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Established Camping

Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area

Warning 6 Alerts are In Effect

There are 6 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

Effective April 14, 2025, Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine will be closed to all trailered or motorized vessels. All boats wishing to launch into Folsom Lake or Lake Clementine are required to go through a mandatory 30-day quarantine.

After May 14, 2025 all trailered or motorized vessels entering Folsom Lake or Lake Clementine will be required to have a quarantine, and/or decontamination seal intact and verified prior to entering the water. More information is available at https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=31843

Wake Surfing Prohibited- Lake Clementine

Beginning May 1, 2022 wake surfing is prohibited at Lake Clementine.  This new regulation was enacted due to damage to the shoreline, other vessels, and the marina facility caused by abnormally large wakes associated with wake surfing. 

Thank you for your patience as we finalize the 2026 inventory. Please continue to check back. We will be releasing the inventory as soon as it becomes available.

No dogs are allowed on the lake.

Campfires are not allowed from June 15 through October 31 due to fire danger.  Campfires are allowed from November through mid-June.   

Ruck A Chucky is currently closed and will not reopen until 4/15/18 (weather dependent). This site will not be reserveable; it is only a 1st1st area. Road closes from 10/15 to 4/15 annually. Please have them check the local Auburn SRA State website for updates and further information. Mineral Bar is currently off reservations with an unknown activation date. The campground is going to have some work within it and may drop to a total of 14 sites. Currently Sites 1 ___ 8 are available on a 1st1st basis paid through iron ranger. Check the Auburn SRA State website for further details. Boat-in sites: 1st 1st from May 1 ___ 15; reservations available from May 15 ___ September 15; 1st 1st September 16 ___ 30; CLOSED when not on reservations (October 1, 2018 ___ April 30, 2019).

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Mineral Bar Campground, near Auburn, California, is a charming spot that offers a laid-back atmosphere right by the river. With sites that provide easy access to the North Fork of the American River, it’s a great place to kick back and enjoy some time in nature.

The campground features picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Visitors have enjoyed the clean campsites and the nearby hiking trails that run along the river’s edge, making it easy for everyone to explore the beautiful surroundings. One camper mentioned, “Nice trails to explore that run along the river’s edge. Easy trails for beginners.”

If you’re into swimming, you’ll find some rocky pools nearby, although the water can be quite chilly, especially in the winter months. The area is also known for fishing and gold prospecting, so there’s plenty to keep you busy. Just remember to bring your own water, as there are no drinking water facilities on-site.

Located about an hour from Sacramento, this campground feels remote yet accessible, making it a perfect escape from the city. With its unique layout and cozy vibe, Mineral Bar Campground is a solid choice for those looking to enjoy a bit of adventure and relaxation in the great outdoors.

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Location

Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Hwy 80 in Colfax exit at Canyon Way, head north on Canyon way turn right onto Iowa Hil Rd. 3 mile paved road to sites and river.

Address

Lake Clementine Road & Foresthill Road
Auburn, CA 95604

Coordinates

39.10079657 N
120.9239394 W

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Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 6, 2021

Nice spot on the river

First visit here. Our campsite was right on the river. We enjoyed our stay here and would likely return to lounge in the river during the summer. Nice trails to explore that run along the river’s edge. Easy trails for beginners.

SiteADA accessible
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by BRIAN O., October 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by BRIAN O., October 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by BRIAN O., October 6, 2021
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Dec. 29, 2020

Off the beaten track

Only 15 minutes away (windy road) from Colfax, but feels so remote!

Beautiful mountain valley of north fork. Clean campsites right along road with bearboxes, picnic tables, and fire pits. Easy river access down the hill to rocky swimming pools. Water was COLD obviously in December haha. Many hiking trails up and down the canyon.

Highly recommend! I’m coming back here for sure!

  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by Christian N., December 29, 2020
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by Christian N., December 29, 2020
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by Christian N., December 29, 2020
  • (16) View All
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2018

North fork American river camping

Close to the n. fork of the American river. Lots of great swimming holes close by up river. Great hiking path opposite the camp ground going up river. ActivitIes Include fishing, hIkIng, and gold prospectIng. Camping fee Is $30 per site. Some spaces are large enough for a rv.

  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by jim R., August 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by jim R., August 7, 2018
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2018

Gold Panning on the river

Bring Water!

One of my favorite summer spots, great Access to the American River. Site has pit toilets, fire rings, tables and bear lockers(have seen several bears)

  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by jim N., July 12, 2018
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by jim N., July 12, 2018
  • Review photo of Mineral Bar Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area by jim N., July 12, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Mineral Bar Campground?

Mineral Bar Campground offers basic amenities including pit toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers (important as bears have been spotted in the area). The campground does not provide potable water, so campers need to bring their own water supply. Some campsites are situated right along the river, offering beautiful views and easy access to the water. The campground can accommodate RVs at certain sites, though hookups are not available. Each campsite costs $30 per night.

Where is Mineral Bar Campground located?

Mineral Bar Campground is located in the Auburn State Recreation Area along the North Fork of the American River in California. It's situated in a beautiful mountain valley setting that feels remote despite being only about 15 minutes away from the town of Colfax via a winding road. The campground's riverside location provides a secluded outdoor experience while still being relatively accessible from nearby communities.

Is there a map of Mineral Bar Campground?

There is no specific map information provided for Mineral Bar Campground in the available sources. For detailed campground maps, check the Auburn State Recreation Area official website or contact the park office directly. Maps are typically available at ranger stations or visitor centers within the Auburn State Recreation Area. When arriving at the campground, look for posted maps at information boards near the entrance.

How do I make reservations at Mineral Bar Campground?

Specific reservation information for Mineral Bar Campground isn't detailed in the available sources. To make reservations, check the Auburn State Recreation Area's official website or contact their park office directly. The camping fee is $30 per site. Be prepared with alternative options during peak seasons as this campground can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. It's advisable to book well in advance during summer months when riverside camping is most popular.

What activities can I do at Mineral Bar Campground?

Mineral Bar Campground offers numerous outdoor activities centered around the North Fork of the American River. Swimming is popular in the rocky river pools, though the water can be quite cold depending on the season. Hiking trails run along the river's edge, with easy paths suitable for beginners. Fishing is available in the river, and the area is known for gold prospecting opportunities. The campground's riverside location makes it ideal for lounging by the water during summer months. Wildlife observation is also possible, with bears occasionally sighted in the area.