The best RV sites in Tahoe National Forest, CA
93% (255)
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
The best RV sites in Tahoe National Forest, CA
Silver Creek Campground
1. Silver Creek Campground
100%
(5)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Upper Little Truckee Campground
2. Upper Little Truckee Campground
100%
(8)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Sardine Lake Campground
3. Sardine Lake Campground
100%
(9)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Wild Plum Campground
4. Wild Plum Campground
100%
(10)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Indian Valley Campground
5. Indian Valley Campground
100%
(5)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Sugarpine Slopes at Grouse Ridge
6. Sugarpine Slopes at Grouse Ridge
94%
(83)
4.9mi from Tahoe National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
It is on this property that I saw my first grouse.
Also look for warblers-notably Audubon's and the Hermit Warblers- along with the White-headed Woodpecker.
You will likely hear a Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see one
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to Sugarpine Slopes. The Sugarpine has the longest cones in the world and many birds and mammals like the pine nuts and use the tree for habitat. This is a spring through fall place only. There is no winter access. The property is at 5800 feet. Depending on the weather the road may close from Nov 15th to May 15th.
The road on the property is a dirt road. All wheel drive or 4WD vehicles recommended although the lower section could be accessed by most vehicles. Shorter trailers allowed at Site A. Site 3 can also accommodate a small teardrop-style trailer
The property is totally undeveloped at this time. It is a wildlife corridor for deer and bear (keep all food contained), the mountain quail and the blue grouse. Keep your eyes open for the Hermit Warbler, Audubon's Warbler, and our gorgeous visitor from the tropics the Western Tanager. You are likely to hear the Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see it and its red crest in an undulating flight through the trees. The property has a lovely west facing slope which climbs gradually at first then more steeply to the top of the property. We have drive-in camping on the lower section. There is one walk-in site at the top of the property.
There is wonderful hiking nearby with several trailheads in the area within approximately 4 miles.
More information can be provided upon request.
Pets
from
$27
/ night
Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
7. Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
98%
(139)
12mi from Tahoe National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bright Bear Camp is a private two-acre property bordering Tahoe National Forest. We are located at 4300' elevation down a mostly dirt road along the beautiful Bear River and Bear Valley. This is a very peaceful spot among the trees with a small meadow and creek on the property.
As our name suggests, bears are occasionally in the area so keep an eye out. You may also see the spotted owls that live nearby - listen closely for their calls (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Owl/overview).
There is much to explore in the area and more with only a short drive to the South Yuba River, Emerald Pools, Lake Spaulding, Donner Pass, Donner Lake, and Truckee.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
8. Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
94%
(45)
13mi from Tahoe National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
300 acres at 6200’ elevation. Located on donner summits west slope. Great views and easy access. The sites are spaced very well from each other to give great privacy. Nestled among large pines and granite boulders. Union Pacific tracks at the southern edge of the property. Developed camp sites with no hookups. 36 holes of Disc golf on property. Seasonal creeks and South Yuba river very close. 20 mins to Kidd lake, cascade lake and donner lake. 5 mins from Donner Summit and miles of hiking. 20 minutes from Truckee. 45 mins from lake Tahoe. Great on site pizzeria. Please no check-ins after 10pm.
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Wisdom eco-preserve
9. Wisdom eco-preserve
96%
(268)
16mi from Tahoe National Forest · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This extraordinary 200 acres is magical and host a wildness which feels peaceful and secure. It is also the home of the developing Wisdom Retreat Center eco-preserve noted for quality of beauty and silence. Many Indian arrow heads have been found here indicating former residences of indigenous tribes. There are many open meadows and old growth forest to hike and explore.
Pets
from
$80
/ night
Gypsy on the Mountain
10. Gypsy on the Mountain
94%
(24)
19mi from Tahoe National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello hip camper! Nestled in the heart of nature's untouched beauty, lies a hidden gem perfect for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This secluded three-acre campsite offers an exclusive retreat into the wilderness. Setup your tent and enjoy some serenity before and after exploring the beautiful northern Sierras.
The property is located just off I 80 in the small town of Alta. There are no restrooms on site But a quick five minutes to Gold run rest area.
Places to check out.
Euchra bar hiking trail in Alta(experience hiker) Steven trails in Colfax
Rollin lake in Colfax.
Pennyweight trail in Colfax
Lake valley in Emigrant Gap
Emerald Pools in Emigrant Gap
Water hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Rocky Rest Campground
11. Rocky Rest Campground
100%
(6)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Bowman Campground
12. Bowman Campground
100%
(10)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Grouse Ridge Campground
13. Grouse Ridge Campground
100%
(8)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Lindsey Lake Campground
14. Lindsey Lake Campground
100%
(6)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Meadow Lake Campground
15. Meadow Lake Campground
100%
(29)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Boca Campground
16. Boca Campground
100%
(4)
Electrical hookup
Pets
North Fork Campground
17. North Fork Campground
100%
(4)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Emigrant Group Campground
18. Emigrant Group Campground
100%
(3)
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Diablo Campground
19. Diablo Campground
100%
(3)
Electrical hookup
Pets
Snag Lake Campground
20. Snag Lake Campground
100%
(2)
Electrical hookup
Pets
93% (255)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Tahoe National Forest
Sugarpine Slopes at Grouse Ridge
Sugarpine Slopes at Grouse Ridge
94%
(83)
4.9mi from Tahoe National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
It is on this property that I saw my first grouse.
Also look for warblers-notably Audubon's and the Hermit Warblers- along with the White-headed Woodpecker.
You will likely hear a Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see one
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to Sugarpine Slopes. The Sugarpine has the longest cones in the world and many birds and mammals like the pine nuts and use the tree for habitat. This is a spring through fall place only. There is no winter access. The property is at 5800 feet. Depending on the weather the road may close from Nov 15th to May 15th.
The road on the property is a dirt road. All wheel drive or 4WD vehicles recommended although the lower section could be accessed by most vehicles. Shorter trailers allowed at Site A. Site 3 can also accommodate a small teardrop-style trailer
The property is totally undeveloped at this time. It is a wildlife corridor for deer and bear (keep all food contained), the mountain quail and the blue grouse. Keep your eyes open for the Hermit Warbler, Audubon's Warbler, and our gorgeous visitor from the tropics the Western Tanager. You are likely to hear the Pileated Woodpecker and if you are lucky you will see it and its red crest in an undulating flight through the trees. The property has a lovely west facing slope which climbs gradually at first then more steeply to the top of the property. We have drive-in camping on the lower section. There is one walk-in site at the top of the property.
There is wonderful hiking nearby with several trailheads in the area within approximately 4 miles.
More information can be provided upon request.
Pets
from
$27
/ night
Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
Bright Bear Camp in Tahoe NF
98%
(139)
12mi from Tahoe National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bright Bear Camp is a private two-acre property bordering Tahoe National Forest. We are located at 4300' elevation down a mostly dirt road along the beautiful Bear River and Bear Valley. This is a very peaceful spot among the trees with a small meadow and creek on the property.
As our name suggests, bears are occasionally in the area so keep an eye out. You may also see the spotted owls that live nearby - listen closely for their calls (https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Owl/overview).
There is much to explore in the area and more with only a short drive to the South Yuba River, Emerald Pools, Lake Spaulding, Donner Pass, Donner Lake, and Truckee.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
Kingvale Campground and Disc Golf
94%
(45)
13mi from Tahoe National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
300 acres at 6200’ elevation. Located on donner summits west slope. Great views and easy access. The sites are spaced very well from each other to give great privacy. Nestled among large pines and granite boulders. Union Pacific tracks at the southern edge of the property. Developed camp sites with no hookups. 36 holes of Disc golf on property. Seasonal creeks and South Yuba river very close. 20 mins to Kidd lake, cascade lake and donner lake. 5 mins from Donner Summit and miles of hiking. 20 minutes from Truckee. 45 mins from lake Tahoe. Great on site pizzeria. Please no check-ins after 10pm.
