Dispersed camping opportunities near Downieville, California range from primitive sites to developed campgrounds throughout Tahoe National Forest. The area sits at the confluence of the North Yuba River and Downie River, with camping access typically limited to late spring through mid-fall. Winter snow often closes forest roads from November through April, with maximum temperatures reaching 90°F in summer months.
What to do
Swimming and fishing: Union Flat Campground offers excellent river access. "The swimming hole was awesome. This campsite is about 15 minutes from Downieville," notes Kristin P. The North Yuba River provides cooling relief during hot summer days.
Kayaking and boating: Gold Lake 4x4 Campground offers direct lake access. "Gold Lake itself is one of the largest in the Basin that allows motorized boats. I would highly recommend this lake for kayakers and hikers," explains Audrey C. Morning trips are ideal as "the lake is glass in the morning," according to Jake R.
Mountain biking: Downieville area trails accommodate riders of all skill levels. The Pacific Crest Trail intersects with numerous local routes. "Access to the Pacific crest trail & many other hiking routes" is available near East Meadow Campground, according to Anthony K.
What campers like
Seclusion: The remote nature of many campsites provides privacy. "The lake is beautiful and try to hike to the waterfalls at the creek at the end of the lake if you can. We've never had issues with animals or bugs at Bowman Lake," shares David L.
Multiple lake options: The Lakes Basin Recreation Area contains dozens of alpine lakes. Therese L. notes that Sardine Lake Campground is "situated at the bottom of lower sardine lake" and offers a "trail to the upper lake [that] is a nice steady incline. About an hour there and back."
Wilderness access: Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground serves as a gateway to wilderness hiking. "We hiked up to Jamison Lake, which was a good 3 miles each way starting from the campground," mentions Luna F., highlighting the park's natural features.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many campgrounds require high-clearance 4WD vehicles. "MAKE SURE YOU HAVE AN OFF ROAD VEHICLE. Great campsite but hard to get to. Not bad if you have a 4x4 that's lifted with some all terrain tires," warns Christopher L. about Bowman Campground.
Challenging roads: Access roads to remote sites can damage unsuitable vehicles. Rich N. cautions about Gold Lake 4x4: "Warning - this site requires a high clearance vehicle with good off road tires. Low profile tires and trucks modified for street use, YOU WILL destroy your vehicle."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds have basic amenities. Sardine Lake offers "clean bathrooms, plenty of trash cans, and sinks for cleanup," according to Alexandra R., but many sites lack potable water.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Kid-friendly swimming areas are available at several campgrounds. "The lake is beautiful and Sand Pond is great for swimming. There is plenty of hiking and fishing around," recommends Hannah O. about Sardine Lake.
Multi-activity sites: Salmon Creek Campground offers diverse recreation options. "Lush fields and forests. Great views... Bear boxes at every site. Trash and Recycling receptacles. Picnic Tables at every site. Fresh water available," lists Lauren H.
Quieter weekday visits: Weekend crowds can change the camping experience. "Two of those nights were during the week. Friday night had a completely different vibe- lots of parties and loud music," reports Kristin P. about Union Flat Campground.
Tips from RVers
Full-service options: Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park provides developed facilities. "The sites are level and the scenery is breathtaking. The park is immaculately maintained," according to Melanie R. The park includes hookups for water, electric, and sewer.
Parking assistance: RV campgrounds often provide setup help. "The park is clean and they show you to your site and help you park. It was only my second time parking my trailer so that was much appreciated," mentions Daphne R. about Clio's Rivers Edge.
Off-grid preparation: Most forest campgrounds lack hookups. Jesse H. advises about Bowman Lake: "The drive in takes a long time over really rocky terrain. I traveled around 10 mph on the way in and out. At least three camps close to the water."
