How much does camping cost at Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground?

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

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

Madrone Cove 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 Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground before I book?

Yes! Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground has 6 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 Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground?

Madrone Cove 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 Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground?

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

How many campsites does Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground have?

Madrone Cove 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 Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Madrone Cove 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 Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground?

Madrone Cove 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 Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground?

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

Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground?

Fire policies at Madrone Cove 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.

2.44

9 reviews

this is a boat in campground, launch from either Dark Day boat launch or Emerald Cove Marina boat ramp

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

2,000 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Open season: April 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest - Yuba River Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,000 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Open season: April 1...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest - Yuba River Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Boat In: $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

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

this is a boat in campground, launch from either Dark Day boat launch or Emerald Cove Marina boat ramp

Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

this is a boat in campground, launch from either Dark Day boat launch or Emerald Cove Marina boat ramp

Nearby places

Camptonville (approx. 8 miles), North San Juan (approx. 11 miles), Dobbins (approx. 14 miles)

Weather at Madrone Cove 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 this facility
Utility hookups and showers are not available

Best Time to Camp at Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the warmest, sunniest conditions (daytime highs often 75–95°F, nights in the 50s–60s at 2,000 ft) making boat-in camping, swimming, boating, and late-day fishing reliably enjoyable. The reservoir is at its most accessible for discovering secluded coves and beaches, and long daylight hours maximize exploration and water play. Expect increased boat traffic on holiday weekends, but camps remain far quieter than drive-in sites thanks to the boat-only access. Note that campsites at M Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring/early season has higher water levels and better overall conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season: April 15 - October 15 (reservable start date June 23, 2025).

About Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

Madrone Cove sits on the shores of a foothill reservoir in Tahoe National Forest, accessible only by boat. Operated by the Yuba River Ranger District, this primitive campground offers shaded sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers come for fishing, exploring secluded coves, and escaping road-accessible crowds during the warm summer season.

Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground caters to primitive campers, as it requires boat access and provides minimal facilities.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the warmest, sunniest conditions (daytime highs often 75–95°F, nights in the 50s–60s at 2,000 ft) making boat-in camping, swimming, boating, and late-day fishing reliably enjoyable. The reservoir is at its most accessible for discovering secluded coves and beaches, and long daylight hours maximize exploration and water play. Expect increased boat traffic on holiday weekends, but camps remain far quieter than drive-in sites thanks to the boat-only access. Note that campsites at M Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation2000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and ScenerySteep canyon walls rise from the reservoir's edge, covered in Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, and native madrone trees. Manzanita and other brush species fill the understory. The campsites sit in shaded pockets along the slope, with views down to the water. As summer progresses, the reservoir level drops, exposing rocky shoreline. Site 8 sits closest to the water, with site 7 directly above it on the hillside.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo additional lodging accommodations such as cabins or hotels are available at this location.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact guest limits per site are not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsAvailable on Recreation.gov through website and contact center.

AccessibilityAccessibility features were not detailed. Visitors with disabilities should contact the Yuba River Ranger District for more information.

Site SizeThe campground is not vehicle-accessible and requires a boat-in approach, suggesting limited space and rustic conditions.

PrivacyCampsites are fairly close together, potentially reducing privacy. Specific site descriptions from reviews highlight that campsite 8 is closest to the water and campsite 7 is directly above it.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose Campsite 8 for the closest proximity to the water and Campsite 7 for slightly elevated views. Bring mosquito repellents and avoid tying boats directly to the shore to prevent damage.

Best CampsitesSite 8 sits closest to the water for easiest boat access and swimming. Site 7 is directly above it on the slope. Reviews mention anchoring boats offshore to avoid rock damage along the shoreline.

Need help booking Madrone Cove 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 this facility Utility hookups and showers are not available

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of activities, including boating, kayaking, fishing, and water sports. Hiking and biking trails are accessible nearby, and the reservoir provides opportunities for year-round fishing.

Fishing

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

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 & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described. Visitor reviews suggest inconsistency in site cleanliness, with one user reporting significant trash at campsite 8.

Cell CoverageNo specific information on cell phone service availability or reception quality. Visitors should prepare for limited connectivity.

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

2.4

9 reviews

Mixed Reviews

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

Mixed reviews highlight both the scenic beauty of the campground and challenges such as steep slopes, mosquito prevalence, and occasional trash issues. Many users emphasize the need for better communication about fire restrictions.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 9 reviews.

Campsite 8Mentioned
Campsite 8 is closest to the water and is noted for its scenic location, but it had issues with trash cleanliness.
Campsite 7Mentioned
Campsite 7 is directly above campsite 8, offering less direct water access.

What Campers Love

Visitors praise the beautiful water views, shaded campsites, and unique boat-in access. Positive sentiments also highlight the reservoir's suitability for water activities and year-round fishing.

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise levels, especially late into the night, and the presence of trash at certain sites were noted as downsides. Several users reported dissatisfaction with fire restrictions that were not...

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend anchoring boats offshore to avoid damage from rocks, bringing portable grills for cooking, and preparing for mosquitoes with repellents. Early-season visits are suggested for...

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Seasonal trends indicate higher water levels and better overall conditions earlier in the year, while late summer and early fall are marked by lower water levels and fire restrictions.

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The lake is awesome though and I would recommend checking it out earlier in the year." - Jacob Ross. "When arrived at place the site was trashed spent over an hour picking up garbage to be able to...

Based on 9 reviews