Union Flat Campground

For us Californians, the allure of the Sierra Nevada is undeniable, offering diverse landscapes from towering peaks to gold-rush era towns. Union Flat Campground, nestled along the breathtaking Yuba River near Downieville, CA, presents a truly exceptional opportunity to immerse ourselves in this natural splendor. This campground is celebrated for its serene riverfront setting, providing a peaceful and respectful environment for campers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Imagine falling asleep to the soothing sounds of the river, waking up to fresh mountain air, and having immediate access to some of California’s most beloved outdoor activities. Union Flat Campground offers that quintessential Northern California mountain experience, making it an ideal choice for families, anglers, mountain bikers, and anyone yearning for a genuine escape into the wild beauty of our state. Its balance of rustic charm and essential amenities ensures a comfortable yet authentic wilderness retreat.

Union Flat Campground is perfectly situated along CA-49 near the historic and charming town of Downieville, CA 95936, USA. This location places it squarely within the northern Sierra Nevada, a region renowned for its rugged beauty, rich gold rush history, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Downieville itself is a small, picturesque community nestled at the confluence of the Downie River and the North Yuba River, making it a popular hub for outdoor enthusiasts.

Accessibility to Union Flat Campground is straightforward via State Route 49, a scenic highway that winds through the Sierra Nevada foothills and mountains. This route, often called the "Gold Rush Trail," offers stunning views and a sense of journey into a bygone era. For those driving from larger population centers in California, the drive is a beautiful one, culminating in the serene river valley where the campground resides. While the campground is "just off a highway," reviewers note that "traffic is very light and nearly non-existent at night," ensuring a peaceful and quiet environment. The proximity to Downieville (only 4 miles away) means campers have convenient access to local services like gas, a general store, and dining options, should they need to resupply or simply explore the quaint town. Visitors should be aware that mountain roads can be winding, so driving carefully and checking local road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons, is always recommended. The accessibility, combined with the breathtaking natural setting, makes Union Flat a highly desirable destination for a California mountain escape.

Union Flat Campground provides a range of well-maintained and appreciated services designed to offer a comfortable, yet rustic, camping experience along the scenic Yuba River. Its amenities focus on essentials, allowing campers to fully enjoy the natural environment.

• Campsites: The campground offers a variety of campsites suitable for both tents and smaller RVs/camper trailers. While some spots might be "fairly small," a reviewer noted they had "plenty of room with our SUV and 17' camper trailer" in one of the larger available spots. There are also sites located "right on the river," which are highly sought after.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient and sturdy surface for meal preparation, dining, and other outdoor activities.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are available at each site, allowing campers to have safe and contained campfires. Campers must always check current fire restrictions and obtain any necessary campfire permits (often free from the Forest Service) before lighting a fire, especially in California's forests.
• Clean Restrooms: Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of the restrooms. They were described as "very clean and smelled nice," which is a significant plus for rustic campgrounds. These are typically vault toilets (non-flush).
• River Access: While not a traditional "service," the direct and easy access to the Yuba River is a major feature. Campers can walk directly from their sites to the river for fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the sounds of the water.
• Camp Host: Although not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, Forest Service campgrounds of this type often have a camp host on site. A host would assist campers, answer questions, and ensure rules are followed, contributing to the respectful atmosphere noted by visitors.

It is important to note what Union Flat Campground generally does not offer, aligning with its rustic nature:

• No Hookups: The campground typically does not provide electric, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. Campers should be prepared for dry camping.
• No Showers: There are no shower facilities available at the campground.
• Limited or No Cell Service: Being in a more remote mountain setting, cell phone reception is likely to be spotty or non-existent, offering a true opportunity to disconnect.

Campers should arrive self-sufficient with their own water (though the river is available for treated water) and be prepared for a quiet, natural experience.

Union Flat Campground boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for Californians seeking a memorable mountain escape.

• Breathtaking Riverfront Setting: The most prominent highlight is its location directly along the Yuba River. Reviewers describe the place as "BREATHTAKING" and note that "The river is a must see!" Many sites are "right on the river," offering continuous soothing sounds of the water (which some found "a little loud but...really enjoyed"). This direct access is perfect for relaxation, wading, or simply enjoying the scenic views.
• Peaceful and Respectful Atmosphere: Despite getting "a little busy later on in the day," campers found "the other campers were very respectful and quiet." This creates a harmonious environment where everyone can enjoy the tranquility of nature without disturbances.
• Exceptional Cleanliness: A major standout is the condition of the facilities. Reviewers noted, "The bathrooms were very clean and smelled nice," which is a significant positive for a rustic campground and contributes greatly to a comfortable stay.
• Proximity to Downieville's Outdoor Activities: The campground's location near Downieville makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures. Visitors are encouraged to "Bring your mountain bike, fishing gear, and gold panning stuff." Downieville is famous for its world-class mountain biking trails, and the Yuba River offers excellent fishing and historical gold panning opportunities.
• Spacious and Diverse Campsites: While some spots are smaller, the presence of "the largest spot available" accommodating an SUV and 17' camper trailer indicates a variety of site sizes. The "plenty of room" experienced by one camper suggests a generally uncrowded layout, even when busy.
• Scenic Drive on Highway 49: The journey to Union Flat is part of the experience. Driving along CA-49 is a scenic delight, offering beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada foothills and mountains, enhancing the sense of a true escape.
• Historic Town of Downieville: The nearby town of "Downieville is incredibly cute to explore." Its rich gold rush history, unique architecture, and local charm provide a fascinating cultural complement to the outdoor activities.

These features combine to create a comprehensive and deeply satisfying camping experience, making Union Flat Campground a top choice for those who value natural beauty, peace, and active outdoor recreation in Northern California.

Union Flat Campground is managed by the Tahoe National Forest, part of the USDA Forest Service. As such, there isn't a direct phone number for the individual campground itself. Inquiries should be directed to the relevant Ranger District that oversees this area.

Address:Union Flat CampgroundCA-49, Downieville, CA 95936, USA(This address is for the campground's general location. For precise navigation, always consult detailed maps or official Forest Service resources.)

Phone:The phone numbers provided, (518) 885-3639 and +1 518-885-3639, appear to be associated with a New York area code (518) which is likely incorrect for a campground in California. For accurate contact information related to Union Flat Campground, it is best to contact the local Ranger District within the Tahoe National Forest. The campground near Downieville typically falls under the supervision of the Yuba River Ranger District.

Corrected Contact:Tahoe National Forest - Yuba River Ranger DistrictPhone: (530) 288-3231

It is highly recommended for prospective campers to call the Yuba River Ranger District during regular business hours before their trip. This is crucial for obtaining the most up-to-date information on seasonal opening and closing dates, current fire restrictions, any specific alerts regarding the Yuba River or local trails, and current conditions within the campground. While Union Flat Campground often operates on a first-come, first-served basis, checking with the Ranger District can provide invaluable insight for a safe and enjoyable Northern California camping adventure.

For us Californians, Union Flat Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a quintessential Sierra Nevada experience that perfectly aligns with our state's love for outdoor adventure and natural beauty. Its suitability for locals lies in its unique combination of serene riverfront access, a peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to world-class recreation, all within a reasonable drive for many.

Firstly, the "BREATHTAKING" river setting along the Yuba River is an undeniable draw. We Californians cherish our waterways, and the chance to have a campsite "right on the river," with the soothing (or invigorating!) sounds of rushing water, is a premium experience. Whether it's for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the views, this direct access offers immediate immersion in nature, a perfect antidote to city life.

Secondly, its reputation for "respectful and quiet" campers, combined with "very clean and nice smelling bathrooms," means that even in a rustic setting, comfort and peace are prioritized. This ensures a truly restorative escape where you can genuinely disconnect and recharge. The encouragement to "Bring your mountain bike, fishing gear, and gold panning stuff" directly speaks to the diverse passions of Californians, making it a versatile basecamp for a wide range of activities that embody our outdoor lifestyle.

Finally, the charm of nearby Downieville adds another layer of appeal. The ability to explore a "cute" historic gold rush town after a day of wilderness adventure offers a well-rounded experience unique to California. Union Flat Campground isn't just a site; it's an invitation to experience the authentic heart of our state's northern Sierra Nevada – a peaceful, active, and profoundly rewarding destination that keeps us coming back for more.

Union Flat Campground

CA-49, Downieville, CA 95936, USA