Salmon Creek
4.4468 reviewsSalmon Creek Campground, Salmon Creek, North Yuba River Area
Salmon 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
Fees for individual sites during peak season are $24 per night. Additional fees apply, such as a $5 fee for a second vehicle, and $20 for no-shows. Discounts may apply for certain passes like Interagency Senior Lifetime Pass.
About this campground
Nestled along the babbling waters of Salmon Creek, this intimate 31-site campground invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Each thoughtfully spaced site comes equipped with your camping essentials—a sturdy picnic table for memorable meals under towering pines, a campfire ring for evening storytelling sessions, and access to clean vault toilets and fresh drinking water. It's the perfect basecamp for families seeking that sweet spot between wilderness adventure and comfortable camping.
Salmon Creek Campground features a variety of camping options, including sites for tents and RVs. However, it is a more primitive campground with minimal facilities and no utility hookups.
Historical SignificanceYour wilderness retreat sits within easy reach of two gems from California's gold rush era—the charming mountain towns of Sierra City and Downieville. These historic communities beckon with authentic Old West architecture, locally-owned restaurants serving hearty mountain fare, unique shops filled with regional treasures, and visitor centers ready to share tales of fortune seekers who once panned these very streams for gold.
Weather and SeasonsSummer through early fall transforms Salmon Creek into a bustling outdoor paradise, with warm days perfect for creek exploration and cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. Don't be fooled by the calendar—June can still surprise visitors with lingering snow at this elevation, adding an unexpected winter wonderland element to early season trips. October rewards the adventurous with peaceful solitude and golden autumn colors, though savvy campers should note that water services may cease without warning as the campground prepares for winter's embrace.
ElevationPerched at over 6,000 feet in California's high country, Salmon Creek Campground delivers that crisp mountain air and refreshing coolness that valley dwellers crave. Here, summer temperatures stay pleasantly mild, offering natural air conditioning courtesy of the alpine elevation—a welcome respite when the lowlands swelter.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to dappled sunlight filtering through a canopy of stately cottonwoods, lodgepole pines, and aromatic cedars, while Salmon Creek provides nature's soundtrack just steps from your tent. This gateway to adventure puts you within striking distance of crystalline mountain lakes that mirror the sky, dramatic peaks that challenge hikers and inspire photographers, and sweeping vistas that remind you why John Muir called these mountains the Range of Light.
Geological RegionSalmon Creek Campground claims its place in the heart of Tahoe National Forest's North Yuba River territory—a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and volcanic forces. This dramatic terrain showcases nature's artistry through jagged peaks that pierce the sky, pristine alpine lakes cradled in granite bowls, and dense forests where cottonwoods mingle with lodgepole pines and cedars in a testament to the region's diverse ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include proximity to the nearby Frasier Falls, which has a paved trail, and some campsites are relatively easy to access. Detailed accessibility reviews are limited.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. Specific comments include 'huge spaces for RVs,' and 'Site 33 is the best site if you are looking for something big and secluded.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites differs; some sites are noted to be 'pretty secluded,' while others are 'bunched close together.' Sites in the 20s reportedly offer more space.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCreekside sites are highly recommended for their proximity to water, and quieter areas are found in the higher-numbered sites.
Best CampsitesSite 33 is described as secluded and spacious. Other recommended sites include #3, #22-30 for travel trailers, and creekside spots.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Official check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights. Visitors can stay up to 14 nights total each year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes 31 single-family sites with picnic tables and campfire rings. Sites in the 20s offer more space; tent-only spots are available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins June 7th and ends October 15th. Reservations are available during this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, either online or via their app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability noted by reviewers; reservations often appear fully booked but sites may still be accessible.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the check-in date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight the day before check-in) forfeit the first-night fee. No-show customers are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Salmon Creek Campground is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating. The nearby Lakes Basin area provides extensive trails and pristine lakes to explore.
