
Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground
10
Total Campsites
Campground
10
Reservable Sites
Check by phone
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground
Overview Bullards Bar Reservoir is located on the North Yuba River at an elevation of 2000 feet. It is located approximately 21 miles north of Nevada City, California. It has a maximum surface area of 4,760 acres and a length of over 16 miles and shoreline of more than 60 miles. Recreation Activities include wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, boating, water skiing, and other water sports. Swimming opportunities are limited because of the steep slopes; however boaters will find numerous opportunities for swimming in various locations around the reservoir. The reservoir provides yearlong fishing opportunities for both warm and cold water fish species. Supplies are available at the marina as well as the nearby communities of Camptonville, North San Juan, and Dobbins. Facilities Activities include wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, boating, water skiing, and other water sports. Swimming opportunities are limited because of the steep slopes; however boaters will find numerous opportunities for swimming in various locations around the reservoir. The reservoir provides yearlong fishing opportunities for both warm and cold water fish species. Supplies are available at the marina as well as the nearby communities of Camptonville, North San Juan, and Dobbins. Natural Features The sides of the reservoir are generally steep and public access for boating and recreation is limited. The reservoir is surrounded by both conifer and hardwood forests with numerous brush species. There is plenty of shade at the campsites Nearby Attractions There is a beautiful non- motorized trail system in the area, with 5 different trails to choose from. Bullards Bar Trailhead is 14 miles, 7 Ball Trial is 1 mile, 8 Ball Trail is 3.8 miles, Rebel Ridge Trail is 1.6 miles and Schoolhouse Trail is 0.7 miles. Maps are available at the North Yuba Ranger Station just a couple miles east of the reservoir on Marysville Road. Charges & Cancellations No Show Policy A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival). * No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation if the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit some or all of the recreation fees. There is no change fee if the customer changes campsites that are the same price and on the same reservation dates in the same campground. If the campsite the customer is changing to has a price difference, the customer will be responsible for any additional fees or be provided with a refund, based on the price difference. Where recorded, no-show customers are assessed a $20.00 no-show fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use recreation fee for a day-use facility. We recommend customers contact the facility if they are en route to their reservation but cannot make it by the check-in date. In these cases, no refund will be issued, but the facility can ensure that a "no-show" fee is not assessed.
- 10 total campsites listed.
- Most common site type: boat in (10).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground special
Madrone Cove is Bullards Bar Reservoir's quieter boat-in secret. With just 10 sites tucked along a remote stretch of shoreline, you get the kind of solitude that feels increasingly rare in California. Like its neighbor Garden Point, you must launch from the Dark Day ramp and navigate across the reservoir to reach camp — but the reward is pristine waterfront camping where your biggest decision is whether to fish, swim, or simply watch the light change on the water. The cove itself provides some wind protection, making it a slightly calmer anchorage on breezy afternoons. Summer is prime season, with water temperatures warm enough for comfortable swimming from June through September. Pack thoroughly because there is no running water or trash service — everything you bring in leaves with you. A waterproof dry bag for gear is essential. Madrone Cove speaks to self-reliant campers, kayak touring enthusiasts, and fishing parties who value peace and quiet over convenience and amenities.
Campsite Inventory
10 sites to choose from
BOAT IN
10
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
10:00 AM, 2:00 PM
Check-out time
02:00 PM, 12:00 PM
Fire Pit
Fire Pit
Max guests
6
Minimum guests
Yes
PICNIC TABLES
Picnic Tables
Pets allowed
Yes
Shade
Yes
Site Access
Boat In
Site length (ft)
20, 22, 50
Site width (ft)
12
VAULT TOILETS
Vault Toilets
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
530-478-6253
n/a
Getting There
From Nevada City, travel approximately 20 miles on Highway 49 to Marysville Road. Turn left onto Marysville Road travel approximately 3 miles to the Dark Day Boat Launch ramp for launching or travel approximately 7 miles to Emerald Cove Marina and launch at the boat ramp there.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground.
How do reservations work for Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground?
Reservation availability for Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground?
Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground currently lists BOAT IN (10).
Where is Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground located?
See this page for location details and directions.
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