Bullards Bar

Bullards Bar is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills about 40 miles northeast of Marysville and 30 miles northeast of Grass Valley. It has 55 miles of shoreline to explore and it was recently listed as one of the top 100 bass lakes in the U.S. by Bassmaster Magazine.

The lake itself is absolutely gorgeous with its emerald colored water that makes me think I'm in a tropical paradise. The lake is well known for houseboating and you can check out Emerald Cove Marina to get more info. It's quite large at 4700 surface acres.  There is camping available at Schoolhouse campground and also boat in only sites.  You may purchase your camping permit from Emerald Cove Marina.

Dark Day boat ramp

There are two boat ramps available. One at Emerald Cove Marina and the other on Dark Day Road. Access to the lake and day use area are free. The best place to launch your kayak is at the Dark Day area. The ramp is extremely busy on a hot summer day but there is plenty of room for all to be happy. There are restrooms available at the ramp and at the day use area not far from the ramp, though the best restrooms are actually floating on the lake itself!

S.S. Relief #206

We visited Bullards Bar three times while camping in Oregon House, to kayak and swim.  The day use area is good size with a little bit of shade available along the shore.  The beach area is made up of thick clay, not much sand but the water is warm. If you visit make sure and bring lots of water and snacks as there are no concessions or store nearby.

We'll definitely make it a point to return to Bullards Bar!  Maybe even do a kayak camping trip.