Sierra Buttes Lookout, hike near campground
Closed

Currently closed for the season. The campground operates seasonally from late spring through fall, typically opening in late May or June depending on snowpack conditions. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov.

Winter Weather Advisory issued October 30 at 2:50AM PDT until November 1 at 7:00AM PST by NWS Sacramento CA

2:50 AM — October 31st, 5:00 AM

* WHAT...Snow expected for elevations above 7000 feet. Total snow accumulations up to 8 inches, with up to 16 inches at the highest peaks. Minor accumulations of up to 2 inches possible down to 6000 feet. * WHERE...Northern Sierra above 7000 feet, including Highway 50 and Interstate 80. * WHEN...From 8 AM PDT Saturday to 7 AM PST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels initially 7000 to 8000 feet Saturday, lowering to 6000 to 7000 feet Saturday night into Sunday. Heaviest snowfall expected Saturday evening into Sunday.

Tahoe National Forest

Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited

Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…

Tahoe National Forest

PRESCRIBED FIRE NOTICE: Madrone Springs Underburn - 185 acres

Tahoe National Forest is planning to conduct a 185-acre prescribed fire off Madrone Springs Road near Nevada City, Calif. starting Oct. 28, 2026. Ignitions may continue for several days, conditions permitting. Smoke will be visible from Highway 20, Madrone Springs Rd., Washington Ridge and the…

About

Berger Campground is a small, rustic Forest Service campground located in the Packer Lake area of Tahoe National Forest, near the base of the dramatic Sierra Buttes. Situated at 5,900 feet elevation along seasonal Packer Creek, the campground sits within stands of lodgepole pine, cedar, and fir trees. The 9 campsites are divided into Standard Nonelectric sites that can accommodate trailers up to 38 feet, and Tent Only sites with more limited vehicle access. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water at this campground. Campers must bring their own drinking water or obtain it from nearby campgrounds in the area. The gravel driveways require back-in parking. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the Lakes Basin region. Packer Lake is a short distance away, and Lower Sardine Lake offers fishing for stocked rainbow and brook trout. The Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby, and over 30 miles of maintained trails branch out across the area for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. During late spring, the North Yuba River provides whitewater rafting opportunities.

Directions

From Highway 49 at Sierra City, drive 4.5 miles to Bassetts Station. Turn left on Gold Lake Highway and drive 0.5 mile to Packer Lake Road. Turn left and drive 2 miles to Berger Campground.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store No
Price $18

Vehicle

Max RV Length 38ft
Max Trailer Length 38ft
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (530) 288-3231

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

Sierra Buttes Lookout, hike near campground
Berger Creek at Berger Campground
Sierra Buttes
View from Sierra Buttes, hike near Berger Campground
Berger Creek
View from Sierra Buttes, hike near Berger Campground
Packer Lake near campground

Community Posts

No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!