Fiddle Creek
4.1526 reviews15924 Highway 49, Camptonville, CA 95922, USA
Fiddle Creek
$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
Tent-only, non-electric campsites are available for $24 per night during both peak and first-come, first-served seasons.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine north bank of the North Yuba River, Fiddle Creek Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience where the only sounds you'll hear are rushing water and rustling leaves. This tent-only sanctuary invites you to leave your vehicle behind and truly disconnect, with well-appointed sites featuring picnic tables, campfire rings, and bearproof food lockers tucked beneath a canopy of ancient trees. Modern conveniences like vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience, while the absence of vehicle access preserves the tranquil atmosphere that makes this riverside retreat so special.
Fiddle Creek Campground provides tent-only camping sites, suitable for single-family use. "Several single-family sites, all of which are designated for tent camping only."
Historical SignificanceFor generations, Fiddle Creek has served as a cherished summer escape for Bay Area families, with grandparents sharing the same swimming holes and secret fishing spots they discovered as children. This enduring tradition has woven the campground into the fabric of countless family stories, where city dwellers have long found respite in these Sierra foothills. The unchanged character of this riverside haven continues to create new memories while honoring decades of outdoor heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Fiddle Creek bring warmth that invites lazy afternoons by the river, while evenings cool down perfectly for gathering around the campfire. The North Yuba River transforms with the seasons – from rushing spring snowmelt that thrills rafters and kayakers to gentle summer flows ideal for swimming holes and peaceful wading. Each season paints the campground in different colors, from spring wildflowers to autumn's golden canopy, making every visit a unique adventure shaped by nature's rhythms.
ElevationPerched in the heart of the Sierra Nevada's forested slopes, Fiddle Creek occupies that perfect sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp without being thin, and summer temperatures remain comfortable day and night. The surrounding peaks and valleys create a natural amphitheater that captures cool breezes and filters golden sunlight through towering pines, offering all the benefits of mountain camping without extreme altitude challenges.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of oak, maple, locust, and pine creates a multi-layered canopy above Fiddle Creek, where dappled sunlight dances on the forest floor and the North Yuba River sparkles through the trees. This vibrant riparian ecosystem pulses with life – from darting trout in crystal-clear pools to deer tiptoeing to the water's edge at dawn. The diverse tree species paint a spectacular show throughout the seasons, while the river's gentle soundtrack provides nature's perfect white noise for peaceful nights under the stars.
Geological RegionFiddle Creek lies within the magnificent Tahoe National Forest, where the North Yuba River has carved its course through ancient granite for millennia. This remarkable riparian corridor showcases nature's architectural diversity, from towering pines that stretch skyward to graceful maples and oaks that arch over the water. The unique blend of coniferous and deciduous trees creates a rare ecosystem where mountain and river environments merge, offering campers an intimate glimpse into one of Northern California's most biodiverse landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features paths and ramps providing access to the water, making it suitable for individuals with physical limitations. "Favorite place to camp especially if you have physical limitations. There are paths and steps/ramp to water."
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and equipped with large bear boxes. "Very nice, very open campsites. Large bear boxes."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; campsites are close together, providing limited privacy. "Campsites are close together with no privacy."
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites closer to the river for better views and access to water activities.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include campsite 009 and campsite 004 for their proximity to the river and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit and 14 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Number of guests per site is not explicitly mentioned.
Groups
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are closely spaced and near parking but require carrying gear to the campsite.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 15 to October 15. Reservations can be made from June 25 onward, with first-come, first-served availability during late October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and its associated app or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from October 16, 2025, during the first-come, first-served season. Not explicitly mentioned for the peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with possible forfeiture of the first night's fees for late cancellations. Late cancellations occur starting from midnight 1 calendar day before the check-in date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a diverse range of activities such as hiking, hunting, fishing, and swimming. The North Yuba River is the focal point for water-based recreation including swimming, wading, rafting, kayaking, and tubing. "The North Yuba River offers swimming, wading and rainbow trout fishing. Seasonal rafting, kayaking and tubing are popular water activities."
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant with trails accessible in the surrounding area. A footbridge to the North Yuba Trail is near the Rocky Rest Campground. "A network of trails crisscrosses the surrounding area. A footbridge accessing the North Yuba Trail is located at nearby Rocky Rest Campground."Fishing
Fishing is available for rainbow trout in the North Yuba River. However, user reviews mention variability in fishing success due to water levels: "It was a fishing trip...but it was impossible water level rises in a few hours."Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity, with a deep pool near the campsites. "Right after the rapids, there is a deep pool for swimming and diving and just lounging in the water."Biking
Mountain biking is listed as one of the recreational options in the area but lacks specific trail details.Boating
Seasonal rafting, kayaking, and tubing are popular on the North Yuba River. "Seasonal rafting, kayaking and tubing are popular water activities."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, and reviews focus on the summer season. Null.Water Sports
Rafting, kayaking, and tubing are available on the North Yuba River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed except during fire restrictions, which are imposed based on weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned, though user reviews complain about noise after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, and fire restrictions may apply during hot, dry weather. River currents can be strong and water levels are subject to change.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to dry weather conditions. Contact the Yuba River Ranger District for updates.
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
The nearest emergency services are located in Downieville, which is approximately 12 miles away. The Yuba River Ranger District office can be contacted for fire conditions or weather closures.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15, 2025 - October 15, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash removal and sanitation maintenance are concerns raised by reviewers: "Regular trash removal of the grounds dumpsters" is needed.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the North Yuba River, with access to swimming, wading, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues like closely spaced campsites, traffic noise, and poorly maintained vault toilets during busy periods.
HostHosts sometimes assist with cleaning bathrooms and replacing reservation signs, but detailed contact information is not provided.
Campground Map
15924 Highway 49, Camptonville, CA 95922, USA
Driving directionsFrom Downieville, travel south on Highway 49 for about 12 miles. The campground is on the left side of the highway. From Nevada City, travel north on Highway 49 for 30 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway.
The campground is accessible via Highway 49, a paved road. Campsites are close to parking areas but require carrying gear on foot.Nearby places
Downieville (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Nevada City (30 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Downieville, which offers grocery stores, fuel, and general essentials for camping.
Camper Reviews
4.2
26 reviews
Fiddle Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the location's natural beauty, access to the North Yuba River, and shaded campsites. However, complaints about vault toilet cleanliness, traffic noise, and closely spaced sites are recurrent themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
"Perfect location and clean campgrounds!!" "Sweet spot for camping and swimming." "Quiet campsite near the river." "Access to water."
Based on 26 reviewsCommon Concerns
Vault toilet cleanliness varies significantly: "Absolutely disgusting..." vs. "clean and well-kept." Campsites are close together: "Campsites are close together with no privacy." Noise issues:...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Make reservations online as the site fills up quickly: "Make reservation online cause it fills up quick." Bring approved food containers due to bear presence. Avoid reliance on cell phone service:...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most frequently reviewed season, with mixed feedback on sanitation and shade. Fire risk in late summer noted in user reviews. "Because of the high fire risk we decided not to build a...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The vault toilets were not impeccably clean, but decent enough and never ran out of toilet paper." "Make reservation online cause it fills up quick." "Favorite place to camp especially if you have...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 009: "Very nice, very open campsites. Large bear boxes." Site 004: "The fire in site 4 was not level and very full, maybe fix that to mitigate wildfire risk." Site 008: "Have to carry gear from...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
"Favorite place to camp especially if you have physical limitations. There are paths and steps/ramp to water."
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but California regulations apply: "California rules on dogs."
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025