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Facilities

Established Camping

Rucker Lake Campground

4 Reviews

Rucker Lake Campground, near Tahoe National Forest, is a peaceful retreat that offers a great escape into nature. With its waterfront access and spacious sites, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Campers appreciate the clean facilities and the quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. As one visitor noted, “Nice, quiet campground,” which is a sentiment echoed by many who enjoy the serene environment. The lake is warm and inviting, perfect for swimming, and there’s even a rope swing for the adventurous types.

While there are no electric hookups or drinking water available, visitors are encouraged to bring their own supplies. The short hike from the parking area to the campground adds a bit of adventure, so a wagon or dolly can be handy for transporting gear. Plus, the nearby Emerald Pools on the Yuba River offer stunning views and great hiking opportunities.

Rucker Lake Campground is a fantastic choice for those who want to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a laid-back camping experience. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, you’ll find a welcoming spot to create lasting memories.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Tahoe National Forest

This is a PG&E; lake/campground on the Tahoe National Forest. Car-top launch for kayaks and boats. There is no boat ramp at the lake.

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Location

Rucker Lake Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Nevada City: Take Hwy 20 east towards Truckee approximately 20 miles.  Turn left on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18).  Go approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto road 18-006 (You will see a sign for "Liahona").  Stay to the right until you reach the parking area. From I-80: Take the Hwy 20 cutoff on I-80 and head west toward Nevada City for approximately 5 miles.  Turn right on Bowman Lake Road (Forest Road 18).  Go approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto road 18-006 (You will see a sign for "Liahona"). Stay to the right until you reach the parking area.  

Coordinates

39.35773237 N
120.65210555 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

CThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 2, 2023

Clean, quiet, close to Emerald Pools

Got here on a Friday late afternoon and found a walk in spot close to the lake. Nice, quiet campground. However, it was raining while we were there which probably had an impact on the number of people (only 3 of 12 sites were occupied). Facilities were clean. Close drive to Emerald Pools on the Yuba River. No drinking water available, unless you purify your own from the lake.

Site3
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Cody R., September 2, 2023
  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Cody R., September 2, 2023
  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Cody R., September 2, 2023
  • (4) View All
Zac R.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2020

Large sites

This lake is a quiet getaway, with waterfront access and a warm lake. Short hike in but has picnic tables and bear boxes.

Haidon M.
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2019

Nice spots with warm lake

Definitely a gorgeous view all the way around! Lake was very warm and had a epic rope swing if you can find it. The camp spots were a good size and with fire pits and bench tables BUT there isn’t a road to actually drive around the spots, you have to park and walk all your stuff down to your spot. Kinda sucked to do that, but other than that it was great!

  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Haidon M., August 28, 2019
  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Haidon M., August 28, 2019
  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Haidon M., August 28, 2019
N
Reviewed Jul. 11, 2019

First come, first serve

This place is great for swimming in the summer as the lake gets really warm. Across the lake is an amazing rope swing not for the faint of heart (its big). You need a floatation device like a blow up with oars to get there. 300 foot walk from cars to campground so bring a dolly/wagon. $15 a night fee. Bring a lot of drinking/dishes water (no spigots, no sinks). No RV sites/hookups. Short drive back down Bowman Lake rd to the yuba river. Cold water but beautiful hiking and something called the emerald pools. Rucker lake rd is a dirt road! AWD recommended but not totally needed

  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Nick K., July 11, 2019
  • Review photo of Rucker Lake Campground by Nick K., July 11, 2019
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Rucker Lake Campground have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Rucker Lake Campground has sewer hookups.

  • Are fires allowed at Rucker Lake Campground?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Rucker Lake Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Rucker Lake Campground have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Rucker Lake Campground does not have wifi.