Elkhorn Bar Camp Camping Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Elkhorn Bar Camp, located in California’s Auburn State Recreation Area along the North Fork American River, offers primitive dispersed camping with no established campsites—first-come, first-served.
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Summary
No reservations or permits are required, and camping is free. Campers must pack in/out all supplies. There are no toilets, water, fire rings, picnic tables, or RV access; campfires are often restricted, so check conditions. The setting is riverside and rugged, with scenic canyon views and access to nearby hiking, swimming, and gold panning. Best time to visit is spring through early fall. The vibe is remote and peaceful—ideal for self-sufficient campers seeking solitude and nature immersion.
Nearby Campgrounds
Elkhorn Bar Camp
Eightmile Camp
Buck Creek Shelter
Summit Valley Camp
Elk Hole Camp
Bear Basin Butte Lookout / Pierson Cabin
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Klamath R Nr Klamath Ca
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4270cfs |
Smith R Nr Crescent City Ca
|
658cfs |
Indian C Nr Happy Camp Ca
|
80cfs |
Salmon R A Somes Bar Ca
|
433cfs |
Redwood C A Orick Ca
|
88cfs |
Klamath R A Orleans
|
2100cfs |
Camping Essential Practices
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.
Related Links
Nearby Snowpack Depths
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NOHRSC BIGELOW CAMP
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0" |
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BIGELOW CAMP
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0" |
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NOHRSC BIG RED MOUNTAIN
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0" |
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BIG RED MOUNTAIN
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0" |
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NOHRSC MIDDLE BOULDER 3 SNOW COURSE
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1" |
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BIG FLAT
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104" |
West Fork Clear Creek Headwaters To Confluence With Clear Creek