Camping
Three primitive campgrounds are available in the Auburn State Recreation Area. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days, with a 30 day total camping limit per year.
Summer Season Reservations for Lake Clementine Boat-In Campground and Mineral Bar Campground are only taken through www.ReserveCalifornia.com (call 800-444-7275). To check availability on Reserve California's website type "Auburn SRA" in the search bar.
Ruck-A-Chucky Campground is operated on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Camping is only allowed in the following designated areas:
(off Iowa Hill Road)
On the east side of the North Fork American River, where the Colfax Iowa Hill Road crosses the river. There are 15 designated campsites with picnic tables, garbage receptables, pit toilets, and fire rings. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply. There are seasonal limitations to the number of campsites open. No drinking water is available. A narrow paved road serves the campground. There is a 14 day camping limit. Dogs are allowed.
Campground Calendar:
May 1 to May 14: campground has 15 sites, availabe first come first serve.
May 15 to September 15: campground has 15 sites, reservations required through ReserveCalifornia.com.
September 16 to October 14: campground has 15 sites, available first come first serve.
October 15 to April 30: campground reduced to 6 sites, available first come first serve.
Directions: From Hwy 80 in Colfax exit at Canyon Way, head north on Canyon way turn right onto Iowa Hill Rd. 3 mile paved road to sites and river.
Fees: $28.00 year-round per night. One extra vehicle allowed per campsite is $10.00 per night.RUCK-A-CHUCKY
(Drivers Flat Rd. off Foresthill Rd.)
There are 5 primitive campsites located on the Middle Fork American River, on the Placer County side. Picnic tables, garbage receptables, pit toilets, and fire rings are provided. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply. No drinking water is available. The campground is at the end of a 2.5 mile gravel/dirt road. Vehicles with high clearance are strongly recommended. The road can be closed during inclement weather. There is a 14 day camping limit. Dogs are allowed. Campground is operated on a first come first serve basis.
April 15 to October 14: campground has 5 sites available first come first serve.
Fees: $28.00 per night. One extra vehicle allowed per campsite is $10.00 per night.
Note: Ruck-A-Chucky campground is closed in the winter.
BOAT-IN CAMPING AT LAKE CLEMENTINE
(Lake Clementine Rd. off Foresthill Rd.)
Boat-in camping in 15 primitive sites with floating restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply. There are no garbage receptables at the campgrounds, all trash must be packed out. No drinking water is available and dogs are not allowed. There is a 7 day camping limit.
Campground Calendar:
May 1 to May 14: campground has 4 sites, available first come first serve.
May 15 to September 15: campground has 15 sites, reservations required through ReserveCalifornia.com.
September 16 to September 30: campground is reduced to 4 sites, available first come first serve.
October 1 to April 30: campground closed for the winter.
Directions: From Hwy 80 exit at Foresthill. Follow Foresthill Rd. 3.5 miles, then turn left at Lake Clementine Rd. Follow 2 miles down to the boat ramp. There is no vehicle access to the camp areas, which are accessible only by boat.
Fees: $38.00 per night, $10.00 boat launch, $10.00 for extra vehicle.
Note: Lake Clementine campground is closed in the winter.
RIVER CAMPING PERMITS
ALERT - Due to damage from the Mosquito Fire, all River Camping Permits are suspended for 2023.
Permits are available for camping in some areas outside of the designated campgrounds for those rafting the American River. Information and permits are available at the Auburn SRA Ranger Station, 501 El Dorado Street in Auburn.