Carlton

About

Carlton Flat Campground occupies a scenic stretch along the North Yuba River in the Tahoe National Forest, accessible directly from Highway 49 about 13 miles south of Downieville. At 2,200 feet elevation, the 17 campsites sit beneath stands of cedar, ponderosa pine, and oak trees that provide welcome shade during warm summer afternoons. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table, with vault toilets and piped drinking water available throughout the campground. The North Yuba River is the main attraction here, offering swimming holes, wading areas, and rainbow trout fishing directly from camp. Seasonal rafting and kayaking draw paddlers when water levels permit. The nearby Rocky Rest trailhead provides access to the North Yuba River Trail for hiking and mountain biking, while OHV trails thread through the surrounding forest. Bear activity is present in the area, so proper food storage in approved containers is required. The campground operates under a mixed reservation and first-come-first-served system through Recreation.gov.

Directions

From Downieville, travel south on Highway 49 for 13 miles; the campground is on the left. From Camptonville, drive 9 miles northeast on Highway 49.