Dru Barner Campground sits at approximately 3,200 feet elevation in the Georgetown Divide area of the Sierra Nevada foothills. The campground remains accessible year-round, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 80-95°F during the day and cooling significantly at night. Winter months bring occasional snow but rarely enough to prevent access, making this location popular for off-season camping when many Sierra Nevada campgrounds close.
What to Do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested setting around Ruck-A-Chucky Campground provides excellent bird and animal spotting. "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," notes one camper about this riverside location.
Gold panning adventures: The American River watershed has a rich gold mining history. American River Resort sits next to an exciting rapid. "It is right in the American River and next to a class 3 rapid called Trouble Maker. It was awesome watching rafters and kayakers go through it," shares a visitor.
Hiking with dogs: The Otter Creek Trail near Dru Barner offers a moderately challenging route. "The near by Otter Creek Trail is a nice day hike though a bit of switch backing elevation to get down to the creek," according to a camper who visited during a quiet period.
What Campers Like
Secluded midweek stays: Dru Barner Campground becomes especially peaceful during non-peak times. "A lovely quiet spot midweek, quiet drive to Georgetown for some great breakfasts if you want some classic American diner fare. Midweek and off season we had the place to ourselves 3 days," notes one visitor who appreciated the solitude.
Strong cellular service: For campers who need connectivity while enjoying pet friendly camping near Georgetown, the area has surprisingly good coverage. One camper at Peninsula Campground observed, "In the summer months the lake is very busy and the hills are brown with dried grass. But in the early spring it is quite, especially here, with green grass and wild turkeys."
Natural lake activities: The smaller lakes near Georgetown offer peaceful water recreation without motorized boats. A camper at Giant Gap mentioned, "Such a beautiful lake for paddleboarding as there are no motor boats. Quiet, secluded, flat campsites. There is a great trail that goes entirely around the lake."
What You Should Know
Water availability issues: Several campgrounds in the area have water system challenges. "Bring water as there is none available due to poor quality," advises a camper about Dru Barner. This practical tip helps visitors prepare accordingly.
Road conditions vary significantly: Some locations require careful navigation. A visitor to Giant Gap cautions, "Be warned though, Google maps will suggest driving up Iowa Hill. DO NOT. Follow the directions of the campground, that road is not for the faint of heart. And NOT for RVs or trailers."
Weather impacts camping comfort: The area experiences significant temperature swings. "We camped at Site 13 with an RV and a disabled father. We rode his e-tricycle (and I walked) all the way down to the lake and around it going clockwise," reports a camper who found Giant Gap accessible despite mobility challenges.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with play areas: Some sites near Georgetown offer recreational facilities beyond hiking. At Coloma Resort, a visitor noted, "Pool, playground, basketball and soccer - will definitely be back with the kids soon."
Avoid crowded weekends for better experience: Timing your visit makes a significant difference for family camping. "It was our first trip in our new RV and it couldn't of been more beautiful. There were super cute cabins available as well as tent sites. We came in the beginning of March and it was fairly empty," shared a family who visited Coloma Resort during the shoulder season.
Consider nearby facilities: The proximity to small towns offers conveniences for family camping needs. "Georgetown sits just 6 miles from the campground," making quick trips for supplies feasible when camping with kids at Finnon Lake Recreation Area where one visitor mentioned, "great little lake for a weekend getaway. also there's a nice lakesude cafè. Did I mention the sites are huge?"
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Not all pet friendly camping options near Georgetown, California can accommodate larger rigs. A camper at American River Resort advised, "I would be very cautious about coming here with a larger RV. Ours is 30' bumper to bumper. I think 32 would be ok."
Power supply limitations: Some campgrounds have electrical service issues. "The power is not good. I had to bypass the surge suppressor because it kept cutting out due to low voltage. Voltage was generally 104-105," reported an RVer at American River Resort.
Winter camping accessibility: Unlike higher elevation Sierra Nevada locations, the Georgetown area remains accessible for RVs in winter. "Never been during peak (summer) but both times we have stayed here in winter and it was FANTASTIC! Close to Georgetown and to the El Dorado National Forest. Super clean and easy to get to," shared a winter RV camper at Dru Barner Campground.
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