How much does camping cost at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Camping fees at Big Bend Group (Yuba River) range from $95/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Big Bend Group (Yuba River) first-come first-served or reservation?

Big Bend Group (Yuba River) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Big Bend Group (Yuba River) before I book?

Yes! Big Bend Group (Yuba River) has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Big Bend Group (Yuba River) is open June 15 to October 18. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Big Bend Group (Yuba River) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Big Bend Group (Yuba River) have?

Big Bend Group (Yuba River) has 2 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Yes, pets are allowed at Big Bend Group (Yuba River). Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Big Bend Group (Yuba River) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Popular activities at Big Bend Group (Yuba River) include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Q: Can I have a campfire at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Fire policies at Big Bend Group (Yuba River): Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the Yuba River Ranger District (530) 288-3231 (voice), (530) 288-3656 (TDD).. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.88

20 reviews

Big Bend Group Campground, Rainbow Road Exit, Tahoe National Forest, CA

SwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,700 ft

Price

$95/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Open: June 15 - Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on US Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,700 ft

Price

$95/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Open: June 15 - Octo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on US Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

$95.00 - $95.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $95.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Group Site Fee$95.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-478-6253

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Big Bend Group Campground, Rainbow Road Exit, Tahoe National Forest, CA

Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Big Bend Group Campground, Rainbow Road Exit, Tahoe National Forest, CA

Nearby places

Truckee (19 miles west)

Nevada City (30 miles east)

Camptonville (35 miles southeast)

Driving directionsFrom Truckee, take I-80 19 miles west to the Rainbow Road Exit. Travel west about 1.5 miles to the Big Bend Ranger Station and Visitor Center. Turn right past the Visitor Center and cross the bridge. The campground is on the right. Victory is the first campsite and Lincoln is the second one at the end. From Nevada City, take Highway 20 east for about 26 miles. Travel east on I-80 for 4.5 miles. Take exit 166 for Big Bend, travel about 1/4 mile on Hampshire Rocks Rd. Turn left before Fire Station and cross the bridge. The campground is on the right.

Weather at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Current alerts(4)

Click here for more information on the Tahoe National Forest
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
Flatten the Curve Maintaining social distance of 6ft or more when walking, hiking, jogging or biking. • Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people. • Do not gather in groups. • Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings.
No Show Policy A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival).

Best Time to Camp at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most accessible conditions on the South Yuba—expect daytime highs around 75–85°F and cool nights in the low 40s–50s, ideal for swimming, river-side hanging and long hikes. River swimming and fishing are at their peak as flows moderate and water warms, while trails and mountain-biking routes are fully accessible. Expect moderate to heavy weekend crowds in July–August and check for active fire restrictions, but midweek visits and early/late summer (mid-June and September Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open June 15–Oct 15; summer best for swimming, hiking and peak-season use noted in reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 15 to October 18. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open: June 15 - October 15; Closed: October 16 - June 14

About Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Big Bend Group sits along the South Yuba River in Tahoe National Forest, managed by the US Forest Service for group reservations only. This mid-elevation site offers direct river access for swimming and fishing, with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings spread across a compact footprint. Reviewers praise the clean facilities and beach-style river entry, though highway noise carries through the canyon.

Big Bend Group Campground focuses on group camping experiences with accessible setups. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most accessible conditions on the South Yuba—expect daytime highs around 75–85°F and cool nights in the low 40s–50s, ideal for swimming, river-side hanging and long hikes. River swimming and fishing are at their peak as flows moderate and water warms, while trails and mountain-biking routes are fully accessible. Expect moderate to heavy weekend crowds in July–August and check for active fire restrictions, but midweek visits and early/late summer (mid-June and September Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation5700 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe South Yuba River flows through ancient granite bedrock, creating swimming holes and beach-style river entries at both campsites. Pines and firs provide shade, though recent forest clearing has thinned the tree cover. The campground sits in the Sierra Nevada's volcanic and glacial landscape, with granite outcroppings visible from camp. Victory site features crystal-clear water access. Trails connect to the historic California Emigrant Trail network nearby.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges are available at the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are specifically mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each group site accommodates up to 25 guests and 5 vehicles.

