North Fork Campground

For us Californians, the call of the wild often leads us to discover those special places that offer both tranquility and adventure right in our home state. North Fork Campground, nestled within the magnificent Plumas National Forest, is one such gem that consistently delights visitors. This isn't just a place to set up camp; it's a cherished destination that brings back fond memories for many who have experienced its charm since childhood. As locals, we appreciate finding campgrounds that offer more than just a site, but a true connection to California's stunning natural landscapes.

North Fork Campground provides a quintessential Northern California camping experience, blending rustic charm with essential amenities designed for comfort and accessibility. Situated along the serene North Fork Feather River, the campground offers a picturesque setting where the sounds of flowing water and the shade of towering trees create a truly relaxing atmosphere. While some areas of the surrounding forest may show the impacts of past fires, the campground itself remains a vibrant oasis, well-maintained and ready to welcome campers.

What truly sets North Fork Campground apart is its welcoming spirit, often embodied by dedicated camp hosts. Visitors consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff, like the highly regarded Camp Host Larry, who enhance the experience with their insights into the area and their commitment to keeping the campground in top shape. This personal touch makes a significant difference, fostering a sense of community and ensuring that help and information are always at hand.

Whether your idea of a perfect camping trip involves casting a line into a productive fishing spot, simply unwinding by the campfire, or exploring the natural beauty of the Feather River Canyon, North Fork Campground offers diverse opportunities. It’s a place where families can create new traditions, friends can reconnect, and individuals can find peace in solitude. In the following sections, we'll dive into the specifics of this beloved California campground, providing all the details you need to plan your next memorable outdoor escape.

North Fork Campground is conveniently located in California, specifically two miles north of Highway 70 on Caribou Road, approximately 30-32 miles west of Quincy. This puts it within the scenic Feather River Canyon, a part of the vast and beautiful Plumas National Forest. The address itself, while general, indicates its placement within a significant natural area of Northern California.

Accessing North Fork Campground is generally considered "easy-peasy," as it is situated right off a paved road (Caribou Road), minimizing the need for navigating rough or unpaved terrain. This ease of access makes it suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including small to medium-sized RVs, and campers with less experience driving on remote forest roads. The journey to the campground itself is picturesque, winding through the stunning landscapes of the Plumas National Forest.

While the campground offers an enjoyable setting, some visitors have noted that the surrounding area has been impacted by past fires, resulting in "a lot of burned trees." It's important for potential visitors to be aware of this, as the landscape immediately outside the campground might look different from a fully untouched forest. However, the campground itself, as described by visitors, remains an "oasis" or "green space" within this broader context, and efforts are clearly made to maintain its quality.

Despite some external landscape changes, the core natural features that draw people to North Fork Campground remain. Its location directly along the North Fork Feather River is a major highlight, offering accessible river frontage. While some specific spots along the river might be fast-flowing or less accessible for casual water play, there are still ample opportunities for enjoying the river environment, particularly for fishing enthusiasts. The elevation of approximately 2,000 to 2,300 feet contributes to a pleasant mountain climate, often providing a welcome escape from warmer valley temperatures.

The proximity to Highway 70 and small towns like Belden, Twain, and Quincy means that supplies and services are within reasonable driving distance, adding a layer of convenience to this otherwise natural retreat. This balance of natural immersion and practical accessibility makes North Fork Campground a highly appealing destination for Californians seeking a genuine outdoor experience without being completely isolated.

Services Offered:

• 21 single-family campsites: Each site is designed for individual use.
• Picnic tables: Provided at each campsite for outdoor dining.
• Fire rings with grills: Available at each site for campfires and cooking, enhancing the traditional camping experience.
• Bear boxes: Essential for safe food storage in bear country.
• Flush toilets: Modern and clean restroom facilities, a significant convenience for campers.
• Showers: Four shower facilities are available, a welcome amenity rarely found at many campgrounds.
• Drinking water: Potable water is readily available throughout the campground.
• Electrical hookups: Available at selected sites, catering to RVs and campers needing power.
• Enhanced universal accessibility: Selected sites are designed to be universally accessible, making camping enjoyable for more visitors.
• Dump station: On-site facilities for RV waste disposal.
• Reservations: Some sites are reservable via Recreation.gov or by phone, offering convenience for planning.
• Camp host: A friendly and knowledgeable camp host, often praised by visitors, is on-site to assist campers.

Features / Highlights:

• Riverside location: Situated along the North Fork Feather River, offering scenic views and access to water.
• Excellent fishing: Known as a great spot for fishing, particularly for rainbow trout in the nearby Feather River.
• Well-maintained campsites: Praised for their cleanliness and quality.
• Friendly and knowledgeable camp host: A significant highlight, contributing positively to the camping experience.
• Green oasis: Despite nearby fire impacts, the campground area itself is well-preserved and inviting.
• Opportunities for swimming and wading: Though river flow can vary, the Feather River offers areas for water activities.
• Proximity to Pacific Crest Trail: Offers possibilities for hiking and exploring longer trails.
• Berry picking: Possible in late summer, adding a unique foraging experience.
• Family-friendly environment: Suitable for campers of all ages, including children.
• Historic charm: Upgraded while retaining its classic camping appeal.

Contact Information:

Address: California, USA (Specifically, two miles north of Highway 70 on Caribou Road, approximately 30-32 miles west of Quincy, within the Plumas National Forest).

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (for reservations via Recreation.gov)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777 (for reservations)

For direct campground inquiries or current conditions, it is best to contact the managing ranger district:

Mt. Hough Ranger District, Plumas National Forest

Address: 39696 Hwy 70, Quincy, CA 95971

Phone: (530) 283-0555

For us Californians, North Fork Campground represents an ideal blend of natural beauty, essential conveniences, and a deeply welcoming atmosphere, making it perfectly suitable for a wide range of local campers. Its location within the Plumas National Forest, along the North Fork Feather River, offers a genuine escape into the wild without being overly remote or difficult to access. This balance is crucial for those of us seeking quick weekend getaways or longer, more relaxed vacations close to home.

The fact that this campground has been a cherished spot for generations, with visitors returning since childhood, speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and the quality of the experience it provides. The consistent praise for the friendly and knowledgeable camp hosts, like Larry, creates a sense of community and ensures that help and local insights are always available, enhancing the comfort and enjoyment of every visitor. This personal touch often transforms a good camping trip into a truly memorable one.

Unlike some more primitive sites, North Fork Campground offers a range of modern amenities such as flush toilets, showers, and even electrical hookups at some sites. These conveniences make camping accessible and enjoyable for families, RV owners, and those who prefer a bit more comfort while still immersed in nature. The enhanced universal accessibility at selected sites further underscores the campground's commitment to welcoming all Californians to enjoy the outdoors.

While the surrounding landscape may show the effects of past fires, the campground itself stands as a well-maintained "oasis," demonstrating the resilience of both nature and dedicated management. The opportunities for excellent fishing in the Feather River, combined with the presence of pleasant campsites, make it a rewarding destination for anglers and nature lovers alike. Even if the river's current isn't always ideal for swimming, the overall riverside setting provides ample relaxation and beauty.

In essence, North Fork Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a destination that fosters connection – with nature, with fellow campers, and with lasting memories. For any Californian looking for a reliable, enjoyable, and accessible camping experience that truly feels like home away from home, North Fork Campground in the Plumas National Forest is a highly recommended choice.

North Fork Campground

California, USA