The Sierra Nevada foothills surrounding Alleghany, California offer diverse RV camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. Mountain driving conditions affect access to several campgrounds, with many sites closing during winter months due to heavy snowfall. Local campgrounds feature varying levels of amenities from primitive sites to full-service RV parks with electric, water and sewer connections.
What to do
Fishing access: South Yuba Campground provides excellent river fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "The river is beloved by kayakers and swimmers. Perfect snow melt means August is the prime time," notes one visitor about the clear water pools along the trail.
Swimming holes: Loganville Campground offers direct access to the Yuba River for water activities. "There is a path down to the Yuba River, where you can get in the water or float on a tube. The best part about this campground is the river," shares a camper who visited multiple times.
Paddleboarding opportunities: Lakes near Thousand Trails Snowflower provide calm waters for beginners. "Nice calm water for a leisurely SUP experience," mentions one visitor, though they caution about mosquitos during certain periods.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at several campgrounds in the area. "Each day a family of deer came thru our site and were so tame they ate fruit right out of the kids' hands. So cool!" reports a camper who stayed at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs.
Natural swimming spots: Many visitors specifically seek out natural water features over swimming pools. "We spent practically the whole wknd in the lake. It was the perfect temperature to sit in for hours. No motorized water craft kept it quiet," notes a camper who experienced 100-degree temperatures during their August stay.
Small-town accessibility: Sierra Skies RV Park offers walkable access to Sierra City amenities. "This campground is in town so it's only a short walk (uphill) to the market or restaurant," mentions a reviewer who appreciated the convenient location.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically throughout the region. "No cell signal here - speed test is from starlink," reports a camper at South Yuba Campground, while another notes that at Lake of the Springs, "cell coverage is nonexistent outside of one small area."
Seasonal weather variations: Summer temperatures can reach triple digits at lower elevations. "The weather was perfect in early October! It was not busy, there was on other occupied campsite not to close to where we were," shares a visitor at Loganville who appreciated the autumn camping conditions.
Insect considerations: Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs visitors should prepare for insects during summer months. "Watch out for meat bees... need a screen room to eat outside... they come out of nowhere," warns a camper who experienced this challenge firsthand.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Lake access provides cooling options during hot summer days. "There is a small lake that is good for kayaking and paddle boarding. Family friendly, great little Lake for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Snowflower.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds welcome pets but may have breed restrictions. "This is a dog friendly campground however they do not allow what they consider vicious breeds. So be sure to check if you are allowed to bring them," advises a Sierra Skies RV Park visitor whose German Shepherd was not permitted.
Recreational facilities: Movin' West RV Park offers easy access to town activities. "Short walk to town for a morning of mini golf. The kids scootered and rode bikes along the camp roads, and drivers were cautious and patient," shares a camper who appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Parking assistance: Sierra Skies RV Park offers personalized help with parking. "The camp hosts are a delightful couple, very helpful but not intrusive. Mike is excellent at directing even the largest trailer into a sight," notes a reviewer who appreciated this service.
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. "RV sites are mostly electric and water only, and many aren't anywhere near level," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Snowflower, though they still rated their overall experience positively.
Dump station availability: Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park offers full hookups for RVs needing sewer connections. "Clean and friendly staff. The sites are level and the scenery is breathtaking," mentions a visitor who was pleased with the park's maintenance standards.
