How much does camping cost at Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Camping fees at Garden Point Boat-In Campground range from $24-$48/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

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

Garden Point 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 Garden Point Boat-In Campground before I book?

Yes! Garden Point Boat-In Campground has 4 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 Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Garden Point Boat-In Campground is open April 15 to October 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 Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

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

How many campsites does Garden Point Boat-In Campground have?

Garden Point Boat-In Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Garden Point Boat-In Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Garden Point Boat-In Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

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

Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Fire policies at Garden Point Boat-In Campground: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the Yuba River Ranger District (530) 288-3231(voice), (530) 288-3656 (TDD). Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.84

46 reviews

Launch from Dark Day boat launch ramp or Emerald Cove Marina launch and ramp

Top 10%Spring

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,000 ft

Price

$24 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

April 15, 2025, to O...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,000 ft

Price

$24 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

April 15, 2025, to O...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Garden Point Boat-In Campground

$24.00 - $48.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Double Boat In Site: $48.00; Single Boat In Site: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-478-6253n/a

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Plan a trip to Garden Point Boat-In Campground

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Campground Map

Launch from Dark Day boat launch ramp or Emerald Cove Marina launch and ramp

Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Launch from Dark Day boat launch ramp or Emerald Cove Marina launch and ramp

Nearby places

Camptonville, North San Juan, and Dobbins are nearby communities with supplies available.

Weather at Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Current alerts(3)

No Show Policy A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival).
There is no water at the facility
This is a boat-in campground. You can not drive to this campground. You must launch a boat a Dark Day boat launch and boat to the campground. Do not follow in driving instructions to this campground. There is no road access. Utility hookups and showers are not available.

Best Time to Camp at Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Best season: spring. Spring offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures, high reservoir levels from snowmelt, and fewer boat crowds — perfect for boat-in solitude, paddling, and trout fishing. Expect daytime highs around 55–75°F and cool nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s, with wildflowers and fresh green forest slopes framing the water. Water temperatures will still be brisk but boat access and full coves make exploration, hiking, and wildlife viewing at their peak with generally low-to-moderate crowds. Peak months: May, June, July, April Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in US

Spring is best: snowmelt raises water levels and temperatures are pleasant for water and trails.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: April 15, 2025, to October 15, 2025

About Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Garden Point Boat-In Campground sits on the shores of a Tahoe National Forest reservoir near Nevada City, accessible only by watercraft. This U.S. Forest Service site offers primitive boat-in camping with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables across a handful of shoreline sites. Spring brings high reservoir levels from snowmelt, mild temperatures, and excellent conditions for fishing, swimming, and paddling in relative solitude.

Garden Point is a remote and primitive boat-in campground. Visitors must launch their boats from designated boat ramps. The sites are suitable for tent camping and have a rugged, backcountry feel.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures, high reservoir levels from snowmelt, and fewer boat crowds — perfect for boat-in solitude, paddling, and trout fishing. Expect daytime highs around 55–75°F and cool nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s, with wildflowers and fresh green forest slopes framing the water. Water temperatures will still be brisk but boat access and full coves make exploration, hiking, and wildlife viewing at their peak with generally low-to-moderate crowds. Peak months: May, June, July, April Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation2000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground clings to precipitous slopes where pine, fir, and oak forests meet the reservoir's deep, clear water. Bullards Bar stretches across more than 60 miles of winding shoreline, its steep-walled canyon creating dramatic views from campsites. Dense understory brush provides habitat for wildlife and adds to the sense of seclusion, though recent forest thinning has disrupted some of the visual continuity. Specific sites like number 20 offer strong water views, while others, including site 10, trade shade for smaller footprints. The reservoir's water level fluctuates significantly throughout the year, revealing hidden coves and beaches during late summer and creating easier boat access during spring.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style accommodations available. Visitors should expect primitive camping conditions accessible solely by boat.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information about cultural or educational programs is provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 nights during a visit and total at the campground within each year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact number of guests per site is not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov and via their mobile app.

AccessibilityThe steep and rugged terrain surrounding the campground poses challenges for accessibility. No specific ADA-compliant features are mentioned.

Site SizeSites are described as small to medium-sized, with some being more level than others. Specific user feedback includes comments about site 20 having a good view and site 10 being shaded but small.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are more private and quiet, such as site 8, while others may lack direct water views or be exposed.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites like 3, 4, 1, 5, and 6 for better views and accessibility. Avoid mid-summer visits when water levels are low.

Best CampsitesSite 20 stands out for its water view. Site 10 offers shade but runs small. Reviews also recommend sites 3, 4, 1, 5, and 6, though specifics about what makes them desirable aren't detailed. Privacy varies widely: some sites feel secluded and quiet, while others lack direct water views or sit more exposed.

Need help booking Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There is no water at the facility Utility hookups and showers are not available.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Garden Point Campground offers a wide array of activities including boating, canoeing, fishing, water skiing, swimming, and other water sports. Additionally, the surrounding area features opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Wildlife viewing and exploring the diverse natural environment are also popular pursuits. However, swimmers should note that the steep slopes limit the presence of designated swimming areas.

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

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 PolicyFire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the Yuba River Ranger District (530) 288-3231(voice), (530) 288-3656 (TDD). Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

Trash & RecyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not explicitly provided. Campers should plan to pack out all waste.

Cell CoverageWhile not specifically mentioned in the official sources, user reviews mention limited communication capabilities due to the remote nature of the campground.

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

From Booking Sources

3.8

46 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Garden Point Boat-In Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight a mix of experiences, with many praising the natural beauty, water-based activities, and the unique aspect of the boat-in access. However, complaints include issues with water levels, steep terrain, and the lack of facilities or ranger presence.

Review Summaries

Based on 46 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praised the scenic beauty, especially the views from specific campsites like site 20. The abundant recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and water sports, were...

Based on 46 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of potable water, the steep hike to some campsites (especially during low water levels), and disturbances from noisy neighbors in the absence of camp hosts. Vault...

Based on 46 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 20 is frequently praised for its views, while site 7 is noted for its challenging water access. Sites 3, 4, 1, 5, and 6 are described as good options by campers.

Based on 46 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend booking early to secure desired sites, especially those with good views. Packing light and preparing for steep terrain is advised, particularly during low water levels. Spring is...

Based on 46 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that spring and early summer are the most enjoyable seasons due to higher water levels and cooler weather. Late summer and early fall can pose challenges with low water levels and...

Based on 46 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campsite is amazing, but water access is just about non-existent from site 7.' 2. 'We stayed at site 20, and I really liked the view we had.' 3. 'Depending on the water level, it could be a...

Based on 46 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.

Based on 46 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want watercraft-access camping with fishing and swimming in a quiet, primitive setting during spring reservoir highs.

Skip if

You need drive-up access, on-site hosts, or guaranteed high water levels outside spring months.

Nearby Campgrounds

3 miles west of the Yuba River Ranger Station on Marysville Road, Camptonville, CA, 95922

Dark Day Campground sits in the Tahoe National Forest foothills near Bullards Bar Reservoir, about 15 miles from Camptonville. Run by the North Yuba Ranger Station, this very small site offers shaded tent and primitive camping with flush and vault toilets, potable water, and direct access to reservoir fishing, swimming, and boating. Fall brings the best conditions, with crisp weather, fall color, and fewer crowds.

Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Current alerts(3)

Best Time to Camp at Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Planning Tips

About Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

Plan a trip to Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Current alerts(3)

Best Time to Camp at Garden Point Boat-In Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Garden Point Boat-In Campground?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews