Indian Valley sits right on the North Yuba River, 11 miles west of Downieville on Highway 49. The 19 sites mix single and double family options, with many offering river views and all the remnants of Gold Rush-era dredging operations scattered around camp as your historical backdrop.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 19
- 💵Fee per Night
- $24
- 📍GPS
- 39.51371, -120.98351
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- (530)478-6253
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground spreads along the north bank of the North Yuba River under a canopy of oak, fir, pine, and madrone. Rock piles from old gold dredging operations dot the landscape — tangible reminders that this stretch of river has been worked over for more than a century. Sites come with the standard picnic table and fire ring setup, and many have direct views of the water flowing past.
You'll find both single and double family sites here, making it workable for larger groups or families who want to camp together. Vault toilets and drinking water keep things civilized, though the facility runs unstaffed.
On the Water
The North Yuba River is the main draw. Swimming and wading are popular when flows allow, and the rainbow trout fishing can be solid. During the right seasons, rafters, kayakers, and tubers work the river, though timing depends on water levels and releases upstream.
Trail Access
The surrounding area offers a network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle riding. The Yuba River, Halls Ranch, and Butcher Ranch trails all branch out from here, plus access to the Downieville Downhill — a well-known mountain biking route. This puts you in prime position for both water and trail activities without having to drive elsewhere.
The Drive In
Highway 49 doubles as the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway, and you'll pass through legitimate Gold Rush country getting here. Camptonville, Goodyears Bar, and Downieville all sit along this route, complete with interpretive signs marking historical sites. It's part of a 49-mile driving tour if you want to extend the history lesson beyond the rock piles in camp.