Ruck-a-Chucky Primative Campground: Auburn California

BEST OFF THE GRID STATE CAMPGROUND

A breathtaking off the beaten path location and perhaps one of the best kept secrets in the Auburn California area. I certainly would not have found this campground on my own. So how did I find it and why did I instantly fall in love with it?

While I was visiting the Upper Clementine Lake area, I asked a ranger if there were any campgrounds nearby. She suggested Ruck a Chucky, but warned me that the roads can get very rutted during the rafting season. She suggested only vehicles with high clearance drive down to the campground. I felt my van had good clearance so I gave it a try.

Getting To The Campground

The road was in pretty good shape. The gravel was loose and some sections were steep, but the van handled it nicely. The road is wide enough for cars to pass each other in most sections which is helpful. Driving down, the views of the canyon below were gorgeous.

Once down in the campground you can see why this would be a popular site among those who know about it. There are 5 primitive campsites located right on the Middle Fork American River, on the Placer County side. The sound of the rushing river is heard throughout the campground. I will definitely be back again to try and land a spot.

This is a very remote camping area. You will need to bring all supplies with you, including plenty of water. If you like primitive campgrounds, check out our review of Mattole Campground in Petrolia California.

Open Season

April to October

Amenities

Vault toilet
Picnic tables
Garbage receptacles
Fire rings

Fees

Overnight $28 per day. Check in 2pm, check out 12pm
One extra vehicle is allowed per site for a fee of $10
Day use $10

Additional Camping Nearby

Alt Campground, very limited information
Camp Cal Now, very limited information
For a good boon docking site nearby drop me a line.

Local Things To See And Do

Lower and Upper Clementine Lake day use areas
Old Town Auburn

Cell Signal

T-Mobile – no bars

Location

Greenwood, CA 95635 From Hwy 80 exit at Foresthill Rd. Going towards Foresthill turn right onto Drivers Flat Road, there is a 2.5 mile dirt road down to the site and river. Vehicles with higher than normal ground clearance are recommended. My 2023 Promaster 1500 Winnebago Solis Pocket van did just fine going in and out.

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