Indian Springs
4.1372 reviewsIndian Springs
$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
The campground charges a flat fee of $24.00 per night for both standard non-electric sites and walk-to tent sites during the peak season (June 15 - October 15). Additional fees include a $5 daily vehicle fee for second vehicles and beyond.
About this campground
Nestled along the crystalline waters of the South Yuba River, Indian Springs Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of riverside relaxation and mountain exploration. This cherished Tahoe National Forest retreat features a legendary swimming hole where generations of families have created summer memories, while off-highway vehicle enthusiasts discover miles of exhilarating trails just beyond camp. History buffs can trace the footsteps of Gold Rush pioneers along the nearby California Emigrant Trail, though modern travelers should note that echoes of Interstate 80 occasionally drift through the forest canopy.
Indian Springs features a mix of tent camping and RV options, with some walk-in sites and opportunities for group camping. No cabin or luxury camping options are available.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient forests have witnessed centuries of human dreams and determination. Long before modern campers pitched their tents, forty-niners trudged along the nearby California Emigrant Trail, their wagons loaded with hopes of golden fortunes. The very ground beneath Indian Springs holds stories of Native American gatherings, pioneer struggles, and the transformation of the American West. Today's visitors can still walk portions of these historic routes, imagining the courage it took to cross these mountains with only determination as their guide.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-June through mid-October, Indian Springs transforms into a high-country paradise where sun-drenched days invite river adventures and starlit evenings call for campfire stories. At 5,600 feet elevation, summer temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking and swimming, while crisp mountain nights remind you to pack that extra layer. When winter arrives, deep Sierra snows blanket the landscape, closing the campground but creating a wonderland for those who return to explore the transformed terrain.
ElevationPerched at 5,600 feet in the Sierra Nevada, Indian Springs occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays refreshingly cool without leaving you gasping for breath. This elevation gifts campers with comfortable summer days perfect for outdoor adventures, while nights bring that distinctive mountain chill that makes sleeping bags feel like warm embraces. The altitude also means spring arrives late and winter comes early, with snow possible even in late May or early October, adding an element of alpine adventure to shoulder-season camping.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering cedars and pines create a natural cathedral above Indian Springs, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The true star, however, is the South Yuba River – a liquid jewel that has carved smooth granite bowls and created the campground's famous swimming hole. Here, brave souls launch themselves from sun-warmed rock cliffs into deep, emerald pools, while others prefer to wade in gradually from sandy beaches. The surrounding forest hums with life: stellar jays announce your arrival, chipmunks scamper between campsites, and if you're lucky, you might spot deer browsing in the early morning mist.
Geological RegionIndian Springs rests on the north bank of the South Yuba River, deep within the Tahoe National Forest's tapestry of ancient geology and thriving ecosystems. This landscape tells a story millions of years in the making – from volcanic upheavals to glacial carving, resulting in the dramatic river canyon that defines the campground today. Massive cedars and pines sink their roots into soil enriched by centuries of forest cycles, while exposed granite outcroppings reveal the bedrock bones of the Sierra Nevada, polished smooth by countless seasons of snowmelt and summer floods.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are provided. Campsites are described as spacious, and some reviewers noted flat areas suitable for tents.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious by some campers, with room for multiple tents, though others noted smaller or uneven pads.
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews indicate that privacy varies. Some sites are closely packed, while others offer more secluded options.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in the upper loop (20-28) for reduced freeway noise and better shade. Sites near the river provide great swimming access but are noisier.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated sites include upper loop sites 20-28, which are farther from the freeway and provide more shade. Sites near the river offer scenic views but are noisier due to proximity to Interstate 80.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights allowed per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of single-family occupancy per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into upper and lower loops. Sites are spacious but close to one another, especially near the river. Walk-to sites offer more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 15 - October 15 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited and first-come, first-served. Sites often fill quickly during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for reservations canceled before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee plus the first-night fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Indian Springs offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and off-road vehicle trails. The swimming hole is a highlight, and the campground is near the California Emigrant Trail.
Hiking
Nearby hiking trails include the California Emigrant Trail and OHV trails. Reviewers describe mixed experiences, with some trails being rocky and difficult to traverse.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available in the South Yuba River, which hosts rainbow trout. User reviews highlight fishing as a key activity.Swimming
The swimming hole along the South Yuba River is a major attraction featuring a waterfall, rock jumping areas, and clear water. However, it can be crowded and littered.Biking
Biking trails can be accessed from the Indian Springs OHV Staging Area. No additional details about terrain or difficulty were found.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include Northern Flying Squirrels and Rubber Boas as noted by campers. However, encounters with hornets and wasps were common.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not specifically mentioned, though swimming and fishing are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted except during fire bans, which are frequent during dry summer months.
- Quiet hours are Not strictly enforced; noise from freeway and trains often overrides any quiet time.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include freeway noise, yellow jackets, and occasional bears (no bear lockers provided). Proximity to Interstate 80 amplifies noise pollution.
Active alertsFire restrictions are often in place during peak season due to dry conditions. Visitors should check with the Yuba River Ranger District for updates.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.9 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 Truckee, approximately 23 miles away, which includes hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 15 - October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available on-site. However, littering issues were noted by several reviewers, especially near the swimming area and riverside.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the South Yuba River, featuring a swimming hole and small waterfall within walking distance.
Common complaintsRecurring issues mentioned in reviews include extreme freeway noise, lack of a camp host to enforce rules, trash left in campsites, and crowding at the swimming hole due to day-use visitors.
HostNo permanent camp host is available, but park rangers visit daily to restock toilet paper and provide oversight.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom either east bound or west bound Interstate 80, take exit 164 for Eagle Lakes Road. Turn north onto Eagle Lakes Road. Follow the road as it turns west and turn left into the campground.
The campground is accessible via Eagle Lakes Road, which is connected to Interstate 80. The roads are paved and suitable for most vehicles. However, visitors report freeway noise and proximity to the highway as significant drawbacks.Nearby places
Big Bend (3 miles west), Truckee (23 miles west), Donner Lake (19 miles east).
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in Truckee, which is 23 miles away. Limited supplies may be available in Big Bend, 3 miles west of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.1
72 reviews
Indian Springs is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are polarized, highlighting the beautiful swimming hole and spacious campsites, but frequently mentioning freeway and train noise as significant drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 72 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects noted by reviewers include the scenic swimming hole, proximity to hiking trails, spacious campsites, and accessible vault toilets.
Based on 72 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include freeway and train noise, littering issues, lack of maintenance, crowded swimming areas, and inadequate restroom facilities.
Based on 72 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to mitigate noise from the freeway and trains. Consider mid-week reservations to avoid crowds. Site numbers in the upper 20s are recommended for quieter experiences.
Based on 72 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for swimming, though they can be crowded and noisy. Winter activities are not specifically noted in reviews.
Based on 72 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Campground is nice, plenty of space between sites.' - Sara Hall
2. 'There isn't really a bad spot to camp in this campground.' - Scott Ferry
3. 'Bathrooms were clean.' - Raquel
4. 'There are no...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight quieter spots in the upper loops, such as site 24, and issues regarding site maintenance for others.
Based on 72 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are available. No specific reviews regarding disabled access were noted.
Based on 72 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, though some reviewers mentioned off-leash dogs causing issues at the campground.
Based on 72 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025