Union Flat
4.0633 reviewsUnion Flat Campground, near Highway 49 (general location)
Union Flat
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$48.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Union Flat charges $24 for standard non-electric, tent-only, and walk-to sites during peak season. Double tent-only sites are $48 per night. Additional fees include a $5 charge for a second vehicle in single-family campsites and a $20 no-show fee.
About this campground
Tucked away along the pristine North Yuba River, Union Flat Campground offers an intimate escape into California's Gold Country wilderness. This hidden gem provides both traditional tent camping and secluded walk-to sites, where the gentle sounds of rushing water create nature's perfect soundtrack. While larger campgrounds bustle with activity, Union Flat maintains a peaceful atmosphere that draws those seeking tranquility. Days here unfold with riverside fishing, exploring historic mining trails, and discovering remnants of the gold rush era that still whisper stories of fortune seekers who once panned these very waters.
Union Flat Campground accommodates tent and RV campers, with single-family and double sites available. Some sites are tent-only.
Historical SignificanceStep back into California's legendary Gold Rush era, where fortune seekers once transformed these peaceful riverbanks into bustling mining camps. The surrounding area tells tales of boom and bust through nearby ghost towns and historic settlements like Goodyears Bar, Sierra City, and the charming town of Downieville. Along the scenic Highway 49, interpretive signs guide modern-day explorers through stories of hydraulic mining, Chinese immigrant contributions, and the dreams that built the West. Each weathered building and abandoned mine shaft serves as a testament to the determination and hope that once filled these mountain valleys.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-April through mid-October, Union Flat awakens to welcome adventurers during its peak season. Spring arrives with crisp mornings perfect for riverside coffee, while summer brings warm days ideal for wading in cool mountain waters. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a canvas of changing colors. Mountain weather can shift from cool dawn mists to warm afternoon sunshine, creating perfect conditions for both active exploration and lazy riverside afternoons. Late summer may bring drier conditions and occasional fire restrictions, reminding visitors of the delicate balance between recreation and conservation in this treasured landscape.
ElevationElevation details not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryThe North Yuba River serves as Union Flat's centerpiece, its crystal-clear waters carving through a landscape draped in towering pines and fragrant firs. Majestic maples and sturdy oaks create a multi-layered canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Perhaps most intriguing is the ancient rock wall—a legacy of gold dredging operations—that now stands as a natural barrier between campsites and river, its weathered stones telling silent stories of the mining era. This unique feature transforms what could be ordinary camping spots into historic havens where nature and human history intertwine.
Geological RegionNestled within the expansive Tahoe National Forest, Union Flat Campground occupies a privileged position along the North Yuba River's scenic banks. This geological wonderland bears the fascinating scars of California's gold mining heritage, most notably in the form of a tumbled rock wall—a remnant of early dredging operations that now adds character to the landscape. The surrounding forest ecosystem thrives with a diverse mix of conifers and deciduous trees, including stately pines, aromatic firs, vibrant maples, and ancient oaks. This rich tapestry of vegetation creates a living museum where geological history meets ecological diversity, offering visitors a chance to witness how nature reclaims and transforms human alterations over time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not specifically mentioned.
Sites SizeCampground sites are described as mostly small, with some larger group sites available. "There are a few 2-4 larger sites where you might fit an RV," one review stated.
Sites PrivacySites are along the river, offering scenic views and the sound of the water, but privacy is limited due to proximity to a single dirt road.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor tent campers seeking quieter experiences, sites farthest from the road are recommended. Proximity to the river is a highlight for many visitors.
Best CampsitesSite #11 is highly praised for proximity to the river. Sites along the river are generally preferred due to scenic views and soothing water sounds.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights allowed per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Not explicitly stated
- implied maximum capacity varies between single-family and double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is linear, located along a single dirt road. Sites are pinned against a rock wall and divided into tent-only and walk-to types.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 15 to October 15 annually. Reservations start from June 25.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityOne first-come, first-served site is available. Multiple reviews highlight walk-up availability issues and occasional errors in the reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to one day prior to arrival with a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first-night fee. No-show fees are $20 and the first-night fee is forfeited.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Union Flat Campground offers a variety of recreational activities focused on its proximity to the North Yuba River. Popular activities include fishing, swimming, hiking, and gold panning. Seasonal opportunities for rafting, tubing, and kayaking enhance the experience.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible within the campground and nearby attractions like the Pacific Crest Trail. "Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area," states the official source.Fishing
Rainbow trout fishing is a highlight, especially at dusk. "The fish were most active at dusk. We could see them jumping and tail flips but no dice," a user remarked.Swimming
Swimming and wading opportunities are available in the North Yuba River. No designated swimming areas or safety measures are mentioned.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible nearby, including routes in Downieville. "Convenient location for Downieville MTB riding," one user noted.Boating
Seasonal rafting, tubing, and kayaking are available in the North Yuba River. Nearby Sardine Lakes offer additional boating opportunities with rentals provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are available seasonally in the North Yuba River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire restrictions may apply during dry weather conditions. Visitors should contact the ranger station for up-to-date fire safety information.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned though some reviews note noisy camping parties.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is high, as well as dust from vehicle movement. The campground’s closeness to Highway 49 may expose visitors to road noise.
Active alertsFire restrictions may apply during hot and dry conditions.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.9 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
Yuba River Ranger Station, located in Camptonville, CA. The closest gas station is at Bassetts station (approximately 40 miles). Emergency medical services are not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 - October 15 (peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided on-site. Recycling details are not specified.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the North Yuba River. Swimming, fishing, and water activities are popular.
Common complaintsDust from vehicles turning around, occasional noise from Highway 49, and lack of enforcement against disruptive campers.
HostNot specified.
Campground Map
Union Flat Campground, near Highway 49 (general location)
Driving directionsFrom Downieville, take Highway 49 north about 6 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway.
Highway 49 provides direct access to the campground, and it is located approximately 6 miles north of Downieville. Accessibility is straightforward, though some reviews note dust issues due to the single dirt road layout within the campground.Nearby places
Downieville - 6 miles, Sierra City - 6 miles
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in nearby towns, Downieville and Sierra City, approximately 6 miles from the campground. The nearest gas station is 40 miles away at Bassetts Station.
Camper Reviews
4.1
33 reviews
Union Flat is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Union Flat Campground are mixed, praising its natural beauty and proximity to the river, but critiquing issues such as road dust, noisy neighbors, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 33 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciated the scenic location by the North Yuba River and the peaceful sound of rushing water. "Beautiful little campground right next to the Yuba River," summarized a reviewer.
Based on 33 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include noise from the highway, disruptive campers, and dust stirred up by vehicles on the single dirt road through the campground. "Plenty of partying going on in many of the...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Several recommendations were provided by past visitors: "#11 is by far the best site to be next to the river," shared one guest. "Be aware there’s no gas station at Downieville or Sierra City,"...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive reviews often highlight the elevated camping experience during summer months due to favorable weather conditions and river access. Negative trends are associated with busy weekends and party...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Lovely little campground right next to the Yuba river. Beautiful." "Vault toilets are pretty well maintained." "Easy access to highway, the river, you name it." "Campground was full of rude,...
Based on 33 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #11 is highlighted for its proximity to the river. Sites along the river are favored for their scenic views. "Site #10 is also good for gold panning opportunities."
Based on 33 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025