Historic Cary House Hotel
Finnon Lake is a simple drive of Historic Cary House Hotel, a perk that allows the hotel to serve as an easy-to-navigate base.
Guests at Historic Cary House Hotel may find artisanal touches, intimate décor, and complimentary coffee or tea for a welcoming boutique start. Rooms may include artisanal interiors, curated décor, and premium linens that underscore boutique-style sophistication. Facilities may showcase eclectic interiors, artisanal bars, and co-working corners that highlight a boutique-forward environment.
Accommodations may include EV charging, boutique breakfast, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities, supporting routines with boutique flair.
Best Western Plus Placerville Inn
From Best Western Plus Placerville Inn, Finnon Lake is an easy regional drive, a detail that makes the entire area feel more accessible.
Best Western summarizes essentials—Wi-Fi, breakfast timing, and local pointers—so guests leave reception ready to navigate the first hour well. All guest rooms keep closets, drawers, hooks, and luggage racks within reach, preventing clutter and speeding repacks on back-to-back days. The bar or lounge, where present, pairs appetizers and seating, creating a modest social anchor without shifting focus from plans.
From dining lounges where present, Wi-Fi, fitness access, and parking, evenings combine unwind and logistics without losing next-day focus.
Westhaven Inn Pollock Pines
The hotel's spot as a practical base gives Westhaven Inn Pollock Pines guests a direct way to manage their regional schedule.
Westhaven Inn Pollock Pines often provides quick front-desk support, nearby parking, and modest lobby seating that emphasize straightforward arrivals. Guest rooms typically include blackout curtains, climate control, and streaming access, ensuring both privacy and entertainment options. Shared spaces may include guest laundries, vending access, and breakfast rooms that help travelers manage daily routines effectively.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, compact breakfast areas, vending corners, and laundry support, supporting clear routines during each stay.
Best Western Stagecoach Inn
For a stay that relies on regional driving, Best Western Stagecoach Inn offers a sensible base for the easy drive to Finnon Lake.
Pet-relief guidance may be posted by Best Western near the entrance at eligible hotels, directing owners quickly without disrupting lobby flow. Suites coordinate sectional seating, side tables, and reading lamps, creating relaxed conversation zones after long drives or late flights. Rooftop terraces at select hotels may host seating and views, translating city context into short, restorative pauses between commitments.
Between EV stations where offered, valet or self-parking, Wi-Fi, and vending, late arrivals resolve essentials quickly and predictably.
Red Hawk Resort & Casino
Guests at Red Hawk Resort & Casino can count on it as a convenient base to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
Arrivals at Red Hawk Resort & Casino typically feature professional concierge guidance, refined interiors, and polished reception service. Rooms may include upscale interiors, premium bedding, and in-room espresso machines that contribute to a polished luxury impression. Shared spaces may offer refined dining options, stylish cocktail bars, and wellness facilities that emphasize a comfortable guest retreat.
A visit typically highlights premium bedding, upscale dining, spa-style facilities, and Wi-Fi, maintaining balance for guests’ schedules.
Studio 6 Suites Cameron Park CA Folsom
When staying in the Placerville area, the uncomplicated drive from Studio 6 Suites Cameron Park CA Folsom to Finnon Lake remains a low-stress start to the day.
At Studio 6, front desks commonly operate 24/7, giving late arrivals a dependable place to secure keys, ask questions, and settle confidently. Suites include expanded layouts with kitchenettes, sofa seating, and televisions, supporting families or groups across longer visits. Outdoor pools at many Studio 6 locations include loungers and shaded seating, offering recreational downtime alongside longer stays.
With pet acceptance, guest laundry, Wi-Fi, and parking, properties adapt smoothly to families, solos, and long-haul guests alike.
Studio 6 Suites Cameron Park CA – Folsom
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Studio 6 Suites Cameron Park CA – Folsom guests a direct way to manage their regional travel.
