Ahart Campground

Star3.48
10 reviews
22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA, 95631
Ahart Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate during the peak season (May 21, 2025 - September 30, 2025) is $20. Additional fees may apply for reservations made online or through...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$20.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
530-367-2224

About this campground

Discover your perfect mountain escape at Ahart Campground, where the crystal-clear waters of the North Fork American River meet the pristine shores of French Meadows Reservoir. This hidden gem in the Sierra Nevada beckons adventurers with its rugged mountain landscapes, exceptional fishing opportunities, and miles of scenic trails. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring mountain paths, or simply soaking in the tranquil forest atmosphere, Ahart delivers an authentic wilderness experience that reconnects you with nature's raw beauty.
Ahart Campground provides both reservable and first-come, first-served campsites catering to tent campers. The focus is on a traditional camping experience in a natural setting.
Historical SignificanceWhile Ahart Campground may not boast ancient artifacts or historic landmarks, its significance lies in preserving the timeless tradition of Sierra Nevada camping. This pristine wilderness remains much as it has for generations, offering modern adventurers the same sense of discovery and connection to the natural world that has drawn people to these mountains for decades.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Sierra Nevada weather with sun-drenched summer days that invite endless outdoor adventures, followed by refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. As summer progresses, the landscape transforms—mountain creeks that rush with snowmelt in early season may slow to a gentle trickle by late summer, revealing hidden rock formations and creating intimate natural pools. Winter blankets the region in snow, feeding the waterways that burst back to life each spring.
ElevationPerched high in the majestic Sierra Nevada range, Ahart Campground offers that coveted mountain altitude experience where the air feels crisp and clean, the stars shine brilliantly in the thin atmosphere, and every breath reminds you that you've escaped to the high country. This elevated setting provides cooler temperatures and spectacular vistas that define the Sierra camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a stunning coniferous forest where towering pines and firs create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The campground's prime location between the melodic Middle Fork of the American River and the expansive north shore of French Meadows Reservoir offers a diverse aquatic playground. Wake to misty mornings over the water, spend warm afternoons exploring shaded forest trails, and end your days watching alpenglow paint the surrounding peaks as cool mountain breezes rustle through the trees.
Geological RegionAhart Campground sits within the heart of the Sierra Nevada's granite kingdom, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of dramatic beauty. Positioned along the North Fork of the American River near French Meadows Reservoir, the campground showcases the region's characteristic granite outcroppings, glacially carved valleys, and dense coniferous forests. This remarkable setting represents millions of years of geological artistry, from volcanic activity to glacial sculpting, creating the breathtaking mountain wilderness that defines California's iconic Sierra Nevada range.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible campsites, grills, and vault toilets, though specific details about compliance with ADA standards are not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious enough to accommodate two tents in most cases.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers considerable privacy, with sites described as secluded and shielded by trees.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the creek offer increased privacy and scenic views but may have seasonal water shortages. Avoid Soda Springs Rd for access.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include 3 (Loop A), 4 (Loop A), and 7 (Loop B) for space, privacy, and proximity to water features.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Official check-in time details not provided.
Check-out
Official check-out time details not provided.
Stay Limit
Stay limit details not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Details on the number of guests allowed per site not specified.
Groups
No specific group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features loops (A and B) with spaces for tents and small RVs. Sites are generally level and offer privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 21, 2025; first come-first served starts June 20, 2025, reservations from June 21 to September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability begins June 20, 2025. Limited sites available, details not provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made up to midnight 1 calendar day before arrival for individual sites. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and the first night's fee is forfeited for late cancellations. Reservation fees are non-refundable.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Ahart Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and mountain biking, with easy access to the North Fork of the American River and nearby French Meadows Reservoir. Water activities such as canoeing and scenic drives are also available. Wildlife viewing and photography opportunities abound, given the serene natural surroundings.
Hiking
The area provides access to trails that explore the rugged mountain scenery. Specific details on trail difficulty and lengths are not provided.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities available in the nearby creek and the French Meadows Reservoir.
Biking
Mountain biking is highlighted as an activity, though specific trails and difficulty levels are not described.
Boating
Canoeing and other water activities are supported, with easy access to French Meadows Reservoir.
Wildlife viewing
The campground's natural setting offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, though specific species are not detailed.
Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities are not mentioned, but the area's high elevation might support activities like snowshoeing during the off-season.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, including canoeing, are supported at the nearby French Meadows Reservoir.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fire restrictions may be imposed without notice during hot, dry weather conditions.
  • Quiet hours are Quiet hour timing not specified.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity requiring mandatory use of food storage lockers and lack of cell phone service.
Active alertsCurrent road closures on Mosquito Ridge Road may affect accessibility.

Weather forecast

55
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 42%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 2.1 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are likely in Foresthill, which is 40 miles away. Specific emergency services details not provided.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 21, 2025 to September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, ensuring proper waste disposal. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Middle Fork of the American River and French Meadows Reservoir. Creek water levels vary by season.
Common complaintsComplaints include challenging road access and occasional lack of site maintenance. Reviews warn against using Soda Springs Rd due to dangerous terrain.
HostHost information not provided.

Campground Map

22830 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA, 95631
Driving directionsMosquito Ridge Rd outside of Foresthill is closed as of June 2023. Access for low clearance vehicles, trucks pulling trailers, and motorhomes/RVs is best through Georgetown on the Eldorado National Forest via Wentworth Springs Rd to Eleven Pines Rd. High clearance vehicles may use Foresthill Rd to the 43 Rd (Robinson Flat Rd) to Mosquito Ridge Rd, snow permitting. Access from Soda Springs and the 43 Rd is not recommended for passenger vehicles without high clearance and four-wheel drive.
The campground requires navigating mountain roads that vary in conditions. Mosquito Ridge Road is closed, and the alternative routes are not recommended for trailers or low-clearance vehicles. High clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles are necessary for some routes.
Nearby places
Foresthill (40 miles, approx. driving time not mentioned), Auburn (distance and driving time not provided)
Nearby supplies
Last-minute supplies, including gas and ice, should be purchased at Foresthill, which is approximately 40 miles away.

Camper Reviews

3.5
10 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Ahart Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reveal mixed sentiments, with several highlighting the natural beauty and privacy of the campground but also cautioning about the challenging drive to access it. The average sentiment for camping-specific experiences is rated at 3.3.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users praise the campground's tranquility, privacy, and proximity to water sources. Reviews mention, "The campground is very pretty and quiet," and "Sites on the river side have lots of room."...
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Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints involve the challenging access roads, with users advising others to avoid Soda Springs Road. One review notes, "DO NOT TAKE THIS ROAD. The 'road' is a washed-out cliffside...
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Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers strongly recommend using Foresthill Road for access. Bringing drinking water is essential, and visitors are advised to plan for bear safety by properly using food storage lockers. One user...
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Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is favored during the late spring and summer months, though water levels in the creek may diminish later in the summer, as noted by multiple users. Fire risk and restrictions are...
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Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "If you're looking for a more secluded camping experience than the adjacent French Meadows Campground, look no further." 2. "Bring your water. The bumpy road described in other reviews was not my...
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Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 7, Loop B, received mixed reviews, with one user rating it 1 and another giving it 4 stars for its spaciousness. Site 4, Loop A, was frequently praised for its level ground and proximity to...
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Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility-related reviews are mentioned.
Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no reviews specifically address pet-related experiences.
Based on 10 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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