Boat-in Campground
030 reviewsLake Clementine Rd. off Foresthill Rd., Auburn, CA 95603
Boat-in Campground
$38.00 - $38.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$38.00
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 $38 per night. An additional $10 fee applies for each extra vehicle, and a $10 motorized boat launch fee is payable at the entrance station. These fees are cumulative.
About this campground
Escape to Lake Clementine Boat-In Campground, where adventure begins the moment you push off from shore. This pristine lakefront sanctuary, tucked deep within the American River canyon, offers an exclusive wilderness experience accessible only by watercraft. Here, primitive camping meets breathtaking scenery, creating the perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and natural beauty far from the crowds.
This campground exclusively features primitive boat-in camping sites suitable for tent camping. No group camping or luxury accommodations are offered.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite rests within Auburn State Recreation Area, where echoes of California's legendary Gold Rush still resonate through the canyon walls. The towering Foresthill Bridge stands as a modern marvel above, while scattered throughout the landscape, weathered mining artifacts tell tales of fortune seekers who once panned these waters. This land bridges past and present, offering visitors a chance to camp where history was made.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bask in warm sunshine with temperatures climbing into the high 80s and mid-90s, perfect for swimming and water activities. As autumn arrives, the canyon transforms with cooler air, while winter brings crisp nights in the 30s and 40s. From October through April, gentle rains refresh the landscape, filling the air with the scent of wet earth and rejuvenating the surrounding vegetation.
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 SceneryPicture yourself waking to mirror-smooth waters reflecting the rugged canyon walls, where chaparral-covered slopes give way to groves of mixed conifers. Lake Clementine's emerald waters wind through the narrow gorge, creating hidden coves and peaceful inlets. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem—watch for deer coming to drink at dawn, hawks circling overhead, and the occasional glimpse of river otters playing along the shore.
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessible only by boat, making it less suitable for individuals requiring mobility assistance. No additional accessibility features are described.
Sites SizeEach site includes a tent pad with dimensions of 20 feet by 20 feet.
Sites PrivacySites are located lakefront with limited privacy due to the open, clustered layout.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive 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 portion of the campground tend to offer better views and slightly more seclusion.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
7days
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe 15 campsites are arranged along the lakeshore, accessible only by boat. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 – September 30. Reservations required from May 15 – September 15. The campground is closed from October 1 – April 30.
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.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
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.
FishingFishing is supported with a variety of fish species available, including brown trout, large and smallmouth bass, carp, and catfish.
SwimmingSwimming is allowed but caution is advised due to potential algal blooms in slower-moving water areas.
BoatingBoating is a primary activity and is required to access the campground. Motorized and non-motorized vessels are permitted.
Wildlife viewingThe lakefront location provides opportunities for observing local wildlife, although specifics are not detailed.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep terrain, wildlife such as black bears and rattlesnakes, and toxic algal mats in the lake.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions are in place during dry conditions, prohibiting open flames. Toxic algal mats may also pose a danger in slower-moving areas of the lake.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Auburn, CA – Auburn SRA Front Desk: 530-885-4527
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 – September 15
Trash and recyclingPack-it-in, pack-it-out policy applies. Campers must remove all trash upon departure.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Lake Clementine, providing opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and boat access.
Common complaintsSome visitors mention limited parking availability for boat trailers and the absence of drinking water facilities.
Campground Map
Lake Clementine Rd. off Foresthill Rd., Auburn, CA 95603
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.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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
30 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
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...
Show more
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...
Show more
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...
Show more
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.
'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.'
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.'
Reviews do not address accessibility for individuals with disabilities explicitly; the boat-access-only nature limits accessibility.
Pets are not allowed at this campground, which is a noted restriction in user reviews.
Last updated July 20, 2025