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Facilities
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Established Camping

Rucker Lake Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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.

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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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Drive Time

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Access

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

Connectivity

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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


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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

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
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.

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
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

Are there photos available of Rucker Lake Campground?

Yes, photos of Rucker Lake Campground are available online through various camping websites and platforms, including The Dyrt. These images typically showcase the lake's scenic beauty, waterfront campsites, and surrounding natural environment. Photos highlight the warm swimming waters, camping areas with picnic tables, and the beautiful views that surround the lake. For the most current and comprehensive collection of images, check official recreation websites or The Dyrt's campground page.

What amenities and facilities are available at Rucker Lake Campground?

Rucker Lake Campground offers basic facilities including picnic tables, fire pits, and bear boxes for secure food storage. The campground has clean restroom facilities and provides waterfront access to the lake, which is perfect for swimming during summer months. Note that you'll need to park and walk approximately 300 feet to reach the campsites, so bringing a wagon or dolly is recommended for transporting your gear. The campground features 12 sites, and the fee is $15 per night.

Where is Rucker Lake Campground located near Nevada City, California?

Rucker Lake Campground is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Nevada City, California. The campground sits on the shores of Rucker Lake, offering waterfront camping opportunities. It's positioned within driving distance of other natural attractions, including Emerald Pools on the Yuba River. The location provides a quiet mountain getaway that's accessible from Nevada City, making it a convenient escape into nature while remaining relatively close to town services.

How do I make reservations at Rucker Lake Campground?

Rucker Lake Campground appears to operate on a first-come, first-served basis rather than taking advance reservations. Sites can be secured by arriving at the campground and selecting from available spots. With only 12 campsites available, arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak summer months, is recommended to secure a spot. For the most current reservation information, contact the campground directly or check with the managing agency.

What do reviews say about Rucker Lake Campground?

Rucker Lake Campground is praised for its quiet atmosphere and gorgeous lakefront setting. The lake itself is notably warm and perfect for swimming during summer months. Campers appreciate the good-sized sites equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and bear boxes. Many highlight a popular rope swing across the lake (accessible by watercraft) as a fun feature. The campground's walk-in nature (300 feet from parking) creates a more secluded experience, though visitors should prepare to transport their gear from their vehicles. During rainy periods, the campground is especially quiet and peaceful.