Chapman
3.1812 reviewsChapman Creek Campground, near North Yuba River, accessible via Highway 49 south from Sierraville.
Chapman
$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$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates are fixed at $24.00 for standard and walk-in site types during the reservable season (June 7 - October 15). Additional fees include $5 for untowed vehicles.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Chapman Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. The gentle murmur of Chapman Creek provides a natural soundtrack as towering fir and lodgepole pines cast cooling shadows across your campsite. This rustic haven combines essential comforts—vault toilets, fresh drinking water, sturdy picnic tables, secure food storage lockers, and classic campfire rings—with easy access to outdoor adventures. Cast a line in the pristine Sardine Lakes, launch your kayak into crystal-clear waters, or set foot on the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, all just moments from your tent flap.
Chapman Creek Campground offers single-family campsites with options for tent camping and RV stays. Several sites have been affected by recent logging operations, reducing their usability.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain sanctuary into a sun-drenched paradise, where warm days invite endless exploration and cool evenings are perfect for stargazing around the campfire. The dry season brings reliably clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor pursuits. As autumn gives way to winter, temperatures plummet and the landscape enters its quiet season, with freezing conditions reminding visitors of the raw beauty of mountain life. Rain and snow rarely interrupt summer camping plans, creating a dependable window for warm-weather adventures.
ElevationPerched within the magnificent expanse of Tahoe National Forest, this mountain campground sits at an elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. While specific elevation details remain elusive, visitors will feel the crisp mountain air and experience the unique environment that only Sierra Nevada camping can provide.
Natural Features and SceneryTwo distinct camping loops offer varied experiences for every preference. The first loop hugs the banks of babbling Chapman Creek, where the soothing sounds of flowing water lull campers to sleep. The second loop opens onto a wildflower-dotted meadow, creating a serene tableau framed by majestic fir and lodgepole pines. These ancient sentinels provide generous shade throughout the day, their branches creating a natural canopy that filters golden sunlight into dappled patterns across the forest floor.
Geological RegionSet within the diverse ecosystem of Tahoe National Forest, the campground showcases the region's remarkable natural tapestry. Mature stands of aromatic fir and stately lodgepole pine dominate the landscape, their roots drinking from mountain creeks that have carved gentle valleys through the terrain. Verdant meadows punctuate the forest, while the nearby Lakes Basin—a glacially sculpted wonderland—offers a glimpse into the powerful forces that shaped this magnificent Sierra Nevada landscape over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information regarding accessibility features is available.
Sites SizeSites range from tent-only to RV spots; however, reviews suggest many sites have uneven ground and limited usability.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy has been negatively impacted due to recent tree removal. Users note minimal site privacy and exposed layouts.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites on the outer loop for better privacy and reduced debris issues.
Best CampsitesThe campsite numbers 11 and 9 are noted for significant issues post-logging (slash piles and debris). Campsites along the back loop are generally preferred according to reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM.
Check-out
12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 nights consecutively per visit or annually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One vehicle or two motorcycles included per reservation.
Groups
Specific group site details are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into two loops; one adjacent Chapman Creek and one near a meadow.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 7, 2025, to October 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov (Online and Contact Center).
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-in sites are available during the first-come, first-serve season after June 21, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee. No-show fees are $20 plus the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Chapman Creek Campground offers access to a variety of activities, including hiking on nearby trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail and Chapman Creek Trail. Visitors can engage in hunting, fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Recreational opportunities extend to Sardine Lakes nearby.
Hiking
A large network of hiking trails is available, including the Pacific Crest Trail and Chapman Creek Trail, which starts within the campground.Fishing
Fishing is available at the nearby North Yuba River and Sardine Lakes, where anglers can catch rainbow and brook trout.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available at Sardine Lakes, approximately five miles away.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible within the area, including more than 30 miles of maintained trails in the Lakes Basin area.Boating
Sardine Lakes Resort, located five miles away, offers boat rentals for visitors interested in boating activities.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by mature fir and lodgepole pine trees, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation options are mentioned.Water Sports
Nearby Sardine Lakes allow for canoeing and paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are imposed. Restrictions depend on weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsLarge slash piles, uneven ground, and hazardous tree removal debris. Bears frequent the area.
Active alertsLogging activities have disrupted site conditions. Fire bans may be imposed during hot, dry weather.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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 is the nearest facility for emergencies. For medical emergencies, Nevada City is the likely option.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 7, 2025 - October 15, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresChapman Creek runs through the campground; Sardine Lakes are about 5 miles away.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include disorganized campsite layouts, excessive debris from tree removal, damaged amenities, and lack of privacy.
HostNo host availability mentioned.
Campground Map
Chapman Creek Campground, near North Yuba River, accessible via Highway 49 south from Sierraville.
Driving directionsFrom Sierraville, take Highway 49 south 14.8 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway.
The campground can be accessed via Highway 49. Roads are paved and suitable for regular vehicles. There are no indications of seasonal closures or terrain challenges.Nearby places
Sierraville: 14.8 miles / Approximately 25-minute drive. Camptonville: Closest town
distance negligible.
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies may be available at nearby Sardine Lakes Resort (about 5 miles away). Full supply runs likely require travel to larger towns like Nevada City or Downieville.
Camper Reviews
3.2
12 reviews
Chapman has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall sentiment towards Chapman Creek Campground has been mixed, with many reviews criticizing the post-logging conditions. Users describe slash piles, exposed layouts, and broken amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include proximity to Sardine Lakes and the trail network, as well as natural features such as the creek and meadow.
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include poor maintenance, broken amenities, uneven ground, lack of privacy due to tree removal, and excessive bugs.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tip: Choose campsites on the northwest side or the back loop for better conditions and usability.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Issues related to logging and tree removal have dominated recent reviews. Historically, the campground was appreciated for its shaded sites and scenic beauty.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Dirty haphazard and confusing camping zones. Old bathroom vault. Bugs. So many bugs.' - Katie Brouner
2. 'Site numbers were all mixed up. Major wood work has made the sites pretty ugly.' - Alicia...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 003, 004, 011, 014, 020 have been negatively reviewed due to poor conditions. Site 11 is highlighted as one of the worst due to a giant slash pile.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are provided.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025