Studio 6 favors short, direct lobby paths from door to desk, helping travelers confirm IDs, collect keys, and reach corridors without detours. Guest rooms are equipped with stovetops, microwaves, and refrigerators, making self-sufficiency practical for short or extended stays. Lobby seating clusters near reception include side tables and outlets, supporting laptop use or quick coordination among traveling companions.
From free coffee each morning to vending areas, outdoor pools, and Wi-Fi, amenities keep routines intact across multiple stay lengths.
Quality Inn & Suites Cameron Park Shingle Springs
Finnon Lake is an easy regional drive away from Quality Inn & Suites Cameron Park Shingle Springs, a convenience that makes the hotel a reliable choice.
At arrival Quality Inn front-of-house teams commonly offer concise local tips and shuttle pointers so newcomers orient to nearby transit quickly. Each guest room provides a work desk, plentiful outlets, and complimentary Wi-Fi so short work sprints and calls fit into travel days. Club lounges, where available, layer quieter seating, light refreshments, and work nooks that let small groups plan or unwind privately.
Meeting rooms with basic AV, event parking, and catering partners let teams host compact sessions while keeping event logistics on site.
Elmwood Motel
This convenient role as a base allows Elmwood Motel to be a convenient anchor before the easy regional drive to Finnon Lake.
Elmwood Motel often includes compact lobbies, vending access, and parking outside rooms, creating a functional base for traveling visitors. Guest rooms often present modest bathrooms, climate control, and cable channels, reinforcing simple practicality across visits. Facilities often highlight modest lobbies, vending access, and breakfast spaces that reflect no-frills consistency for budget stays.
Accommodations often feature Wi-Fi, vending machines, modest coffee service, and parking, sustaining reliable routines across visits.
Best Western Golden Key
The primary advantage of Best Western Golden Key as a base in Placerville is keeping Finnon Lake an easy regional drive away.
Best Western positions security calmly near reception, reinforcing safety while traffic cycles through evening check-in and early departures. Each suite supports fast Wi-Fi, HDMI-ready TVs, and plentiful outlets, so presentations or shared media run smoothly right in the room. Play rooms or small game corners, where offered, add low-stakes diversions, helping families decompress without leaving common spaces.
With free Wi-Fi, breakfast corners, business desks, and printers, trip tasks advance steadily while tickets and plans refresh on site.
Auburn House Hotel
Because Auburn House Hotel is a practical base, guests can decide to start their day with a moment of quiet reflection.
At Auburn House Hotel, arrivals may include a simple check-in desk, self-serve coffee, and accessible parking for predictable guest routines. Accommodations may highlight hardwood finishes, compact layouts, and rainfall showers, reinforcing comfort and style during each stay. Public areas often highlight modest lobbies, vending corners, and seating areas that reinforce straightforward guest experiences.
A stay often presents Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and laundry facilities, maintaining practical convenience for guests.
Motel 6 Auburn CA
This practical base helps Motel 6 Auburn CA guests feel more connected to the Placerville area while keeping Finnon Lake accessible.
Lobby seating at Motel 6 clusters near reception, letting companions regroup, charge devices, or review plans while check-in is completed. Guest rooms are outfitted with climate systems that allow guests to regulate indoor temperatures regardless of outdoor seasonal extremes. Lobby seating clusters near power outlets allow device charging, ensuring connectivity remains available while guests regroup.
With guest laundry, free coffee, vending, and pools, travelers keep clothing care, courtesies, and recreation aligned daily.
Red Lion Inn & Suites Auburn
The easy regional drive from Red Lion Inn & Suites Auburn to Finnon Lake in Placerville guarantees guests have a pleasant preamble to their day's main activities.
A lively lobby bar or lounge often serves as the social centerpiece of a Red Lion hotel, inviting guests to grab a drink right after they arrive. The in-room amenities for pets make the stay fun and comfortable for animal companions, ensuring they feel as welcome as their owners. The hot tub is a much-appreciated luxury, offering a spa-like amenity that helps guests to relax and recharge during their travels.
