Boulder Creek (Ca)
4.2717 reviewsBoulder Creek (Ca)
$30.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
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
For Peak Season (May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025), the nightly rate is $36. For First-come, First-served Season (September 1, 2025 - October 26, 2025), the nightly rate is $30.
About this campground
Nestled in the pristine northern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Boulder Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and lakeside adventure. Here, beneath towering pines and alongside the sparkling waters of Antelope Lake, campers discover spacious sites that serve as gateways to endless water recreation. Evening brings the campground community together around crackling fires, where educational programs illuminate the natural wonders that surround you.
Boulder Creek Campground accommodates both tent and RV campers. Several campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and all sites allow for single-family use. Group sites, cabins, or glamping options are not mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsBoulder Creek's mountain climate offers a dynamic tapestry of seasonal experiences. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, with temperatures dipping between 25°F and 37°F, creating crystalline mornings perfect for crisp mountain air enthusiasts. Spring and fall bring moderate cloud cover and refreshing rains that awaken the forest floor. Summer unveils the campground's full glory, with warm days ideal for swimming, boating, and lakeside lounging under brilliant blue skies.
ElevationPerched at 5,000 feet above sea level, Boulder Creek Campground offers a refreshing mountain escape where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and summer heat gives way to comfortable temperatures. This elevation creates an ideal climate for both relaxation and adventure, with cool mornings perfect for hiking and pleasant afternoons that invite you to explore the lake.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where majestic Jeffrey and lodgepole pines tower alongside fragrant firs, creating a natural cathedral around your campsite. Antelope Lake's 15 miles of pristine forested shoreline wind through protected coves that serve as vital sanctuaries for migratory birds. Wildlife enthusiasts delight in close encounters with nature—from melodious birdsong at dawn to gentle deer threading through campsites at dusk. As one enchanted visitor shared, 'We loved seeing and hearing the cows grazing and the deer walking right through our campsite,' capturing the authentic wilderness experience that defines Boulder Creek.
Geological RegionBoulder Creek Campground rests within the magnificent Sierra Nevada Mountains, a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers over millennia. This geological masterpiece showcases nature's artistry through dramatic granite peaks that pierce the sky and crystalline mountain lakes that mirror the heavens. The surrounding forest—a rich tapestry of Jeffrey and lodgepole pines interwoven with stately firs—tells the story of resilient life thriving in this high-altitude paradise. Each rocky outcrop and gentle slope whispers tales of ice ages past, creating a camping experience that connects you to the very bones of the earth.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, and RV access is possible, though larger RVs may face difficulties. According to one user, "We have a 36 ft, class A and most sites are either too small or the turn into them is too tight."
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies, with some sites closely spaced and others offering more seclusion. "The campsites are pretty close together in some parts but far enough apart that you've got some privacy," one user wrote.
Total Campsites67 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake may offer partial views, while shaded sites provide relief from the sun. "Lots of shade," as noted by one review.
Best CampsitesCampsites near restrooms are valued for convenience. Site-specific ratings vary widely, with positive reviews for sites like 056 and 045, and negative for sites like 044.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-In is at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-Out is at Noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites generally accommodate up to 6 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread out across loops and sections. Some sites are noted as being close together, while others offer more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Season: May 23, 2025; Reservable Start Date: June 25, 2025; Closed Season: August 31, 2025 for reservations, October 26, 2025 for first-come, first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the First-come, First-served Season (September 1, 2025 - October 26, 2025).
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees include a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's camping fee for late cancellations. Changes prior to the day of arrival are allowed with a $10 fee for switching dates entirely. No refunds for cancellations made after check-in date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Boulder Creek Campground offers a range of recreational activities centered around Antelope Lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, canoeing, kayaking, boating, water skiing, and fishing. The mountainous terrain is ideal for mountain biking, though hiking opportunities near the campground are limited. Educational campfire programs are also hosted at the campground's amphitheater.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with anglers targeting large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, and trout. Additionally, Indian Creek below the Antelope Dam spillway offers productive fishing spots.Swimming
Swimming is available and well-liked. The lake is described as "beautiful with clear water and perfect temperature" by one user, though others note that some parts of the lake may be muddy.Biking
Mountain biking is highlighted as an enjoyable activity due to the rugged terrain and dusty trails.Boating
Boating opportunities are ample, with a multi-lane boat ramp less than two miles from the campground. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides opportunities for viewing migratory birds and other wildlife. Several users reported spotting bald eagles.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground hosts educational campfire programs at its amphitheater.Water Sports
The lake supports various non-motorized water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, in addition to water skiing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings and grills. Firewood bundles may be purchased from the campground host.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area. "Food must be kept in appropriate containers." User reviews also mention bugs being prevalent, highlighting the need for bug spray.
Active alertsRV dump station is closed indefinitely.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
The nearest gas and phone services are in Taylorsville, CA, approximately 25 miles away. Specific emergency services like hospitals or police are not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is limited, with only one dumpster available at another campground. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Antelope Lake, which offers swimming, fishing, paddle boarding, and other activities. "The lake was absolutely beautiful with clear water and perfect temperature," noted a user.
Common complaintsComplaints include deteriorating pavement, proximity of some campsites, and lack of enforcement of rules by camp hosts. "Signs say to keep vehicles on pavement, but the pavement has deteriorated," one user notes.
HostCamp hosts receive varied feedback, ranging from praise for helpfulness to criticism for lack of rule enforcement.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Oroville, take Highway 70 and head east 72 miles to Highway 89. Turn left and go 8 miles. Turn right on Road A22 (Arlington). Go 7 miles through Taylorsville to a "T" at the rodeo grounds. Turn right and head 20 miles to Antelope Lake. Follow the signs to the campground.
The road to Boulder Creek Campground includes stretches of paved and unpaved roads. "If you come from the Chico area, it is a long graded dirt road," as noted in user reviews. Seasonal road closures or poor conditions due to weather are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Taylorsville, CA is approximately 25 miles away.
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies for groceries, camping gear, and fuel are located in Taylorsville, CA, 25 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
17 reviews
Boulder Creek (Ca) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mostly positive, with an average sentiment of 4.18. Visitors appreciate the spacious campsites, well-maintained facilities, and the beautiful lake. However, some criticisms include issues with the camp host, noise disturbances, and limited amenities like trash disposal.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the 'beautiful and clear' lake, spacious campsites, clean bathrooms, and enjoyable swimming and fishing opportunities. Wildlife sightings, including bald eagles, are...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of trash facilities, absence of bear boxes, noisy disturbances from other campers, and limited cell phone service. Some users also noted muddy lake areas and...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bug spray, preloading GPS due to no cell service, and using the boat ramp for better lake access. Campers should also prepare for potential bear activity by bringing...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive experiences are noted in the summer months, with activities like swimming and fishing being popular. However, reviews highlight the presence of bugs during warmer weather. Seasonal water...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The lake was absolutely beautiful with clear water and perfect temperature.' - 'Clean facilities with well-maintained vault toilets.' - 'The camp host kept the generator running all night long.' -...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews reveal mixed experiences. Campsite 044 is noted for disturbances due to loud neighboring campers, while site 046 received praise for its proximity to the lake and wildlife...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were provided by users.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025