Anglers and off-road enthusiasts find Cal-Ida positioned along Highway 49 in Tahoe National Forest, where the nearby Yuba River provides both fishing access and the constant sound of flowing water. The Forest Service campground accommodates RVs up to 30 feet with water hookups available, though campers should expect rough access roads leading to the site.

One reviewer noted the campground's spacious layout and lower occupancy rates, even during popular hunting seasons. The river crossing via Highway 49 opens up additional exploration opportunities, with cold water conditions supporting local wildlife including frogs. Sites include standard amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, with restroom facilities that serve both campers and day-use visitors traveling through the area.

Check AvailabilitySuggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

SPONSORED BYT-Mobile

Map & DirectionsCal-Ida is located in California near Camptonville

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Downieville, travel south on Highway 49 for about 13 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway. From Nevada City, travel north on Highway 49 for about 31 miles. The campground is on the left side of the highway.

Coordinates

39.52 N
120.9966667 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Is Cal-Ida sold out?

Quickly grab cancellations!

Learn More
Presented byHershey's

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews1 Camper Review - Cal-Ida

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

100%
0%
0%
0%
0%

5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Nov. 2, 2020

Cozy campsite near river

Great campsite, plenty of room to throw the ball for our dog. The never ending sound of the nearby river was peaceful. Less than 50% capacity for Halloween weekend, but certainly a popular spot for hunters, bikers, and off roaders to spot by and use the bathrooms. If you walk across highway 49, you can explore the river; the water was cold, but there were lots of frogs and skipping rocks.

  • Review photo of Cal-Ida by James O., November 2, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Cal-Ida Campground located and how do I get there?

Cal-Ida Campground is located along Highway 49, with a peaceful river nearby that provides a pleasant background sound for campers. The campground is accessible directly off Highway 49, making it a convenient stop for travelers. The location is popular among hunters, bikers, and off-road enthusiasts. For precise directions, it's recommended to check with the managing agency before your trip as specific access points may vary seasonally.

What amenities and facilities are available at Cal-Ida Campground?

Cal-Ida Campground offers bathroom facilities that are accessible to both campers and passing travelers. The campground features spacious sites with enough room for recreational activities like playing ball with pets. The serene sound of the nearby river enhances the camping experience. While specific amenities aren't extensively detailed, the campground appears to be a more basic facility that caters to outdoor enthusiasts seeking a natural setting.

Are there photos of Cal-Ida Campground available online?

Photos of Cal-Ida Campground can likely be found through official forest service or recreation websites. While specific photo galleries aren't detailed, potential campers can check the official managing agency's website for visual references of the campground. Additionally, outdoor recreation platforms and camping apps may feature user-submitted photos that showcase the campground's riverside setting, spacious sites, and natural surroundings. Contact the local ranger district for official up-to-date imagery.

Do I need reservations for Cal-Ida Campground?

Reservations don't appear to be strictly necessary for Cal-Ida Campground, as it typically operates below full capacity, even during holiday weekends. During a Halloween weekend, the campground was noted to be less than 50% full, suggesting that finding available spots is generally possible. However, it's always advisable to check with the managing agency before your trip, especially during peak hunting seasons or summer holidays when usage may increase.