Tahoe National Forest

Sierra Buttes

red of indian paintbrush and purple lupines

The Tahoe National Forest is a year-round playground. So come for a visit, relax and rejuvenate with our mountain air!

With breathtaking mountain peaks, lush meadows filled with wildflowers, historic mining towns, destination vacation spots at Goodyears Bar, Downieville, Sierra City, Truckee, Yuba River, the Lakes Basin Area and the Jackson Meadows Region, the Tahoe National Forest is one of the most popular recreation forests in the US.

In winter, there are outstanding winter sports opportunities including world renowned downhill ski areas and extensive snowmobile and cross-country ski trails to experience.
In the summer, an extensive array of hiking trails (including a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail) , OHV, equestrian and mountain biking trails provide access to many lakes, rivers, and mountain tops.

Developed recreation sites including campgrounds, boat ramps, picnic areas, nature trails and even a fire lookout or two that can be rented for overnight occupancy.

Travel Corridors

The recreation information is primarily organized by travel corridor. The main travel corridors are: Interstate 80, Highway 49, Highway 20, Highway 89 (North and South), Foresthill Divide Road, Mosquito Ridge Road, Bowman Road, Marysville Road, and Gold Lakes Road. Activities such as camping and hiking will also have related links to boating, biking, trailheads, parking, and OHV riding in the same corridor.

Accessible Recreation Facilities

Our accessible recreation guide lists facilities and recreation opportunities by Ranger District with features that are accessible for people with disabilities. (Not all locations/facilities listed are 100% accessible.) Because we are continually adding new accessible sites, please call ahead to the Ranger District for more information. The facilities listed meet federal accessibility standards (32-inch minimum width for doorways, adequate room for turning etc).

For more information on accessible recreation facilities on the Tahoe National Forest, follow this link.

New Bullards Bar Reservoir

Dark Day Picnic Area at New Bullards Bar Reservoir

Sierra Buttes

Hodgdon Meadow Campground

Site 041

Riding the PCT

Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area

Mountain Biking on the South Yuba Trail

Mountain biking on the South Yuba Trail

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Facilities

Ahart Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Ahart Campground is located on the tree covered banks of the North Fork of the American River near French Meadows Reservoir, about 40 miles from the town of Foresthill, high in the Sierra mountains. Visitors enjoy the area for the rugged mountain beauty, fishing, boating and trail opportunities. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Natural Features

The campground is near the north shore of French Meadows Reservoir along the banks of the Middle Fork of the American River while nestled in a Coniferous Forest. Summer days can be warm and pleasant with cool evenings.

Dark Day Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Bullards Bar Reservoir is located on the North Yuba River at an elevation of 2000 feet. It is located approximately 21 miles north of Nevada City, California. It has a maximum surface area of 4,760 acres and a length of over 16 miles and shoreline of more than 60 miles.

Recreation

Activities include wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, boating, water skiing, and other water sports. Swimming opportunities are limited because of the steep slopes; however boaters will find numerous opportunities for swimming in various locations around the reservoir. The reservoir provides yearlong fishing opportunities for both warm and cold water fish species. Supplies are available at the marina as well as the nearby communities of Camptonville, North San Juan, and Dobbins.

Facilities

Public access for boating and recreation is limited to 2 developed and 1 undeveloped boat launches: the Cottage Creek Boat Launch ramp at Emerald Cove Marina, the Dark Day Boat Launch ramp, and the undeveloped site at the end of Moran Road. The area includes 5 campgrounds, 2 picnic areas, 2 boat launch ramps, 1 marina, 1 overlook, 1 day use area and several developed hiking trails.

Natural Features

The sides of the reservoir are generally steep and public access for boating and recreation is limited. The reservoir is surrounded by both conifer and hardwood forests with numerous brush spieces. There is plenty of shade at the campsites

Nearby Attractions

There is a beautiful non- motorized trail system in the area, with 5 different trails to choose from. Bullards Bar Trailhead is 14 miles, 7 Ball Trial is 1 mile, 8 Ball Trail is 3.8 miles, Rebel Ridge Trail is 1.6 miles and Schoolhouse Trail is 0.7 miles. Maps are available at the North Yuba Ranger Station just a couple miles east of the reservoir on Marysville Road.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival).

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation if the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit some or all of the recreation fees.

There is no change fee if the customer changes campsites that are the same price and on the same reservation dates in the same campground. If the campsite the customer is changing to has a price difference, the customer will be responsible for any additional fees or be provided with a refund, based on the price difference.

Where recorded, no-show customers are assessed a $20.00 no-show fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use recreation fee for a day-use facility. We recommend customers contact the facility if they are en route to their reservation but cannot make it by the check-in date. In these cases, no refund will be issued, but the facility can ensure that a "no-show" fee is not assessed.

Garden Point Boat-in Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Recreation

This is a boat-in campground. You can not drive to this campground. You must launch a boat a Dark Day boat launch and boat to the campground. Activities include wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, boating, water skiing, and other water sports. Swimming opportunities are limited because of the steep slopes; however boaters will find numerous opportunities for swimming in various locations around the reservoir. The reservoir provides yearlong fishing opportunities for both warm and cold water fish species. Supplies are available at the marina as well as the nearby communities of Camptonville, North San Juan, and Dobbins.

Facilities

This is a boat-in campground. You can not drive to this campground. You must launch a boat a Dark Day boat launch and boat to the campground. Public access for boating and recreation is limited to 2 developed and 1 undeveloped boat launches: the Cottage Creek Boat Launch ramp at Emerald Cove Marina (aprox. 3 miles from campground by boat), the Dark Day Boat Launch ramp (aprox. 1 mile from campground by boat), and the undeveloped site at the end of Moran Road. The area includes 5 campgrounds, 2 picnic areas, 2 boat launch ramps, 1 marina, 1 overlook, 1 day use area and several developed hiking trails.

Natural Features

This is a boat-in campground. You can not drive to this campground. You must launch a boat a Dark Day boat launch and boat to the campground. The sides of the reservoir are generally steep and public access for boating and recreation is limited. The reservoir is surrounded by both conifer and hardwood forests with numerous brush species. There is plenty of shade at the campsites

Nearby Attractions

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

Hornswoggle Group Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

Nearby Attractions

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

Madrone Cove Boat-in Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Public access for boating and recreation is limited to 2 developed and 1 undeveloped boat launches: the Cottage Creek Boat Launch ramp at Emerald Cove Marina (aprox. 6 miles from campground by boat), the Dark Day Boat Launch ramp (aprox. 5 miles from campground by boat), and the undeveloped site at the end of Moran Road. The area includes 5 campgrounds, 2 picnic areas, 2 boat launch ramps, 1 marina, 1 overlook, 1 day use area and several developed hiking trails.

Natural Features

Nearby Attractions

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

Schoolhouse Campground (CA) Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

Nearby Attractions

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

Cottage Creek Campground (CA) Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Cottage Creek is a new campground with all new amendities. It has double and triple sites. It has a beautiful view of the Bullards Bar Reservior.

Recreation

Facilities

Public access for boating and recreation is limited to 2 developed and 1 undeveloped boat launches: the Cottage Creek Boat Launch ramp at Emerald Cove Marina, the Dark Day Boat Launch ramp, and the undeveloped site at the end of Moran Road. The area includes 6 campgrounds, 2 picnic areas, 2 boat launch ramps, 1 marina, 1 overlook, 1 day use area and several developed hiking trails.

Natural Features

Nearby Attractions

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

The South Yuba River offers swimming, and rainbow trout fishing. The surrounding area offers hiking, road biking, mountain biking, and off-road vehicle trails. The historic California Emigrant Trail passes through the campground.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family campsites, a few of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is situated on the north bank of the upper South Yuba River in a forest of lodgepole pines. Some sites are adjacent to the river, which flows gently through this particular area.

Nearby Attractions

Donner Lake is located 14 miles east of the campground via Historic Route 40/Lincoln Highway, known as the nation's first transcontinental highway. Many points of interest lie along Route 40, including China Wall, Rainbow Bridge, Sugar Bowl, Lake Van Norden and Ice Lakes. Other attractions include Donner Summit PCT, Loch Leven, and Castle Peak Trailheads, Fordyce 4x4 jeep trail, and Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

TUNNEL MILLS II Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Tunnel Mills Group Campground is located along the East Fork of the North Fork of the North Fork American River in the Tahoe National Forest. It can be accessed off of Interstate 80, at the Emigrant Gap exit. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking and hunting in this scenic area.

Recreation

Rainbow trout fishing is a popular activity on the river. Hiking and OHV trails and hunting opportunities are found in the surrounding area.

Facilities

The campground offers two group sites that can accommodate up to 30 people and six vehicles each. Site 1 is for tent and RV camping, while site 2 is designated for tent camping only. Picnic tables and campfire rings are provided, as are vault toilets.

Natural Features

The campground is near the creek-sized East Fork of the North Fork of the North Fork American River, in a remote location of north central California. A forest of cedar, pine and fir trees shades the campground.

Nearby Attractions

Many hiking, and OHV trails are located nearby as well as foot trail access into the North Fork American Wild and Scenic River canyon. Many more trails can be found a short distance east on Interstate 80 at Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area and Donner Summit.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

WHITE CLOUD Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

White Cloud Campground is located in the Tahoe National Forest along Highway 20 near Nevada City. The area provides a great escape from urban life.

Recreation

The Pioneer Trail stretches 25 miles through the Tahoe National Forest and can be accessed from the campground. The popular path was designated a National Recreation Trail in 2003. Horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing are favorite activities on this popular trail.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family sites, a few of which are designated for tent camping only as well as one double site. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is situated in a forest of cedar, pine, and Douglas fir trees, at an elevation of 4,200 feet.

Nearby Attractions

White Cloud Campground is located on the Highway 20 portion of the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway near many gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns such as Washington and Nevada City. Nevada City, about 14 miles west, is a scenic historical mining town with many historical attractions, top notch restaraunts, various lodging options, shopping, and stores for everything you may need. Other attractions include the Pioneer Trail, South Yuba River, Washintong Scenic Overlook, Alpha and Omega Scenic Overlook and Interpretive Trail, Rock Creek Nature Trail, Chalk Bluff OHV trails, and Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

YUBA PASS CAMPGROUND Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Yuba Pass Campground is located in the North Yuba River area, atop Yuba Pass on Highway 49. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including birding, hiking, biking, hunting, and fishing. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest

Recreation

Bird watching is a favorite activity on Yuba Pass. The peaceful and scenic surroundings attract a wide variety of birds, including sandhill cranes, hermit warblers, black-backed woodpeckers, sapsuckers, calliope hummingbirds, sooty grouse, northern pygmy-owls, mountain quail, bald eagles, osprey, hawks and geese. A large network of trails is available in the area, including the Pacific Crest Trail in the Lakes Basin area.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

A forest of old-growth red fir provides ample shade for campsites. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area.

Nearby Attractions

Yuba Pass Campground is located on the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway (Highway 49) near many gold rush era historical sites and scenic mountain vistas. Many points of interest lie along Highway 49 and are part of the 49 miles of Highway 49 driving tour; look for interpretive signs and other historical sites along this tour route. Gold Lakes Basin offers boating, fishing, biking, and hiking. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about nine miles west of the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Sierraville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

Findley Campground is located alongside the scenic Jackson Meadow Reservoir in the Tahoe National Forest. The location, part of the Woodcamp Recreation Area, makes a great base camp for a wide range of recreational activities found in the surrounding area, including boating, fishing, hiking and hunting. Findley Campground is operated by Nevada Irrigation District in cooperation with the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

The reservoir offers excellent opportunities for boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brown trout. A boat ramp and designated swim beach are located within the Woodcamp Recreation Area.

A half-mile interpretive nature trail wanders through adjacent Woodcamp Campground. A portion of the Pacific Crest Trail meanders along the east side of the lake. Hunting and biking are popular activities in the surrounding area.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Flushing toilets and drinking water are provided.

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

PACKSADDLE Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Packsaddle Campground is located in the Packer Lake area near the Sierra Buttes, north of the Yuba River. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, canoeing and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

A large network of trails is available in the area, including Deer Lake Trail. This 2.9-mile trail is open to hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. The Pacific Crest Trail can easily be accessed nearby. Many lakes in the area offer fishing. Canoeing and paddeling is available on nearby Packer Lake.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family campsites and two equestrian sites for campers with horses. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. The equestrian sites share a corral and have ample space for stock trailers. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is split into two loops. The first is more open but is shaded by towering Jeffrey pine and fir trees. The second is located on a forested hillside above the first loop. Some sites have views of the open, wildflower-dotted meadow, while others overlook a ravine and mountain peaks beyond it.

Nearby Attractions

Lakes Basin offers many opportunities for boating, fishing and hiking. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Packer Lake less than a mile to the west and Sardine Lakes, about three miles south of the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. A more developed boat ramp is located at Gold Lake and accomodates launching of larger boats. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

BERGER Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Berger Campground is located in the Packer Lake area near Packer Creek and the Sierra Buttes, north of the Yuba River. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, equestrian use, hunting, fishing, canoeing and OHV use. This campground is operated and maintained by Forest Service staff.

Recreation

A large network of trails is available in the Packer Lake area, including the Pacific Crest Trail, which is just a short trip from the campground. Many lakes in the area, including Packer Lake and Lower Sardine Lake, offer stocked rainbow and brook trout fishing, in addition to canoeing. During the late spring months, visitors looking for a more extreme adventure might want to try whitewater rafting on the North Yuba River.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family tent sites on two loops. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided. Drinking water is not provided.

Natural Features

The campground is located at an elevation of 5,900 feet, near the banks of Packer Creek and just a short distance from Packer Lake. The campground is located within stands of lodgepole pine, cedar and fir trees. Packer Lake is a remote six-acre body of water tucked at the foot of the Sierra Buttes in Tahoe National Forest.

Nearby Attractions

The Lakes Basin offers boating, fishing and hiking. Over 30 miles of maintained trails branch out across the area. Many of the trails are also open to biking and horseback riding. On the water, visitors enjoy boating, canoeing and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes throughout the basin. A boat ramp is located at Gold Lake.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

DIABLO Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Diablo Campground is located in the Packer Lake area near the Sierra Buttes, in northern California. It is north of the Yuba River and next to Packer Creek. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, biking, hunting, fishing and canoeing. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

A large network of trails is available in this area including the Pacific Crest Trail which can easily be accessed from the trailhead adjacent to the nearby Packsaddle Campround. Hikers can reach a variety of alpine lakes, which offer plentiful fishing. Canoeing opportunities are available at Packer Lake.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family, tent campsites on two loops. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided.

Natural Features

The campground lies near the banks of Packer Creek. Stands of lodgepole pine provides partial shade at many sites.

Nearby Attractions

The Lakes Basin area offers boating, fishing, hiking and more than 30 miles of maintained trails, that are also open to biking and horseback riding. The lakes provide visitors with ample opportunities to enjoy boating, canoeing and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the scenic bodies of water in the area. A boat ramp is located at Gold Lake.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

CAL-IDA Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Cal-Ida Campground is located on Highway 49, across the road from the North Yuba River and 13 miles from Downieville. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, fishing, biking and enjoying the cool waters of the North Yuba River. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

The North Yuba River offers swimming, wading and rainbow trout fishing. Seasonal rafting, and kayaking are popular water activities. A network of trails is located within the surrounding area including the nearby North Yuba River Trail.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family campsites, some of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground lies across the highway from the North Yuba River. Oak, maple and locust trees are scattered throughout the campground, offering some shade.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

SARDINE LAKE Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Sardine Lake Campground is located in the North Yuba River area, near the beautiful Sardine Lakes. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes and Sand Pond. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant. A large network of trails is available in the area, including Deer Lake and Tamarack Lakes Trails and the Pacific Crest Trail.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family campsites and one double site. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, and a food storage locker. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground stretches along a wet meadow at the base of the scenic Sierra Buttes. A forest of lodgepole pine offers partial shade. Beautiful high mountain lakes and rugged peaks can be found throughout the surrounding area.

Nearby Attractions

Lakes Basin offers many opportunities for boating, fishing and hiking. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, less than a mile to the west. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. A more developed boat ramp is located at Gold Lake and accomodates launching of larger boats. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

SALMON CREEK Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Salmon Creek Campground is located in the North Yuba River area. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

A large network of trails is available in the area, including Tamarack Lake and Deer Lake Trails and the Pacific Crest Trail. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, which is a short drive from the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals.

Facilities

The campground offers 31 single-family sites, including some tent-only sites. Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground stretches along the banks of Salmon Creek. A forest of cottonwood, lodgepole pine and cedar offers shade. The surrounding area contains an abundance of beautiful high mountain lakes, rugged peaks, and scenic views.

Nearby Attractions

Lakes Basin offers many opportunities for boating, fishing and hiking. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about a mile to the west. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. A more developed boat ramp is located at Gold Lake and accomodates launching of larger boats. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

LOGANVILLE Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Loganville Campground is located along the North Yuba River, off of Highway 49 about 1.5 miles west of Sierra City. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, hunting, fishing, biking, swimming and gold panning.

Recreation

Nearby activities include fishing, hiking, white water boating, mountain bike and motorcycle trails, and seasonal hunting. The scenic and historic town of Sierra City is a short drive from the campground where a variety of lodging and dining options are available as well as a grocery store and some boutique stores.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family sites, all of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground has two loops situated in a scenic, dense forest of oak, pine, and fir trees, which provide ample shade. One section of the campground meanders up a hillside, while the other lies on level ground.

Nearby Attractions

Gold Lakes Basin offers boating, fishing, biking, and hiking. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about nine miles east of the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots east of Sierra City and in the Gold Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information. On the water, visitors enjoy boating and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

FIDDLE CREEK Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Fiddle Creek Campground is located alongside the North Yuba River, just off Highway 49, about 12 miles from Downieville. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, hunting, fishing and mountain biking. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

The North Yuba River offers swimming, wading and rainbow trout fishing. Seasonal rafting, kayaking and tubing are popular water activities. Hiking and hunting are available in the surrounding area. A network of trails crisscrosses the surrounding area. A footbridge accessing the North Yuba Trail is located at nearby Rocky Rest Campground.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family sites, all of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring and bearproof food locker. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. While located close to the parking areas, campsites cannot be directly accessed by motor vehicles.

Natural Features

The campground stretches along the north bank of the North Yuba River. Stands of oak, maple, locust and pine trees covers the area providing ample shade at this location.