Groups

Two group sites, Lincoln and Victory, accommodate up to 25 people and 5 vehicles each. Victory offers a beach-style river entry, while Lincoln provides extra parking and a more secluded setup.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible parking, vault toilets, walkways, and group sites, ensuring usability for people with disabilities.

Site SizeGroup sites can accommodate up to 25 people and 5 vehicles each, with ample space for tents near the river.

PrivacyThe Lincoln site offers a level of seclusion, while Victory provides a beach-style river entry. Users mention trees being cleared in recent years, reducing privacy levels.

Total Campsites2 campsites

Recommended SitesLincoln site is quieter and offers shade but has challenging river access. Victory site is better for swimming with comfortable entry to the water.

Best CampsitesVictory site offers beach-style river entry and books quickly. Users recommend reserving early. Lincoln provides more seclusion from the neighboring site. Both have ample space for tents near the water, though recent tree clearing has reduced privacy buffers between sites and from highway noise.

Need help booking Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Big Bend Group Campground offers a variety of amenities tailored for group camping experiences. Features include accessible group sites, picnic tables, grills, large campfire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. Stands of pine and fir provide shade, while the South Yuba River offers scenic views and recreational opportunities.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Big Bend Group Campground hosts a range of activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, historic site visits, biking, stargazing, and gold panning. Access to the South Yuba River provides opportunities for water recreation.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Vault toilets are provided instead, and reviews frequently describe them as clean and well-maintained.

Fire PolicyFire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. For current fire conditions or weather closures contact the Yuba River Ranger District (530) 288-3231 (voice), (530) 288-3656 (TDD).

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned in the authoritative sources or reviews.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.9

20 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Big Bend Group (Yuba River) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Users highlight the campground's scenic beauty, access to the South Yuba River, and group-friendly setup. Noise from Interstate 80 and forest clearing affecting privacy are common complaints.

Review Summaries

Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate clean bathrooms, picturesque river access, ample space for tents, and well-maintained facilities. 'Hands down, AMAZING!' describes the Lincoln site experience, while 'Victory site...

Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from Interstate 80 is frequently mentioned as a drawback. Some campers found the lack of privacy due to tree clearing disappointing. Others wished for bear boxes and sinks in the bathrooms.

Based on 20 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Lincoln offers seclusion and extra parking; Victory provides a beach-style river entry and spacious setup for tents. Noise from the highway affects both sites, with Victory receiving slightly better...

Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring earplugs to mitigate highway noise. 'Book it early!!' is suggested for securing the Victory site. Navigation apps should direct to the Big Bend Fire Station for easier access.

Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer periods are most popular due to swimming and hiking activities. Noise levels from Interstate 80 are exacerbated during peak travel times. Forest clearing has reduced privacy over recent years.

Based on 20 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Hands down, AMAZING! Victory site was above expectations.' 2. 'The site itself is nice, but the road noise from Interstate 80 is deafening.' 3. 'The Lincoln site offers some seclusion and extra...

Based on 20 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible parking, vault toilets, and walkways are praised for usability. However, no specific comments from disabled campers are noted.

Based on 20 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but there are no specific facilities or reviews highlighting pet experiences.

Based on 20 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You're booking for a group that wants South Yuba River access during summer and can handle road noise.

Skip if

You need individual sites, bear lockers, or a quiet backcountry setting away from traffic.

Nearby Campgrounds

No specific address for campground; ranger station reference: 15924 HWY. 49, Camptonville, CA 95922, USA

Hampshire Rocks sits along the South Yuba River in Tahoe National Forest, 15 minutes from Truckee. Operated by the Forest Service, this small mid-elevation campground offers tent and RV sites with river access for swimming, fishing, and trailhead proximity. Summer brings warm days ideal for wading and biking, though freeway noise from nearby I-80 is audible throughout the property.

Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Campground Map

Weather at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Current alerts(4)

Best Time to Camp at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Planning Tips

About Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

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Overview

Plan a trip to Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Current alerts(4)

Best Time to Camp at Big Bend Group (Yuba River)

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Big Bend Group (Yuba River)?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews