Dispersed camping options surround Emigrant Gap, California at elevations between 4,500 and 7,000 feet within the Sierra Nevada mountains. Located along the historic route of the Transcontinental Railroad, this area experiences heavy winter snowfall that limits access to some campgrounds from November through April. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Swimming in natural waters: At South Yuba Campground, visitors can access the river directly from camp. "There's hiking access to the river, and almost never anybody at this campground. It's scenic privacy at its best. Hike up or downstream for some really great swimming holes," notes J.D. E. The Yuba River is particularly popular in late summer when snow melt has subsided.
Fishing nearby lakes: Fish for trout at French Meadows, where anglers can access both reservoir and stream fishing. "Great trout fishing," confirms Toby R., who adds a practical warning: "Bear country be advised. Extreme fire danger the summer months and closed due to snow in winter." The reservoir offers boat-in access points during summer months.
Paddling opportunities: Bring kayaks or paddleboards to enjoy calm waters at smaller lakes. "We did an 11-mile hike in Granite Chief Wilderness which is accessible about 5 miles up a gravel road from the campground. On the way back we stopped for a swim in the river that feeds the reservoir," shares Wood F., describing a less-crowded alternative to main reservoir areas.
What campers like
Natural privacy: The forested settings provide seclusion at most campgrounds. "This is one of the best sites there is. There's hiking access to the river, and almost never anybody at this campground. It's scenic privacy at its best," reports a camper about South Yuba Campground. Several campgrounds feature widely spaced sites separated by mature pine trees.
Swimming holes: Loganville Campground offers direct river access. "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," writes Julie D., who visited repeatedly for Independence Day celebrations.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife. "We were visited by deer within feet of our tent in the middle of the night, close enough to hear them breathing and munching on the vegetation," recounts Wood F. about their stay at Lewis Campground. Bear sightings are occasionally reported throughout the region.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many campgrounds requires careful driving. "Long somewhat treacherous drive to get there," warns Dan D. about French Meadows Campground. Another camper elaborates: "To get to French Meadows you have to take some winding roads along the mountain side...It was a little unnerving on some parts!"
Water availability: Drought conditions can affect water sources. "Water pumps were good in the locations where water was present, but due to lower water levels, the pumps on the higher grounds had no water," reports Anastasia P., suggesting campers should "walk to the lowest pumps" for reliable access during dry periods.
Wildlife safety: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "There was a bear in the area one year, I didnt see it myself, but a friend said he saw one on the other loop from where we were staying," notes Julie D. about Loganville Campground. Most established campgrounds provide bear-proof storage boxes for food and scented items.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: Choose campgrounds with gentle water access. "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 Lily G. about Loganville, adding that it has "water, bathrooms and a bear box. Beautiful trees and clean sites."
Campground amenities: Look for sites with basic facilities when camping with children. "We set up our campsite and when we were walking down the water and when we came back the gentleman was willing to give us a warning instead of a ticket. Being that it's COVID I was worried about bathrooms but they were as well kept as you could have it," notes Amanda B. about her first camping experience at French Meadows.
Activity options: Plan for both water and land activities. "Loved the water access, and water was perfect temperature for swimming for our toddlers even. Great amenities (fire ring, table, bear box)," shares Anastasia P., highlighting features that make French Meadows suitable for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites at rv parks near Emigrant Gap, California. "Most sites are neither flat nor level, but close enough to get level," notes Tod S. about Dutch Flat RV Resort, describing the overall setting as "magnificent" despite some maintenance issues.
Dump station timing: At popular rv parks in Emigrant Gap, California, plan dump station use strategically. "Only one dump station was open (there are 3) so waited 30 + minutes to dump," reports kathy C. about Thousand Trails Snowflower, suggesting early morning or late evening might offer shorter waits during peak season.
Electric service details: Verify electricity specifications before booking. "RV sites have partial hook ups," explains kathy C. about Thousand Trails Snowflower, while other reviews mention that "many aren't anywhere near level." Some rv campgrounds near Emigrant Gap offer only 30-amp service rather than the 50-amp connections required by larger motorhomes and fifth wheels.
