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Ruck-A-Chucky Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Auburn State Recreation Area's Ruck-A-Chucky Campground sits directly on the North Fork American River, reached by a roughly three-mile dirt road that drops down from the Foresthill area. The road is maintained but narrow, and multiple visitors recommend four-wheel drive for the descent and return. Small cars have made it down without trouble, but the campground's 20-foot RV limit reflects the real constraints of the access route. Reviewers exploring places to camp around Auburn State Recreation Area often single out Ruck-A-Chucky for its river-level positioning, which is rare among the area's established sites.

The campground has five tent-only sites, and at least one sits right at the water's edge. Many sites are in direct sun, so shade is limited. The river draws paddlers, rafters, and anglers, and the put-in and take-out for commercial raft trips runs through the area, meaning some daytime activity around the launch zone. Hiking trails connect directly from camp. The current can run fast depending on snowpack, and gold panning is possible for those who know how to read the river.

The season runs October 15 through April 15, which is the opposite of most California campgrounds. Toilets and trash service are on-site, and firewood is available. Pets are welcome. As Brian O. notes, sites are spread out enough that "night time was a little too quiet." Campers wanting alternatives in the same corridor can look at Lower Lake Clementine Boat-In Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area to the west. Reservations are available, and booking ahead is advisable given only five sites exist.

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Map & DirectionsRuck-A-Chucky Campground is located in California near Applegate

Public Campground

Directions

From Hwy 80 exit at Foresthill Rd. Going towards Foresthill turn right onto Drivers Flat Road, a 2.5 mile dirt road down to the site and river.

Coordinates

38.96318098 N
120.93237597 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Dispersed
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

Trash
Firewood Available
Reservable
Toilets
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

40 min from Sacramento, CA
59 min from Yuba City, CA
1 hr 35 min from Reno, NV
2 hrs 6 min from Carson City, NV

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Ruck-A-Chucky Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Multiple campers commented on the stunning riverside location with sites directly on the American River, perfect for families seeking quiet tent camping. The 3-mile access road requires careful driving but adds to the remote feel.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

BRIAN O.

Guide

Reviewed Oct. 12, 2021

Nice spot along the river

Stayed one night and pitched our tent along side the American River. The spots were a little spread out, so night time was a little too quiet. Our site was next to the raft launch/pickup, so there were a couple of groups picked up during the day. Bathrooms were average and the site was maintained well. The trek down to the campsite was slightly difficult and we decided to utilize the four wheel drive as we navigated to and from. The sound of the river was calming.

Month of VisitSeptember

Cassidy Y.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 20, 2020

Great location on the river

Pretty location

Allison M.

Scout

Reviewed Mar. 5, 2020

The Dyrt has this one wrong

Mostly used by the river rafters and rafting companies that use this stop on the river for their shuttles. Many sites are in direct sun. All 5 sites are tent camping only.

Kevin W.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 17, 2019

Fantastic little spot

Definitely the best campground in the Auburn area, though only 5 walk-in spots. It’s right on the river with fishing and boating opportunities. Lots of hiking trails right from camp. The 3 mile road down is a bit treacherous (maybe don’t take your RV) but makes you feel ‘out there’. Highly recommended.

K. O.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 17, 2018

Very Peaceful

Went here a few years ago. Perfect for tent camping. Right along the river. Very quiet and gorgeous. Good spot for families.

Month of VisitJuly

Jason A.

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 6, 2017

Get away and even get some gold

What a great trip... long scenic trek down the easily accessible maintained dirt road. Stop along the way for some epic photos. (Small cars made it down ther without difficulty)

Once at the camp ground, right on the waters edge, grab up the 3rd site on the right. It is literally on the edge of the river.

Soak up some sun and enjoy the cool snow melt waters. (The current is much faster than years past due to excellent winter).

if you're lucky and know how to read the river, gold panning is a must!

bring your kayaks and rafts. Bring extra cash in case you need a tow out of there. (Happened to me. Was $100 to get my rig out of there)

Month of VisitSeptember

(6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Ruck A Chucky Campground located and how do I get there?

Ruck A Chucky Campground is located in the Auburn State Recreation Area along the American River. To get there, you'll need to travel down a 3-mile maintained dirt road that is scenic but somewhat steep. The road is accessible for most vehicles, including small cars, though it might feel a bit treacherous in spots. The journey down offers beautiful vistas with opportunities for epic photos along the way. The remote location makes you feel like you're truly getting away from it all.

What amenities and facilities are available at Ruck A Chucky Campground?

Ruck A Chucky Campground offers basic amenities for a more rustic camping experience. The campground features 5 walk-in tent-only sites, with no RV access or hookups. Basic restrooms are available and maintained regularly. There are no showers, electricity, or water hookups at the individual sites. Each campsite is positioned near the water's edge, providing direct river access. The campground is primarily designed for those seeking a more primitive camping experience in a natural setting.

What does Ruck A Chucky Campground look like?

Ruck A Chucky Campground sits beautifully along the edge of the American River in a scenic natural setting. The five tent sites are somewhat spread out, offering decent privacy between campers. Some sites receive direct sunlight while others have more shade. The third site on the right is particularly desirable as it sits right at the water's edge with stunning river views. The campground has a peaceful, quiet atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty, making it feel remote despite being relatively close to Auburn.

What activities can I do near Ruck A Chucky Campground?

Ruck A Chucky Campground offers excellent access to outdoor activities centered around the American River. Fishing is popular directly from the campground, and the location serves as a launch or pickup point for river rafting trips. Numerous hiking trails are accessible right from the campground, allowing for easy day hikes through the Auburn State Recreation Area. Swimming in the river is another option during appropriate seasons. The campground's riverside location makes it perfect for water-based recreation, while the surrounding area provides opportunities for nature photography and wildlife watching.

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