RAMSHORN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Ramshorn Campground is located off of Highway 49, in the North Yuba River area west of Downieville. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, mountain biking, motorcycle singletrack, hunting, fishing, and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

A network of trails crisscrosses the surrounding area. The 5.8-mile Halls Ranch Trail is open to hiking, mountain biking, and motorized use. The Yuba River Trail can be accessed nearby at the Rocky Rest Trailhead. The North Yuba River offers swimming, floating, and rainbow trout fishing. The river is a popular destination for seasonal rafting, kayaking and tubing.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family sites, all of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided.

Natural Features

Ramshorn Campground is located on the steep slopes of the North Yuba River Valley between the Indian Valley Recreation Area and Downieville. The campground's two loops are situated among abundant blackberry bushes in a forest of cedar and fir trees. Shady oak trees are scattered around the upper loop.

Nearby Attractions

Ramshorn Campground is located along the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway (Highway 49) near many gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns such as Camptonville, Goodyears Bar, and Downieville. Many points of interest lie along Highway 49 and are part of the 49 miles of Highway 49 driving tour; look for interpretive signs and other historical sites along this tour route. Other attractions include the North Yuba River, Indian Valley Outpost, New Bullards Bar Reservoir, Downieville, and a network of miles of multi use hiking, biking, and motorcycle singletrack.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

WILD PLUM Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Wild Plum Campground is located on Haypress Creek in the North Yuba River area. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, and gold panning. this facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

Wild Plum Loop Trail can be accessed from the campground. The 2.5-mile trail is open to hiking and horseback riding and provides access to the Pacific Crest Trail and Haypress Trail. The scenic and historic town of Sierra City is just two miles from the campground. A variety of lodging and dining options are available.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family sites, many of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. The campground's two smaller loops have paved roads and parking spurs; the larger upper loop has a gravel road and spurs.

Natural Features

The campground is situated on the banks of Haypress Creek. A forest of hardwood and pine trees covers the area, offering pleasant shade. Many rocks, from early gold dredging activity, cover the forest floor. Several sites overlook the creek.

Nearby Attractions

Wild Plum Campground is located about 1 mile east of historic Sierra City which is on the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway (Highway 49) near many gold rush era historical sites and scenic mountain vistas. Gold Lakes Basin offers boating, fishing, biking, and hiking. Boating, fishing, and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about 7 miles north of the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed from with in the campground as well as at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic town of Sierra City offers historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

SIERRA Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Sierra Campground is located on the north bank of the North Yuba River between Sierra City and Yuba Pass. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing and gold panning.

Recreation

A large network of trails is available in the area, including the Pacific Crest Trail. Boating, fishing, and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about 5 miles from the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family tent-only sites. Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is situated between the highway and the creek-sized North Yuba River in a forest of mature fir trees. Many sites overlook the river.

Nearby Attractions

Lakes Basin offers many opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. A developed boat ramp is located at Gold Lake and accomodates launching of larger boats. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

CHAPMAN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Chapman Creek Campground is located next to Chapman Creek, near the North Yuba River. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, mountain biking, hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing, This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

A large network of hiking trails is available in the area, including the nearby Pacific Crest Trail. The trailhead for the 2-mile long Chapman Creek Trail is located within the campground. Boating, fishing and swimming opportunites are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about five miles from the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, food storage locker and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is split into two loops, with one overlooking Chapman Creek and the other, neighboring a small meadow. Stands of mature fir and lodgepole pine trees covers the area, providing pleasant shade at most campsites.

Nearby Attractions

The nearby Lakes Basin area offers boating, fishing, hiking and more than 30 miles of maintained trails, that are also open to biking and horseback riding. The lakes provide visitors with ample opportunities to enjoy boating, canoeing and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the scenic bodies of water in the area. A boat ramp is located at Gold Lake.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

CARLTON Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Carlton Campground is located along the North Yuba River, adjacent to Highway 49 and 13 miles from Downieville. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing and biking. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

The North Yuba River offers swimming, wading and rainbow trout fishing. Seasonal rafting and kayaking are popular water activities. A network of trails through the surrounding area providing opportunities for hiking, biking and OHV use. The North Yuba River Trail can be accessed from the nearby Rocky Rest trailhead.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family campsites suited for both tent and trailer camping. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground stretches along the North Yuba River, next to the highway. Stands of cedar, ponderosa pine and oak trees cover the area providing shade from the afternoon sun.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

INDIAN VALLEY Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Indian Valley Campground is located alongside the North Yuba River just off Highway 49, about 11 miles west of Downieville. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, white water boating, and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

The North Yuba River offers swimming, wading, and rainbow trout fishing. Seasonal rafting, kayaking and tubing are also popular water activities. A network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singeltrack criss-crosses the surrounding area including the Yuba River, Halls Ranch, and Butcher Ranch trails and the Downieville Downhill.

Facilities

The campground offers both single and double family campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground sits on the north bank of the North Yuba River. Tumbled rock piles from early gold dredging activity are scattered around the campground. A forest of oak, fir, pine and madrone trees provides ample shade. Many sites have views of the river.

Nearby Attractions

Indian Valley Campground is located on the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway (Highway 49) near many gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns such as Camptonville, Goodyears Bar, and Downieville. Many points of interest lie along Highway 49 and are part of the 49 miles of Highway 49 driving tour; look for interpretive signs and other historical sites along this tour route. Other attractions include the North Yuba River, Indian Valley Outpost, New Bullards Bar Reservoir, Downieville, and a network of miles of motorcycle singletrack.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

ROCKY REST Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Rocky Rest Campground is located off of Highway 49, in the North Yuba River area near Downieville. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, white water boating, and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

Recreation

A trailhead for the North Yuba Trail is located within the campground. This 7.5-mile trail is open to hiking and biking. The North Yuba River offers swimming, floating, and rainbow trout fishing. A small rocky beach and swimming hole are situated at the water's edge. The river is a popular destination for seasonal rafting, kayaking and tubing.

Facilities

The campground offers several single-family sites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is situated on the north bank of the North Yuba River, where a forest of Douglas fir, pine, and oak provides ample shade, but limited privacy between sites.

Nearby Attractions

Rocky Rest Campground is located along the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway (Highway 49) near many gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns such as Camptonville, Goodyears Bar, and Downieville. Many points of interest lie along Highway 49 and are part of the 49 miles of Highway 49 driving tour; look for interpretive signs and other historical sites along this tour route. Other attractions include the North Yuba River, Indian Valley Outpost, New Bullards Bar Reservoir, Downieville, and a network of miles of multi use hiking, biking, and motorcycle singletrack.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

NORTH FORK (CA) Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

North Fork Campground is located along the North Fork of the North Fork American River in the Tahoe National Forest, off of Interstate 80, at the Emigrant Gap Exit. Visitors enjoy fishing and swimming in this scenic area.

Recreation

A great swimming hole is located a short walk from the end of the campground, on the river. Rainbow trout fishing is a popular activity enjoyed by visitors to the campground. Hiking trails and hunting opportunities are found in the surrounding area.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family sites, a few of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is near the beautiful creek-sized river, in a remote location. It is shaded by cedar, pine and fir trees and is a pleasant escape from urban life.

Nearby Attractions

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

BIG BEND GROUP (YUBA RIVER) Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Big Bend Group Campground is located 19 miles west of Truckee, California in the Tahoe National Forest at an elevation of 5,700 feet. Visitors enjoy the area for its fishing and hiking opportunities, as well as its historic significance along the California Emigrant Trail. This campground is operated and maintained by Forest Service staff.

Recreation

The South Yuba River offers swimming and rainbow trout fishing. The historic California Emigrant Trail and Loch Leven Trail are located nearby. The surrounding area offers many additional hiking, biking and off-road vehicle trails.

Facilities

The campground offers two accessible group sites, Lincoln and Victory, which can accommodate up to 25 people and five vehicles each. Picnic tables, grills and large campfire rings are provided, as well as vault toilets and drinking water.

Natural Features

The campground lies along the gentle South Yuba River; just behind and across the river from the Big Bend Fire Station. Stands of pine and fir covers the area, offering pleasant shade at the group sites.

Nearby Attractions

Donner Lake is located 15 miles east via historic Route 40/Lincoln Highway, the nation's first transcontinental highway. Many points of interest lie along Route 40, including China Wall, Rainbow Bridge, Sugar Bowl, Lake Van Norden and Ice Lakes.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

SKILLMAN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Skillman Campground has individual sites with enough room for parking trucks with trailers. Some of the sites have horse pens and water troughs for horses. It is located in the Tahoe National Forest near Nevada City and three historic mining towns.

Recreation

The Pioneer Trail stretches 25 miles through the Tahoe National Forest and can be accessed from the campground. The popular trail was designated a National Recreation Trail in 2003. Horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing are favorite activities on this popular trail.

Facilities

Two horse pens are in sites 7,9,13, and 15. Water troughs are found in the campground. Site 4 is a double site and has 4 horse pens. Each single site can accommodate up to six people, four horses and two vehicles.

Natural Features

The campground is situated in a forest of dogwood, cedar and Douglas fir trees, at an elevation of 3,700 feet.

