Auburn State Recreation Area

Copyright: California State Parks The American River within Auburn SRA

Attractions - Auburn State Recreation Area covers over 35,000 acres along 40-miles of the North and Middle Forks of the American river. There are nearly 100 miles of hiking, mountain bike and horseback trails within the recreation area.

Lake Clementine, one of the use areas within Auburn SRA, features great opportunities for boating, fishing and boat-in camping.. The lake has a marina and launch area

Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis with the exception of the boat-in camping on Lake Clementine.

Recreation - Major recreational uses include hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, camping, mountain biking, gold panning and off-highway motorcycle riding. Whitewater recreation is also very popular on both forks of the river, with class II, III and IV runs. Over 30 -private outfitters are licensed to offer whitewater trips in Auburn SRA.

Auburn offers a "Watchable Wildlife Site".

Reservations for the Lake Clemetine Boat-in camp are only taken through the statewide reservations system. All other facilities (day use and camping) are operated on a first-come, first-served basis. Many popular areas fill during the summer weekends.

Climate - Gold County generally experiences warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters. Weather can change rapidly during all seasons of the year. Elevation plays a major role in temperature and precipitation. This precipitation falls mainly from October through April. At higher elevations, it comes mostly in the form of snow. Clouds can build up during the summer to produce thunderstorm activity. It is wise to pack for any season with clothing that can be "layered", ready to peel off or add on as the thermometer dictates. Always include some kind of rain gear.

Location - The park (which is 20 miles long on two forks of the American River) is situated south of Interstate 80, stretching from Auburn to Colfax. The main access is from Auburn, either on Highway 49 or the Auburn-Foresthill Road.