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Wisdom eco-preserve
Wisdom eco-preserve
96%
(268)
16mi from Tahoe National Forest · 39 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This extraordinary 200 acres is magical and host a wildness which feels peaceful and secure. It is also the home of the developing Wisdom Retreat Center eco-preserve noted for quality of beauty and silence. Many Indian arrow heads have been found here indicating former residences of indigenous tribes. There are many open meadows and old growth forest to hike and explore.
Pets
from
$80
/ night
Gypsy on the Mountain
Gypsy on the Mountain
94%
(24)
19mi from Tahoe National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello hip camper! Nestled in the heart of nature's untouched beauty, lies a hidden gem perfect for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This secluded three-acre campsite offers an exclusive retreat into the wilderness. Setup your tent and enjoy some serenity before and after exploring the beautiful northern Sierras.
The property is located just off I 80 in the small town of Alta. There are no restrooms on site But a quick five minutes to Gold run rest area.
Places to check out.
Euchra bar hiking trail in Alta(experience hiker) Steven trails in Colfax
Rollin lake in Colfax.
Pennyweight trail in Colfax
Lake valley in Emigrant Gap
Emerald Pools in Emigrant Gap
Water hookup
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Our Escape
Our Escape
96%
(41)
22mi from Tahoe National Forest · 1 site
There is only one spot available at our property to reserve as we leave our trailer up there for most of the summer. The good news is you will have the place all to yourselves unless we happen to be there which is not very often and we will let you know if we overlap. This spot has a 30 amp RV plug and a sewer connection. There is no water or trash service so please bring your own water and practice pack in/pack out practices. This spot is for RV's only with a full restroom as we don't have restroom facilities onsite. This is a very quiet spot but does have a few neighbors within earshot so if you are planning on a party spot or having loud music this is not the spot for you. There is a large smoker/BBQ that is not maintained but is available for your use if you want, we have used it several times and it works great. There is also a firepit to use when fire season permits. We are only 4 miles from Graeagle, which is a great little town to explore and eat some ice cream in the park. There are many great lakes to explore in the immediate area including Lake Davis, Gold Lake, Upper Salmon Lake, and of course upper and lower sardine which are my favorites.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Roughlands
Roughlands
92%
(45)
22mi from Tahoe National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to 38 serene acres of forested beauty in Nevada City, CA. Enjoy two cozy glamping platforms, a peaceful tent site, or an RV spot. Unwind in our charming bath house with a flushing toilet, steam shower, and outdoor hot tub. Nature, comfort, and tranquility await your perfect getaway.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$63
/ night
No. Columbia Off-Grid Homestead
No. Columbia Off-Grid Homestead
95%
(38)
23mi from Tahoe National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
A hot spot in the Gold Rush, our property once was a 1850 homestead, a 1970 back to the land artist's dream. A stone mason built the main cabin, renovated by my stair builder/musician father and artist/chef mother and I built the straw bale cabin. It's an wildlife highway with coyotes, foxes, red tailed hawks, bears, mountain lion, deer, jackrabbits, and lots of birds. I love to share it with HipCampers!
Learn more about this land:
Nestle into our woods next to water tanks, with easy access flat camping spots. All Corners property is unusual in that it has meadows, grey pine ecosystems as well as mixed conifer fir/pine/madrone forests. Walk to Ring of Bone Zendo, Mini local neighborhood playground and trails on BLM property. 3 miles from North Columbia Schoolhouse, 4 miles from Ananda Village, close to Malakoff Diggins State Park. A very quiet place to stage your Yuba Watershed adventure. Mountain biking and hiking on dirt roads, lots of wildlife. You'll start your slowed-down adventure as soon as you drive 3 miles down Jackass Flats road, through historic mining areas and into a literary 'hood that has homed Gary Snyder, Allen Ginsberg and Governor Moonbeam.
from
$27
/ night
Banner Mountain Camp
Banner Mountain Camp
100%
(18)
24mi from Tahoe National Forest · 1 site
Prime Nevada City, CA location 8 mins from Downtown NV City, Grass Valley, and the best bike trails along Highway 20. RV site includes access to Sauna, Laundry, and Water and Electrical Hook-Ups for your RV.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$27
/ night
Inn Town Campground
Inn Town Campground
100%
(27)
25mi from Tahoe National Forest · 69 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are located just minutes from downtown Nevada City, California! Dan and Erin Thiem have brought Nevada City a vibrant camping experience with tents, glamping, and RV sites. The campground is located on a historic 15-acre site, just two miles from downtown Nevada City.
A communal building full of comfortable amenities:
◉ Camp store
◉ Beer, Wine, Ice, Ice Cream, S’mores fixings, and more
◉ BBQ area
◉ Communal Kitchen and dining area
◉ Laundry
◉ WiFi
◉ Showers
◉ Swimming pool
◉ Outdoor Dishwashing Stations
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Sierra Waters Homestead
Sierra Waters Homestead
99%
(53)
27mi from Tahoe National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
This 85 acre parcel sits just west of Nevada City, CA with the Deer Creek on our southern border and the Tribute Trail along the Newtown Canal on our northern border. Seemingly in the middle of nowhere, It is a 10 minute drive to the quaint, historical gold rush town of Nevada City, and about 20-30 minutes by bicycle along the the Tribute Trail into town. Nevada City has great restaurants, bars, music and theater, as well as shopping and art galleries.
Or take a walk along the trail and down to the bridge that crosses the Deer Creek to a loop trail with lovely creek views and wooded scenery, about 1.5 hours there and back to the campground. The gorgeous South Fork of the Yuba River is a 15 - 30 minute drive away, depending on which access you choose. Great hiking, biking and swimming opportunities abound in the surrounding Sierra Nevada Foothills. The Bowman Road is about 1 + hour's drive East on Hwy 20 to Lake Spaulding, the smaller Fuller and Rucker lakes and Bowman Lake, as well as the Grouse Ridge hiking area.
We offer 4 tent platforms, as well as 4 RV parking sites. There are no hookups at this point, but there is a bathhouse with potable water, flush toilets and hot water shower .
Pets
from
$75
/ night
YUBA RIVER Group Lodging & Camping
YUBA RIVER Group Lodging & Camping
98%
(20)
27mi from Tahoe National Forest · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Willow Springs is all about hosting GROUPS, large and small. We cater to family reunions, group gatherings of all kinds, workshops, seminars and church groups.
Nestled in the foothills of the Tahoe National Forest, our Retreat Center offers a variety of accommodations to suit your needs, from 10 to 60. (SEE BELOW.) We are six minutes to several locations on the Yuba River and twenty minutes to Bullard’s Bar. Located just 15 short miles from the historic communities of Nevada City and Grass Valley, Willow Springs is a place to escape and re-connect with what is important, creating memories. We also incorporate principles of sustainability at Willow Springs, with an on-site educational herb and permaculture garden for which a self-tour is available (free) and a guided tour upon request. Fresh produce possible depending upon season and availability.
We operate ala carte with our accommodations so we can customize your experience to meet your needs. You can choose one or more of the following:
GROUP CAMPGROUND: This one-acre fenced in area allows for guests (Max 30) to bring their dogs and pitch tents in a protected area with an expansive view. Camp cooking has never been easier, as the community kitchen is well equipped with 2 full-sized refrigerators, gas stove/oven, pots and pans, dishware, silverware, triple sink, and two outdoor barbeques. The cooks will especially appreciate our unique outdoor “dishwashing station” for each individual (even kids!) to efficiently wash their own dishes instead of using throw-away plastic for each meal. Our bathhouse has two private toilets, two private showers with hot water and a double sink. Bring your own towels and toiletries.
ADDITIONAL LODGING & AMENTITIES:
YURT: A 20’ yurt (sleeps 4) is equipped with a full bed and queen sofa for members of your camping group that would like greater comfort. Limited electricity is available.
BUNK HOUSE: This bunk house has 3 twin bunkbeds (sleeps 6) with a 12x14 covered deck. Limited electricity is available.
RV SITES: Ranging from no services to full service.
More information is available for other AMENITIES, including LODGE, YOGA STUDIO, PAVILION, EVENT TERRACE, MEDIA CENTER, and more, visit www.WillowSpringsLodge.com/blogs.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$113
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Kaitlyn
1 week ago
16 ft campervan
You know those Hipcamp listings that are as good as traditional campgrounds? Well this place is better! Well maintained, clean, sounds of frogs and creek at night, so much bird watching, and a trail in walking distance. Loved it!
See more
D
Daniel
3 weeks ago
25 ft Class C
Great hosts. Fabulous Valentines cookies for a gift. And a quiet place to stay for two nights. And we fortunately had some good weather for mid February. Will definitely consider returning.
See more
B
Brandon
February 2026
17 ft pop-up camper
With pets
I absolutely loved camping on Mary’s land. They had everything we needed, including electrical and water hookups, which made the stay really comfortable. The directions were clear and easy to follow, and the sound of the creek nearby was beautiful and so relaxing. I would definitely stay here again!
See more
A
Amanda
January 2026
22 ft travel trailer
Drove in and initially had a hard time finding the entrance. However, we messaged the host and they came out and guided us. Once parked, they showed us where the best spot is for hook ups. It was beautiful, quiet, and there weren’t a lot of campers there.
The location allowed for us to go visit Grass Valley and Nevada City and just relax.
Hosts were A+++, we had a great time & will definitely return.
See moreJ
James
January 2026
37 ft Class B
Wonderful host and beautiful setting! Mary made sure we had what we needed. It was located just ten minutes from Penn Valley but felt rustic and in the heart of nature.
See more
A
Albert
January 2026
16 ft car
With kids
Very spacious sites. Great for multi family trip.
See moreA
Alyssa
January 2026
16 ft campervan
With pets
We had a wonderful stay at Sierra Waters Homestead. The trail just off the property was beautiful and perfect for an afternoon walk/hike. The bathrooms and cooking area were a plus and made our camping stay more like glamping! Would definitely stay again.
See more
j
jamie
December 2025
15 ft travel trailer
Very quiet and secluded area. Just minutes away from town made it easy to come and go.
We pulled in at dusk and someone was there to direct me to the water and electric hook ups.
Highly recommended!
See more
Bernadette
December 2025
Tent
The campground was well kept, and communication was great. I had to do a late check-in, and without me having to reach out they automatically sent me a text when the time got closer to late check in. When I needed the bathroom code and wi-fi, and called the number provided and the host picked up right away and texted me the information. Felt very seamless.
See moreA
Andrew
December 2025
12 ft campervan
Quite beautiful and easy. Creek is splendid. Great jump off for foothills exploration.
No bano will have you running for the SBux tho
See more
D
Dyllen
December 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved this space so much we stayed again on the way home. The steam shower is hot and lovely and feels so luxurious after our long camping road trip. Jo was such a responsive and communicative host and showed up immediately with more propane when the hot water ran out. The lights in the trees make the site so dreamy. We will definitely be back!
See moreL
Lauren
December 2025
16 ft Class C
It was private and so beautiful! Perfectly located for easy hikes and cute nearby towns!
See more
Connie
November 2025
19 ft campervan
Amazing and special place! I really enjoyed the site and the surrounding property was so beautiful. I was able to easily jump on the trail on my bike and loved the bathroom, shower, and cooking area. Great spot, I’ll definitely be back.
See more
M
Michael
November 2025
16 ft car
Exactly what you need for a quick pit stop and rest!
The farm was really nice and tucked away. Felt private and safe.
See more
J
Jeff
November 2025
Tent
Great stay and great, friendly host! Very quiet area with super dark skies at night. Worth the stay and hope to be back!
See moreS
Sean
November 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
Hard to beat the price and convenience of this site. Plus it's quiet and in a pretty area to boot. It was easy to find and communicate with our very helpful and friendly host.
See moreD
Daniel
November 2025
16 ft car
The camp host came out to meet each arriving party and guide them to their spot (as most of us rolled in after dark). Later she started a bonfire, and for the next couple of hours folks congregated in small groups talking about where they had been and where they were going. Very enjoyable social experience.
Cooking facilities were excellent. They are outdoor, but it does not often rain here. Wind was moderate the night I was there. Two bathrooms (flush toilets and running water) quite close to the campsites.
See more
K
Kathleen
November 2025
Tent
The tent site was perfect; it was very peaceful, with wonderful views in all directions. Wendy was super and offered to get us extra wood for the fire since the wood on site was a bit moist from recent rain. We would definitely camp here again!
See more
Claire
November 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved our stay! Helen was so kind and helpful which was much appreciated as novice campers. The local hikes she recommended were top notch and doable with two kids. We camped in the fall and nights were chilly, but the days were pleasant and the landscape with the changing colors was stunning. The space felt safe to stay with my two kids and we left feeling empowered to camp again!
See more
J
Jamie
November 2025
27 ft pop-up camper
With pets
The farm was such a great place to stopover in our travels! My dog loved the open space to run around and explore all while being totally fenced in. The site was cute, with a picnic table, swing and running water. We took the drive down to the river (4wd needed) and the swimming hole was magical. Didn’t swim but definitely a place to be in the summer! Camp host was super helpful and quick to respond with knowledge of the road down to the river. We had a great time and would love to come back again!
See more 93%
255 ratings · 62 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
Tent · With pets · With kids ·
Union Flat Campground
Kari is super attentive and responsive, she greeted us right away and gave us a tour of the spot. It is super beautiful and easy to navigate. There’s even a little shack that has a bar and game room! We will be back!
B
Brooke F.
3 reviews
June 2023
My favorite of the North Yuba campgrounds. Surrounded by the cleaned boulders of the tailing piles. It’s amazing how much work was done by the miners (mostly the Chinese) during the gold rush. Still very obvious after over 100 years! Just a unique experience to behold. Whomever the USFS hired to keep the sites and bathrooms clean, they sure have pride in their work. Very impressive to say the least. Thank you for the obvious dedication and continued hard work.
Roland K.
3 years on Hipcamp
June 2023
Simply amazing area. The first North Yuba campground heading north from the big cities. Sites are close together, sometimes there are obnoxiously loud campers. You could eat off the bathroom surfaces…well, almost. Maybe someone will volunteer to be a host?
Roland K.
3 years on Hipcamp
May 2022
Have camped here many times. Hipcamp is mistaken when they recommend taking a swim in Sardine Lake! It is a drinking water source and swimming in NOT allowed. Please correct your posting of amenities. You can, however, swim in nearby Sand Pond. Great for kids as its warm, shallow and has lots of tadpoles, frogs, snakes, etc.
Fae G.
3 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2021
Nice location in the Tahoe NF. Has pit toilets and potable water, but bring extra water for convenience. Campground is right off and backs up to Hwy 20. Quiet in the evening, reasonable during the day. Campground connects to the Pioneer Trail which runs Scott's Flat to Spaulding Lake (approx. 25 miles).
Harmony Ridge Market is nearest cell service, but also an amazing market with everything you need. Even fresh sandwiches and cheesecake. Get the Espresso cheesecake if its there. They also carry Liquid Death, if you're into that.
Scott's Flat nearby has a day use parking lot past the campground which has restrooms and Kayak/SUP rentals. There is a capacity limit for the day use area, so arrive somewhat early.
Jacob C.
4 years on Hipcamp
March 2021
Nice. Almost impossible to rent. Bay area people rent out everything months in advanced.
K
Kristen R.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2020
I camped at Campsite 23 at French Meadows, and it was AMAZING. Plenty of space and didn't feel too close to the other camps, and I was right behind the reservoir. Put my hammock up in the trees near the water, and had coffee on a big piece of driftwood and looked at the water in the morning. Highly recommend booking in advance to pick a waterfront spot.
Karen C.
9 years on Hipcamp
November 2020
Omg, I can't believe I forgot to leave a positive review of Salmon Creek campground! We went almost a year ago now and it was AWESOME! Our campsite was this out-of-the-way meadow abutting the woods with the creek, which was great for my kid to explore. It was beautiful. It rained A LOT while we were there so there was a lot of puddle jumping in the meadow. AND there was a porta-potty. Perfect for the kid! Loved the sound of the creek and the rain.
Chell M.
6 years on Hipcamp
July 2020
This campground is 10 feet away from the road. Not really what I had expected.
Robyn B.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2019
If you like to horse camp, Skillman Horse Camp is one of the best in northern California. It is maintained by the local equestrian group, Gold Country Trails Council, who have added corrals to many of the campsites. It is not a good camp for non horse people, as there are horses high lined and tied to trailers, not safe for children or pets off leash. Nevada City is not far for for supplies.
J
J. M.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2019
This place is beautiful, accessible and great for groups. There are just two sites, so you can easily rent both for a big group and have the whole place to yourself. It's across the bridge from the fire station and you have a nice chunk of river to play in.
Each site has a bunch of tables and a big fire ring and a BBQ. You can hear the freeway sound which isn't ideal, but the other amenities really make up for it. Just bring earplugs for sleeping.
Melody W.
6 years on Hipcamp
August 2019
This is truly a hidden gem. Right off the freeway so there is that ambient noise, but it's also very convenient to get to. The river is low and slow and perfect for floating and swimming.
It's just two big sites, so we rented both of them. There's plenty of parking and the toilets are clean.
Melody W.
6 years on Hipcamp
July 2019
Hello, My Name is Andrew Blash and for four Seasons, I hosted this camp. Last season I spent 3 months redoing all the rocks and refurbishing the camp. It is small camp but it comes with Fresh spring water. This water was used to make BOCA BEER, which is Now Anchor Steam beer, they bought the recipe. If you go to the top of the camp you will see, a fenced inclosure, this is where the filter is and as well the old system. You will too, find the old pipes for the brewery here 1890 -1960 or so
Animals you will see here: are raccoons, woodpeckers Blue Jays, tanagers, chipmunks, ground squirrels, maybe a Bear, they do not come here much. We do get some rattle snakes. In the Meadow runs water from the spring, in that stream are craw dad.
A
Andrew B.
6 years on Hipcamp
July 2019
We camped here on July 4th weekend after originally aiming to camp at North Fork campground about a half mile down the road. We arrived late on July 3rd at North Fork and all of the walk-in sites were taken and the campground was slammed. Just up the road Onion Valley's sites (all walk-in / first come, first served) were wide open. A few people came late on the 4th, but still was pretty quiet. The swimming hole that draws the crowds to North Fork is easily accessible from Onion Valley. Fill up your water at the running spring fountain there too as there's no running water at Onion Valley. There are vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables though. Great spot overall.
Thomas W.
4 reviews
Not recommend
· June 2019
Right next to Highway 80 (you can look up and see the freeway) - the freeway noise is unbearable! Woke up at 1am from the noise and just left - it was that bad.
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Susannah L.
6 years on Hipcamp
June 2019
The North Fork Campground sign is gone so if it's your first time going there it's the first camp on your right 6 miles up. There is no host on site and no stores near by so take everything you will need.
The Ranger does come by daily to stock vault toilet paper. That's it. We stayed in site #7 for 5 days and think it's one of the best sites, ground level and feets of the raging creek. It's a small family oriented campground with happy campers. The trail to the waterfall is just 1 mile between site 8 and 9. I would return again and highly recommend it. It has both lots of shade and sunny areas.
Although I love site #7 it is very rocky. I don't have trouble walking but kept tripping over the rocks. It may be tricky for some folks.
Natalie Carmen R.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2019
Fun!
Suzanne A.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2018
Last minute reservations are often possible here and the proximity to the Yuba is decent.
Brittney R.
9 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2018
A nice site for family camping. Lots of trails and off roading adventures to be had!!
T
Terri G.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2018
Amazing for backpacking!
K
Kaylene R.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
No potable water available at this campground. The spout was totally dry! Glad we brought our own water for washing up.
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Sophear O.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2018
Absolutely loved this campground and can't wait to go back. Camping is free and the camping spots are large with room for multiple people and have fire pits and bear boxes, as well as vault bathrooms. The view from the top of the ridge is gorgeous and there are multiple hiking trails with access to multiple small mountain lakes great for swimming and/or SUPing. Free range cows sometimes walk through the campground, you'll hear their cowbells, we found the sound very calming/soothing. The access road to the site is about 6+ miles of unimproved/dirt, we were able to drive our 2WD Sprinter conversion in and out with no problems. It is also pet friendly! There are no trash bins, so pack in/pack out and leave no trace. Enjoy this wonderful site!
A
Amanda S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2018
Gorgeous spot! We visited at the beginning of the week in early September and we were the only ones there. The road is rough and 4wd vehicle with high clearance is highly recommended. Definitely going back.
B
Bobby C.
7 years on Hipcamp
August 2018
Arrived here on a Friday morning in July, the campground was essentially empty! We were able to pick a large campsite right next to the meadow with plenty of shade. We have a wonderful weekend camping here. We spent most of our days at the creek swimming, evenings were spent watching the hundreds of butterflies and dragonflies over the meadow. The campground did fill up later on Friday but even then there were empty spots on Saturday. I will definitely return!
Nicole P.
4 reviews
July 2018
Tried to drive to Carr lake. Found out PG&E closed road aout 1/2 mile from lake.
Bummer for this old man
Miguel U.
7 years on Hipcamp
July 2018
This campground is very pretty, lots of trees and foliage. Do not bring large RVs here, tight turns, trees and overgrown foliage makes it hard to navigate. We camped in #10, which is a drive- through site. We scratched the side of our 28' trailer and had to jockey it around to get it parked and then out again. Not too noisy on the river side of the grounds. Pit toilets were not well taken care of. No dump station for RVs. We camped 7/20 -22/ 2018. The river was very nice for swimming. We felt it was a little high. Overall I'd give it 3 stars.
Paul S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2018
I wish I could keep this to myself. This one is a gem. Easy-ish hikes to waterfalls crisp clear running water, and the tastiest spring water you will ever find at a campsite.
Kristi F.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2018
Lovely, but close together. Try to get a space near the water and nowhere near the bathrooms or people will walk through your site. It's a thing.
D
Danielle W.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2018
Lots of bees and hikers walking through.
B
Bobby N.
8 years on Hipcamp
January 2018
Was fortunate enough to book this for a January 2018 winter camp out (high demand took over 2 years to get a reservation). It was our first time and was by far one of the coolest places. Awesome views and so pretty in a snow storm. Fire Tower had cell phone service (not sure if that’s good or bad) & was surprisingly well stocked with all kinds of items including: gas heater, gas stove, & gas lights (gas is provided), Dishes, cookware, sink, comfy 6” mattress pads, and a variety of knick knacks like books, games, etc. Couple items that were not included: a shovel for the snow/ice on stairs (salt is provided), a head lamp, spare mantles for gas lanterns, matches, & plenty of water. Also: there are 2 gate codes that you need to call to get.
Brandon & Marsha E.
11 reviews