From the complimentary breakfast buffet to a refreshing pool, a business center, and pet-friendly rooms, all travel needs are covered.
The Foothills Motel
The hotel's location is a practical hub, with Finnon Lake within driving reach, making trip logistics straightforward.
At The Foothills Motel, arrivals may present modest desk service, vending machines, and exterior entries that reinforce no-frills practicality. Rooms may include modest bedding, compact fridges, and Wi-Fi, creating functional routines that sustain clarity for overnight guests. Public areas may feature vending machines, compact lobbies, and laundry rooms that help sustain reliable routines during travel visits.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, exterior parking, and pet-friendly policies, reinforcing consistency across budget motels.
Super 8 by Wyndham Auburn
From Super 8 by Wyndham Auburn, the easy regional drive to Finnon Lake is a core principle of accessibility uncomplicated that defines the beginning of the stay.
Murals and updated décor in Super 8 lobbies reinforce the brand’s refreshed identity, while retaining clear and practical layouts. Each guest room presents flat-screen TVs, USB charging, and sofa seating, balancing entertainment, connectivity, and relaxation. Lobby spaces decorated with murals, simple chairs, and natural light establish refreshed brand identity and orientation clarity.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and vending areas align with parking and pools, supporting family-friendly routines consistently.
Holiday Inn Auburn by IHG
Guests at Holiday Inn Auburn by IHG can enjoy it as a sensible base, a defining feature of a well-located stay.
Communal tables in Holiday Inn & Suites lobbies encourage casual connection, offering versatile spaces for groups or solo guests. Each guest room includes branded bath amenities, walk-in showers, and soft towels, refreshing daily routines morning and night. Breakfast areas serving buffets, cereals, and coffee ensure day-start clarity and give families dependable morning options daily.
Business centers, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi link with parking and pools, ensuring consistent routines for every guest type.
Hotel Vista Sierra
For a trip to the area, Hotel Vista Sierra's location as a sensible base is a foundational component of the guest journey.
Hotel Vista Sierra often provides arrivals with boutique reception, curated décor, and complimentary refreshments for visiting guests. Guest rooms often highlight stylish décor, curated minibars, and premium bedding that create a polished boutique guest retreat. Amenities often include small libraries, curated cocktail bars, and artisanal cafés for a polished boutique hospitality impression.
A visit often highlights complimentary Wi-Fi, yoga mats, pet allowances, and self-serve markets, sustaining consistent guest routines.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites El Dorado Hills by IHG
When regional plans include Finnon Lake, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites El Dorado Hills by IHG is a practical base, letting guests arrive relaxed and on schedule.
Holiday Inn Express lobbies feature open layouts and bright décor, producing arrival clarity that feels consistent across properties. Suites include sofa beds, lounge seating, and expanded floor space, creating flexible setups ideal for families or group travel. Lobby areas with communal chairs, charging hubs, and open layouts encourage social interaction and serve as orientation points.
Complimentary breakfast, pet-friendly accommodations, and Wi-Fi connect with laundry and parking, supporting varied guest needs.
Grand Reserve Inn
As a practical base, Grand Reserve Inn keeps Finnon Lake accessible within driving reach, enhancing the stay.
Guests at Grand Reserve Inn often encounter elegant décor, courteous reception, and complimentary infused water in the lobby lounge. Guest rooms typically feature refined décor, plush linens, and bathrooms with spa-inspired finishes for a comfortable and elegant retreat. Property amenities often showcase polished interiors, upscale restaurants, and spa-style areas that create a sophisticated impression.
A stay may feature refined lounges, wellness areas, EV charging, and Wi-Fi, aligning lifestyle flexibility with polished sophistication.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Sacramento Folsom
When a trip to the Placerville area involves multiple stops, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Sacramento Folsom's position as a convenient base is a useful asset.
