Wild Plum
4.36139 reviewsWild Plum Campground, Haypress Creek, North Yuba River area, Sierra City, California
Wild Plum
$24.00 - $50.00 / 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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates from June 7th to October 15th are $24-$50 per night, based on amenities and site type. Additional vehicle fees apply ($5 for second vehicles, $10 for RV dump stations). Discounts are available for Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders.
About this campground
Where Haypress Creek whispers through the forest and the North Yuba River carves its ancient path through the Sierra Nevada, Wild Plum Campground offers a serene escape into California's gold country. This hidden gem beckons outdoor adventurers with its network of hiking trails, fascinating remnants of the Gold Rush era, and pristine mountain waterways that have captivated visitors for generations.
Wild Plum Campground primarily offers tent and RV camping with additional group sites available. Primitive and glamping options are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceJust two miles down the road, the historic mining town of Sierra City stands as a living testament to California's golden past. Journey along the stunning Yuba Donner Scenic Byway, where every turn reveals another chapter of Gold Rush history, or connect with the legendary Pacific Crest Trail that has carried dreamers and adventurers through these mountains for decades. The very ground beneath your feet tells stories of fortune seekers who once panned these streams in search of their dreams.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for creek exploration, though early season visitors will witness the dramatic rush of snowmelt swelling Haypress Creek to its fullest glory. While occasional rain showers keep the forest lush and vibrant, the predominantly dry summer conditions create ideal camping weather. Come prepared for nature's smaller residents—mosquitoes and yellowjackets make their seasonal appearances, particularly during the warmer months when the creek runs lower and wildflowers bloom.
ElevationPerched at a classic Sierra Nevada elevation, Wild Plum Campground offers that perfect mountain atmosphere—cool mornings that invite a steaming cup of coffee, comfortable afternoons ideal for exploration, and crisp evenings that call for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering pines and graceful hardwoods creates a natural canopy over Wild Plum, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Haypress Creek meanders alongside numerous campsites, its gentle murmur providing nature's perfect soundtrack for relaxation. Throughout the campground, weathered rocks and subtle earthworks serve as fascinating reminders of the gold dredgers who once worked these waters, transforming your stay into an outdoor museum experience.
Geological RegionWild Plum Campground rests in the heart of Sierra Nevada gold country, where millions of years of geological forces created the perfect conditions for both natural beauty and mineral wealth. The mixed hardwood and pine forest thrives in this mountainous terrain, while Haypress Creek continues its patient work of carving through ancient granite. Scattered throughout the landscape, displaced boulders and altered streambeds bear witness to the industrious gold dredgers who once transformed this wilderness in their quest for fortune, leaving behind a unique geological tapestry that blends natural history with human ambition.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has accessible vault toilets and paved roads in two camping loops. No further accessibility details are explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, from small and compact to spacious. Reviewer comments highlight site #1 as large with waterfront access and #6 as suitable only for a camper or vehicle with a rooftop tent.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites vary, with some reviewers describing them as spacious and private (e.g., site #39), while others noted sites close to neighbors.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #1 offers direct creek access but lacks privacy. Sites #38 and #40 are spacious and suitable for larger tents. Site #7 is highly praised for waterfront beauty.
Best CampsitesUser reviews praise sites #38, #40, and #1 for creek proximity and spacious layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in time is unclear, but typically aligns with 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights per year, all year around.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites accommodate up to 8 people.
