red kayak on body of water near green mountains during daytime
Photo by Kvnga on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsFuel

Best Time to Visit

Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine )

Cool, CA · Boat Ramp · Public

Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) is a public boat ramp on Lake Clementine-North Fork Dam near Cool, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake access at Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) near Cool, California. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Lake Clementine-North Fork Dam in California, Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. Western paddling spans coastal waters, mountain lakes, and everything in between.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and fuel.

Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) sits about 5 min from Cool, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine )?
Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine )?
Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine )?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, fuel. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine )?
The best time to paddle at Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine )?
Water conditions at Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) include calm, sheltered.
Is Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) good for beginners?
Yes, Auburn State Recreation Area (Lake Clementine ) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.9359, -121.0239

Quick Facts

Region
West
Getting There
~5 min from Cool
Get Directions

38.9359, -121.0239

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