How much does camping cost at Boat-In Campground?

Camping fees at Boat-In Campground range from $38/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Boat-In Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Boat-In Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Boat-In Campground before I book?

Yes! Boat-In Campground has 46 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Boat-In Campground?

Boat-In Campground is open May 15 – September 15. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Boat-In Campground?

Boat-In Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Boat-In Campground?

Fire policies at Boat-In Campground: Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Boat-In Campground have?

Boat-In Campground has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Boat-In Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Boat-In Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Boat-In Campground?

Popular activities at Boat-In Campground include Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Boat-In Campground

1 review

Lake Clementine Rd. off Foresthill Rd., Auburn, CA 95603

Top 16% in CASummer

Summer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

719 ft

Price

$38/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

May 1 – September 30...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

719 ft

Price

$38/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

May 1 – September 30...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Boat-In Campground

$38.00 - $38.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The camping fee is $38 per night. An additional $10 fee applies for each extra vehicle, and a $10 motorized boat launch fee is payable at the...

Standard Site Fee$38.00

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Reserve California

Provider

530-885-4527interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Lake Clementine Rd. off Foresthill Rd., Auburn, CA 95603

Boat-In Campground

Lake Clementine Rd. off Foresthill Rd., Auburn, CA 95603

Nearby places

Auburn (approx. 4 miles, ~10 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Auburn, CA – Various grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations within a 4-mile radius.

Driving directionsFrom 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.

Lake Clementine Road is narrow, and you may encounter vehicles towing boats on trailers, and bicyclists. Please use caution and observe the 15 mph speed limit. Access to the campgrounds is strictly boat-in only.

Weather at Boat-In Campground

Current alert: Upper Lake Clementine and Driver's Flat Rd. will be CLOSED from 4/28/26-5/1/26 for dust control application.

Best Time to Camp at Boat-In Campground

Summer brings the best conditions for water access and recreation. Daytime highs reach the high 80s to mid-90s, with nights cooling to the 50s and 60s. The water warms enough for comfortable swimming. Mornings stay calm for wildlife viewing. October through April sees cooler temperatures and periodic rain, with winter nights dropping into the 30s and 40s. Algal blooms sometimes affect slow-moving water areas during warm months.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CA

Summer is best for water access and recreation; water warms for swimming.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 – September 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: May 1 – September 30. Reservations required from May 15 – September 15. The campground is closed from October 1 – April 30.

About Boat-In Campground

Boat-in Campground sits on the shores of Lake Clementine in Auburn State Recreation Area, accessible only by watercraft. The 15 primitive sites feature lakefront views along the American River canyon, with tent pads, fire rings, and picnic tables. Sites cost $38 per night and require reservations from May 15 through September 15.

This campground exclusively features primitive boat-in camping sites suitable for tent camping. No group camping or luxury accommodations are offered.

Historical Significance

The campground lies within Auburn State Recreation Area, part of California's Gold Rush country. Weathered mining artifacts from the 1800s scatter through the canyon, remnants of fortune seekers who worked these waters. The Foresthill Bridge spans the gorge above.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the best conditions for water access and recreation. Daytime highs reach the high 80s to mid-90s, with nights cooling to the 50s and 60s. The water warms enough for comfortable swimming. Mornings stay calm for wildlife viewing. October through April sees cooler temperatures and periodic rain, with winter nights dropping into the 30s and 40s. Algal blooms sometimes affect slow-moving water areas during warm months.

ElevationNestled at water's edge, the campground hugs the shoreline where Lake Clementine pools between towering canyon walls. The dramatic vertical landscape creates an intimate setting, with steep slopes rising hundreds of feet above your lakeside haven, forming a natural amphitheater of stone and forest.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a narrow section of the American River canyon at 719 feet elevation, where Lake Clementine's waters wind between steep slopes. Chaparral covers the sun-exposed hillsides, while riparian vegetation lines the water's edge and foothill woodlands cap the ridges above. Deer visit the shoreline at dawn. Hawks circle overhead. River otters appear occasionally along the banks.

Geological RegionThe campground lies within California's famed gold country, where the American River has carved spectacular canyons through ancient bedrock. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistry, from riparian corridors bursting with life along the water's edge to sun-baked chaparral climbing the slopes. Foothill woodlands crown the ridges above, creating a tapestry of ecosystems that change with every gain in elevation.

