Sunset Campground delivers on its name with prime sunset viewing across Union Valley Reservoir, set among towering cedar and ponderosa pines at 5,000 feet. The 121-site campground offers a mix of shaded forest spots and meadow sites, plus direct access to a 4.8-mile bike trail that hugs the reservoir's eastern shore.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 💵Fee per Night
- $8
- 📍GPS
- 38.86583, -120.40500
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 831-245-6891
- 🗺️Address
- CA
The Camp
The campground spreads across varied terrain in the Crystal Basin — some sites tucked under full forest canopy, others opening onto meadow. With 30 tent-only spots among the 121 total sites, there's flexibility for different camping styles. The onsite swimming beach puts you steps from the water, while the boat ramp with accessible boarding dock handles everything from kayaks to larger watercraft.
Facilities cover the basics: vault toilets, drinking water, and a dump station. The paved parking areas keep things organized during busy periods.
What to Know
First-come, first-serve sites stay listed as available all season since occupancy changes constantly — you'll need to show up in person to claim one, with no guarantees. The Mediterranean-style climate means warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters, so plan accordingly.
The campground sits within the old California Gold Rush territory, and remnants from the 1800s mining days turn up throughout the region.
On the Water and Trails
Union Valley Reservoir draws sailors, boaters, and swimmers, with fishing for rainbow, brown, and mackinaw trout plus kokanee salmon. The Union Valley Bike Trail connects right at the boat ramp and runs 4.8 miles along the lake's eastern shores.
For hiking, the Bassi Falls Trail provides an option beyond the reservoir. Ice House Reservoir lies nearby for additional lake access, while Twin Peaks offers an overlook perspective of Union Valley Reservoir below. A restaurant and general store operate within 5 miles when you need to resupply.