Campers near Goodyears Bar, California have access to high-elevation dispersed sites throughout Tahoe National Forest ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic seasonal changes with summer temperatures reaching 90°F during the day but dropping to 40°F at night. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations while snow closes most higher campgrounds from November through April.
What to do
Paddling at Bowman Lake: The calm waters make this an excellent spot for kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders. According to one visitor at Bowman Lake Dispersed, "Awesome spot to camp, fish, off road, launch a kayak or paddle board."
Hiking to waterfalls: Several trails lead to seasonal waterfalls near camping areas. A camper at Bowman Campground notes, "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."
Bird watching: The forested areas provide habitat for woodpeckers and migratory birds. Multiple lower-elevation sites offer excellent viewing opportunities, particularly in spring and early summer.
Gold panning: The North Yuba River watershed has a rich mining history, and visitors can try their luck at recreational gold panning at accessible river points near several campgrounds.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Many sites offer direct lake access for cooling off during hot summer days. One camper at Goose Lake Campground shared, "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."
Swimming holes: The river provides natural pools for swimming away from crowds. Campers appreciate these spots during peak summer months when temperatures climb.
Cell service breaks: Many campers specifically value the disconnection from technology. At Fiddle Creek, one reviewer noted, "Also no cell service.... which I love."
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites offer relief from valley heat. At Grouse Ridge Campground, a camper mentioned, "It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles and can become impassable after rain. A visitor to Faucherie Lake Group Campground warned, "Portions of the trail got a bit rough, but manageable with higher clearance vehicles."
Bear precautions: Bear activity varies by season and location. Recent improvements include bear boxes at some sites, but campers should always prepare for proper food storage.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack potable water and have minimal toilet facilities. Even established campgrounds typically only offer vault toilets.
Seasonal closures: Gates to most campgrounds close seasonally, with varying opening dates based on snow melt and road conditions each year.
Mosquitoes: Bring effective repellent, especially near lakes and in early summer. One reviewer noted, "Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent."
Tips for camping with families
Best tent camping near Goodyears Bar: For families with young children, choose established campgrounds with basic amenities. Loganville offers a good balance of facilities and natural features, with one camper noting, "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."
Supply runs: Sierra City (7 miles from Goodyears Bar) has a general store for basic supplies. A camper mentioned, "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."
Kid-friendly water access: Look for gradual entry points to rivers and lakes. Shallow areas with slower currents work best for children, particularly in early summer when water levels remain higher.
Weather preparation: Pack clothing layers even in summer as temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common at higher elevations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: RVers should carefully research before attempting access roads. A reviewer at Lindsey Lake Campground warned, "It can be little rough to get to requiring careful driving even on the paved road (big potholes!)."
Campsite limitations: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller RVs only. A camper noted about Goose Lake, "Class C RV over 16 ft not advised. Tight turns to navigate trees and rocky road. NO Trailers advised."
Water conservation: No hookups are available at any sites, requiring water conservation strategies. Bring extra containers as drinking water sources are extremely limited throughout the region.