Scenic ViewsThe campground offers lakefront views with partial shade provided by surrounding trees. Guests can enjoy scenic vistas of Lake Clementine and the canyon walls.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or alternative accommodations are available within this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

8people

Groups

Group camping is not available
each site is limited to a maximum of 8 people.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe 15 sites cluster along the lakeshore in an open layout with limited privacy between neighbors. Each site includes a 20-foot by 20-foot tent pad, a picnic table, and a fire ring. No potable water is available.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through www.ReserveCalifornia.com. For assistance, call 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability is only offered from May 1 – May 14 and September 16 – September 30, with 4 sites available during these times.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia.com. Specific cancellation policies are not detailed in the source materials.

AccessibilityThe campground is accessible only by boat, making it less suitable for individuals requiring mobility assistance. No additional accessibility features are described.

Site SizeEach site includes a tent pad with dimensions of 20 feet by 20 feet.

PrivacySites are located lakefront with limited privacy due to the open, clustered layout.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesArrive early to secure a first-come, first-serve spot during applicable dates. Bring ample water and pack out all trash.

Best CampsitesSites along the southern section of the campground offer better views and slightly more seclusion from neighboring campers.

Need help booking Boat-In Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveCalifornia Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Boat-In Campground at Lake Clementine offers a unique camping experience accessible only by boat. Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and floating restrooms. There is no potable water available, and all trash must be packed out. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply, and firewood is not provided. Sites are lakefront, providing scenic views, with partial shade. The campground lacks modern facilities such as Wi-Fi and electrical hookups, and no dogs are allowed within the campground or on the lake. The campground operates from May 1 to September 30, with reservations required during peak season (May 15 to September 15).

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The Boat-In Campground offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake. Wildlife viewing is also a possibility given the natural surroundings.

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include steep terrain, wildlife such as black bears and rattlesnakes, and toxic algal mats in the lake.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; the campground has floating restrooms for shared use.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM

Emergency ServicesAuburn, CA – Auburn SRA Front Desk: 530-885-4527

Trash & RecyclingPack-it-in, pack-it-out policy applies. Campers must remove all trash upon departure.

Water FeaturesDirectly adjacent to Lake Clementine, providing opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and boat access.

Cell CoverageCell phone service quality is not explicitly mentioned; connectivity may vary given the campground's remote, boat-access-only nature.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

0.0

1 reviews

Limited Reviews

Boat-In Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the unique boat-in access as an enjoyable challenge, offering a serene and picturesque environment. However, limitations such as no potable water and strict regulations are commonly mentioned.

Review Summaries

Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the lakefront views and the peacefulness of the location. 'The serenity of floating your way to the campsite is unmatched' and 'Perfect for those looking to disconnect from...

Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of potable water and garbage removal facilities are frequent complaints. Users also note the necessity of thorough preparation due to the remote location. 'Be prepared to pack everything you...

Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites #001 to #005 are highlighted for their lakefront views and proximity to amenities. 'Sites closer to the floating restrooms are convenient but less private.'

Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing extra water and essential camping gear due to the lack of facilities. 'Plan ahead and bring a sturdy boat for transporting your equipment' and 'Avoid the slow-moving water...

Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season (May 15 - September 15) is popular for reservations due to fully operational sites, while off-peak visits are less crowded but offer limited site availability.

Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

'A hidden gem accessible only to those with a boat and a sense of adventure.' 'The floating bathrooms are surprisingly clean but not for the faint-hearted.'

Based on 1 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews do not address accessibility for individuals with disabilities explicitly; the boat-access-only nature limits accessibility.

Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed at this campground, which is a noted restriction in user reviews.

Based on 1 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Paddlers and motorboat campers chasing brown trout, bass, or a swim in the canyon will find this worth the $38 plus the $10 launch fee. Sites 1-5 get the best lakefront position; bring all your water, since none is provided on-site.

Skip if

No boat means no camp, access is water-only, full stop. Trailer parking at the launch is limited, dogs aren't allowed anywhere on the property, and anyone counting on a tap or trash pickup will be packing out everything they brought in.

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Ruck-a-Chucky Campground sits on a dramatic riverside perch where the Middle Fork of the American River cuts through steep canyon walls. The campground has five primitive sites, each with a picnic table, fire ring, and bear locker. There's no cell service, no potable water, and the road in is dusty. Sites cost $28/night and fill quickly on summer weekends.