Groups
Group sites are available, accommodating up to 70 people, as noted in one user review.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two paved loops and an upper gravel loop. Many sites overlook the creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 7th and closes October 15th annually. Reservations can be made on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed via Recreation.gov, accessible online and through the mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are reserved for first-come-first-served visitors. Peak season weekends see high demand, with weekdays having better availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled the day before arrival for $10, with additional fees for late cancellations. No-show customers are charged $20 and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wild Plum Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and biking. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes along the Wild Plum Loop Trail and access nearby attractions such as Sardine Lakes and Gold Lakes Basin for fishing and boating.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Wild Plum Loop Trail (2.5 miles), which connects to the Pacific Crest Trail and Haypress Trail. Users often recommend the hike to Love Falls and exploring trails in nearby Gold Lakes Basin.Fishing
Fishing is available at Haypress Creek and nearby Sardine Lakes, where anglers can catch rainbow and brook trout. Several users praised the fishing opportunities in the area.Swimming
Swimming is popular in Haypress Creek and nearby swimming holes. Several reviewers highlighted the creek’s refreshing cold water as a key feature.Biking
Biking trails are abundant around the campground, including mountain biking routes in Gold Lakes Basin and Sierra City. Users recommended bringing trail bikes for scenic rides.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at Sardine Lakes (approximately 7 miles away), where a resort offers boat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is frequent, with reviewers reporting bears in the area and sightings of smaller animals. Bear safety measures are emphasized.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at nearby Sardine Lakes, approximately 7 miles north of the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained within fire rings and are subject to seasonal restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area; food storage lockers are mandatory. Mosquitoes and yellowjackets can be an issue depending on the season.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed due to dry conditions. Seasonal closures are possible.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.7 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
Nearest emergency services include the Sierra City Fire Department (2 miles) and medical facilities located in Downieville (approximately 12 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 7th to October 15th annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities, including dumpsters, are available, though some users noted overflowing dumpsters during peak times, contributing to bear activity.
Proximity to water featuresHaypress Creek runs alongside the campground, providing swimming holes and trout fishing. Sardine Lakes are nearby for boating and additional recreation.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include overcrowded vault toilets, 'no shows' blocking reservations, yellowjackets, insufficient signage, and occasional vehicle-related flat tires from gravel roads.
HostCampground hosts vary year-to-year. Hosts like 'Kary' and 'Carey' are praised for their helpfulness, cleanliness, and enforcing quiet hours.
Campground Map
Wild Plum Campground, Haypress Creek, North Yuba River area, Sierra City, California
Driving directionsFrom Sierra City travel north (east) on Highway 49 for about a half a mile, turn right onto Wild Plum Rd and continue for another 1.5 miles. You will arrive at Wild Plum Campground after crossing the Haypress Creek bridge.
The road to the campground is paved until the larger upper loop, which transitions to a gravel road. Seasonal snowfall and weather may impact accessibility; visitors often describe the main road as easy to navigate.Nearby places
Sierra City (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Sierraville (21 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Downieville (12 miles, approximately 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Sierra City, 2 miles from the campground. Sierra Pines Resort and Buckhorn Restaurant offer dining options.
Camper Reviews
4.4
139 reviews
Wild Plum is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate that Wild Plum Campground is beloved for its scenic location, proximity to hiking trails, and access to Haypress Creek. However, issues such as poorly maintained bathrooms and absent camp hosts were noted during peak times. Seasonal aspects, including mosquitoes and yellowjackets, also impacted some experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 139 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the cleanliness of campsites, scenic views, creek access, and hiking opportunities. Highlights include site #1 with waterfront access and site #6’s suitability for specific camping...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints included dirty bathrooms, lack of toilet paper, overflowing dumpsters attracting bears, and absent or ineffective camp hosts. Seasonal pests like mosquitoes and yellowjackets were...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommended bringing extra toilet paper, bug spray, and portable showers due to limited amenities. Many advised booking sites near the creek for better views and recommending hikes like Love...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months were highly praised for outdoor activities like hiking and swimming, but reviewers noted issues like crowded campsites and seasonal pests. Winter is not explicitly reviewed.
Based on 139 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Right on the creek for a natural lullaby." - Sam C. 2. "This is a gem just north of Sierra City." - Thomas Orput 3. "Vault toilets were clean & bug-free (for the most part)." - Suzanne B.
Based on 139 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #1 was noted for its waterfront access and spacious setup. Site #6 was described as suitable for campers or rooftop tents but lacking space for both a vehicle and tent.
Based on 139 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features were noted as basic, with paved roads in two loops and accessible vault toilets.
Based on 139 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and visitors frequently brought dogs to enjoy the creek and hiking trails.
Based on 139 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025