Nearby Attractions

Skillman Campground is located on the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway (Highway 20) near many gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns such as Washington and Nevada City. Nevada City, about 14 miles west, is a scenic historical mining town with many historical attractions, top notch restaraunts, various lodging options, shopping, and stores for everything you may need. Other attractions include the South Yuba River, Washintong Scenic Overlook, Alpha and Omega Scenic Overlook and Interpretive Trail, Rock Creek Nature Trail, Chalk Bluff OHV trails, and Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

INDIAN SPRINGS Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Indian Springs Campground is located in the Tahoe National Forest along Interstate 80 the South Yuba River. It is about three miles west of Big Bend and 23 miles west of Truckee. Visitors enjoy the area for its swimming, fishing, and trail opportunities, as well as its historic significance along the California Emigrant Trail.

Recreation

The South Yuba River offers rainbow trout fishing and a popular swimming hole is located alongside the campground in the South Yuba River. The Indian Springs OHV Staging Area is adjacent to the campground and offers access to many OHV trails including the popular Fordyce 4x4 jeep trail. The historic California Emigrant Trail passes nearby. Many additional hiking, biking and off-road vehicle trails are in the surrounding area, including the Indian Springs OHV Trailhead.

Facilities

The campground offers single-family campsites, a few of which are designated as walk-to sites for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided.

Natural Features

The campground is situated on the north bank of the South Yuba River in a scenic forest of mature cedar and pine trees, which offer ample shade. The elevation is 5,600 feet.

Nearby Attractions

Donner Lake is located 19 miles east via Interstate 80 and historic Route 40, which is also known as the Lincoln Highway, the nation's first transcontinental highway. Many points of interest lie along Route 40, including China Wall, Rainbow Bridge, Sugar Bowl, Lake Van Norden and Ice Lakes. Other attractions include Donner Summit PCT, Loch Leven, and Castle Peak Trailheads, Alpha and Omega Scenic Overlook and Interpretive Trail, Chalk Bluff OHV trails, and Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area.

Charges & Cancellations

No Show Policy

* No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.

* It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date.

Government Springs Mumford Bar North Trailhead Facility

Government Springs Mumford Bar North Trailhead

Euchre Bar North Trailhead Facility

Euchre Bar North Trailhead

Talbot Equestrian Trailhead Facility

...

Sugar Pine Staging Area Facility

This is the main staging area for the Foresthill OHV Trails. The large gravel parking lot area is the best location for day users to park and for RV or toy hauler camping. There are no hookups or water. There are vault toilet restrooms and trash containers centrally located. Loading ramps are available.

Sierra Valley Shooting Range Facility

The shooting range facility is available to the public through a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the Sierra Valley Sportman's Club (SVSC). Range target backstops/frames, shooting benches, gun racks, tables, etc. are provided courtesy of SVSC. Please respect their generosity and dedication by picking up all trash, brass and shot cases and placing them in the receptacles provided and by shooting at authorized targets only. The SVSC has also provided hand-operated target throwers at the Trap Range for your convenience. Use at your own risk. It is recommended you provide your own paper targets and/or clay pigeons.

Operating season approximately April 15 to November 15 (Weather Permitting)

Operating Hours: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm or dusk (No shooting after dark)

In order to check out a range key, an individual must:

1) Be at least 16 years of age and have a valid state ID card.

2) If under 16 years of age, have a parent, legal guardian or other adult present who will leave state ID information and be responsible for the actions of the minor.

3) Read and sign the Range Rules form.

A key may be checked out at the following locations - In Sierraville: Sierraville Ranger Station (Mon- Fri, 8:00 am-4:30 pm), and the Sierraville Service & Country Store (Mon-Fri 6am - 7pm, Sat 7am- 7pm, Sun, 8:00am- 7:00pm). In Truckee: Truckee Ranger Station (Mon- Fri, 8:00 am - 5pm, Sat 8-4:30)

Please check out keys at a location where you can return it during business hours. Keys MUST be returned the same day to the location key was checked out. The key is non-transferable, government property. The person checking out the key is reponsible for returning the key.

The gate is to remain closed and locked at all times, even during periods of use. The individual responsible for the key is also responsible for ensuring the gate is closed and locked after entering and upon leaving the facility.

Cold Stream Trailhead Facility

Cold Stream Trailhead

Donner Summit Rest Area Picnic Site Facility

Donner Summit Rest Area Picnic Site

Glacier Meadow Trailhead Facility

Glacier Meadow Trailhead

Salmon Lake -boat Ramp Boating Site Facility

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Chalkbluff Trailhead (530) 478-6253 Ext. 243 Facility

Trailhead

For Open/Closed status, please call the Tahoe National Forest, Yuba River Ranger District office in Camptonville, CA at (530) 478-6253, ext. 243

Verdi Peak OHV Routes Facility

Location: Take the Hirschdale exit off Interstate 80 and head north to Boca Reservoir. The first point of entry is 2 miles north of the freeway. This takes you to roads on Boca Ridge, ending up on Verdi Peak Road. The second entry is 3 miles north of the freeway at Boca Springs Road. Turn right at Boca Springs Road, and then right again before the campground at Forest Road 72 to Verdi Peak. The third entry is at the end of the paved road where the Boca-Stampede Road makes a T-intersection with the Henness Pass Road. Turn right and continue up to the junction of the Tahoe and Toiyabe National Forests. Turn right again and you are on the Verdi Peak Road (the other end of Forest Road 72).

Features: These roads are moderately difficult and provide good views of Boca and Stampede Reservoirs and the Sierra crest. From Verdi Peak, the Nevada landscape and the City of Reno are visible. Most roads are recommended for 4x4 only and are great for motorcycles and ATV's.

Precautions: The Boca-Verdi OHV routes traverse areas of vegetation that are highly susceptible to wildfire during the dry season. Stay on roads and trails and please help prevent wildfires!

Tamarack Lake Trailhead Facility

Tamarack Lake Trailhead

Mumford Bar Trailhead Facility

The trailhead at Mumford Bar is a small equestrian friendly campground. Located 17 miles northeast of Foresthill on Foresthill Divide Road. Offers hiking, mountain biking, or equestrian access to the North Fork of the American River. There is no fee for camping here.

CAUTION! Trail workers are currently cleaning up the trail to Mumford Cabin. Be aware of crews and equipment in the area.

Prosser Reservoir - Water Recreation Facility

Prosser Reservoir -Speed restricted use - Power boating is allowed, but a 10-mph speed limit is enforced.

Popular for canoeing, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing and swimming. Located approximately 1.5 miles above the confluence of Prosser Creek and the Truckee River. Year round fishing. Ice fishing during winter depending on conditions. Access by snow machine, cross country skis or snow shoes in winter months depending on snow level. Paved access in the summer months.

A boat ramp is located at Prosser Ranch Group Campground at the end of Prosser and Lakeside Campground Road on the west side of Prosser Reservoir.Boat trailer parking available. Hand-off launching possible at Lakeside campground and other areas on the north and south ends of reservoir depending on water level.

Camping opportunities on northwest side of Prosser Reservoir accessed from Highway 89 North. Single family sites and Prosser Ranch Group campground.

Most single family sites and group campgrounds can be reserved at www.recreation.govor (877) 444-6777.

NO CAMPING OR CAMPFIRES ALLOWED OUTSIDE OF DEVELOPED CAMPGROUNDS.

Glenshire Drive Staging Area Picnic Site Facility

Glenshire Drive Staging Area Picnic Site

Kyburz Flat Interpretive Site Facility

The Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area has three historic areas within this driving and walking tour. Interpretive and directional signs at each stop provide information on a Native American petroglyph type known as cupules, a boardwalk that meanders through the site of an early stage route on Henness Pass road and a picnic area and reconstructed brick oven from the days of the Wheeler Sheep Camp. The entire tour should take less than an hour.

The Kyburz marsh lies southeast of the interpretive area and is a California Watchable Wildlife site for migrating birds. The road continues east and links to additional forest roads and a couple of fire lookouts that may be of interest to backroad travelers, mountain bikers or even hikers.

Loganville Scenic Hwy Center Picnic Site Facility

Picnic area and RV dumpstation. Located approximately two miles west of Sierra City on Highway 49.

Bowman Road Facility

The recreation information for the Tahoe National Forest is primarily provided by travel corridor. The main travel corridors are: Interstate 80, Highway 49, Highway 20, Highway 89 (North and South), Foresthill Divide Road, Mosquito Ridge Road, Bowman Road, Marysville Road, and Gold Lakes Road.

Bowman Road
The Bowman Road begins at Hwy 20 and travels north through a highly granitic and scenic area to Bowman Reservoir. It provides access to many popular reservoirs used by fishermen and boating enthusiasts, a variety of rustic campgrounds and many non-motoirzed trails within the Grouse Lakes Vehicle Closure area.

From January 1 through March 31 of each year, the road is closed to wheeled traffic per Tahoe NF Motor Vehicle Use Maps. Forest Service Road Closure Order 17-17-01, effective from February 17, 2017, through June 1st, 2017.

The unpaved portion of this road is very rocky and rough; 4x4 clearance is strongly recommended.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor.

Dark Day Picnic Site Facility

14 picnic sites located near boat ramp.

Packer Lake - Picnic Site Facility

Located three miles west off the Gold Lake Highway on the Packer Lake Road.

