Skillman
4.2534 reviewsSkillman Campground, Yuba Donner Scenic Byway, Highway 20, 14 miles east from Nevada City, CA
Skillman
$18.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
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
Skillman Campground charges $36 per night for standard non-electric sites during peak season. Equestrian sites are available at $18 per night. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles ($5/day for second vehicle).
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Tahoe National Forest, Skillman Campground beckons to equestrian adventurers seeking the perfect blend of wilderness and horse-friendly amenities. This beloved destination features thoughtfully designed sites with corrals and fresh water troughs, ensuring both riders and their four-legged companions feel right at home. The historic Pioneer Trail winds invitingly nearby, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Each spacious site welcomes up to two vehicles and four horses, creating an ideal basecamp for multi-day riding adventures through the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Skillman Campground caters primarily to equestrian campers, but it also provides standard sites for tent and RV camping.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Skillman places you at the crossroads of California's storied past. Just down the mountain, the preserved Victorian charm of Nevada City tells tales of fortune-seekers and frontier families who shaped the Golden State. The campground sits along the scenic Yuba Donner Scenic Byway, a ribbon of road that traces the footsteps of '49ers and emigrants who traversed these mountains in search of new beginnings. Every trail ride becomes a journey through living history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Skillman into a sun-dappled retreat where warm, dry days invite long trail rides and evening gatherings around the campfire. The occasional hum of distant traffic serves as a gentle reminder of civilization, while never overwhelming the forest's natural symphony. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, though accessibility becomes challenging—making spring through fall the prime seasons for your equestrian camping adventure.
ElevationPerched at 3,700 feet above sea level, Skillman offers a refreshing escape from valley heat. This sweet spot elevation delivers crisp morning air that invigorates both horse and rider, while afternoon shade from towering conifers provides natural air conditioning. The altitude creates perfect conditions for comfortable camping—cool enough for restful nights, yet mild enough for enjoyable days on the trail.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of dogwood, cedar, and Douglas fir creates an enchanting backdrop for your camping experience at Skillman. These gentle giants filter sunlight into dancing patterns across the forest floor, while their aromatic presence fills the air with the quintessential scent of the Sierra Nevada. In spring, delicate dogwood blossoms paint the understory with splashes of white, while autumn brings a subtle golden glow to the forest canopy. This 3,700-foot elevation forest sanctuary offers both intimate campsites and expansive views, making every moment a photo opportunity.
Geological RegionSkillman Campground rests within the geological wonderland of Tahoe National Forest, where ancient volcanic activity and millennia of erosion have sculpted a landscape of gentle ridges and hidden valleys. At 3,700 feet elevation, the campground occupies a unique transition zone where foothill species mingle with true mountain flora. Majestic Douglas firs stretch skyward alongside aromatic cedars, while understory dogwoods add seasonal splendor to this Sierra Nevada gem. The surrounding terrain tells a story written in stone and soil, inviting exploration of the diverse ecosystem that makes this region a California treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for disabled campers are not explicitly stated in the provided information.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes range from standard to double sites. Site 4 is a double site and has room for four horses and two vehicles.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews describe decent campsite spacing with some privacy but note occasional disturbances from nearby road noise.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEquestrian visitors should choose perimeter sites for corrals and space. Site 4 is ideal for larger groups with four corrals.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 4 (double site), 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 with horse pens are highly recommended for equestrian visitors.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Official check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each single site can accommodate up to six people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is organized with perimeter sites equipped with horse corrals and middle sites available for other campers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 22, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025. Reservations can be made starting June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites may be available through late September.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations incur a $10 fee and the forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee. No-show customers are subject to a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Skillman Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities, especially for equestrian enthusiasts. Activities include horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and dirt biking. The nearby Pioneer Trail stretches 25 miles and offers access to forested areas and scenic views.
Hiking
The campground connects to the Pioneer Trail, designated as a National Recreation Trail in 2003. The trail spans 25 miles through the Tahoe National Forest and is suited for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.Biking
Mountain biking is popular on the Pioneer Trail. Some users note conflicts between bikers and equestrians, emphasizing the need to stick to designated trails.Winter Activities
The Pioneer Trail, accessible from the campground, supports cross-country skiing during winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during dry spells.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity has been reported; campers are advised to secure food properly. Yellowjackets and other insects may be present.
Active alertsPotential fire restrictions during hot weather conditions.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.5 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
Nearby emergency services include the Yuba River Ranger Station in Camptonville, CA (Phone: 530-478-6253).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides trash collection with dumpsters available for horse manure disposal. Some user reviews mention issues with overflowing bins.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features within the campground; nearby attractions include the South Yuba River and Scotts Flat Lake.
Common complaintsRoad noise, lack of potable water, and dirty restrooms. Some users report conflicts between equestrian and bike trail users.
Campground Map
Skillman Campground, Yuba Donner Scenic Byway, Highway 20, 14 miles east from Nevada City, CA
Driving directionsFrom Nevada City, travel east on Highway 20 for 14 miles. Turn right at the Skillman Campground sign and then left at the first road intersection into the campground. From Interstate 80 take exit 161, Highway 20 to Nevada City and drive 13 miles west toward Nevada City. Turn left at the Skillman Campground sign and then turn left at the first road intersection into the campground.
Accessible via Highway 20, which is generally paved. Noted road noise may be present due to proximity to the highway. Seasonal considerations like fire restrictions may apply.Nearby places
Nevada City (14 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car), Camptonville (roughly 10 miles away), Scotts Flat Lake (20 minutes away)
Nearby supplies
Nevada City, located 14 miles west, offers restaurants, lodging options, shopping, and stores for essential supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.3
34 reviews
Skillman is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Skillman Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.08 for general camping and 3.83 for campground-specific experiences. Positive feedback highlights the campground's suitability for equestrian camping, scenic trails, and peaceful ambiance. Negative aspects include maintenance issues, conflicts with non-equestrian users, and road noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praise the campground's equestrian facilities, including safe corrals and water troughs. The location offers beautiful trails, plenty of shade, and proximity to Nevada City. Some users...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback mentions dirty bathrooms, lack of potable water, conflicts between equestrians and bikers, overflowing trash bins, and road noise. One user reported bear activity affecting food...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water for drinking and washing due to the lack of potable water. Staying on designated trails to avoid dirt bike areas is advised, and checking local event...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Many users note the campground being less crowded during late June and July but highlight issues such as heat, wasps, and road noise during peak summer. Winter activity trends include cross-country...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Skillman Horse Camp is one of the nicest horse camps in northern California with pines and dogwoods, plenty of corrals, beautiful trails.' - JaedeMilo. 'Bathrooms were pit toilets and at first, we...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 4 is noted for being a double site with four horse pens. Site 2 is described as spacious and shaded. Site 15 received mixed reviews, with users praising its horse amenities but citing issues...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features for disabled campers are not mentioned in user reviews or authoritative sources.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at Skillman Campground, but specific pet-related policies or experiences are not detailed in the reviews.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025