Best Campgrounds near Georgetown, CA
Georgetown, California provides camping opportunities in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, with several established campgrounds scattered throughout the surrounding Eldorado National Forest. Dru Barner Campground offers tent and RV sites without hookups in a forested setting approximately 6 miles from Georgetown. The campground features 48 sites with picnic tables and fire rings, as well as facilities for equestrians with horse corrals available. Other campground options in the region include Coloma Resort and American River Resort near the American River, which offer more developed amenities including cabins, tent sites, and RV hookups for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.
Camping is available year-round at several locations, though facilities and water availability vary by season. The Dru Barner Campground currently lacks potable water service due to quality issues, requiring campers to bring their own supply. Road access to most campgrounds involves mountain driving on curvy roads, though most are accessible without four-wheel drive. Campgrounds like Ruck-A-Chucky in the Auburn State Recreation Area have more challenging access roads that may require high-clearance vehicles. Summer months bring higher temperatures and increased fire restrictions, while winter camping offers more solitude. A visitor noted, "It was an adventurous drive on a curvy mountain road to get here, but well worth it."
The natural setting represents the main draw for most campers in the Georgetown area. Many sites are situated in forested environments that provide shade and wildlife viewing opportunities. A review mentioned that Dru Barner Campground offers "nothing but trees and the wind blowing through them," making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Campgrounds along the American River provide water recreation options including fishing, swimming, and rafting during appropriate seasons. Cell service is available at some campgrounds, with one camper reporting strong Verizon coverage at Dru Barner. Wildlife sightings commonly include deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Midweek camping typically offers the quietest experience, with weekend visits seeing higher occupancy rates at most campgrounds in the region.