Off a dirt road in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Rucker Lake Campground requires campers to walk their gear roughly 300 feet from the parking area to reach the 12 sites. This walk-in setup keeps the lakefront sites quieter than drive-up campgrounds, though visitors should bring a wagon or dolly for hauling supplies. The campground sits within the Tahoe National Forest, providing access to both lake activities and nearby Yuba River recreation.
The lake warms considerably during summer months, making it popular for swimming. A rope swing exists across the water, accessible by inflatable boat or kayak for those willing to paddle over. Sites include picnic tables, fire pits, and bear boxes, with vault toilets available but no potable water on-site. "Bring a lot of drinking/dishes water (no spigots, no sinks)," advises Nick K.. Cell service reaches the area.
The dirt access road connects to Bowman Lake Road, leading to the Yuba River's Emerald Pools within a short drive. This secondary destination offers cold-water swimming and hiking opportunities. Campers can find additional places to camp around Tahoe National Forest for extended trips. The $15 nightly fee and reservation system help manage capacity during peak summer weekends when the warm lake draws more visitors.
Description
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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRucker Lake Campground is located in California near Emigrant Gap
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
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
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