Gold Lake Road Facility

Gold Lake Road

The Gold Lake Road travels from Hwy 49 beneath the towering Sierra Buttes and heads north to Graeagle. An abundance of campgrounds, picnic sites, and small lakes dot this picturesque area. A variety of winter and summer trails can be accessed off the Gold Lakes Road, one of which is a hike to the top of the Sierra Buttes Lookout.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor.

Billy Hill OHV Route Facility

Location: From I-80, exit Highway 89 North. Travel north 4.9 miles. Turn right at Hobart Mills and follow road 88-6 to Tahoe Timber Trails Campground. Take the left fork and proceed .3 mile. Billy Hill OHV area is to your left, marked with a designated route marker.

Features: This is a loop with several off-shoot roads. One ends up at Highway 89 North. Most roads are recommended for 4x4 only and are also suitable for motorcycles and ATV's.

Precautions: Many of these roads are used by a variety of vehicles - caution is advised.

French Meadows Picnic Site Facility

Located within a State Game Refuge on the south shore of French Meadows Reservoir, adjacent to the boat ramp. Seven picnic tables with cooking grills.

Donner Summit Day Use Area Facility

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Salmon Lakes Trailhead Facility

Salmon Lakes Trailhead

Pelham Flat Day Use Area Facility

Pelham Flat Day Use Area

Boca Reservoir - Water Recreation Facility

Boca reservoir is a popular spot for water recreation of all kinds. Heavy motorized boat and personal watercraft use, and water skiing on summer weekends. Also popular for wind surfing on the east shore. Kayaking and canoeing when the water is calm (morning and evening). Swimming and fishing too. Year round fishing. Ice fishing during winter depending on conditions.

Camping on both the east and west shores of Boca Reservoir. A boat ramp is located near Boca Campground on the southwest end of the reservoir, but may be subject to closure during low water levels.

Most single family sites and group campgrounds can be reserved at www.recreation.govor (877) 444-6777.

NO CAMPING OR CAMPFIRES ALLOWED OUTSIDE OF DEVELOPED CAMPGROUNDS.

Directions: From Truckee take Interstate 80 east for six miles to the Hirschdale exit. Go north and under I-80 for approximately one mile to Boca Reservoir.

Forks House Trailhead Facility

Forks House Trailhead

Capt Roberts Boating Site Facility

Capt Roberts Boating Site

Oregon Creek Day Use Area Facility

Day Use Area

Mosquito Ridge Road Facility

Mosquito Ridge Road
Mosquito Ridge Road heads east from the town of Foresthill to French Meadows Reservoir. It is a twisty, curvy mountain road and provides access to the Middle Fork American River as well as the Big Trees, the most northerly grove of Giant Sequoias, and the recreation facilities at French Meadows Reservoir. It also provides access to the Granite Chief Wilderness.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor

Barker Pass Pacific Crest Trailhead Facility

Take Highway 89 South from Tahoe City four miles to Blackwood Canyon Road and turn west. Kaspian Campground is located at this intersection. Continue up Blackwood Canyon to Barker Pass Road. Pacific Crest Trail crosses Barker Pass Road approximately 0.1 mile after pavement ends and just west of the Ellis Peak Trailhead. Also access to Tahoe Rim Trail.

Dark Day Boating Site Facility

Dark Day Boating Site is located on beautiful Bullard's Bar Reservoir. Bullard’s Bar Reservoir activities include fishing, boating, water skiing, and other water sports. Swimming opportunities are limited because of the steep slopes; however boaters will find numerous opportunities for swimming in various locations around the lake. Bullards fishing is available for a variety of warmwater fish as well as coldwater species to include: kokanee, smallmouth bass, northern spotted bass, largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, sunfish, bullhead catfish and red ear. Bullards fishing is year around.

McGuire Boat Ramp Facility

Located on the north shore of French Meadows Reservoir

Fuller Lake Picnic Site Facility

Pretty site with picnic tables, restrooms, and small boat ramp at north west side of the Lake

Sawtooth Trailhead Facility

Sawtooth Trailhead

Prosser Pits OHV Area Facility

Please read information on bulletin board at entrance to Prosser Pits before proceeding into the area.

Features: Suitable for motorcycles and OHV use. Difficulty level ranges from easy to difficult. Large open area to ride with additional access to designated trails and roads. All level of riders can find a place to challenge themselves, or relax and take an easy ride. Please respect other riders and be aware on any day there may be a variety of levels of rider experience in the pit.

Precautions: This area is very close to private homes. Caution should be exercised. Do not trespass onto private property and keep noise to a minimum. There are environmentally sensitive meadows in the proximity that must be protected. Outside of the actual pit area, use is restricted to designated roads and trails only. This is not a closed course area; approved spark arrestors are required on all vehicles.

Location: From Truckee take Highway 89 North for approximately one mile north of I-80. Take a right onto Prosser Dam Road at roundabout. Proceed east on Prosser Dam Road until pavement ends. Please respect the speed limit in the neighborhood as you pass through. At the end of pavement take a right and proceed approximately 0.10 mile. Entrance to the pits will be on your right. Please read information on bulletin board at entrance to Prosser Pits before proceeding into the area.

Cherry Point Trailhead Facility

Cherry Point Trailhead

COET Stampede Trailhead Facility

Commemorative Overland Emigrant Trail - Stampede Trailhead. Start your hike or ride where the road to Captain Roberts Boat Ramp intersects Dog Valley Road on the south side of Stampede Reservoir (east of Russel Valley on County Road 889). Trailhead is on the north side of Dog Valley Road (County Road 889). The full length of the COET is 15 miles, spanning from Stampede Reservoir to Alder Creek Road near the Tahoe Donner Subdivision in the Town of Truckee. Many forest and county roads intersect the trail with multiple places to start or end your day. Intermediate skill level with rolling hills to climb and ascend. Heavy use, especially on weekends. This trailhead parking is not as busy as the COET Prosser Trailhead, but the trail is still very popular. Hiking and mountain biking.

Highway 89, South Facility

Highway 89
Highway 89 starts its journey through the Tahoe National Forest near Tahoe City on Lake Tahoe and travels north through Truckee and Sierraville Ranger Districts into the Plumas National Forest. A host of campgrounds, winter and summer trail heads, ski resorts, reservoirs, a motorcycle area, and picnic sites are available. Highway 89 South follows the Truckee River and accesses trails into the Granite Chief Wilderness. Also included in this corridor section are trails located in the Barker Pass and Rubicon areas which are accessed from Lake Tahoe.

Activities such as camping, mountain biking, off road vehicle riding and hiking are listed below for this corridor.

Highway 89, North Facility

Highway 89
Highway 89 starts its journey through the Tahoe National Forest near Tahoe Cityon Lake Tahoe and travels north through Truckee and Sierraville onto the Plumas National Forest. A host of campgrounds, winter and summer trail heads, ski resorts, reservoirs, a motorcycle area, and picnic sites are available. Highway 89 South starts at the Lake and follows the Truckee River to Truckee passing many ski resorts and access trails into the Granite Chief Wilderness. Highway 89 north starts in Truckee and proceeds north.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor.

Washington Overlook Observation Site Facility

Washington Overlook Observation Site

Alpha Omega Observation Site Facility

Alpha Omega Observation Site

Packer Lake Facility

Packer Lake offers a high altitude lake for fishing, swimming, boating and nearby camping.

Mcguire Picnic Site Facility

Located on the north shore of French Meadows Reservoir. 10 picnic tables with cooking grills. Day use only. Adjacent to beach and swimming area.

Sierra Buttes Trailhead Facility

Sierra Buttes Trailhead

Big Bend Day Use Facility

From eastbound I-80, take Big Bend exit and continue east one-quarter mile to the day use area. From westbound I-80, take the Rainbow Road exit and continue west for one and one-half mile to the day use area.

Elevation: 5,900

Facilities: 3 picnic tables, 3 grills

Potable water and vault toliets are available at the Big Bend Group Campground.

Castle Valley Road Facility

Road along Castle Valley. Provides access to Donner Lake Rim Trail, Hole in the Ground Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and the Peter Grub hut via Castle Pass and the PCT.

Rebel Ridge Trailhead Facility

Rebel Ridge Trailhead

COET Prosser Trailhead Facility

Commemorative Overland Emigrant Trail, Prosser Trailhead. Travel approximately five miles north of Truckee on Highway 89 N. Go east on Hobart Mills Road for approximately 200 feet. Prosser Trailhead parking is on the right. The full length of the COET is 15 miles, spanning from Alder Creek Road to Stampede Reservoir. Many forest and county roads intersect the trail with multiple places to start or end your day. Intermediate skill level with rolling hills to climb and ascend. Heavy use, especially on weekends. Hiking and mountain biking.

Wild Plum Pct Trailhead Facility

The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking

Interstate 80 Facility

Interstate 80
Interstate 80 bisects the forest and is one of the primary corridors to access recreation sites. I-80 enters the Forest east of Auburn and leaves the Forest east of Truckee. Many campgrounds, trail heads, or other recreation sites are located along the Interstate.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor.

French Lake Trailhead Facility

French Lake Trailhead

Big Reservoir Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Big Reservoir Campground is located outside of Foresthill, adjacent to the Morning Star Campground at Big Reservoir.

For reservations at Morning Star campground call: (530)367-2129

Sand Pond/swim/trailhead Picnic Site Facility

Off Gold Lake Highway near Lower Sardine Lake. Restrooms, picnic area and interpretive trail. Swimming allowed at Sand Pond. Gentle, sandy unpaved slope into the pond.

