Auburn State Recreation Area in California, USA - map and visitor information

Research checked: 2026-10-23. Check linked official notices before travel.

Auburn State Recreation Area follows the North and Middle Forks of the American River in California's Sierra foothills. California State Parks manages the recreation area in partnership with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. Choose a trailhead before driving: river access points, Lake Clementine and campgrounds have different gates and seasonal restrictions.

Highlights in Auburn State Recreation Area

• Walk canyon trails from access points such as the Quarry Trail near Highway 49.
• Explore the gold country landscape around the American River forks.
• Plan a skilled whitewater trip with an appropriate route and current river information.

Understand gates, water, and seasonal closures

Fees, hours, and seasonal access

The park's hours and seasonal access order controls these gates and closures. Ask staff about reopening before planning a lake launch or camping trip.

Treat the river as moving water

American River flows can change quickly. Rapids and strong currents require the right skills and safety equipment. Do not choose a swim or float solely because the water looks calm from the bank. Swimming is prohibited around Lake Clementine's dam, launch and marina areas. Carry water for canyon hikes, and watch for poison oak, ticks and rattlesnakes.

Follow route and fire restrictions

Use signed routes for bicycles, Class 1 e-bikes and horses. Keep dogs leashed; dogs are not allowed at Lake Clementine. Leave natural and historic objects in place. Fire and stove restrictions have specific campsite exceptions, so check the current fire order before bringing cooking or fire equipment.

Check the correct booking and boating rules

Upper Clementine uses day-use reservations on designated peak-season weekends and holidays. Check the current schedule before planning a summer visit. Camping reservations do not override seasonal closures.

When motorized or trailered vessel launching at Lake Clementine is open, aquatic invasive species rules require a 30-day quarantine or approved decontamination, with the required inspection and seal. Read the vessel entry order before transporting a boat. These requirements do not reopen the seasonal launch.

Maps, trailheads, and road access

The recreation area has multiple approaches from Highway 49 and Auburn–Foresthill Road. Pick a named trailhead or day-use area rather than navigating to the park office. The Quarry Trail access is near Highway 49, south of the North Fork crossing.

Yankee Jims Road and its bridge are closed to public traffic and access between Gillis Hill Road and Shirttail Canyon Road. Do not use that section as an alternate approach. Use the official park page for road notices, trail maps and reservation links.

Nearby parks by road

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is in Coloma on Highway 49 south of Auburn. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area has several approaches farther toward the Sacramento area, including Douglas Boulevard from Interstate 80. Choose its particular entrance before driving.

Choose a canyon outing

Start with a walk from the Quarry Trail or another signed trailhead. Mountain biking and horseback riding depend on the permitted route, rather than a park-wide assumption. Experienced paddlers can investigate the North and Middle Forks separately. The same water conditions and skill requirements do not apply to every reach.

Plan supplies around your access point

Facilities vary across this large recreation area. Primitive camping areas do not provide drinking water or showers. Carry your own water and confirm the particular campground's status before departure. Ask the park office about an accessible route or facility that meets your needs.

About the American River landscape

Nisenan homelands and gold mining

The canyons are part of Nisenan homelands. Mining spread into the North and Middle Forks after the 1848 gold discovery at Coloma, bringing major changes to the landscape. Later federal plans for Auburn Dam shaped the ownership and management of today's recreation area.

Canyon habitats

Riverbank vegetation, foothill woodland and conifer forest support different wildlife. Black-tailed deer, gray foxes and California quail occur here. Give animals space and keep food secured.

Contact Auburn State Recreation Area

Call 530-885-4527 for access, campground and boating questions. Describe the area or launch you intend to use so staff can advise on the relevant restrictions.