Black Miners Bar is on Lake Natoma in the Folsom State Recreation Area.

Main features we’ve used are:

  • Boat Launch
  • Beach

This area gets very busy early.

Beach

There is a large beach with a silt sand and pebble beach. Unlike most of Lake Natoma the beach extends fairly far out into the waterway. In a typical year a 6-foot person could easily walk 30-40 feet into the water before needing to swim.

Lifeguards are on-duty most of the time we’ve been there. Sometimes they can be seen patrol the waters on surfboards.

PFDs are recommeded for all swimmers because this is “wild” water.

Paddle Craft

We will often use the beach as a base of operations for paddle craft. There are two interesting destinations very close:

  • The Narrows is a small set of channels, often with wildlife. A beginner at paddling can easily navigate these channels. Difficultly is a combination of draft and water level. You’ll often find a number of craft enjoying the area.
  • Folsom Blvd Bridge is a short distance to the east of the boat launch. A nice, shady place to stop and eat some lunch, with the road deck high enough up to not have much noise or fumes.

All youth under 13 are required to wear PFDs when on a boat, including all paddle craft.

Sun

The beach itself is in direct sun. A shade structure is recommended if you are planning on setting up on adjacent to the water.

On the level just above the water, where most of the facilities are located, there are many trees and shade structures. These become occupied quickly.

Facilities

They have restrooms! I believe they are flushing.

There is a place on the beach to rent paddle craft such as kayaks and paddle boards. Many people do so. Lake Natoma Paddle Rentals

Parking

There are two parking lots. One above the beach area and another above the boat launch. Your vehicle will likely be in direct sun anywhere you park.

When entering the area you’ll encounter the boat parking lot first. To head to the beach parking lot head right, to the west, through the boat parking lot. You’ll drive down a short road to get to the beach parking lot.

Above the beach area often fills quickly. If it does one can drop their gear with a majority of their party and park in the area above the boat launch. There is a lot of auxiliary parking in this area.

Above the boat launch is the largest parking lot, and you’ll encounter it first. If you are dropping off paddlecraft I would recommend doing so at the launch first then finding parking.

Gear

Dress for the heat, sun, and water. Hats and sunglasses, sunscreen and/or long sleeves, swimwear and possibly a dry change of clothing. Sandals or water shoes are recommended as many areas are rocky.

Picnic blankets and folding chairs are recommended.

Sand and water toys are always fun.