California / Sierra County / Tahoe National Forest

Salmon Creek

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from late May through late October depending on snow conditions. Reservations available through Recreation.gov when open.

About

Salmon Creek Campground sits along the banks of Salmon Creek in the North Yuba River area of Tahoe National Forest, approximately two miles north of Bassetts on Gold Lake Highway. The campground features 31 single-family sites including several tent-only sites, with seven sites accommodating trailers. Shaded by cottonwood, lodgepole pine, and cedar trees, the campground offers a forested setting with access to high mountain lakes, rugged peaks, and scenic views. The Lakes Basin area surrounding the campground provides extensive recreational opportunities. Over 30 miles of maintained trails branch throughout the area for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle riding, including access to the Pacific Crest Trail, Tamarack Lake Trail, and Deer Lake Trail. Sardine Lakes, located about a mile west, offers boating, fishing, and swimming, with boat rentals available at Sardine Lakes Resort. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in the numerous lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. Gold Lake provides a more developed boat ramp for larger watercraft. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville are nearby, offering restaurants, shops, and visitor services. Bears frequent the area, so all food must be stored in the provided bear-proof containers. The campground operates seasonally and reservations are available through Recreation.gov.

Directions

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. Campground is on the left just past Packer Lake Road. From Sierraville, travel south on Highway 49 for 18 miles to Bassetts, turn right and continue two miles to the campground on the left.

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