Fairfield Inn positions quick-service counters and menu displays beside reception so guests can scan food options and decide without delay. All suites deliver plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate systems, creating restorative sleep environments for dependable rest nightly. Lobby lounges contain couches, flexible chairs, and communal tables, serving as gathering hubs where social connection feels effortless.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast service, business center tools, and fitness facilities create consistent routines that keep travel straightforward.
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Finnon Lake Local Area Guide
Finnon Lake, nestled near Placerville, California, is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. This guide is designed for families, groups, and individuals planning a visit to the lake and the surrounding El Dorado County area. You'll find practical information on navigating the area, nearby attractions, dining options, and tips for making the most of your outdoor adventure, regardless of the season. Get ready to plan your perfect trip to Finnon Lake with insights into local logistics and seasonal highlights.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Finnon Lake (Placerville, CA)
Finnon Lake is situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills, approximately 12 miles east of Placerville, California. Its location offers a tranquil escape into nature while remaining accessible from major routes. The primary access road is Rock Creek Road, which connects to Highway 50, a major artery for travelers coming from Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area. Driving times can vary significantly depending on traffic, especially on weekends and holidays; expect around a 1-hour and 30-minute to 2-hour drive from Sacramento and 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours from the Bay Area. Public transportation is limited to non-existent in the immediate vicinity of the lake, making a personal vehicle or rental car essential. For those flying in, Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the closest major airport, requiring a drive of about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to reach the lake. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are not reliably available at Finnon Lake itself, so planning your own transportation is key. Smart arrival tactics involve heading out early in the morning, particularly on summer weekends, to secure parking and enjoy the lake before crowds peak.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Finnon Lake
Accommodation options are primarily clustered in the larger towns of Placerville and South Lake Tahoe, rather than directly at Finnon Lake. Placerville, about a 20-minute drive away, offers a range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, catering to various budgets and preferences. South Lake Tahoe, approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive, provides more resort-style accommodations and casinos, often sought after by those combining lake visits with entertainment. While there are no hotels immediately adjacent to Finnon Lake, many visitors choose to stay in Placerville for convenient access to amenities and a more relaxed pace, or in South Lake Tahoe for a broader range of activities and lodging. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially for summer months, holidays, and weekends when demand is highest. Utilizing map filters for Placerville or looking for rentals along Highway 50 eastbound can help pinpoint suitable options within a reasonable driving distance.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Closest airport: Sacramento International Airport (SMF) – approximately 1 hour 45 minutes drive.
- Parking/arrival tactic: Arrive by 9 AM on summer weekends to ensure parking availability at the lake.
- Walkable hangout: Enjoy the designated swimming and picnic areas directly around Finnon Lake.
- Rainy-day fallback: Explore the historic downtown Placerville for shops, restaurants, and the Gold Rush Museum.
- Regroup zone: The main picnic area offers ample space for groups to gather before or after activities.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan your arrival to Finnon Lake, especially on busy summer weekends, by aiming for a morning start, ideally before 9 AM, to secure a parking spot. Once parked, make your way to the designated entry points. Take a moment to survey the lake and its facilities, noting the locations of restrooms and picnic areas. Families and groups can scout out prime spots for setting up their picnic blankets and chairs, enjoying the cooler morning air before the day heats up. This initial period is perfect for leisurely walks along the shoreline or for children to get acquainted with the environment.
Mid-Day Regroup
As the day progresses and temperatures rise, the lake becomes the central focus for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing. Utilize the designated picnic areas for lunch and regrouping. These spots offer shade and space for families and teams to relax between activities, share meals, and rehydrate. If fishing, this is a good time to find a quieter spot along the banks. For those with energy, exploring some of the shorter trails around the lake can provide a different perspective and a break from direct sun.
