Tent camping near Downieville, California offers diverse options within Tahoe National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 7,000 feet. The region receives significant snowfall during winter months, closing many high-elevation sites from November through May. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during daytime, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing in alpine lakes: Canyon Creek Campground provides access to three nearby lakes for fishing and kayaking. "Never crowded even on the 4th of July weekend," notes one visitor to Canyon Creek Campground.
Paddle boarding and kayaking: Bowman Lake Dispersed camping area offers shoreline camping with easy water access. "Found a perfect spot with easy access to water right outside of our tent. Very friendly area for our dog - zero ticks the whole weekend!" reports a camper at Bowman Lake Dispersed.
Swimming in the Yuba River: Loganville Campground has a direct path to the river where visitors can cool off. "The campground itself is pretty standard, sites are decent size, and lots of shade. 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," explains a reviewer from Loganville.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Faucherie Lake Group Campground offers remarkable isolation. "I've been out to this campground on countless years with my family from when I was a young child to now, i think only once or twice did we have to share the grounds with another group!" states one camper at Faucherie Lake Group Campground.
Lakeside camping: Goose Lake Campground provides waterfront sites with mountain views. "Pull right off the 'highway' into the campground surrounded by a lake on three sides!! Camp right on the edge of the lake with a view of the sierra buttes. It doesn't get ANY better than that," shares an enthusiastic visitor to Goose Lake Campground.
Access to multiple hiking trails: Grouse Ridge Campground serves as a gateway to numerous alpine lakes and trails. "The hiking is great, there's access to about 6 or more lakes, a great backpacking spot," notes a regular visitor to Grouse Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Most primitive camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. At Bowman Lake Dispersed, "The trail will take you off road for quite some time, but it's well worth the adventure. Traction boards and a winch could help you through unexpected obstacles and are recommended to have on hand, but you most likely won't need them."
Seasonal access: Many tent sites close during winter, while spring access depends on snow conditions. At Grouse Ridge Campground, one camper noted: "I expected some snow, since this year was so heavy. But there was too much snow to make it much rather than 4-5 miles up the already rough road."
Restroom facilities: Vault toilets vary in condition across campgrounds. At Fiddle Creek, a camper observed: "Toilets are pit toilets. So make sure you keep the door shut and lid down to help with the smell sometimes during busy week/ends. They are clean once a week and there are two dumpsters that are picked up weekly too."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lindsey Lake Campground offers family-friendly swimming and boating. "Stayed 6 days with friends and dogs. Sites were rustic but clean. We had direct access to lake to launch and swim," reports a visitor to Lindsey Lake Campground.
Supply planning: The nearest supplies are in Sierra City, 5-10 miles from most campgrounds. At Loganville, a camper noted: "Not too far away is Sierra City, which has some restaurants and a general store for supplies. Lots of PCT hikers stop to restock there."
Insect protection: Mosquitoes are prevalent near water sources, especially in early summer. A Bowman Lake Dispersed camper warns: "Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most areas restrict RV size and many are tent-only. At Goose Lake Campground, an RVer cautions: "High ground clearance vehicles only. Two poorly marked entrances. Typical length vehicle only. Large rocks in road to drive over and trees to avoid. Class C RV over 16 ft not advised. Tight turns to navigate trees and rocky road. (Not gravel but rock outcropping) standard class B rv a maybe. NO Trailers advised."
Dry camping preparation: No hookups exist at any campgrounds in the area. "Dry camping with space between sites. Great for kayaking and tents. Some sites require high clearance vehicles," notes a visitor to Goose Lake Campground.
Winter access: For the best tent camping near Downieville during winter months, Bowman Lake offers unique opportunities. "Bowman Lake in the winter is amazing. Wait til the snow melts a bit and you can make your way down to the lake. Absolutely beautiful mornings!" reports one adventurous winter camper.
