Auburn State Recreation Area

Auburn State Recreation Area is a nature reserve spanning the North and Middle Forks of the American River for about 40 miles. The land contains river valleys, hills, forests, and open areas with trails of varying difficulty.

The area saw major gold mining activity along the American River during the 1800s, when fortune seekers worked the riverbed and banks. Old mining sites, dams, and related structures from that era remain visible throughout the land today.

The name Auburn comes from a town in New England, reflecting early American settlement patterns in the region. Today, the landscape shows how local communities value outdoor recreation and river-based activities.

The reserve is accessible from Auburn via Highway 49 and Auburn-Foresthill Road, with multiple entry points along both routes. Plan your visit to end before sunset, as the area closes at that time.

Lake Clementine within the reserve has designated zones for water skiing and boating activities that many visitors seek out. Mammoth Bar serves as a separate location for off-road vehicle use, drawing a different crowd of outdoor enthusiasts.

Location: Auburn

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=502

GPS coordinates: 38.98065,-120.84513

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58