How much does camping cost at Packsaddle?

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

Is Packsaddle first-come first-served or reservation?

Packsaddle 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 Packsaddle before I book?

Yes! Packsaddle 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 Packsaddle?

Packsaddle is open June 01 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 Packsaddle?

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

How many campsites does Packsaddle have?

Packsaddle has 18 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Packsaddle?

Yes, pets are allowed at Packsaddle. 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 Packsaddle?

Packsaddle 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 Packsaddle?

Popular activities at Packsaddle include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Packsaddle

Q: Can I have a campfire at Packsaddle?

Fire policies at Packsaddle: 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.

3.98

73 reviews

Summer Destination

Featured in:Spring Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,122 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open June 7, 2025, a...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,122 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open June 7, 2025, a...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Packsaddle

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(530)478-6253

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Packsaddle

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

Packsaddle

39.6247, -120.6499

Nearby places

Sierra City (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

Downieville (approximately 12 miles, 25 minutes)

Weather at Packsaddle

Current alerts(6)

Bears frequent the area; all food must be kept in approved containers
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.
In accordance with standard industry practices, we will be assessing a $5 additional vehicle fee on 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 to the first…

Best Time to Camp at Packsaddle

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of reliably warm, dry weather and full access to Packsaddle's lake and trails — expect daytime highs roughly 65–85°F and cool nights around 35–50°F at 6,100 ft. Water-based activities (boating, swimming, fishing) and long alpine hikes are at their peak, wildflower meadows are in bloom early in the season, and equestrian access is fully usable. Weekends can be moderately busy, especially July–August, but weekdays remain peaceful; be aware that wildfire smoke or, Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is the most reliable window, wildflowers peak early; it's peak season for visitors.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 01 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open June 7, 2025, and closes October 15, 2025.

About Packsaddle

Packsaddle sits at 6,100 feet in Tahoe National Forest near Camptonville, with access to the Pacific Crest Trail and Sierra Buttes. This small, budget-friendly campground operated by the Forest Service offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers hike, fish, and swim at nearby lakes during the summer season.

Packsaddle Campground accommodates varied camping styles, including standard campsites and equestrian options for campers with horses.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of reliably warm, dry weather and full access to Packsaddle's lake and trails — expect daytime highs roughly 65–85°F and cool nights around 35–50°F at 6,100 ft. Water-based activities (boating, swimming, fishing) and long alpine hikes are at their peak, wildflower meadows are in bloom early in the season, and equestrian access is fully usable. Weekends can be moderately busy, especially July–August, but weekdays remain peaceful; be aware that wildfire smoke or, Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation6122 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryTwo loops divide the campground. The lower loop spreads beneath Jeffrey pines and firs, with filtered shade and relatively flat terrain. The upper loop climbs a forested hillside, opening views toward the Sierra Buttes and wildflower meadows below. Dense pine forest surrounds most sites, though spacing varies. Some feel tucked into the trees, others sit close enough to hear neighbors. Ravines cut through the landscape nearby, exposing the bedrock geology common to this elevation. The setting feels more functional than dramatic, a working basecamp rather than a showpiece.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground offers single-family campsites and equestrian sites but does not feature hotel-style lodging facilities.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural and educational programs are not described in the source materials.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not specified.

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly discussed in the source materials.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThere is no detailed mention of accessibility features for campers with disabilities.

Site SizeSites vary in size; some are described as large and spacious while others are small and uneven.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some are secluded while others are closely situated. User reviews note differences in privacy and neighbor proximity.

Total Campsites18 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 13 is noted for its uneven terrain and limited shade, with reviewers recommending alternative options. Sites 15 and 16 are close to horse corrals but lack privacy.

Best CampsitesSite 6 earns consistent praise for its size and layout. Sites 1 through 4 offer flatter ground and better shade. Reviewers recommend the back loop for larger, more private spots, though specific numbers beyond these aren't mentioned in feedback.

Need help booking Packsaddle?

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

Packsaddle Campground provides a range of amenities to support various outdoor activities and camping styles. The campground is split into two loops, offering diverse site features such as shaded spots under Jeffrey pine and fir trees, and elevated sites with views of wildflower-dotted meadows or ravines and mountain peaks. Amenities include picnic tables, campfire rings, food lockers, trash collection, vault toilets, a potable water hand pump, horse corrals, hitching racks, and tent pads. Utility hookups and showers are not available.

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Packsaddle campground offers a robust array of activities, including hiking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, canoeing, mountain biking, and gold panning. Its proximity to trails like the Pacific Crest Trail enhances hiking opportunities, while nearby lakes support fishing and non-motorized water activities.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredFood lockers are provided for storing items securely due to bear activity.

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.

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 is available, but reviewers note the absence of dumpsters and some issues with trash being piled around recycling bins.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

73 reviews

Mixed Reviews

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

User reviews highlight the picturesque natural setting, proximity to hiking trails, and ample recreational opportunities. Common complaints focus on the lack of site marking for reservations, maintenance of vault toilets, and privacy concerns at certain campsites.

Review Summaries

Based on 73 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 73 reviews.

Site 6Loved
Site 6 receives praise for its spaciousness and proximity to the horse corrals.
Site 13Issues noted
Site 13 is frequently criticized for being uneven and lacking shade.
Site 16Issues noted
Site 16 is described as poorly located and unsuitable for RVs.

What Campers Love

Positive aspects mentioned by users include the campground's scenic location near the Sierra Buttes, access to hiking trails like the Pacific Crest Trail, and nearby lakes for fishing and boating....

Based on 73 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include lack of toilet paper in vault toilets, unmarked reserved sites leading to disputes, closely situated campsites, and trash management issues.

Based on 73 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend reserving sites well in advance due to high demand, choosing campsites in the back loop for larger and more private options, bringing extra toilet paper, and exploring nearby trails...

Based on 73 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with higher visitor numbers and increased demand for reservations. Winter conditions are not addressed in the reviews.

Based on 73 reviews

Camper Quotes

"First time at Packsaddle Campsite for a weekend hunting trip in mid October. Shared the site (and forest) with lots of mountain bikers." - Mary J "Nine years in a row I have camped there and still...

Based on 73 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features.

Based on 73 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but reviewers noted issues such as aggressive dogs running loose and owners not cleaning up after their pets.

Based on 73 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want affordable access to alpine hiking and fishing with basic amenities near the PCT.

Skip if

You need on-site hosts, maintained restrooms with supplies, or guaranteed site privacy during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

Tahoe National Forest

Berger is a small, budget-friendly campground operated by the Yuba River Ranger District in Tahoe National Forest, near Camptonville. Set in mid-elevation forest along Packer Creek, it offers quiet, secluded tent sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and bear boxes. Campers hike nearby trails, swim and fish in the creek, or head to area lakes for boating and climbing.