Wrap-Up & Departure
In the late afternoon, as the sun begins to lower, it's time to begin packing up your gear. Ensure all trash is collected and disposed of properly in designated bins to help maintain the natural beauty of Finnon Lake. If you enjoyed a full day, consider a final dip or a last stroll before heading back to your vehicle. Traffic on Rock Creek Road and Highway 50 can increase during peak departure times, particularly on Sunday evenings, so factor in potential delays when planning your journey home or to your next destination.
Things to Do Near Finnon Lake
Walkable
Finnon Lake Swimming & Picnic Areas
Finnon Lake itself is the primary attraction, offering designated areas perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The clear, refreshing waters provide a welcome respite during warm California days, making it ideal for families and casual swimmers. Ample picnic tables and open grassy spaces are available, shaded by mature trees, providing comfortable spots to enjoy a meal or simply relax. Fishing is also a popular activity, with opportunities to catch various freshwater species. Remember to check local regulations for fishing licenses and limits.
Finnon Lake · On siteFinnon Lake Trails
Several informal and maintained trails wind around Finnon Lake and through the surrounding forested areas. These paths are generally easy to moderate, making them suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children. A walk or gentle hike offers a different perspective of the lake and the natural beauty of the Sierra foothills. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the sounds of nature. These trails are best enjoyed during cooler parts of the day, especially in the summer, and can offer shaded routes for a pleasant outdoor experience.
Finnon Lake · On site5–15 Minutes Away
Placerville Downtown & Main Street
Historic Downtown Placerville, also known as "Old Hangtown," offers a charming step back in time with its well-preserved Gold Rush-era buildings. Main Street is lined with unique boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and local eateries. It's a great place to stroll, discover local crafts, and learn about the region's history at the Placerville Historical Society Museum. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, providing a pleasant contrast to the natural surroundings of Finnon Lake. Parking is generally available on side streets or in designated lots.
Placerville · 12.5 miGold Rush Museum
Located in Placerville, the Gold Rush Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich history during the California Gold Rush. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and stories that detail the lives of miners and the development of the region. It’s an educational stop for those interested in understanding the historical context of Placerville and the surrounding foothills. The museum is typically housed within the historic courthouse and is a worthwhile, quick visit for families and history buffs looking for a cultural activity.
Placerville · 12.5 miBeyond the Event: For those seeking more extensive outdoor adventures, the larger recreational areas around South Lake Tahoe are within an hour's drive, offering a wider array of lake activities, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. Wine enthusiasts can also explore the renowned wineries of the El Dorado County wine region, particularly along the Fair Play Wine Trail, for tastings and vineyard tours.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Finnon Lake
Inside & Adjacent
Finnon Lake Picnic Areas
While not a traditional restaurant, the extensive picnic areas at Finnon Lake serve as the primary dining hub for visitors. These spots are equipped with tables and often grills, encouraging guests to bring their own food and enjoy meals amidst nature. It's an ideal setting for family gatherings, group events, or a simple packed lunch after a morning of swimming and outdoor activities. Remember to bring all your supplies, as concessions are typically minimal or non-existent.
Finnon Lake · On siteLocal Convenience Stores (Near Lake Access)
Small convenience stores and markets can be found in the communities leading to Finnon Lake, particularly closer to Placerville. These locations are convenient for last-minute snack, drink, or basic food item purchases before heading to the lake. They may offer limited hot food options or deli items. It's advisable to stock up on most provisions before departing from larger towns, as options directly near the lake are scarce.
Near Finnon Lake Access Roads · ~10-15 miNearby Gathering Spots
Ghost Town Coffee Roasters
Ghost Town Coffee Roasters in Placerville is a popular local spot known for its expertly brewed coffee, espresso drinks, and a selection of pastries and light breakfast/lunch fare. It offers a cozy and rustic atmosphere that aligns with the Gold Rush heritage of the town. It’s a great place to grab a morning pick-me-up before heading to the lake or a relaxing stop after a day of exploring. They often feature seasonal specials and a friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Placerville · 12.5 miHeyday Cafe
Heyday Cafe in Placerville is a beloved establishment offering a diverse menu of American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant boasts a comfortable, eclectic ambiance and is suitable for both casual lunches and more refined dinners. Their menu often includes creative sandwiches, salads, and heartier entrees, appealing to a wide range of tastes. It's a reliable choice for a satisfying meal after a day spent outdoors at Finnon Lake.
