Sierra Campground sits between Highway 49 and the North Yuba River, offering tent-only sites under mature firs with many overlooking the creek-sized river. It's a solid base for exploring the Lakes Basin area's extensive trail network and fishing opportunities, with the Pacific Crest Trail accessible nearby.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 16
- 💵Fee per Night
- $20
- 📍GPS
- 39.63166, -120.55775
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- (530)478-6253
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The 16 tent-only sites spread along the north bank of the North Yuba River, tucked between the highway and water under a canopy of mature fir trees. Many sites have river views, though you're camping alongside a creek-sized waterway rather than a rushing torrent. Each site comes with the basics: picnic table, fire ring, and vault toilets serving the campground.
The setting splits the difference between accessible and secluded — close enough to the highway for easy access, far enough back to feel removed. This is single-family camping only, so no RVs or large groups crowding the riverside spots.
What to Know
Sierra operates unstaffed, which means self-service camping without on-site management. The main office in Nevada City handles general information at (530) 265-4531, but you're essentially on your own once you arrive.
The campground sits roughly between Sierra City and Yuba Pass, putting you within range of both the historic Gold Country towns and the high country recreational areas. No reservations mentioned in the official details, suggesting this runs on a first-come basis.
Nearby
The Lakes Basin opens up about 5 miles from camp, centered on Sardine Lakes where you can swim, fish, and rent boats from Sardine Lakes Resort. Gold Lake offers a developed boat ramp for larger watercraft, while rainbow and brook trout populate the various lakes and streams throughout the basin.
Trail access runs deep here. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses the area, connecting to over 30 miles of maintained trails that accommodate hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle use. The variety means options for different skill levels and interests.
Historic Sierra City and Downieville provide the cultural counterpoint — restaurants, shops, and Gold Rush history for when you need a break from the backcountry. The North Yuba River itself offers gold panning opportunities, though the campground's stretch runs more to fishing and wading than serious prospecting.