49 Miles On Hwy 49 Interpretive Site (minor) Facility

49 Miles On Hwy 49 Interpretive Site (minor)

Lindsey Lake Trailhead Facility

This trailhead is located off the Bowman Lake Road, north of Highway 20, adjacent to the Lindsey Lake Campground and the Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area.

Stampede VIsta Point Facility

Scenic overlook of Stampede Reservoir. Nice place for a picnic. Accessible viewing platform. Accessible vault toilets. Paved parking lot.

No camping or campfires allowed outside of developed campgrounds.

Sagehen Creek Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Sagehen Creek Campground is a remote, rustic campground along Sagehen Creek approximately seven miles west of Highway 89 North. It is adjacent to a beautiful meadow with shade provided by lodgepole pine. Prepare for mosquitos in the early camping season. Not suitable for large RVs. Rough native surface roads in campground. Accessible vault toilet. Picnic tables and fire rings provided. Firewood not available for purchase. Elevation: 6500 feet.

No water or trash services provided. Pack it in, pack it out

No fee for staying in Sagehen Creek campground. No reservations – first come, first served.

CAMPING IS LIMITED TO 14 DAYS PER YEAR.

Directions: From Truckee take Highway 89 North for approximately eight miles to Sagehen Summit. Take a left onto 260 Road and go approximately 0.10 mile to four-way intersection. Continue on 260 Road (middle road, not to field station) for approximately 1.5 miles. Take a left onto 11 Road for approximately three miles. At bottom of paved hill, take a left at Sagehen Campground sign. Campground will be on the right in approximately 0.5 mile.

Donner Summit Snowpark Facility

Safe area to park and have the whole family play in the snow. Jump off point for nordic skiers to explore the backcountry in winter.

Salmon Lake Trailhead Facility

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Prosser Hill OHV routes. Facility

Location: From Truckee take Highway 89 North approximately 4 miles north from I-80. Follow the signs to the Prosser Hill OHV Staging Area. Turn left at sign.

Features: This is a good family riding area; suitable for motorcycles and OHVs and easily accessible. The staging area is paved and has ramps for loading and unloading as well as vault restrooms. Many miles of OHV roads are accessible from the staging area and range from easy to moderately difficult. The Prosser Hill Motorcycle Trail is accessed across the dirt road directly south of the parking lot. This is a nine mile loop that takes you to the top of Prosser Hill. The trail is fairly challenging with some sharp switchbacks and has some outstanding views. A bridge crossing for motorcycles and OHVs on Prosser Creek accesses roads into the Sagehen Hills.

Parker Flat Staging Area Facility

Staging area for Foresthill OHV Trails with limited camping available.

Marysville Road Facility

Marysville Road
The Marysville Road leaves Hwy 49 and travels west providing access to Bullards Bar Reservoir with its many campgrounds, picnic sites, boat ramps, and trails.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor.

French Meadows Boat Ramp Facility

Located within a State Game Refuge on the south shore of French Meadows Reservoir, approximately 40 miles from Foresthill on Mosquito Ridge Road.

Frenchy Point Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Located on Bullards Bar Reservoir, boat in only access. It is used as an over flow campground. There are campsites, but no bathrooms.

Meadow Lake Shoreline Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Meadow Lake Shoreline Campground is located on Meadow Lake. Meadow Lake is a beautiful high elevation lake. It is a popular spot for off highway vehicle enthusiasts as there are nearby trails to access. There are ten campsites with tables, grills and vault toilets. There are an additional 15 rustic sites at the Meadow Lake Campground.

Foresthill Divide Road Facility

The Gate at China Wall is OPEN

Foresthill Divide Road
The Foresthill Divide Road extends from the town of Foresthill east to Robinson Flat Campground and then veers to the north and intersects old Highway 40 near Soda Springs. Much of the north eastern part of this corridor is not paved. Campgrounds, picnic sites, reservoirs, OHV trails, and access trails into the North Fork American Wild and Scenic River are available along the Foresthill Divide Road.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor.

Fuller Lake Boating Site Facility

Fuller Lake Boating Site is located four miles north of Highway 20 and adjacent to Fuller Lake.

Golden Quartz Picnic Site Facility

Located on the South Fork of the Yuba River, five miles upstream from the town of Washington on a rough road.

Golden Quarts day use area is temporarily closed from August 29, 2016 to December 20, 2016 due to County Bridge Replacement. Read the news release here.

Downieville Mt Bike & Hiker Trailhead Facility

Downieville Mt Bike & Hiker Trailhead

Sugar Pine Boat Ramp Facility

Located on the southern shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir, there is a concrete ramp and metal floating dockwith handrails and tie ups.

The Foresthill Public Utility District (FPUD) will transfer water from Sugar Pine Reservoir to the Central Valley during the month of September.

Water levels will be dropping during this time, exposing underwater hazards and changing conditions along shorelines. Please use caution.

For more information, please contact

Foresthill PUD - (530) 367-2511

Manzanita Day Use, Swim Area Picnic Site Facility

Day use area at Sugar Pine Reservoir. Picnic tables and BBQ grills.

The Foresthill Public Utility District (FPUD) will transfer water from Sugar Pine Reservoir to the Central Valley during the month of September.

Water levels will be dropping during this time, exposing underwater hazards and changing conditions along shorelines. Please use caution.

For more information, please contact

Foresthill PUD - (530) 367-2511

Gold Country Trailhead Facility

Gold Country Trailhead

Pierce Creek Wetland Trailhead Facility

Pierce Creek Wetland Trailhead

Loch Leven Trailhead Facility

Provides parking and access to the Loch Leven Trail.

Highway 20 Facility

HISTORY: Highway 20 between Bear Valley and Nevada City largely follows the trace of the 1850 cutoff of the Emigrant Trail. Although it later became a toll road, and later a public turnpike, it was still referred to as the Old Emigrant Road. You can see signs of this road on either side of Highway 20 as it winds along Washington Ridge. Pioneer Trail sections follow the trace of the old Emigrant road. There are many historic sites along the way.

Lone Grave is the burial site of two-year old Julius Apperson who died in 1858. The Apperson’s were some of the first settlers along the Old Emigrant Road. In 1859, the family left the area, leaving the grave unmarked. A Nevada City resident erected a permanent marker and fence in 1863. Since then, volunteers have cared for the grave as a memorial to the many pioneers who lie buried in solitary, unmarked graves.

Central House is an old white house on Missouri Bar Road near Highway 20. Now a private residence, it was once a stagecoach stop.

White Cloud was named for the clouds of dust kicked up by wagon teams during the dry season. In 1890 Deer Creek Sawmill was constructed here. In 1895 it was one of the largest mills on the west coast.

Skillman Flat is the site of a lumber mill that burned down in 1858. The trail here follows the Ridge Ditch, constructed in 1857-58. It is one of many ditches built by the South Yuba Canal Company to carry water to Nevada County gold mines.

Omega Overlook. From the overlook one can see the Alpha and Omega Diggins, one of the largest hydraulic mine operations in the Sierra. Yuba River water was diverted to the Omega Ditch and into wood flumes hung from granite cliffs above the Yuba River.

Fifty yards beyond the historic marker you’ll find the trace of the Old Emigrant Road. The Pioneer Trail follows it to the Diamond Creek Road, one and one half miles east.

Bear Valley was a welcome site to emigrants in the 1850s. After crossing Donner Pass and the steep granite slopes, this flat, grass covered valley must have looked like heaven.

Lang Crossing has been used as a river crossing since the 1850s. The 1867 General Land Office plat shows the Culbertson's House immediately southeast of the crossing.

Spaulding Powerhouse #3 was completed in 1929. Lake Spaulding’s dams were under construction from 1907 to 1912. Powerhouse #1 was completed in 1917 and Powerhouse #2 in 1920.

For More Information: Tahoe National Forest

Yuba River Ranger District - South

631 Coyote Street

Nevada City, CA 95959

530-265-4531 (voice)

530-478-6118 (TDD)

www.fs.fed.us/r5/tahoe/

Oxbow Raft Put-in Site Facility

Located on the Middle Fork American River, this is the place to put in for the runs down to Ruck-a-Chucky, Mammoth Bar, or the Confluence. Though this site is primarily used by commercial rafting companies, individual users are welcome. Class II-VI runs exist between Oxbow and Confluence. Individuals are strongly encouraged to obtain a boating trail guide for the Middle Fork and be aware of your skill level before attempting any rafting/boating/kayaking run.

Highway 49 Facility

Highway 49
Highway 49 travels through the Gold Country passing the Tahoe National Forest Headquarters in Nevada City. It travels north through Yuba County and then turns east and follows the North Yuba River through Sierra County. Many trail heads, campgrounds, river access points, resorts, and quaint gold rush towns are found along the length of Highway 49.

Activities such as camping and hiking are listed below for this corridor

Donner Summit Pac Crest Trailhead Facility

Donner Summit Pac Crest Trailhead

Rocky Rest Trailhead Facility

Rocky Rest Trailhead

Foresthill OHV Area Facility

Foresthill has an outstanding, nearly 100 mile OHV trail system suitable for both motorcycles and ATVs less than 50 inches in overall width. There is little or no four-wheel-drive country on the District. The trail system is mostly easy to moderate routes, with a few miles of difficult, challenging trail. There is no flat track or motocross arena. This system is trail riding out in the woods.

