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Established Camping

Union Flat

Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect

There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

There will not be water for the 2025 camping season at Union Flat Campground. Please plan accordingly and bring your own water. We apologize for the inconvenience.

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 UNION FLAT 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

Union Flat is located in the Tahoe National Forest near Camptonville, CA. The area features forested terrain with elevations that can influence temperature ranges, typically between 30°F in winter and 85°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Yuba River, which offers opportunities for fishing and swimming, and the historic town of Nevada City, known for its Gold Rush history.

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Location

Union Flat is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Downieville, take Highway 49 north about 6 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway.

Coordinates

39.568073 N
120.744984 W

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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

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Sardine Lake

Sardine Lake

17 min away

Bowman Lake Dispersed

Bowman Lake Dispersed

1 hr 47 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
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    No Coverage
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    AT&T
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Access

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

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

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

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2020

Great Midweek

We stayed here for three nights. Two of those nights were during the week. Friday night had a completely different vibe- lots of parties and loud music. Note on the map that site 7 looks like it is on the river. It is not, but 7A is. We stayed at 7A which had zero shade, but did have access to the swimming hole. Our kids loved this campground. The swimming hole was awesome. This campsite is about 15 minutes from Downieville.

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2016

Great escape from tahoe

This time of the year can get really crowded in the eastern sierras, this riverside escape off the 49 is the perfect getaway. About a hour out of truckee you'll find some of the most beautiful swimming holes I'd ever seen in ca. Many sites in the area, this one seemed to have the best hole attached. Site 8 is the access to it, so beware if you don't like people walking through. Great mtn biking, fishing, rafting, floating and swimming. Fly fishing is on fire, if you have a spin rod throw a bubble and 7 foot leader and watch the little guys come on in.

  • Review photo of Union Flat by Keef W., July 31, 2016
  • Review photo of Union Flat by Keef W., July 31, 2016
  • Review photo of Union Flat by Keef W., July 31, 2016
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Union Flat Campground?

Union Flat Campground offers riverside campsites, with some sites like 7A providing direct access to the water. While riverside access is a key feature, it's important to note that not all sites that appear to be on the river actually have water access. Some campsites lack shade coverage, particularly site 7A. The campground appears to accommodate multi-night stays, as visitors report staying for three nights or more. For specific amenities like restrooms, water sources, or hook-ups, it's advisable to contact the campground directly before your visit.

What do visitors say about Union Flat Campground in their reviews?

Union Flat Campground is praised as a peaceful riverside escape, particularly valued for being about an hour from Truckee. Campers highlight the beautiful swimming holes, described as some of the most stunning in California. The campground offers a tranquil experience during weekdays, though the atmosphere changes significantly on weekends with more parties and louder music. The location along the river makes it a perfect getaway, especially during busy seasons when other eastern Sierra campgrounds become crowded.

Are there photos available of Union Flat Campground to view before visiting?

Photos of Union Flat Campground are likely available through various camping platforms and official forest service websites. These would showcase the campground's riverside setting and beautiful swimming holes mentioned by visitors. To find the most current visual information, check the USFS website managing this area, or search camping platforms for user-submitted photos. The images would help you identify which sites offer river access and shade conditions, both important considerations when selecting a campsite at Union Flat.