California / Sierra County / Tahoe National Forest

Union Flat

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Typically operates from May 20 through October 15, with most reliable access from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Reservations available through Recreation.gov. Current conditions note that potable water is not available.

About

Union Flat Campground stretches along the north bank of the North Yuba River, 6 miles east of Downieville on Highway 49. The campground offers 11 sites shaded by a mixed forest of pine, fir, maple, and oak trees. A tumbled rock wall from early gold dredging activity separates the campsites from the river, providing a reminder of the area's mining heritage. This is the only campground on the North Yuba River where recreational gold panning is permitted, with a designated casual mining area downstream from the campground. The North Yuba River provides excellent opportunities for swimming, wading, and rainbow trout fishing. During appropriate water levels, visitors enjoy seasonal rafting, tubing, and kayaking. Hiking trails branch out from the area, and the campground sits along the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway, offering access to numerous gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns including Goodyears Bar, Sierra City, and Downieville. The Gold Lakes Basin to the east provides additional opportunities for boating, fishing, mountain biking, and hiking, with the Pacific Crest Trail accessible from several points near Sierra City.

Directions

From Downieville, drive 6 miles east on Highway 49. The campground is on the right side of the highway along the North Yuba River.

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