Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

Star3.22
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

Opens Tahoe National Forest - Yuba River Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rate for boat-in camping is $24. Additional charges may apply for taxes or incremental services.
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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

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Provider
530-478-6253
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What Campers Say

3.22

Mixed Reviews

Based on 9 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsshadewatersites

Some mention

noise

"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."

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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

Driving directionsFrom Nevada City, travel approximately 20 miles on Highway 49 to Marysville Road. Turn left onto Marysville Road travel approximately 3 miles to the Dark Day Boat Launch ramp for launching or travel approximately 7 miles to Emerald Cove Marina and launch at the boat ramp there.
The campground is accessible only via boat, requiring launch from either Dark Day Boat Launch ramp or Emerald Cove Marina boat ramp. Roads to boat launch sites are paved, though steep inclines and narrow paths may present challenges.
Nearby places
Camptonville (approx. 8 miles), North San Juan (approx. 11 miles), Dobbins (approx. 14 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available at Emerald Cove Marina and local communities including Camptonville, North San Juan, and Dobbins.

Best Time to Camp at Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

From April through October, Madrone Cove basks in California's signature warm-weather camping conditions, with sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and water sports. As summer deepens, the reservoir's water levels naturally recede, revealing hidden coves and secret beaches. Pack your bug spray for those balmy evenings when mosquitoes join the lakeside symphony of crickets and gentle lapping waves.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Open in summer; excellent for boating and water sports but mosquitoes and late low water noted.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
2.5 / 5

Late summer/early fall see lower water levels and fire restrictions that reduce appeal.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Earlier season brings higher water levels and better overall conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; open season Apr 15–Oct 15.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 15, 2025 - October 15, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season: April 15 - October 15 (reservable start date June 23, 2025).
  • Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may be active; campers should contact the Yuba River Ranger District for real-time updates.

About Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

Hidden away on the pristine waters of Bullards Bar Reservoir, Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground offers an exclusive wilderness escape that few ever discover. This secluded haven in Tahoe National Forest rewards adventurous souls who arrive by boat with tranquil, shaded campsites nestled beneath towering conifers and graceful hardwoods. Far from the crowds and accessible only by water, Madrone Cove delivers the kind of peaceful solitude that makes you forget the outside world exists.
Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground caters to primitive campers, as it requires boat access and provides minimal facilities.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

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.
HikingSeveral non-motorized trails are located near the campground, including the Bullards Bar Trailhead (14 miles), 7 Ball Trail (1 mile), 8 Ball Trail (3.8 miles), Rebel Ridge Trail (1.6 miles), and Schoolhouse Trail (0.7 miles).
FishingYear-round fishing is available for warm and cold water fish species. Visitors are encouraged to bring their equipment as on-site rentals are not mentioned.
SwimmingOpportunities for swimming are limited due to steep slopes but can be found at various locations accessible by boat.
BikingMountain biking is supported in the area, with trails of varying lengths and difficulties.
BoatingBoating is a primary activity at the campground, with access to two developed boat launch ramps (Dark Day and Emerald Cove Marina) and one undeveloped launch site. Anchoring boats offshore is recommended due to rocky shorelines.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is mentioned as a recreational activity, though specific species are not listed.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSteep slopes, rocky shores, and mosquitoes are notable challenges. Campers are advised not to tie boats directly to the shore to avoid damage. Water levels can drop significantly later in the season.
Active AlertsFire restrictions may be active; campers should contact the Yuba River Ranger District for real-time updates.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground

Reviews

3.2
9 reviews
Mixed 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

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...
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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...
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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...
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Based on 9 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite 8 is closest to the water and is noted for its scenic location, but it had issues with trash cleanliness. Campsite 7 is directly above campsite 8, offering less direct water access.
Based on 9 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific feedback related to accessibility features was found in user reviews.
Based on 9 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at the campground, but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 9 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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