Overview

Ahart Campground is located on the tree covered banks of the North Fork of the American River near French Meadows Reservoir, about 40 miles from the town of Foresthill, high in the Sierra mountains. Visitors enjoy the area for the rugged mountain beauty, fishing, boating and trail opportunities. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Natural Features

The campground is near the north shore of French Meadows Reservoir along the banks of the Middle Fork of the American River while nestled in a Coniferous Forest. Summer days can be warm and pleasant with cool evenings.

Important Notices

• There is no cell phone service in this area!

  • Bring your own drinking water. 
  • Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the American River Ranger District (530) 367-2224 (voice), (530) 367-2226 (TDD).
  • Campground is 40 miles from Foresthill and not on Lake Tahoe.
  • This is bear country; food must be stored in provided food storage lockers.
  • First-come, first-served sites may be available.
  • Last minute gas, ice and supplies should be purchased at Foresthill.
  • Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov. 
  • Large single unit RVs are not suitable for the campground roads. Even though a site might have a 40 foot parking space, a 40 foot long RV can’t navigate through the campground. Also please remember that site parking length includes trailer and vehicle.

Notifications and Alerts

• The French Meadows Campground and the French Meadows RV Dump Station are closed for 2025 while they undergo construction.

  This closure DOES NOT include:

  •  the Day Use or Boat Launch sites
  •  Ahart Campground
  •  Lewis Campground
  • Coyote Group
  • Gates Group 

  You experience sounds of nearby construction during the weekdays. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you and thank you for your patience. 

Available Activities

• Wilderness - Wilderness
• Water Access - Water Access
• Water Activities - Water Activities
• Scenic Drive - Scenic Drive
• Photography - Photography
• Picnicking - Picnicking
• Mountain Biking - Mountain Biking
• Hiking - Hiking
• Fishing - Fishing
• Canoeing - Canoeing
• Camping - Camping

Directions

<p> High clearance vehicles may take Foresthill Rd to the 43 Rd (Robinson Flat Rd) to Mosquito Ridge Rd, snow permitting. Access from Soda Springs and the 43 Rd is not recommended for trucks with trailers, motorhomes/RV's or passenger vehicles that are not high clearance vehicles with four wheel drive.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: (530) 367-2224

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip