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Established Camping

Dark Day Campground

Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect

There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

Attention Campers - Due to the discovery of golden mussels in California, watercraft inspections are now required prior to launching all watercraft at Cottage Creek and Dark Day Boat Launches. Please clean, drain and dry your boats BEFORE you arrive and after every waterbody, every time. Thank you for your assistance protecting the reservoir!

Stage 2 fire restrictions are in place on the Tahoe National Forest beginning August 22, 2025 due to increasing fire danger. Under these restrictions CAMPFIRES AND CHARCOAL BBQS ARE PROHIBITED IN DARK DAY CAMPGROUND. Individuals with a valid campfire permit may use a portable campfire ring/pit, stove, or lantern in an area at least three feet from any flammable materials provided that the portable campfire ring/pit, stove, or lantern only burns gas, kerosene, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel and has a with a shut-off valve. Campfire permits are free and available online at permit.preventwildfiresca.org or in-person at Tahoe National Forest Visitors Centers.Please visit the link below to review Forest Order 17-25-08 and to view a list of authorized hosted campgrounds where fires (in established metal fire rings) are allowed and to review additional prohibitions:https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/tahoe/alerts/stage-2-fire-restrictions

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Dark Day Campground is located near Camptonville in the Tahoe National Forest. The area features forested terrain with elevations that can influence temperatures, ranging from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Nearby attractions include Bullards Bar Reservoir, offering opportunities for boating and fishing, and the scenic hiking trails of the Tahoe National Forest.

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Location

Dark Day Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Nevada City, travel north on Higway 49 for approximately 20 miles to Maryville Road , turn left onto Maryville Road and travel west approximatley 3 miles to the Dark Day Campground.

Address

3 miles west of the Yuba River Ranger Station on Marysville Road
Camptonville, CA 95922

Coordinates

39.429375 N
121.1079528 W

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Connectivity

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    Last on 4/28/25
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Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 4/28/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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Reviews

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4.0

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 9, 2015

Boating and Camping!

If you own a boat, camp here! There's good fishing, water skiing and a fun family friendly campground. Dark Day is a drive up camp, but there's boat in camping available at the lake as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the reviews like for Dark Day Campground?

Dark Day Campground receives positive feedback, with visitors particularly highlighting its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent lake access. The campground earns high ratings from campers who appreciate the recreational opportunities available, especially for those with boats. Visitors consistently mention the good fishing and water skiing opportunities. Many consider it one of their favorite lake camping destinations, with particular praise for its relaxed environment and natural setting.

How is Dark Day Campground connected to Bullards Bar?

Dark Day Campground is directly situated on Bullards Bar Reservoir, offering immediate access to the lake. The campground serves as a popular basecamp for enjoying Bullards Bar's recreational opportunities, including fishing, water skiing, and boating. It features drive-up camping with convenient water access, making it ideal for boat owners who want to spend time on Bullards Bar. While Dark Day provides land-based camping, Bullards Bar also offers boat-in camping options for those seeking a more remote experience on the reservoir.

What does Dark Day Campground in Camptonville look like?

Dark Day Campground in Camptonville offers a scenic lakeside setting with drive-up campsites nestled along Bullards Bar Reservoir. The campground features a natural forest environment typical of the Sierra foothills region. The area provides beautiful water views and is surrounded by trees that offer some shade to campsites. The layout is designed to accommodate both tent campers and those with boats, with easy water access being a highlight of the campground's appearance.

Is there a map available for Dark Day Campground?

Yes, maps for Dark Day Campground are available. Visitors can obtain maps from the campground entrance station during operating hours or from the managing agency's website. For the most detailed information about campsite layouts, facilities, and trails, it's recommended to check with the Tahoe National Forest or the Bullards Bar Recreation Area official website. Maps typically show the campground layout, nearby boat launches, and access points to Bullards Bar Reservoir.