Big Bend Group
Currently closed for the season. The campground typically operates Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Expected to open around May 25, 2026. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
Winter Weather Advisory issued October 29 at 11:13AM PDT until November 1 at 7:00AM PST by NWS Sacramento CA
* WHAT...Snow expected for elevations above 7000 feet. Total snow accumulations up to 8 inches, with up to 12 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.
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.…
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
Big Bend Group Campground is located in the Tahoe National Forest behind the Big Bend U.S. Forest Service Fire Station, accessible via Old Highway 40. At 5,700 feet elevation, the campground features two group sites nestled among pine and fir trees along the gentle South Yuba River. Each site (Lincoln and Victory) accommodates up to 25 people and five vehicles, making it ideal for larger gatherings. The campground provides essential amenities including picnic tables, large group fire rings, grills, vault toilets, and potable water from faucets. Both tent and RV camping are permitted, though there are no hookups and RV length restrictions apply (22-25 feet maximum depending on the site). The paved driveways require back-in entry. The South Yuba River offers excellent swimming and rainbow trout fishing. Nearby attractions include the historic California Emigrant Trail and Loch Leven Trailhead for day hiking and backpacking. Donner Lake is 15 miles east via the historic Lincoln Highway (Route 40), with notable stops including China Wall, Rainbow Bridge, and Sugar Bowl along the way.
Directions
From I-80 eastbound: Take the Big Bend exit and head east 1/4 mile to campground. From I-80 westbound: Take the Rainbow Road exit and continue west 1.5 miles to the Big Bend Ranger Station and Visitor Center. Turn right past the Visitor Center and cross the bridge. The campground is on the right behind the U.S. Forest Service Fire Station.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $95 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 25ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 22ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 265-4531 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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