Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground

Star4.49
41 reviews
23579 North Bloomfield Road, Nevada City, CA 95959

Quick Facts

3,000 ft

Price

$35 - $165/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground
$35.00 - $165.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees include $35 per night for family campsites at Chute Hill Campground, $165 per night for group campsites accommodating up to 50 people, and $45...
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Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$165.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve California
Provider
(530) 265-2740interp@parks.ca.gov
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What Campers Say

4.49

Recommended

Based on 41 reviews

362 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomsspacioushiking

Some mention

mosquitoes

"User reviews highlight the historic charm, scenic views, clean facilities, and peaceful environment of the campground and park. Common themes include the well-maintained restrooms, spacious campsites, and enjoyable hiking trails."

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Campground Map

23579 North Bloomfield Road, Nevada City, CA 95959

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground

23579 North Bloomfield Road, Nevada City, CA 95959

Driving directionsTravel 11 miles north on highway-49 toward Downieville, then turn right onto Tyler Foote Road. Stay on the pavement and follow the yellow line to the park. The road changes names several times (Curzon Grade Road, Back Bone Road, Derbec Road, North Bloomfield Road). These roads are not high-speed roads, and the park is approximately 26 miles (50-minute drive) from Nevada City. Avoid following GPS directions, as they may lead you to unpaved, dicey dirt roads such as North Bloomfield Road, which is gravel and highly recommended only for high-clearance vehicles.
The park is accessible via paved roads for the entire route from Nevada City, but certain GPS directions may suggest unpaved roads such as North Bloomfield and Relief Hill Roads, requiring high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles. These unpaved roads are dicey and not recommended for standard vehicles.
Nearby places
Nevada City: 26 miles, approximately 50 minutes
Nearby supplies
The closest store is approximately 20 minutes away from the campground, so visitors are advised to come prepared with essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground

Experience the campground's dramatic seasonal transformations as nature paints the landscape in ever-changing hues. Winter brings a magical dusting of snow to higher elevations, with 40-60 inches of rainfall nurturing the forest from October through April. As spring emerges, temperatures climb from the refreshing high 50s to balmy mid-80s, creating perfect conditions for outdoor exploration through summer and into the golden days of fall.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season (Memorial Day–Labor Day): trails, fishing, swimming and full campground services available.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Dramatic seasonal hues and fewer crowds, though some historic buildings close seasonally.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring wildflowers and open trails make spring a particularly appealing season to visit.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Campground is seasonal (open late May–Labor Day); snow common and services limited in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open seasonally from May 25th through Labor Day weekend, with limited availability thereafter.

About Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground

Step back in time at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground, where California's gold rush legacy meets pristine wilderness. Nestled among towering pines, this remarkable campground invites you to sleep under the same stars that once guided fortune-seekers to the largest hydraulic gold mine in the world. Each spacious campsite comes equipped with modern amenities including flush toilets and bear-resistant food lockers, while just a short walk away, the ghostly streets of North Bloomfield whisper tales of boom-town dreams and environmental awakening.
The campground offers a mix of camping options, including family campsites, group campsites, and cabin lodging.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM for campsites.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM for campsites.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 30 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Malakoff Diggins SHP offers diverse activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, gold panning, guided tours, and wildlife viewing. The historic mining town of North Bloomfield provides opportunities for cultural and educational experiences.
HikingThe park features over 20 miles of scenic foothill trails ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Trails such as the Rim Trail and Humbug Creek Trail offer varied terrain and views. Reviews highlight well-marked trails and enjoyable exploration.
FishingFishing is available in South Yuba River and Blair Lake reservoir, where rainbow trout, brown trout, black bass, and bluegill can be caught. California fishing licenses are required for anglers aged 16 and over.
SwimmingBlair Lake offers a small swimming section near a picnic area. Swimming is at your own risk as no lifeguard service is provided.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and black-tailed deer can be seen. Bird species include Steller’s jay, California quail, and mourning dove. User reviews note frequent bear sightings.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsPrograms include gold panning, town tours, Humbug Day celebrations, and Environmental Living Programs. Guided hiking tours and interpretive exhibits are available during museum hours.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife hazards include active black bears and rattlesnakes. Poison oak and ticks may also be present.
Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant metal food lockers are provided at each campsite for storing food, beverages, and toiletries. These lockers measure 36 inches deep, 43 inches wide, and 22 inches high.

Weather at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground

Reviews

4.5
41 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the historic charm, scenic views, clean facilities, and peaceful environment of the campground and park. Common themes include the well-maintained restrooms, spacious campsites, and enjoyable hiking trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 41 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include clean restrooms, spacious campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, interesting historical sites like the ghost town of North Bloomfield, and scenic hiking trails.
Based on 41 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised in reviews include limited cell phone service, active bears requiring caution, and seasonal closures of buildings in the historic town. Mosquitoes are noted as a nuisance in summer...
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Based on 41 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring head nets and bug spray for mosquitoes. Avoid using Google Maps for directions; opt for Tyler Foote Road for a paved route. Be prepared for bear activity and store all scented items in...
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Based on 41 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews note that the park is less crowded during weekdays or off-season months like January. Snow can make trails picturesque but also requires warm clothing and preparation.
Based on 41 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice campground. Sites are spacious with table and fire pit. Restrooms were clean." - Kevin G. "Bathrooms super clean. Campsites have picnic table, fire ring, and big ol' bear box. Lots of space...
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Based on 41 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific details are limited, but cabins can accommodate up to 5 people with parking for 2 vehicles. Group sites offer space for up to 40 people and 10 vehicles.
Based on 41 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible restrooms and trails are noted positively in reviews, with features like compacted aggregate surfaces and minimal slopes.
Based on 41 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on leash. Blair Trail restricts dogs, according to user feedback.
Based on 41 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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