Placerville · 12.6 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Placerville Brewing Company
Placerville Brewing Company is a local favorite, offering a rotating selection of craft beers brewed on-site alongside a menu of pub fare, burgers, and appetizers. It provides a casual, lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding. This brewery is a great spot to sample local flavors and enjoy a relaxed evening meal. They often have live music or trivia nights, adding to the community feel. It’s a good choice for groups looking for a laid-back dining experience with a focus on local brews.
Placerville · 12.7 miThe Independent
The Independent is a farm-to-fork restaurant in Placerville that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and creative culinary preparations. Known for its excellent service and sophisticated yet approachable menu, it offers a slightly more elevated dining experience. This spot is ideal for those seeking a memorable meal featuring locally sourced produce and meats, paired with a well-curated wine list. Reservations are often recommended, particularly on weekends.
Placerville · 12.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Rock Creek Road can become congested on summer weekends; plan for slower travel times, especially during peak hours.
- Cell service is spotty around Finnon Lake; download offline maps and inform others of your plans before heading out.
- Placerville gets busy during weekend farmer's markets and community events; check local schedules if visiting downtown.
- Wildlife, including deer and various birds, are common sightings; maintain a safe distance and never feed animals.
- Pack out everything you pack in; the natural beauty of Finnon Lake is preserved by responsible visitor practices.
Weather & Seasons at Finnon Lake
- Winter: Winter temperatures at Finnon Lake hover near freezing, with daytime highs often in the 40s and overnight lows dropping below. Expect rain, and occasional snow, especially at higher elevations nearby. Dress in warm layers, waterproof outer gear, and sturdy footwear. Outdoor activities are limited by shorter daylight hours and potential icy conditions, making it a time for peaceful reflection rather than active recreation.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings warming temperatures, with daytime highs climbing into the 60s and 70s, perfect for outdoor activities. Rain showers are still possible but become less frequent. This is an excellent time for hiking and fishing before the summer heat sets in. Layers are recommended, as mornings can be cool, and afternoons pleasant. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the trails.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from July through August, is characterized by hot and dry conditions, with daytime temperatures frequently reaching the 80s and 90s. This is peak season for swimming and water activities at Finnon Lake. Light, breathable clothing, sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen), and plenty of water are essential. Early morning and late afternoon are the most comfortable times for hiking.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp air and pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs typically in the 60s and 70s, gradually cooling into October and November. The surrounding foothills display beautiful autumn colors, making it a scenic time for visits. This season is ideal for hiking and enjoying the lake without the summer crowds. Evenings can become chilly, so packing a jacket or sweater is advisable.
- Rain & snow: Rain is common during the winter months and can occur in spring and fall. Snow is less frequent at lake level but possible, especially in winter. When rain is in the forecast, pack waterproof jackets and pants, and consider bringing rain boots. If snow is expected, check road conditions on Rock Creek Road and Highway 50, as chains may be required for travel. Wet conditions can make trails slippery.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Recreational Lake)
- Neighborhood: Sierra Foothills
- Nearest airport: Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
- Parking: Limited, fills early on weekends/holidays
- Walkable district: Finnon Lake area itself
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Placerville (approx. 12 miles away)
- Pharmacy: Placerville (approx. 12 miles away)
- Urgent care: Placerville (approx. 12 miles away)
- Downtime: Lakeside picnic spots and scenic viewpoints
- Pro tip: Arrive by 9 AM on summer weekends to secure parking and the best spots.

