Spanish Creek Campground
4.2688 reviewsHIGHWAY 70 AT SPANISH CREEK, QUINCY, CA 95971, USA
Spanish Creek Campground
$30.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season and campsite type. Peak season rates are $35 for standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites, while group standard nonelectric sites cost $80. During the first-come, first-served season, standard and tent-only sites drop to $30.
About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking Plumas National Forest, Spanish Creek Campground offers an enchanting escape where crystal-clear waters meet towering pines. This hidden gem beckons adventurers with its beloved swimming hole, where generations of families have created summer memories, and its thoughtfully upgraded facilities that blend modern comfort with rustic charm. Here, the melodic rush of Spanish Creek harmonizes with the whispers of the wind through ancient forests, creating a natural symphony that soothes the soul.
Spanish Creek Campground offers options for tent camping, RV parking without hookups, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceSpanish Creek Campground carries whispers of adventure from decades past, having served as Camp Wallace Alexander in the 1960s, where countless Boy Scouts learned the ways of the wilderness and forged lifelong friendships around crackling campfires. Today's visitors can explore the area's rich heritage through nearby treasures like the mystical Indian Falls, where water cascades over ancient granite, and the remarkable Butterfly Valley Botanical Area, a living museum of rare plants and delicate ecosystems that tells the story of this unique Sierra Nevada habitat.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full palette as the seasons paint Spanish Creek in ever-changing hues. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures perfect for afternoon dips in the swimming hole and lazy evenings by the campfire. As autumn arrives, the forest erupts in golden splendor, while winter occasionally dusts the landscape with pristine snow, creating a peaceful wonderland. Spring awakens the wilderness with wildflowers and rushing waters from snowmelt. While Mother Nature provides the entertainment, modern connectivity takes a backseat—limited cell service ensures your focus remains on the natural world around you.
ElevationPerched at 2,000 feet within the dramatic Feather River Canyon, Spanish Creek Campground offers the perfect elevation for year-round comfort. This sweet spot in the Sierra Nevada foothills provides cooler temperatures than the valley below while remaining accessible even when higher elevations are locked in snow. The moderate altitude creates an ideal climate for both relaxation and adventure, where the air is crisp enough to invigorate your morning hike yet warm enough for afternoon swims.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape carved by time and water, where Spanish Creek dances through emerald forests before joining its journey with the mighty Feather River. Towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into golden streams that illuminate the forest floor. The crystalline waters of the creek invite exploration, from quiet pools perfect for contemplation to rushing sections that challenge anglers seeking native trout. Miles of trails wind through this diverse ecosystem, revealing hidden waterfalls, granite outcroppings, and panoramic vistas that capture the raw beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Geological RegionSpanish Creek Campground sits at the heart of Plumas National Forest's geological masterpiece—the spectacular Feather River Canyon. This ancient landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where powerful forces sculpted deep canyons that plunge dramatically from lofty peaks to create rich mountain valleys below. The North Fork Feather River and its tributaries have carved their signatures into the granite bedrock, creating a diverse terrain of rushing waters, peaceful meadows, and rugged cliffs. This dynamic ecosystem, where the Sierra Nevada transitions into the Cascade Range, offers visitors a front-row seat to witness the ongoing dialogue between water, stone, and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMany handicap-accessible sites are available according to user reviews.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some suitable for larger groups. Reviewer commented on Site #5 as being "very large" and suitable for a 26-foot motor home, along with ample space for camping activities.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at sites is mixed; roads and railways nearby mean some noise during the night.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose loop 2 for larger campsites and creekside access. Note that site 23 is near the day-use swimming area, which may increase noise.
Best CampsitesSites close to Spanish Creek (e.g., 006, 007, 008, and 014) are recommended for creek access and swimming.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Generally accommodate 2 vehicles. First vehicle included in site fee
- second vehicle incurs an additional fee collected onsite.
Groups
Group sites are available but may not be well-maintained, according to some users: "Group campsites B and C should have a dumpster closer." Another user commented on Group Site C: "Not flatted surface so our tents are downhill and VERY HARD to sleep."
