How much does camping cost at Indian Springs?

Camping fees at Indian Springs are $24/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Indian Springs first-come first-served or reservation?

Indian Springs 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 Indian Springs before I book?

Yes! Indian Springs has 8 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 Indian Springs?

Indian Springs is open June 15 to October 15. 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 Indian Springs?

Indian Springs does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at Indian Springs?

Cell phone service at Indian Springs is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Indian Springs have?

Indian Springs has 33 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Indian Springs?

Yes, pets are allowed at Indian Springs. 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 Indian Springs?

Indian Springs offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Indian Springs

Q: Can I have a campfire at Indian Springs?

Fire policies at Indian Springs: 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.

3.75

107 reviews

C-Report Card

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

33 campsites

Season

Open June 15 - Octob...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

33 campsites

Season

Open June 15 - Octob...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Indian Springs

$24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

S&P Single: $24.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00; WALK TO: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-478-6253

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Indian Springs

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

Indian Springs

39.3293, -120.5694

Nearby places

Big Bend (3 miles west), Truckee (23 miles west), Donner Lake (19 miles east).

Weather at Indian Springs

Current alerts(5)

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.
Freeway noise can be heard from campground
In accordance with standard industry practices, Tahoe National Forest will assess an additional $5 vehicle fee per day for the second vehicle in each single family campsite, and on the third and fourth vehicle in any double family campsite, provided these vehicles are not joined…

Best Time to Camp at Indian Springs

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm, sunny days and full access to the South Yuba River swimming hole and trail network — ideal for swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking. At 5,600 ft expect daytime highs around 65–85°F and cool nights in the mid-30s to low 50s, making evenings comfortable for campfires. River flows are still lively early in summer from snowmelt (great for scenic runs and good fishing) and crowd levels peak in late July–August weekends, so plan weekday visits or reserve in Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is peak season; warm days and full river access make it the best time to visit.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 15 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open June 15 - October 15 annually.

About Indian Springs

Indian Springs sits at 5,600 feet in Tahoe National Forest, 20 minutes from Truckee, with direct access to a popular South Yuba River swimming hole. Operated by the Forest Service, this mid-sized campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites along a wooded corridor where campers hike, fish, and cool off in the river during summer months. Spacious sites with fire rings and picnic tables make it a budget-friendly base for exploring the Tahoe backcountry, though freeway noise and day-use crowds at the swimming hole are trade-offs.

Indian Springs features a mix of tent camping and RV options, with some walk-in sites and opportunities for group camping. No cabin or luxury camping options are available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm, sunny days and full access to the South Yuba River swimming hole and trail network — ideal for swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking. At 5,600 ft expect daytime highs around 65–85°F and cool nights in the mid-30s to low 50s, making evenings comfortable for campfires. River flows are still lively early in summer from snowmelt (great for scenic runs and good fishing) and crowd levels peak in late July–August weekends, so plan weekday visits or reserve in Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation5600 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryMassive cedars and pines rise above the campground, their roots gripping soil enriched by centuries of forest cycles. Exposed granite outcroppings reveal the Sierra Nevada's bedrock, polished smooth by snowmelt and summer floods. The South Yuba River has carved smooth granite bowls and deep emerald pools that form the campground's famous swimming hole. Sun-warmed rock cliffs edge the water, and sandy beaches slope into the current. Stellar jays announce arrivals, chipmunks dart between sites, and deer browse in early morning mist.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not feature a lodge or hotel-style accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive nights allowed per stay.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Limit of single-family occupancy per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or its mobile app.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are provided. Campsites are described as spacious, and some reviewers noted flat areas suitable for tents.

Site SizeSites are described as large and spacious by some campers, with room for multiple tents, though others noted smaller or uneven pads.

PrivacyMixed reviews indicate that privacy varies. Some sites are closely packed, while others offer more secluded options.

Total Campsites33 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites in the upper loop (20-28) for reduced freeway noise and better shade. Sites near the river provide great swimming access but are noisier.

Best CampsitesSites in the upper 20s offer quieter experiences, farther from Interstate 80. Upper loop sites 20-28 provide more shade and distance from the freeway. River-facing sites deliver scenic views but amplify the noise from traffic and trains.

Need help booking Indian Springs?

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

Indian Springs Campground provides basic amenities including picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets, potable water, and trash collection facilities. It is positioned along the South Yuba River, offering scenic views of mature cedar and pine trees with shade. The campground is close to Interstate 80, which impacts the noise levels.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Indian Springs

Indian Springs offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and off-road vehicle trails. The swimming hole is a highlight, and the campground is near the California Emigrant Trail.

Fishing4.0/5

Swimming4.0/5Top 21% in California

Swimming hole on South Yuba is a major attraction with waterfall and rock jumping, though crowded.

Hiking3.0/5

Water Sports2.0/5

River is highlighted for swimming and fishing; no kayak/boating mentions suggest limited suitability.

Boating

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Granite outcrops, emerald pools and towering trees make for strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; the campground uses vault toilets. Numerous reviews indicate mixed feelings regarding cleanliness and odor.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

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 collection facilities are available on-site. However, littering issues were noted by several reviewers, especially near the swimming area and riverside.

Cell CoverageAT&T and Verizon cell service are available at the campground, with reliable reception noted by multiple reviewers.

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

Rate Indian Springs

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.8

107 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Indian Springs has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are polarized, highlighting the beautiful swimming hole and spacious campsites, but frequently mentioning freeway and train noise as significant drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 107 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects noted by reviewers include the scenic swimming hole, proximity to hiking trails, spacious campsites, and accessible vault toilets.

Based on 107 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include freeway and train noise, littering issues, lack of maintenance, crowded swimming areas, and inadequate restroom facilities.

Based on 107 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight quieter spots in the upper loops, such as site 24, and issues regarding site maintenance for others.

Based on 107 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring earplugs to mitigate noise from the freeway and trains. Consider mid-week reservations to avoid crowds. Site numbers in the upper 20s are recommended for quieter experiences.

Based on 107 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular for swimming, though they can be crowded and noisy. Winter activities are not specifically noted in reviews.

Based on 107 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Campground is nice, plenty of space between sites.' - Sara Hall 2. 'There isn't really a bad spot to camp in this campground.' - Scott Ferry 3. 'Bathrooms were clean.' - Raquel 4. 'There are no...

Based on 107 reviews