Packsaddle
4.1243 reviewsPacksaddle
$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
Facility rates for the campground during peak season (June 7, 2025 - October 15, 2025) are $24 per night for standard non-electric sites.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Tahoe National Forest, Packsaddle Campground beckons adventurers to explore the dramatic Sierra Buttes landscape. Whether you arrive on horseback or with hiking boots laced tight, this versatile basecamp opens doors to endless mountain pursuits. Cast a line into crystal-clear waters, paddle across serene lakes, or try your luck panning for gold in historic streams. The campground thoughtfully accommodates both traditional campers and equestrian enthusiasts, complete with shared corrals for your four-legged companions.
Packsaddle Campground accommodates varied camping styles, including standard campsites and equestrian options for campers with horses.
Historical SignificanceJust a scenic drive away, the historic gold rush towns of Sierra City and Downieville serve as living museums of California's pioneering past. These charming mountain communities invite you to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts—browse local shops filled with handcrafted treasures, savor hearty meals in family-owned restaurants, and admire the historic churches that have watched over these valleys for generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Packsaddle into an outdoor paradise, with gentle mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures creating ideal conditions for exploration. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to warm afternoons perfect for hiking. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a snow-laden wonderland, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures making the campground inaccessible—nature's way of preserving this pristine wilderness for its spectacular summer reveal.
ElevationPerched high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Packsaddle offers that perfect sweet spot where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and every breath feels refreshingly pure.
Natural Features and SceneryTwo distinct camping loops offer contrasting experiences for every preference. The first loop spreads beneath a canopy of towering Jeffrey pines and fragrant firs, where dappled sunlight creates an ever-changing mosaic on the forest floor. Venture to the second loop, and you'll find yourself perched on a forested hillside that serves as nature's amphitheater—sweeping views unfold across wildflower meadows, carved ravines, and the jagged silhouettes of surrounding peaks that pierce the sky.
Geological RegionThe Packer Lake area surrounding Packsaddle showcases the raw beauty of the Tahoe National Forest at its finest. Here, ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape where dense pine forests give way to sun-drenched meadows, and deep mountain ravines tell stories written in stone. The iconic Sierra Buttes loom overhead, their distinctive peaks serving as both navigational landmark and stunning backdrop to your wilderness adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no detailed mention of accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some are described as large and spacious while others are small and uneven.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some are secluded while others are closely situated. User reviews note differences in privacy and neighbor proximity.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 13 is noted for its uneven terrain and limited shade, with reviewers recommending alternative options. Sites 15 and 16 are close to horse corrals but lack privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsites 1-4 are noted for flat spaces and shade. Site 6 is considered ideal by several reviewers due to its spacious layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly discussed in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is split into lower and upper loops, offering diverse site layouts and views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 7, 2025, and closes October 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible but limited, as reservations are highly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to the check-in date incur a $10 fee and forfeit reservation fees. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night’s fees in addition to the cancellation fee. No-show customers are charged a $20 no-show fee and forfeit the first night’s fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Packsaddle campground offers a robust array of activities, including hiking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, canoeing, mountain biking, and gold panning. Its proximity to trails like the Pacific Crest Trail enhances hiking opportunities, while nearby lakes support fishing and non-motorized water activities.
Hiking
The campground is near a large network of trails including the Deer Lake Trail (2.9 miles), Tamarack Lake Trail, and connections to the Pacific Crest Trail. Reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and diverse hiking options ranging from easy to challenging.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant in nearby lakes such as Packer Lake and Sardine Lakes, with rainbow and brook trout being common catches. Anglers also benefit from facilities like boat rentals at Sardine Lakes Resort.Swimming
Swimming is available at nearby lakes such as Packer Lake and Sardine Lakes. However, some reviewers noted plant growth in Packer Lake, which might affect the swimming experience.Biking
Mountain biking is supported by trails around the campground, including singletrack and multi-use trails in the Lakes Basin area.Boating
Boating activities, including canoeing and paddling, are available at nearby Packer Lake. Sardine Lakes offer additional boating opportunities, with rentals provided at the local resort.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is implied through user reviews and descriptions of the surrounding natural features, including Sierra Buttes and wildflower-dotted meadows.Winter Activities
User reviews and authoritative sources do not mention winter activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and paddling are available at nearby Packer Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are imposed.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears frequenting the area, uneven terrain at some campsites, and yellow jacket bees attracted by dead trees and wood.
Active alertsNo active alerts specified.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 District, approximately 40 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 7, 2025, to October 15, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but reviewers note the absence of dumpsters and some issues with trash being piled around recycling bins.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Packer Lake (less than a mile) and Sardine Lakes (approximately three miles).
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of site hosts, limited restroom maintenance, no toilet paper, and overcrowded campsites during peak season.
HostNo campsite hosts are present, which limits immediate support for guests.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Sierra City, travel east on Highway 49 for 5 miles. Turn left at Bassett Station on Gold Lake Highway and continue just over a mile to Packer Lake Road and turn left. Go less than a mile and turn right on Packer Lake Road. Continue for about 2.5 miles and turn left into the campground.
The road access includes Highway 49 and Gold Lake Highway, which are paved. However, Packer Lake Road leading to the campground is unpaved, so smaller vehicles and trailers should proceed cautiously.Nearby places
Sierra City (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Downieville (approximately 12 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Sierra City for groceries and supplies (approximately 5 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.1
43 reviews
Packsaddle is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the picturesque natural setting, proximity to hiking trails, and ample recreational opportunities. Common complaints focus on the lack of site marking for reservations, maintenance of vault toilets, and privacy concerns at certain campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by users include the campground's scenic location near the Sierra Buttes, access to hiking trails like the Pacific Crest Trail, and nearby lakes for fishing and boating....
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include lack of toilet paper in vault toilets, unmarked reserved sites leading to disputes, closely situated campsites, and trash management issues.
Based on 43 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend reserving sites well in advance due to high demand, choosing campsites in the back loop for larger and more private options, bringing extra toilet paper, and exploring nearby trails...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with higher visitor numbers and increased demand for reservations. Winter conditions are not addressed in the reviews.
Based on 43 reviewsCamper Quotes
"First time at Packsaddle Campsite for a weekend hunting trip in mid October. Shared the site (and forest) with lots of mountain bikers." - Mary J
"Nine years in a row I have camped there and still...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 is frequently criticized for being uneven and lacking shade. Site 6 receives praise for its spaciousness and proximity to the horse corrals. Site 16 is described as poorly located and...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviewers noted issues such as aggressive dogs running loose and owners not cleaning up after their pets.
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025