Ruck-a-Chucky Campground
4.0812 reviewsRuck-A-Chucky Campground, Drivers Flat Road, Foresthill, CA
Ruck-a-Chucky Campground
$28.00 - $28.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The camping fee is $28 per night, and one additional vehicle is allowed for $10 per night. Fees are paid via self-registration using Iron Rangers.
About this campground
Nestled deep in the rugged canyons along the Middle Fork of the American River, Ruck-A-Chucky Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This remote sanctuary features five primitive campsites where the modern world fades away—no cell towers pierce the sky, and the only sounds are rushing water and rustling leaves. Each site comes equipped with the essentials: a sturdy picnic table, fire ring for evening gatherings, and basic pit toilet facilities. While you'll need to bring your own water and navigate the challenging access road with a high-clearance vehicle, the reward is an untouched slice of California's wild heart. With no reservations accepted, early arrivals claim the best spots in this first-come, first-served hideaway.
Ruck-a-Chucky offers primitive camping with no reservations required, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground accommodates tent camping along the river.
Historical SignificanceEvery stone and streambed here whispers tales of California's legendary Gold Rush era. This corner of Gold Country witnessed the dreams and determination of thousands of prospectors who worked these waters in the mid-1800s, their picks and pans searching for fortune in the American River's gravel bars. Today, remnants of this golden age dot the landscape—old mining structures stand as monuments to ambition, while modern visitors can still try their luck panning for gold in the same spots where forty-niners once stood knee-deep in rushing water, eyes bright with possibility.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with California's dramatic seasons. Summer days bask in golden warmth, with temperatures climbing into the high 80s and occasionally touching the mid-90s—perfect for river adventures. As autumn arrives, the first rains begin their dance in October, continuing through April and bringing the landscape to vibrant life. Winter offers crisp, clear days with highs in the comfortable mid-50s, though nighttime temperatures dip into the 30s, making a warm sleeping bag essential. The campground embraces its winter solitude, closing from October 15 to April 15 when weather conditions make access challenging.
ElevationThe campground rests at a carefully chosen elevation within the river canyon, where the climate remains temperate and the surrounding slopes create a natural amphitheater of wilderness beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of California's iconic foothill ecosystem unfolds around the campground. Gnarled interior live oaks spread their ancient branches overhead, while vibrant red-barked manzanita bushes paint the hillsides. Hikers should watch for poison oak lurking among the chaparral. The true star remains the Middle Fork of the American River itself—its crystalline waters carve through granite bedrock, creating pools perfect for fishing and rapids that challenge rafters. Wildlife thrives here: black-tailed deer emerge at dusk to drink from the river, clever raccoons investigate campsites after dark, and if you're fortunate, you might spot a majestic bald eagle soaring above the canyon walls.
Geological RegionThe campground occupies a dramatic perch within the steep-walled canyons carved by the Middle Fork of the American River over millennia. This rugged terrain exemplifies California's Gold Country geology, where ancient rivers deposited the gold-bearing gravels that would later spark a rush that changed the American West forever. Massive granite formations and metamorphic rocks tell the story of powerful geological forces that shaped this landscape long before humans arrived to seek their fortunes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for this campground.
Sites SizeSites range from approximately 12 ft by 15 ft (tent pad size) to larger configurations such as 30 ft by 18 ft.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as close to the road and somewhat dusty, offering limited privacy.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites 3, 4, or 5 for riverfront views. Bring potable water and prepare for minimal shade and dusty conditions.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 4, and 5 are considered best for their proximity to the riverfront.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days, with a required 48-hour vacancy before returning. Maximum annual camping limit is 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight people maximum are allowed per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of five designated campsites located along a dirt road near the river. Sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 15 to October 14. Seasonal closure begins October 15 and reopens annually after April 15 based on road conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll five campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the open season. Fill patterns may vary based on weather and rafting popularity.
Cancellation PolicyCampsites are first-come, first-served, and no reservation changes apply. Cancellation rules are not applicable.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ruck-a-Chucky offers riverside camping with opportunities for hiking, rafting, and fishing. Visitors enjoy being close to the Middle Fork of the American River.
HikingHiking trails are available, including access to scenic areas along the Middle Fork of the American River.
FishingFishing is possible in the nearby river, but one review noted a lack of fish sightings.
BikingBiking is allowed in the area, including access during the off-season when the campground is closed to vehicles.
BoatingThe river provides options for rafting and kayaking. There is drive-up access for rafters.
Wildlife viewingThe area provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, including birds of prey.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only, subject to seasonal restrictions. During dry conditions, fire bans may be enacted.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include poison oak, ticks, rattlesnakes, and mountain lions. Users are advised to check for seasonal fire restrictions and bring their own water as none is provided.
Active alertsSeasonal road closures and campground closures occur between October 15 and April 15 annually.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 9
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are available at Auburn SRA Ranger Station, located at 501 El Dorado Street, Auburn, CA, approximately 13 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 to October 14
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, but campers must ensure all food is properly stored to avoid attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on the Middle Fork of the American River, providing easy access to riverfront activities.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention the dusty environment, lack of potable water, and absence of cell service. 'Dusty but very quiet night,' one reviewer commented.
HostNo campground host is available at this location.
Campground Map
Ruck-A-Chucky Campground, Drivers Flat Road, Foresthill, CA
Driving directionsFrom Hwy 80 exit at Foresthill Rd. Head towards Foresthill and turn right onto Drivers Flat Road. Continue for 2.5 miles down a dirt road to the campground.
The campground is accessible via a 2.5-mile gravel/dirt road that is steep in spots and requires high-clearance vehicles. Passenger cars can access it but may face challenges such as ruts and loose terrain. The road is closed from October 15 to April 15 annually.Nearby places
Foresthill (Approx. 7 miles, 15 minutes), Auburn (Approx. 13 miles, 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained from nearby Foresthill, approximately 7 miles away, which has basic grocery stores and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
4.1
12 reviews
Ruck-a-Chucky Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with users praising the riverside location but noting the challenges of accessing the campground and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Many visitors appreciated the proximity to the river and the serenity of the location. Comments include: 'The riverside location can’t be beat!' and 'Beautiful and serene.'
Common complaints include the lack of potable water and cell phone service, limited shade, and the dusty conditions near the road. Users also mentioned the challenging dirt road access.
Visitors recommend bringing plenty of water and bug repellent, using propane or butane stoves due to fire restrictions, and preparing for limited amenities. 'Make sure you have propane or butane...
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During the summer months, visitors note high activity levels from rafting companies. The campground is closed in winter, but the area remains accessible for hikers and bikers.
1. 'Only five campsites. No showers. Bring bug repel for the bees.' — Joshua Pepper
2. 'Peaceful, a bit expensive compared to other sites especially since there is no potable water.' — Christy...
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Site-specific reviews describe campsite #3 and #5 as having partial shade and proximity to the river. Other sites are noted to be closer to the road, causing dusty conditions.
No specific accessibility reviews are available.
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. 'Pets on leash.' — Campsite Data
Last updated July 20, 2025