Berger
4.2320 reviewsBerger
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent and standard nonelectric sites are priced at $18. Additional vehicle fee is $5 per night for untowed vehicles.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Tahoe National Forest, Berger Campground offers an intimate escape where the rush of Packer Creek mingles with the whisper of wind through towering pines. This hidden gem beneath the dramatic Sierra Buttes provides adventurers with a back-to-basics camping experience, where simple pleasures reign supreme—morning coffee by the creek, afternoons casting lines in crystal-clear waters, and evenings under a canopy of stars. While amenities remain refreshingly minimal, the campground's true luxury lies in its seclusion and direct access to some of the Sierra Nevada's most rewarding trails and fishing spots.
Berger Campground accommodates single-family tent camping, with no hookups for RVs or specialized group sites. "The campground offers single-family tent sites on two loops." It is suitable for standard or tent-only camping without primitive facilities.
Weather and SeasonsFrom June through October, Berger Campground awakens to welcome outdoor enthusiasts seeking high-country adventures. These prime months offer warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. Weekend warriors should note that the area's popularity with off-road enthusiasts means motorcycles and dirt bikes occasionally punctuate the forest's natural soundtrack, particularly during peak summer weekends. For those seeking deeper solitude, weekdays and shoulder seasons offer a quieter experience.
ElevationPerched at 5,900 feet where the air grows crisp and pine-scented, Berger Campground occupies a sweet spot in the Sierra Nevada. This elevation places you high enough to escape summer's heat yet below the harsh alpine zone, creating perfect conditions for comfortable camping. The nearby Packer Creek tumbles down from even higher elevations, bringing with it the cool mountain waters that have carved this peaceful valley over millennia.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of lodgepole pines, aromatic cedars, and stately firs creates a natural amphitheater around each campsite, filtering sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns throughout the day. Packer Creek serves as the campground's liquid lifeline, its melodic flow providing both a soothing soundtrack and opportunities for creek-side relaxation. Just a short journey upstream, Packer Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks in its placid waters, offering a stunning high-country destination for day hikes and fishing expeditions.
Geological RegionBerger Campground sits in the shadow of the legendary Sierra Buttes, whose jagged peaks serve as a dramatic backdrop to your wilderness retreat. This corner of Tahoe National Forest showcases the Sierra Nevada's characteristic granite formations, sculpted by ancient glaciers and softened by forests of lodgepole pine, cedar, and fir. The constant presence of Packer Creek reminds visitors of the powerful forces that continue to shape this landscape, carving through bedrock and nurturing the lush riparian ecosystem that makes this area so special.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible vault toilets and flat ground sites, but detailed ADA-specific features are not mentioned.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some are "large and set back," while others are small and clustered.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies significantly between campsites. Some sites near the creek are described as "quiet and secluded," while others are "quite close to each other."
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 5 is favored for its proximity to the creek and suitability for multiple tents. Site 7 is large but may face challenges if adjacent site 6 is occupied.
Best CampsitesSites backing to the creek (e.g., site 5); site 7 for privacy and size.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. You may stay up to 14 nights total within each year.
Groups
No group sites are available at Berger Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo loops featuring single-family tent sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 7th to October 15th, 2025. Reservations start on June 25th.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available; however, some reviews indicate challenges with squatters or improper use of walk-up sites.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for cancellations before the reservation date starts. Late cancellations incur the first night's fee and a $10 cancellation fee. No-show reservations incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Berger Campground supports diverse recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, biking, and OHV use. "A large network of trails is available in the Packer Lake area, including the Pacific Crest Trail." Anglers can enjoy stocked rainbow and brook trout fishing in nearby lakes, while the late spring season offers opportunities for whitewater rafting on the North Yuba River. User reviews emphasize activities like mushroom picking, mountain biking, and scenic drives.
Hiking
The Packer Lake area features "a large network of trails," including access to the Pacific Crest Trail. Hiking opportunities also extend to nearby attractions such as Upper Sardine Lake and the Sierra Buttes Lookout Point Trailhead.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in nearby lakes such as Packer Lake and Lower Sardine Lake, which are stocked with rainbow and brook trout. One user noted, "Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes throughout the basin."Swimming
Swimming is mentioned as an activity in user reviews, although specific details about designated swimming areas are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is popular in the surrounding area, and user reviews confirm biking as a key recreational activity. One user stated, "We stayed for 2 days to mountain bike the surrounding area."Boating
Boating is available in the Lakes Basin area, which includes over 30 miles of maintained trails and water bodies for canoeing and fishing.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground experiences heavy snow in certain weeks based on weather data.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available, particularly in nearby lakes like Packer Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed due to dry weather. Campfires may not be permitted at certain times.
Hazards
General hazardsNoise from off-road vehicles, lack of potable water, and lack of staff presence are noted issues.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Yuba River Ranger Station, 15924 Highway 49, Camptonville, CA 95922.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 7th - October 15th
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and recycling facilities are provided, as confirmed by user reviews mentioning "trash bin and recycling."
Proximity to water featuresClose to Packer Lake (6 acres) and Packer Creek.
Common complaintsNoise from motorcycles and off-road vehicles, lack of potable water, and absence of staff/caretakers.
HostNo campground host or caretaker present.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Sierraville, drive 18 miles south on Highway 49, turn right at Bassett, and drive approximately 1.5 miles to the Sardine Lake turnoff. Turn right at the Packer Lake turnoff (Forest Road 93) and continue to the campground.
From Downieville, head north (east) on Highway 49 for about 18 miles, turn left at Bassett, and drive approximately 1.5 miles to the Sardine Lake turnoff. Turn right at the Packer Lake turnoff (Forest Road 93) and continue to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads leading to Bassett, followed by unpaved roads leading to Packer Lake turnoff and the campground. Seasonal closures due to weather conditions may impact accessibility.Nearby places
Sierraville (18 miles south), Downieville (18 miles north-east)
Camper Reviews
4.2
20 reviews
Berger is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to outdoor activities. Key complaints include noise disturbances, lack of enforcement of rules, and absence of potable water. Some users describe it as one of their "top 2 ever," while others would not recommend staying here due to issues with neighboring campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include "quiet and secluded" sites near the creek, clean facilities, proximity to hiking trails, and scenic views. Users particularly appreciate the bear boxes and upgraded vault...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include loud noise from neighboring campers (music, motorbikes), lack of potable water, and absence of campground staff. "No water in the park which is tough, especially since it's the...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing earplugs to deal with noise, collecting firewood nearby due to lack of availability on-site, and ensuring adequate water supplies. One user suggested, "Bring your own - and...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping at Berger, offering access to hiking trails, fishing, and mountain biking. Late spring and early fall are also favored for outdoor activities, although...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The trees, creek, and the star gazing made for a great camping trip here." "Upgraded their vaulted restroom. Like a lot." "Small, cozy campground. Sites and restroom were very clean." "Quiet and...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews identify campsite #5 as a favorite due to its proximity to the creek and suitability for larger groups. Campsite #7 is noted as large and set back, but challenging to access if...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews highlight basic features like flat ground sites and accessible vault toilets but lack detailed information for disabled campers.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025