Traffic on the trails is two-way and in some cases, the trails cross paved roads. Please be aware that unless you have a State driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement and your motorcycle is street legal and insured, riding on the pavement (except going straight across at "official" crossings mentioned above) is prohibited.

There are three Staging Areas to access the trail system. Parker Flat and Sugar Pine Staging Areas, accessed by driving nine miles east of Foresthill on the Foresthill Divide road, then turning left on the Sugar Pine road, and traveling 3.5 miles to the staging areas, provide access to the majority of the trails and are best suited for families and for riders new to the trail system.

China Wall Staging area is located approximately 14 miles east of Foresthill on the Foresthill Divide road, and is the best access for loops 5 and 6, which are the most difficult routes in the system and are for motorcycles only. During winter, China Wall is a good place for snowmobile staging.

OHVs are required to have current proof of registration, as well as a USFS approved spark arrestor year round. For complete details about green sticker (registration) requirements, visit the California DMV or the CA State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division. Riders from out-of-state must have proof of registration from their home state, or a CA non-resident OHV permit.

The Foresthill OHV trail system map is available for download as a PDF document from our Maps and Publications page.

Moran Road Day Use Area Facility

Moran Road is about a 20 minute drive from Cottage Creek boat ramp. It isn't used by too many people just because it is a further drive to the water and there are closer swimming areas that are just as good. You can also launch small boats such as kayaks and kanoes.

Ralston Picnic Site Facility

Located twelve miles east of Foresthill on Mosquito Ridge Road (forest road 96) and one mile south on Forest Road 23. Located on the Middle Fork of the American River. Five picnic sites with tables and fire rings. Firewood scarce.

Little Truckee Summit OHV/Snowmobile Staging Area Facility

Easy to More Difficult trails depending on length and trail selected, Terrain: Generally comprised of gentle slopes. Use: Heavy snowmobile use. Because of snowmobile use, ski use is not recommended. Use of wheeled vehicles on snowmobile routes is prohibited. Topographic maps: Sierraville, Sattley, Independence Lake and English Mountain

Trailhead: Intersection of Jackson Meadow Road and Highway 89, 17 miles north of Truckee. Overnight camping for seven days or less is permitted from November 16 to April 14 at the Little Truckee Summit Parking Area. Restrooms and fire rings available. No garbage services or water is available.

French Lake Fishing Info Facility

Vehicle access limited due to the Grouse Lakes Vehicle Closure Area. Twelve to fifteen thousand fingerling hybrid Kamloops are planted every two years. Kamloops are a special strain of rainbow trout which grow to be very large.

Wildlife Viewing (Birds) Facility

Sierra Valley, east of Portola is one of the better known birding locations on the Sierraville Ranger District. The best birding is during the spring and fall, but interesting species can be found generally any time of year. For a loop tour, travel on Highway 70 to the Nirvino Airport east of the community of Beckwourth. At the east end of the runway, turn south on County Road A-24.The road crosses several riparian areas where waterfowl can be spotted. Follow the paved road about four miles until it reaches a ranch, and take the right fork, which is Marble Hot Springs Road. The road makes a right turn and then becomes gravel. There are several wetland areas that are attractive to waterfowl. The road eventually intersects with County Road A-23. Turn north and you will return to Highway 70. Birders may spot white faced ibis, sandhill cranes, American bitterns, black crowned night herons, Canada geese and a variety of ducks and songbirds. The Sierra Valley is also well known for its population of raptors including bald eagles, golden eagles, hawks, prarie falcons and kestrels.

Jackson Meadow Reservoir Facility

Jackson Meadow Reservoir is a high altitude lake at 6100 feet situated in a rolling forested valley on the eastern crest of the Sierra Nevada. Visitors are awarded with beautiful views of the Sierra Crest and English Mountain.

Jackson Meadow Reservoir offers excellent opportunities for boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brown trout. Hikers can take advantage of a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail which meanders along the east side of the lake.

There are eight campgrounds located adjacent to and on both sides of the lake that are operated by Nevada Irrigation District. There is also a horse camp for equestrain users operated by the Forest Service.

Independence Lake Facility

Independence Lake Preserve is one of five preserves managed by the Nevada chapter of the Nature Conservancy and the Tahoe Donner Land Trust. Independence Lake's beauty and rustic nature are matched only by the amazing biodiversity that it supports. It is home to one of only two wild, self-sustaining lake populations of Lahontan cutthroat trout in the world - a fish that has been lost from 99% of its historic range. The lake also plays an important role in providing clean drinking water to western Nevada.

The pristine status of Independence Lake faces threats. Aquatic invasive species such as quagga mussels, New Zealand mud snails, and Eurasion water-milfoil can easily infiltrate into the region and severely disrupt the lake's healthy ecosystem and the delivery of clean drinking water. In addition, these invasives could affect the lake's unique assemblage of native fish.

The lake is open year-round for walk-in day use. Preserve staff are on-site daily from June through October and irregularly the remainder of the year. No boats, float tubes or paddlecraft from outside the preserve are permitted to protect the area from invasive species. A fleet of float tubes, kayaks and small motor boats are available to the public, courtesy of the Nature Conservancy to offset the prohibited use of outside watercraft.

Milton Reservoir Facility

The Middle Fork of the Yuba River flows into the east end of Milton Lake. This small 12-acre lake is part of the wild trout program of California's Department of Fish and Wildlife. There are some trophy size trout found here. The deepest part of the lake is on the west end near the dam. The elevation of the lake is 5650 feet.

No motors are allowed on this lake. Float tubes or wader fishing is popular in the shallower sections of the lake. Special fishing regulations apply to this area. Anglers may use only artificial lures with barbless hooks. A two-fish limit applies and fish must be less than 12 inches in length. Large brown trout have been reported in the creek below the reservoir. Fishing is open from the last Saturday in April through November 15th. The closest developed campgrounds are at Jackson Meadow Reservoir to the south.

White Rock Lake Facility

White Rock Lake is managed by PG&E. This lake is popular with hikers using the Mt Lola Trail and with anglers. There are 6 primitive campsites with fire rings and picnic tables. There is no piped water for drinking. As the campground is rustic with minimal facilities, there are no restrooms, fees or reservations.

To get there: From Hwy 80, exit on to Hwy 89 north. At the Little Truckee Summit, turn left on the 07 road towards Independence Lake and Jackson Meadow. Turn left for Independence Lake and follow it 9.5 miles and turn left on Forest Service Road 86. Continue on this road 6.7 miles, when you come to a Y in the road, continue on the left going another 5 miles to the lake. A four wheel drive vehicle is necessary for the last few miles to this lake. The lake is operated from approximately mid-June to late October.

Baltimore Lake Facility

Baltimore Lake lies in a heavily timbered basin within the Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area. This lake supports a brook trout fishery through the planting of 1,500 fingerlings every other year. There are a number of good campsites and fishing is generally good.

Lake of the Woods Facility

Lake of the Woods is a nice small lake. It can be quite popular especially on weekends. There are approximately 15 camping spots with fire pits and picnic tables situated along the shoreline. There is no piped water available. This lake generally opens later in the spring as it sits at a high elevation and takes longer for winter snows to melt to gain access. Camping is free and on a first come - first served basis. The lake has both public and private property. Fire restrictions may be different depending on where you locate your camp.

Macklin Creek Fishing Info Facility

The entire Macklin Creek is closed to fishing all year.

Smithneck Creek Facility

This creek has a self-sustaining population of brown trout. There is state-owned land near the town of Loyalton, which supports a nice meadow fishery. Smithneck Creek has very good road access from Smithneck Road at Loyalton.

Kyburz Marsh Watchable Wildlife Site Facility

Set amid the sagebrush and pine is this small 260 acre wetland. From spring through fall, the marsh is a stopover for many migratory species. The marshes and bulrushes support mallards, northern pintails, American wigeons, cinnamon teal and gadwalls. Each spring Canada geese use the elevated structures for nesting. American avocets, common snipe, and two species of rails may be spotted in the shallows of the marsh. Yellow-headed blackbirds will weave nests amoung the tall bulrushes and sedges. The nearby adjacent sagebrush uplands often provide views of mule deer, coyotes, badgers and numerous songbirds. Watch for bat flights in the early evenings. Bald eagles and ospreys also visit the marsh from spring through fall, look in the snags near the west shore of the marsh where they often roost.

Peak viewing is spring to early summer. This is also a great area to view wildflowers from May through June. Due to snows, there is no winter access to this site.

From Highway 89 turn east on Forest Service Road S450 (Henness Pass Road) and drive 2 miles to a parking area and interpretive sign. Walk south about 400 yards to the marsh.

Hwy 89/Kyburz Flat Wildlife Mitigation Facility

Travelers driving on Hwy 89 between Truckee and Sierraville might be surprised to learn about a section of the road that has been selected as an “Experimental Highway” for the purpose of benefitting local wildlife.

The Kyburz Flat/Hwy 89 corridor historically experienced a high number of animal-vehicle collisions especially with young fawns. The Forest Service as part of an inter-agency research group has set goals to (1) reduce the number of animal/vehicle collisions, (2) maintain habitat connectivity, and (3) develop and test innovative solutions to these wildlife challenges.

