Berry Creek cabin camping options range from rustic to modern accommodations within a foothill elevation of 1,800-2,300 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cool, wet winters that can bring occasional snowfall. Seasonal considerations affect cabin availability, with many locations reducing services during winter months when access roads may become difficult to navigate.
What to do
Fishing at Collins Lake: At Collins Lake Recreation Area, fishing opportunities abound with regularly stocked waters. Visitors can fish from shore or rent boats to access deeper waters. One camper noted, "We fished from kayaks and always caught fish for dinner :-)" while another mentioned "Nice clean site near lake. Hubby enjoyed fishing. Kids loved canoeing out onto the lake."
Hiking at Manzanita Rock Meadow: Located near the Yuba River, this private campground offers access to numerous hiking trails. A recent visitor shared, "Galen told us of some cool hiking trails nearby, and where we could paddleboard." Another guest recommended "hiking up to the Buttes if you're looking for a challenge" at nearby Sardine Lake.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs where one camper reported, "Each day a family of deer came thru our site and were so tame they ate fruit right out of the kids' hands." Bird watching opportunities also exist, with one visitor at Collins Lake recalling being "Amazed to watch a bald eagle grab a fish and fly away."
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Many cabin campers appreciate direct access to water features. A visitor at River Reflections RV Park noted the "Great gal checked us in went out of her way to show us available spots. The park is on the river with grass lawn all the way to river and very well kept." Waterfront access varies seasonally with some locations seeing significant changes in water levels throughout the year.
On-site amenities: Cabin accommodations often include access to convenient facilities. At Collins Lake Recreation Area, one reviewer highlighted that "Registration area and cafe has ice cream available and souvenir store" while another mentioned the "nice hiking and biking trails in and around the campground."
Privacy levels: Cabin settings range from close-quarters to more secluded options. Manzanita Rock Meadow offers particularly private accommodations, with one guest describing it as "Beautiful, private camping spot close to the river!" Another visitor appreciated that "The spot was clean with lots of room to spread out."
What you should know
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies dramatically across the region. Visitors to Lake Francis Resort should note limited connectivity, and at Thousand Trails Lake of the Springs, a camper warned there's "No cell service in any of the loops and WiFi isn't great." Another visitor to River Reflections mentioned, "Cell service is spotty at best and unfortunately WIFI was not working properly."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin locations require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Lake Francis Resort, cabins like the "Diamond P cabin which has the best view of the lake" fill quickly, with a check-in time of 4pm and checkout at 11am.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant temperature variations. Summer visitors should prepare for heat, as one camper at Lake of the Springs noted, "It was over 100 degrees the wknd we were there so we spent practically the whole wknd in the lake." Winter visitors should check road conditions as mountain access can become difficult.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, swimming access varies by location. At Lake Francis Resort, one visitor noted the pool "goes from 3.5' ft to 5' back to 3.5' ft" while cautioning that lake access "fills up fast (by 11am it was pretty full)." Alternatives like Sand Pond near Sardine Lake were described as "great for swimming."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA, a camper highlighted "Electric hookups, sewer, clean grounds, playground, swimming pool, club house with bar and pool tables."
Family activities: Look for locations with diverse recreational options. Collins Lake received praise as a "Great place for family camping. They also have boat rentals" while another visitor recommended "Collins Lake was awesome! The lake views were beautiful, the campsites were clean and spacious, and the staff was friendly. Plenty of activities for the family."
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV cabins vary significantly in hookup options and accessibility. Collins Lake offers sites where "both campsites, #66 and #116 had power, water and sewage. They were both lake front campsites, which meant the water or shoreline was right at our 'front door' from our 27' travel trailer."
Access considerations: Some cabin areas have limitations for larger vehicles. At Manzanita Rock Meadow, a visitor cautioned "It was a little challenging getting our 16' trailer to the pad but it was worth it. So quiet and serene there. I don't think the bigger rigs would be able to make the turn into the site and the road to the entrance is a bit rough."
