Cal-Ida
3.9722 reviewsCal-Ida Campground, Highway 49, Camptonville, CA 95922, USA
Cal-Ida
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites and Tent Only Nonelectric sites are $24 per night during peak and first-come, first-served seasons. Additional vehicle fee is $5 per night for untowed vehicles.
About this campground
Nestled just across Highway 49, Cal-Ida Campground offers a perfect riverside retreat where the North Yuba River's gentle murmur sets the soundtrack for your outdoor adventure. Towering oaks mingle with vibrant maples and graceful locusts, creating a natural canopy that shelters campers from the California sun. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, navigating rapids on a kayak, or simply floating the afternoon away, this campground serves as your basecamp for endless river recreation. While you won't find modern amenities like showers or utility hookups, Cal-Ida provides all the essentials: vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, campfire rings for evening gatherings, bear-proof storage boxes, fresh drinking water, and convenient trash disposal.
CAL-IDA Campground offers single-family campsites suitable for tent camping and RVs, with some sites designated specifically for tent camping. It is suitable for individuals, families, and small group gatherings.
Historical SignificanceWhile Cal-Ida's recorded history may be modest, this tranquil spot along the North Yuba River has likely served as a resting place for countless travelers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring California's scenic Highway 49 corridor.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Cal-Ida brings reliably warm days and refreshingly cool evenings, with the dry California climate creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities. The nearby creek attracts its share of mosquitoes, particularly during dawn and dusk, so pack your repellent. As temperatures climb and the landscape grows golden, fire restrictions often come into effect to protect this precious forest environment—always check current conditions before planning your campfire stories.
ElevationThe campground's specific elevation remains unrecorded, though its location in the Sierra Nevada foothills provides a comfortable climate that balances mountain freshness with valley accessibility.
Natural Features and SceneryCal-Ida's diverse landscape offers something for every camping preference—from sun-drenched grassy meadows perfect for afternoon reading to shaded groves where hammocks sway in the breeze. The star attraction remains the North Yuba River, whose pristine waters carve through the landscape, creating natural swimming holes and exciting rapids. Creekside camping spots put you steps away from the water's edge, while the mixed forest of oak, maple, and locust trees paints a spectacular show of colors through the seasons.
Geological RegionSituated within the majestic Tahoe National Forest, Cal-Ida Campground occupies a special corner where the North Yuba River has carved its path through the Sierra Nevada foothills. This diverse ecosystem supports a rich tapestry of deciduous and evergreen trees, with stately oaks, colorful maples, and elegant locusts creating a varied forest mosaic. The scattered shade patterns and open grassy areas reveal the dynamic interplay between forest and meadow that characterizes this unique geological region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites vary from secluded creekside spots, grassy areas, to more exposed sunny spots. They are described as spacious by users.
Sites Privacy"Right on the river with plenty of space between camp sites" (User review by Reuben Flores). However, some users noted noise from neighboring sites, particularly near private properties.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the highway to minimize noise. Bring water shoes for slippery rocks in the river and bug spray due to mosquitos.
Best CampsitesCampsites near the creek such as site 005 are praised for being lush and secluded.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 nights per visit and 14 nights total within each year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle-family campsites are spread out with some tent-only designated spots.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 15 - October 15 for reservations, and October 16 - October 31 for first-come, first-served access.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during October 16 - October 31; first-come, first-served access.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made prior to the check-in date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations and no-shows incur additional penalties including forfeiture of the first night's fee and a $20 no-show fee. Modifications within the reservation window may also incur a $10 change fee under certain conditions.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a wide range of recreational activities centered around its natural surroundings. The North Yuba River provides options for swimming, fishing, and seasonal kayaking and rafting. Hiking trails, including the nearby North Yuba River Trail, are popular among visitors. Wildlife viewing and enjoying the nearby waterfall and swimming hole are additional attractions.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails in the surrounding area, such as the Fiddle Creek Trail which connects to the North Yuba River and the North Yuba River Trail. Reviews describe the trails as neat but sometimes steep.Fishing
Fishing in the North Yuba River is popular, offering rainbow trout. User reviews also mention catching and releasing Californian newts in nearby creeks.Swimming
Swimming is available in the North Yuba River and nearby creek swimming holes. Reviews mention the rocks being slippery and recommend water shoes.Biking
Biking is available but specific trail details are not provided in the authoritative sources.Boating
Seasonal rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the North Yuba River, but no specific details about equipment rentals or docking facilities are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of Californian newts and water snakes in nearby creeks.Water Sports
Seasonal rafting and kayaking on the North Yuba River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply. Campfire rings are available at each site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitos are abundant near the creek. Poison oak is present in some areas. Bears frequent the campground and food must be stored properly.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be in effect during dry conditions; check with the Yuba River Ranger District.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Yuba River Ranger Station at 15924 Highway 49, Camptonville, CA 95922.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 - October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available, but some reviews noted insufficient trash facilities, leading to garbage being left near recycling bins.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the North Yuba River with easy access to swimming holes and waterfalls.
Common complaintsNoise issues from neighboring sites and private property. Mosquitos. Occasional issues with facilities such as toilets and water spigots non-functioning.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful by some reviews. Limited ranger station activity noted.
Campground Map
Cal-Ida Campground, Highway 49, Camptonville, CA 95922, USA
Driving directionsFrom Downieville, travel south on Highway 49 for about 13 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway. From Nevada City, travel north on Highway 49 for about 31 miles. The campground is on the left side of the highway.
Accessible via Highway 49. Roads are paved and suitable for standard vehicles. Limited large trailer parking options.Nearby places
Downieville (13 miles), Nevada City (31 miles)
Nearby supplies
Small cafe and general store near the campground
bar/grill next to the campsite
nearest Walmart and larger supply stores in Downieville or Nevada City.
Camper Reviews
4.0
22 reviews
Cal-Ida has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for CAL-IDA Campground reflect mixed sentiments. Positive comments focus on the natural beauty of the area, including its proximity to the North Yuba River, swimming holes, and trails. Negative reviews highlight maintenance issues, overcrowding, and disruptive behavior from some campers. Sentiments range from 1-star to 5-star ratings.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
"Bathrooms are not flushable but surprisingly clean." "Great little secluded camping ground, perfect for friends or families." "Nice little campground off the stream." "Campsite was gorgeous and...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Reports of filled vault toilets and non-functional water spigots. Overcrowding and loud groups breaking rules regarding vehicle and guest limits. Lack of maintenance with some facilities like fire...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray to combat mosquitoes, especially near the creek. Wear water shoes when swimming to avoid slipping on rocks. Some users suggest avoiding sites near the highway due to noise.
Based on 22 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer appears to be popular but can get crowded, with some users reporting louder groups and mosquitoes. Spring offers lush scenery but also poison oak along trails. Reviews from fall highlight...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Each camp site has a metal Bear box, picnic table and fire ring with grilling rack over it." "No active ranger station either, which made it much more chill." "My campsite near the creek felt lush...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #10 received multiple negative reviews due to crowding and disruptive neighboring campers. Site #18 is praised for its scenic beauty but criticized for issues following campground renovations.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025