Hiking
The campground is near a large network of trails, including the Tamarack Lake Trail, Deer Lake Trail, and the Pacific Crest Trail. A reviewer praised the hiking options, saying, 'The numerous trails in the Sierra Buttes/Lakes Basin area are top flight & have beautiful close and distant views.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch rainbow and brook trout in nearby lakes and streams. Sardine Lakes are especially noted for fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available at nearby lakes such as Sardine Lake and Sand Pond. Reviewers describe the lakes as serene and inviting during quieter seasons.Biking
Mountain biking is popular in the area, with over 30 miles of maintained trails available.Boating
Boating is accessible at nearby Sardine Lakes, where boat rentals are available. Gold Lake also offers a developed boat ramp for larger boats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with the area offering sightings of various bird species and the occasional bear. One camper noted, 'Full of bird sounds and many flowers.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not prominently featured, but the seasonal weather data suggests snow-related opportunities may exist in colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are popular. One reviewer highlighted the serene experience of kayaking on Sardine and Salmon lakes.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted unless fire restrictions are in place due to dry weather.
- Quiet hours are unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area; food must be stored in lockers. Fire restrictions and highway noise are noted. Reviewers mention brown discoloration in water.
Active alertsNo active alerts are specified, but visitors should check fire restriction notices and closures.
Weather forecast
82
°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
Nearest emergency services are available at Yuba River Ranger Station, located in Camptonville, CA (18 miles away). Hospitals and additional emergency services are likely in larger nearby towns.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 7th to October 15th.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but no mention of recycling facilities was found.
Proximity to water featuresCreekside sites offer direct access to Salmon Creek. Sardine Lakes and Gold Lake are within a short drive, providing fishing, boating, and swimming.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby highways, lack of camp hosts, issues with site reservations, and outdated vault toilets are recurrent complaints.
HostCampground hosts are occasionally absent; some reviews express frustration with management.
Campground Map
Salmon Creek Campground, Salmon Creek, North Yuba River Area
Driving directionsFrom Sierraville, travel south on Highway 49 for 18 miles to Bassetts. Turn right and continue two miles to the campground, which is on the left side of the highway. From Sierra City, travel north on Highway 49 for 5 miles. Turn left at Bassett Station on Gold Lake Highway and continue just over a mile; the campground is on the left just past Packer Lake Road.
Access to Salmon Creek Campground is via paved roads. Road conditions are generally favorable, but reviewers have noted some noise due to proximity to highways. Seasonal closures may occur due to weather or emergency conditions.Nearby places
Sierra City (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes) and Camptonville (18 miles, approximately 25 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Bassett Station nearby offers groceries, meals, gas, propane, and camping supplies. Graeagle, further northeast, has amenities such as homemade ice cream shops, vintage antiques, and other supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
68 reviews
Salmon Creek is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, spacious sites, and proximity to recreational activities. However, the lack of hosts and occasional maintenance issues are recurring concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 68 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include spacious campsites, clean vault toilets, proximity to lakes and trails, and the peaceful and scenic environment. One reviewer stated, 'Salmon Creek Campground is without...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes the lack of a camp host, outdated facilities, and water quality issues. One user remarked, 'Bathrooms closed. What do the fees go towards?'
Based on 68 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent, extra toilet paper, and a water filter. Site 33 is particularly noted for its seclusion and size.
Based on 68 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During peak summer months, the campground is praised for its recreational opportunities but noted to be busy. Fall offers quieter experiences but may include reduced amenities, such as water being...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Incredible experience!! The drive itself is breathtaking.' (Matthew Simmons)
- 'We love this campground! Primitive but good-sized sites in a beautiful area.' (Sandra C)
- 'Vault toilets, water...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3: 'Loved it!' (Matthew Simmons)
Site 33: 'Last camp site and is pretty hidden. Absolutely beautiful campground.' (Nafessa C)
Site 31: 'Moved away from the main site for some reason up on the...
Based on 68 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited, but some sites are noted to be accessible by car. Frasier Falls' paved trail is a nearby accessible feature.
Based on 68 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, but some reviews note issues with off-leash dogs becoming a problem. 'The number of people with off-leash dogs is getting out of hand too.' (Phillip B)
Based on 68 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025