Stop at the Kyburz Flat pullout along the east side of Hwy 89 for a glimpse of some of the projects that have been completed. The first project was installing a wildlife underpass. Deer and other wildlife can now cross underneath the road surface through a large culvert and avoid on-coming traffic. To encourage wildlife to utilize the culvert, fencing was installed in the fall of 2013 to help funnel animals through the underpass. Wildlife that might still enter the fencing and roadbed can climb out using the strategically placed hill ramps or “jump outs” for escape. Travelers can obtain additional information from the interpretive signs at the pullout. If you visit this site during the early morning or late evening hours; you may be lucky enough to see wildlife “on the move.”

Stampede Reservoir - Water Recreation Facility

Stampede reservoir is a popular spot for water recreation of all kinds. Fishing, motorized boat and personal watercraft use, and water skiing. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing when the water is calm (morning and evening). Swimming and fishing too. Ice fishing during winter depending on conditions.

Single family site and group camping in developed campgrounds on the south shore of Stampede Reservoir. Captain Roberts boat ramp is located adjacent to Logger Campground.

Most single family sites and group campgrounds can be reserved at www.recreation.gov or (877) 444-6777.

NO CAMPING OR CAMPFIRES ALLOWED OUTSIDE OF DEVELOPED CAMPGROUNDS.

Directions: From Truckee take Interstate 80 east for six miles to the Hirschdale exit. Go north and under I-80 for approximately one mile to Boca Reservoir. Continue north past Boca Reservoir for approximately eight miles. Access campgrounds and boat ramp by taking a left onto 261 Road and crossing Stampede Dam. Continue one mile west to campground. Go another mile west and take paved road to the right to boat ramp.

Loves Falls Facility

Loves Falls actually has an upper, middle and lower drop on the North Yuba River. The name is derived from the upper cascade where a large heart-shaped boulder splits the water in two during higher flows. A massive bridge vaults the North Yuba River here. The river has cut a small gorge through the rock. It thunders from fall to fall, with a deep pool lying at the base of each fall.

Access by auto: The shortest walk to Loves Falls is from the intersection of Hwy 49 and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), 0.2 miles northeast of Sierra City. From Hwy 49, walk 1/4 miles southeast on the PCT. You'll see the falls on your right. The Loves Falls trail ends here but you can travel further on the PCT if you desire.

If you are looking for a bit longer walk, turn off Highway 49 onto Wild Plum Road at the sign for the Wild Plum Campgound. Follow Wild Plum Road for 1 mile to the trailhead parking facility. Walk the trail from the trailhead to where it crosses the road. Take the road over the bridge and through the campground. About 1/2 mile past the campground the trail takes off from the road to the left. Follow it to a fork in the trail past the bridge over Haypress Creek. Take the left fork staying on the PCT. After 1/4 miles you'll come to another fork. The right fork is the Loves Falls Trail section of the PCT. The left fork completes the Wild Plum Loop Trail.

Webber Falls Facility

Webber Falls plunges 76 feet into a deep gorge carved out of basaltic bedrock. It is located in Sierra County, between the towns of Truckee and Sierraville off of Hwy 89. The water for Webber Falls comes out of Webber Lake which is privately operated and not open to public access. The falls themselves drop in several cascades with the largest cascade at the bottom level falling about 50 feet. From approximately March to June, the falls can be quite spectacular, plunging into the canyon with exceptional force. By mid to late summer, the water can trickle down to just a fine spray.

To get there, take Hwy 89 north of Truckee to Little Truckee Summit. Turn left toward Jackson Meadows on Road 07. At about 6.5 miles watch for signage to Lake of the Woods. A few hundred feet after is a pullout on your left lined with boulders. Park here and walk directly down the embankment from the road due south. Listen for the sound of the water. The falls lie about 500 feet from the parking area. Use extreme caution as there is an extemely steep gorge below the falls. The cliffs do not have the best footing and can be slippery or crumble. Not recommended for children.

Sierra Valley Road Cycling Facility

For a great road riding location, the Sierra Valley offers unsurpassed beauty, never ending stretches of beautiful meadows, wetlands with many bird species, free-range cattle and quaint ranches that have been active since the Gold Rush. Riders can select a number of routes to adjust their trip from twenty to sixty mile loops. Sierraville annually hosts the Sierra Valley Metric Century Tour de Manure Ride.

Webber Lake Facility

Webber Lake is a beautiful mountain lake with a reputation for great fishing. It was once a stop on the Henness Pass Road for stage visitors and freight haulers between California's gold fields and Nevada's silver mines. The Webber Lake Hotel was built in the 1860's and still stands on the property today. The property has been in one family's holdings for over 100 years. The family sold its holdings in November of 2012 to the Nature Conservancy and Truckee Donner Land Trust to preserve its pristine beauty and not have it developed. Calls from sandhill crane, coyote and other animals echo over the lake as sunset paints the surrounding peaks orange and purple. The location provides the perfect base camp to explore nearby Perazzo Meadows, Mt. Lola, Independence Lake, the Pacific Crest Trail, Webber Falls and Sierra Valley to the north.

French Meadows Reservoir Facility

4/27/2018: Mosquito Ridge Road is plowed to French Meadows but the road around the reservoir is not plowed. You are not able to reach the boat ramp or the campgrounds at this time.

A CDF&W target fishery for hatchery catchables. Good boat launching facilities and campgrounds. 5,000 lbs of catchable rainbow trout were planted in 2014. 25,000 Eagle Lake trout fingerlings have also been stocked historically. Large rainbow and brown trout can be found in the lake and in the river above and below the dam. The area around the lake is a State Game Refuge and no firearms are permitted. Be aware that many areas around the reservoir and into Duncan Canyon burned in the 2001 Star Fire. Use caution in burned areas due to safety hazards from dead trees.

SARDINE PEAK LOOKOUT Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Sardine Peak is a forest fire lookout tower that was constructed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It is a three story enclosed tower with external stairs. Presently the top room or observation cab is the only rentable space. Sardine sits at an elevation of 8,138 feet in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains of Tahoe National Forest, approximately 20 miles from Truckee, California. The lookout does not have electricity, water or garbage service. It does have a propane tank to operate propane-powered appliances.

Recreation

Hiking, mountain biking and off road vehicle use are popular around this lookout. Stampede and Boca Reservoirs are nearby for fishing, boating and swimming.

Facilities

The interior of the cab is 14 feet long and 14 feet wide and contains two twin beds, a dry sink, a table and four chairs, three propane lights, a propane cast iron heat stove and a propane stove/oven for cooking. A limited assortment of cooking utensils, pots and pans are provided. There is an accessible vault toilet, a picnic table and fire ring are located outside below the lookout. Firewood is not provided. Visitors need to bring their own bedding, toilet paper and other personal items.

Natural Features

The lookout tower sits on a mountain top with spectacular views of Stampede Reservoir, Boca Reservoir, Sardine Valley, Independence Lake, the top of the Sierra Buttes and western Nevada.

Nearby Attractions

Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area, The Boca Townsite Interpretive Area, and a mountain bike loop within Sardine Valley are all nearby.

Sunset Observation Site Facility

Sunset Observation Site

Foresthill Divide Driving Tour Interpretive Site Facility

The Foresthill Divide Road Driving Tour is a self-guided journey through the history of the Foresthill Divide. Beginning in the town of Foresthill, the tour route is 27 miles (one way) to Robinson Flat. Tour booklets can be aquired at the American River Ranger District office at 22830 Foresthill Road. The district office is stop #1 on the drive tour.

Indian Springs Trailhead Facility

Indian Springs Trailhead

Cottage Creek Launch Ramp Facility

Cottage Creek Boat Ramp is CLOSED due to low water level, you can launch your boat at Dark Day Boat Launch.

China Wall Staging Area Facility

China Wall is used as a staging area in summer by 2-wheeled OHV dirt bikes and motorcycles. The trail is not wide enough to accomodate quad OHV's. In the winter China Wall is a staging area for snowmobiles, cross-country skiers, and snowshoe users. When there is snow on the ground it is an easy place for kids to play in the snow, but there are no designated sledding hills.

Henness Pass Road Auto Tour Facility

The Henness Pass Road links Highway 49 through the forest until it meets Highway 89 north of Truckee and then continues on through the Kyburz Flat area to Verdi, NV. The road passes by Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Milton Reservoir and Webber Lake. This road is a historic route that stage coaches, freight wagons, miners, immigrants and highway men followed in their searches for fame and fortune.

In the spring, you will find some wonderful spots for wildflower viewing. The section of the road from Highway 49 to Jackson Meadow is a dirt road that is rough in places; however, it is passable by two-wheel drive. Pick up a copy of the Henness Pass Road Driving Tour to take along with you and learn about some of the stagecoach stops, mining towns and historic ranches along the route. There are so many sights to see and visit, you may find you want to spend the whole day just at one particular spot. You can start from either the east or west side of the forest to explore this route. Each stop can be visited independently letting you take as long as you want at each one. You may want to plan for overnight accomodations. Food and lodging are available in Nevada City, Truckee, Sierraville, Loyalton, Downieville, Sierra City or the Reno area. You can also stay in one of the numerous campgrounds on or near the route.

Tahoe National Forest Christmas Tree Permits Tree Permit

List of Recreational Areas for State California