john B.
Scout
ScoutInn Town Campground
Clean, well managed and great location. Can walk to historic downtown.
Tent Camping near Auburn, CA
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Auburn and the surrounding foothills of the Sierra Nevada offer several tent camping options within the American River watershed, ranging from boat-in tent campsites to walk-in tent sites in the backcountry. Lake Clementine Boat In at Auburn State Recreation Area provides tent-only sites alongside the clear waters of the American River from May through September. Other options include tent camping at Camp Far West North Shore and various walk-in tent sites scattered throughout the region, particularly in Tahoe National Forest's Onion Valley Campground.
Most tent campgrounds in the Auburn area have basic amenities but require self-sufficiency. Sites at Lake Clementine feature concrete picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes, though campers must bring their own water as no potable sources exist on-site. Vault toilets are available at most established campgrounds, including Onion Valley, but shower facilities are rare. A camper noted that "the river was crystal clear and beautiful" at Lake Clementine, making it worth the primitive conditions. First-come, first-served sites are common during off-season months, while summer weekends often require reservations made well in advance.
Areas farther from Auburn offer more secluded tent camping experiences. Onion Valley Campground, though small, provides access to hiking trails and wildflower meadows in season. "The sites are far enough apart that we were able to set up camp without being too disruptive," one visitor reported about Onion Valley. The North Fork of the American River corridor features multiple walk-in tent sites with varying levels of accessibility. Lake Clementine campsites can become crowded during summer months, especially on weekends, while some backcountry tent sites remain available even during peak seasons. Fall and spring tent camping offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds at most tent-only campgrounds, with many campers preferring September through October for ideal conditions.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Auburn (67)
1. Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area
"The parking area is at the top of the hill, and you set up your tent below. Most of the sites that have a “driveway” were not level, except for Sites 5 and 6."
"Place the cash ($28 a night) in the envelope and put it in the post that’s on the parking entrance."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $38 / night
2. OARS American River Outpost Campground (Rafting Guests Only)
"If you have some extra time, be sure to check out Marshall Gold Discovery Park, home of Sutter's Mill, and the nearby wine country."
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $99 / night
3. Camp Far West North Shore
"I did feel the camping spots need some maintenance because the fire pits and bbqs are non functioning, we had to build our own fire ring. And the broken glass....... man it was everywhere!"
"We visited Camp Far West for one night on a quick trip looking for somewhere remote, nearby, and slightly warmer during the winter months. It was green and beautiful. "
4. Lower Lake Clementine Boat-In Campground — Auburn State Recreation Area
5. Sacred Valley Ranch Retreat
Check Availabilityfrom $45 - $100 / night
6. Mother Lode River Center
Check Availabilityfrom $20 - $150 / night
7. Camp Nauvoo
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
from $65 - $300 / night
8. Peninsula Camping and Boating Resort
9. Love Creek Sanctuary
from $50 - $100 / night
10. Oracle Oak Grove
"I got to know the owners at Oracle Oak and they have taken great steps to make this a unique place to stay, they also have kayaks and other water sport equipment available for campers to make your stay"
Check Availabilityfrom $60 / night
Drive Time
- 29 min from Sacramento, CA
- 49 min from Yuba City, CA
- 1 hr 10 min from Stockton, CA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Auburn, CA
47 Photos of 67 Auburn Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area
OARS American River Outpost Campground (Rafting Guests Only)
Camp Far West North Shore
Camp NauvooJ
Mumford Bar Trail Campground
Jenkinson Campground—Sly Park Recreation Area
Oregon House FallsS
Tahoe National Forest Onion Valley CampgroundA
Rancho Seco Recreation Area
Grouse Ridge CampgroundL
Grouse Ridge CampgroundL
Faucherie Lake Group Campground
Tent Camping Reviews near Auburn, CA
745 Reviews of 67 Auburn Campgrounds
- DDavid R.
TravelerYolo County Fair RV Park
Nothing fancy. Looks like they are building a fence and trying to improve the place. A lot of street noise and free roamers walking through the camp sites.
- AAndrew G.Scout
El Dorado
First ever RV use. Has good water and power, toilets and one shower that I didn’t test. Cost $58 usd.
Juliana J.
RangerGrouse Ridge Campground
Beautiful spot - diverse camping options
Well worth the drive - definitely suggest AWD if you choose to go all the way up to the hiking point. Stunning views as you continue to climb up. Good amount of people present, but I snagged an awesome and secluded spot. I had I believe a bar of service. My site was clean. Bear scat present and I heard other campers bang pots around me, indicating there was definitely potential to run into a black bear. Rock fire pit was present. I believe there were spots with picnic tables and grills and maybe a bathroom a bit farther down, but I chose seclusion over everything.
- BBryan G.Traveler
Lodgepole Campground
Expensive
This site does not recognize any state or federal pass the rate starts for 40 a day then they charge per person and per pet grand total for a one night stay with hookups 62$ for one RV one person one dog . 
Ray D.RangerThousand Trails Lake of the Springs
Lake of the Springs
Very nice 1970 style park most spots only has water and electricity. Section X is full hook ups and close to all amenities. Lots of deers and gray squirrels playing about the park. Nice beach area with rental boats. Restrooms and laundry areas in good shape. This is a nice area to camp.
- MMrs. S.Traveler
Indian Valley
Gorgeous campground
Incredible campground! All campers were super respectful of the quiet hours and the campground hosts were great. They work very hard to keep the campground clean. The river isn’t super easy to access but there’s a rope to help you down to the river access spot. The section of the river throughout the campground is claimed so no panning. We loved our stay and can’t wait to go back.
Ricky R.RangerGates Group Campground
Nice RV Park in edge of FairPlay
We got a full hookup 50 amp back in site next to the trout pond. Sites are level and the park is easy to navigate. Park has laundry, showers and a dump station with water fill. Walking distance to grocery and dining. Access to hike/bike trails. Although close to highway the back of the campground was pretty quiet.
- JJeff H.Ranger
Dingerville USA
Looks great and friendly
I didn't stay here but I went to buy a camper shell. All the management were very friendly and cheerful. They went it off their way to be helpful. As we left we saw some people passing and the place looked well kept.
Guide to Auburn
Tent camping near Auburn, California offers a serene escape into nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and relaxation.
Local Attractions and Scenic Views
- Experience the beauty of the North Fork of the American River at Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area, where you can enjoy stunning river views and peaceful surroundings.
- Visit the historic Marshall Gold Discovery Park near OARS American River Outpost Campground, which is rich in Gold Rush history and offers educational opportunities alongside outdoor fun.
- Explore the lush landscapes and majestic oak trees at Camp Far West North Shore, perfect for a family outing or a quiet retreat.
Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Enjoy rafting and kayaking directly from Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area, making it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts.
- Take advantage of the hiking trails and biking routes around Camp Far West North Shore, where you can immerse yourself in nature while staying active.
- Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting with guided tours available at OARS American River Outpost Campground, ensuring an unforgettable adventure on the river.
Amenities and Comforts
- Camp Nauvoo offers drinking water, showers, and picnic tables, making it a comfortable choice for families and groups.
- Enjoy the rustic charm of Oracle Oak Grove, which features reservable sites and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Experience the unique accommodations at Lava Cap Land, where you can choose from tent sites, cabins, or glamping options, all while enjoying essential amenities like drinking water and showers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Auburn, CA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Auburn, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Auburn, CA is Lake Clementine Boat In — Auburn State Recreation Area with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Auburn, CA?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Auburn, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 67 tent camping locations near Auburn, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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