Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground
03 reviewsthis is a boat in campground, launch from either Dark Day boat launch or Emerald Cove Marina boat ramp
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
Total Campsite Fees$24.00
Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider530-478-6253
About this 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.
Historical SignificanceWhile Madrone Cove may not boast ancient artifacts or historic landmarks, its story unfolds in the present moment—where each visitor becomes part of an ongoing narrative of wilderness preservation and the timeless human connection to untouched nature.
Weather and SeasonsFrom 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.
ElevationPerched at 2,000 feet above sea level, Madrone Cove enjoys a sweet spot of mountain elevation—high enough to escape the valley heat, yet low enough to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the camping season. From this vantage point, sweeping views of the reservoir and surrounding forest-clad hills create an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow.
Natural Features and SceneryDrama unfolds at every turn at Madrone Cove, where steep hillsides plunge toward the sparkling reservoir waters. A rich tapestry of Douglas firs, ponderosa pines, and native madrones creates a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns across your campsite. Manzanita and other hardy brush species paint the understory with texture and color, while each site offers its own private pocket of shade—nature's perfect architecture for lazy afternoon naps and evening campfire gatherings.
Geological RegionMadrone Cove sits within the rugged embrace of Tahoe National Forest, where ancient geological forces carved dramatic slopes that now cradle Bullards Bar Reservoir. At 2,000 feet elevation, this landscape tells a story written in stone and forest—steep canyon walls adorned with resilient conifers, elegant hardwoods, and tenacious brush that have adapted to thrive on these challenging gradients. It's a testament to nature's ability to transform harsh terrain into a sanctuary of unexpected beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not detailed. Visitors with disabilities should contact the Yuba River Ranger District for more information.
Sites SizeThe campground is not vehicle-accessible and requires a boat-in approach, suggesting limited space and rustic conditions.
Sites 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 CampsitesChoose 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 CampsitesCampsite 8 is closest to the water, and Campsite 7 is directly above it. These sites are noted for ease of access to the reservoir.
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.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features individual campsites with boat-in access. Campsites are shaded and arranged along the steep slopes of the reservoir.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 15 - October 15 (reservable start date June 23, 2025).
Reservation PlatformsAvailable on Recreation.gov through website and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified for walk-in or same-day reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or through the contact center prior to the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. No refund is issued for cancellations on the day of arrival.
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.
Hiking
Several 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).Fishing
Year-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.Swimming
Opportunities for swimming are limited due to steep slopes but can be found at various locations accessible by boat.Biking
Mountain biking is supported in the area, with trails of varying lengths and difficulties.Boating
Boating 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 viewing
Wildlife viewing is mentioned as a recreational activity, though specific species are not listed.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are detailed.Water Sports
The reservoir supports a range of water sports, including water skiing, kayaking, and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed; campers should verify conditions before arriving. Alternatives to campfires may be necessary.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated, but noise disturbances have been reported, particularly late at night and early morning.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep 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.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.8 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
North Yuba Ranger Station is a couple of miles east of the reservoir on Marysville Road. For fire conditions or emergencies contact the Yuba River Ranger District at (530) 288-3231 or (530) 288-3656 (TDD).
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15, 2025 - October 15, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described. Visitor reviews suggest inconsistency in site cleanliness, with one user reporting significant trash at campsite 8.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Bullards Bar Reservoir. Campsites are within walking distance to the water, with Campsite 8 being the closest.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include low water levels, mosquito infestations, locked fire pits during restrictions, and noise disturbances from neighboring sites.
HostNo mention of campground hosts.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Madrone Cove Boat-In Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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 3 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 3 reviewsCommon 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 3 reviewsShow more
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 3 reviewsShow more
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 3 reviewsCamper 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 3 reviewsShow more
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 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific feedback related to accessibility features was found in user reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but no specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025