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground features two loops with sites spaced apart for privacy. Group sites available in the upper area; creekside sites in the lower loop.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak Season: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025. First-come, first-served season: September 1, 2025 - September 28, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website or app, or by calling the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered during the first-come, first-served season (September 1-28, 2025).
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made prior to scheduled check-in. $10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiture of the first night’s fee for late cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Spanish Creek Campground offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. "Swimming area at the river is just at the bottom of the campsite," and "Anglers enjoy a healthy supply of rainbow trout in the nearby Feather River." There are also local trails for hiking and walking.
Hiking
Local hiking trails are available near Spanish Creek Campground, providing opportunities for scenic exploration. "Several local trails not far from campsite."Fishing
Fishing opportunities include rainbow trout. Some user reviews have mentioned: "Fishing is so-so," while another stated, "Decent fishing spots - don't expect big fish."Swimming
The campground features a swimming hole and creek access, highly praised by users: "Swimming in the creek is great" and "The swimming hole was fun and refreshing."Water Sports
Swimming and wading are popular activities in the creek and river nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings and grills. Firewood bundles available for purchase from camp hosts.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPrimary hazards include train noise from nearby active tracks and occasional bear sightings.
Active alertsNo burn damage reported. Visitors are advised to buy local firewood and comply with food storage regulations.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mount Hough Ranger District office is nearby for local area information. The town of Quincy has emergency services including a hospital and police station roughly 8 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available but may not be conveniently located near group campsites. One reviewer suggested: "Group campsites really should have a dumpster closer to sites B&C."
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Spanish Creek, with access to swimming holes. Feather River is within walking distance.
Common complaintsFrequent train noise, rude or absent camp hosts, unreliable cell service in the area, and issues with cleanliness of vault toilets.
HostMixed reviews about camp hosts. Manny is frequently praised for attentiveness, while other hosts have been criticized for rudeness or absenteeism.
Campground Map
HIGHWAY 70 AT SPANISH CREEK, QUINCY, CA 95971, USA
Driving directionsFrom Oroville, travel east on Highway 70 for 75 miles. The turnoff to the campground is two miles past Highway 89. From Quincy, travel west on Highway 70 for 8 miles. Campground is across the Spanish Creek bridge.
The campground is directly accessible via Highway 70, with paved roads leading to the site. Road conditions are good year-round; however, cell phone service is unreliable in the area, as noted by users.Nearby places
Quincy (8 miles, 15-minute drive), Oroville (75 miles, approximately 1.5-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Full-service store, gas station, and other supplies are available less than 10 miles away in the town of Quincy.
Camper Reviews
4.3
88 reviews
Spanish Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has received mixed reviews, with positive highlights on its scenic location and swimming hole, but complaints about train noise and inconsistent management.
Review Summaries
Based on 88 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, friendly hosts, creek access, and spacious sites. "The creek is fantastic," "Vault toilets were clean," and "Camp host was very helpful and nice."
Based on 88 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include noise from trains, lack of potable water at times, limited cell phone service, and inconsistent stocking of supplies like toilet paper. "Be forewarned though of the trains...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing earplugs to manage train noise and stocking up on toilet paper and firewood beforehand. "Bring ear plugs if you're a light sleeper" and "Bring your own toilet paper."
Based on 88 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal trends highlight increased noise and yellowjacket presence in late summer. "Lots of yellowjackets in the later summer months," and "Train noise is very prevalent during peak camping seasons."
Based on 88 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Swimming in the creek is great." "Vault toilets were clean but often without toilet paper." "Beautiful spot near the river." "The camp host was awesome." "Be prepared to wake up to trains 2-3 times...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews reflect mixed experiences. Site #5: "Very large, with a picnic table and fire ring." Group Site C: "Not flatted surface, very hard to sleep."
Based on 88 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features include handicap-accessible sites. "Many handicap-accessible sites."
Based on 88 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025