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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground

Smartville, California · Nevada County · Campground

Overview Englebright Lake is nestled in the steep Yuba River canyon, of the Sierra Nevada foothills. This location offers a unique boat-in camping experience, several species of sport fish, abundant wildlife, and year round water-based recreational activities for enthusiasts and families alike. Located between Grass Va…

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About Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground

Overview Englebright Lake is nestled in the steep Yuba River canyon, of the Sierra Nevada foothills. This location offers a unique boat-in camping experience, several species of sport fish, abundant wildlife, and year round water-based recreational activities for enthusiasts and families alike. Located between Grass Valley and Yuba City off State Route 20. Recreation Englebright Lake is a destination fishery, providing anglers with a variety of options including small and large mouth bass, trout and Kokanee salmon. The boat-in campground has 51 sites that include a fire ring, lantern hanger, picnic table and tent pad. Facilities Campsites are accessed by boat only. Sites are remote with no hookups. Vault toilets are available within walking distance. Be sure to pack potable water with you before heading to your campsite. Some of the campsites are located in open, grassy areas while others are tucked into wooded areas. A marina convenience store is located on the lake and accessible by land or water. Natural Features Englebright Lake is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, within a steep canyon with notable waterfalls and abundant wildlife. A mix of agricultural land and thick forest surround the lake and campgrounds. Nearby Attractions Narrows Day Use Area, Joe Miller Recreation Area, Bridgeport State Park and New Bullards Bar Reservoir are nearby. Charges & Cancellations As per Recreation.gov policy.

How to Get There

From Sacramento, CA follow I-5 N, CA-99 N and CA 70 N to Lindhurst Ave in Olivehurst. Take exit 18B from CA-70 N. Take Hammonton Smartsville Rd to State Hwy 20 E in Smartsville. Turn right onto State Hwy 20 E. Turn left onto Mooney Flat Rd. Turn Left onto Englebright Dam Rd.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground

Heading to Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10294618) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground?

From Sacramento, CA follow I-5 N, CA-99 N and CA 70 N to Lindhurst Ave in Olivehurst. Take exit 18B from CA-70 N. Take Hammonton Smartsville Rd to State Hwy 20 E in Smartsville. Turn right onto State Hwy 20 E. Turn left onto Mooney Flat Rd. Turn Left onto Englebright Dam Rd.

How do I contact Englebright Lake Boat-In Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: 530-432-6427 or email: englebright-info@usace.army.mil.