How much does camping cost at Sardine Lake?

Camping fees at Sardine Lake are $24 - $48/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Sardine Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

Sardine Lake 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 Sardine Lake before I book?

Yes! Sardine Lake 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 Sardine Lake?

Sardine Lake 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 Sardine Lake?

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

How many campsites does Sardine Lake have?

Sardine Lake has 30 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Sardine Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at Sardine Lake. 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 Sardine Lake?

Sardine Lake 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 Sardine Lake?

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

Sardine Lake

Q: Can I have a campfire at Sardine Lake?

Fire policies at Sardine Lake: 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.

4.06

147 reviews

YUBA RIVER RANGER STATION, 15924 HIGHWAY 49, Camptonville, CA, 95922, USA

Top 10% in CAFall

C-Report Card

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,764 ft

Price

$24 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Campground opens Jun...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,764 ft

Price

$24 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Campground opens Jun...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tahoe National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Sardine Lake

$24.00 - $48.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC - Double: $48.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

(530)478-6253

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Campground Map

YUBA RIVER RANGER STATION, 15924 HIGHWAY 49, Camptonville, CA, 95922, USA

Sardine Lake

YUBA RIVER RANGER STATION, 15924 HIGHWAY 49, Camptonville, CA, 95922, USA

Nearby places

Sierra City - 5 miles, approximately 10 minutes

Downieville - 14 miles, approximately 20 minutes

Sierraville - 18 miles, approximately 25 minutes.

Weather at Sardine Lake

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, 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 vehicle…

Best Time to Camp at Sardine Lake

Best season: fall. Early fall (especially September) offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures (typically 50–75°F), crisp nights (30s–40s°F), clear skies and dramatically reduced crowds compared with mid-summer. Water remains warm enough for paddling and fishing, alpine meadows take on late-season golds and the Sierra Buttes are especially photogenic in the lower-angle light. Trails are at their driest and trailheads less busy, making hiking, biking and wildlife viewing most enjoyable; be aware that Peak months: September, October, July, August Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in CA

Early fall praised for mild days, crisp nights, clear skies and reduced crowds—best season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 01 to October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Campground opens June 7 and closes October 15 for reservations.

About Sardine Lake

Sardine Lake sits in mid-elevation forest within Tahoe National Forest near Camptonville, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The small campground offers tent, RV and primitive sites with walking access to three lakes for paddling, fishing and swimming. Reviewers praise the scenery and daily-cleaned vault toilets, though sites lack privacy and water outages occasionally occur.

Sardine Lake Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including tent and RV camping, with single-family and double sites available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Early fall (especially September) offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures (typically 50–75°F), crisp nights (30s–40s°F), clear skies and dramatically reduced crowds compared with mid-summer. Water remains warm enough for paddling and fishing, alpine meadows take on late-season golds and the Sierra Buttes are especially photogenic in the lower-angle light. Trails are at their driest and trailheads less busy, making hiking, biking and wildlife viewing most enjoyable; be aware that Peak months: September, October, July, August Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation5764 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Sierra Buttes rise directly above camp, creating the defining skyline. A verdant wet meadow occupies the valley floor, surrounded by lodgepole pine forest that transitions into rugged alpine terrain. The Lakes Basin holds multiple glacier-carved valleys and pristine alpine lakes scattered across the granite landscape. Wildlife includes squirrels, eagles, and black bears. Reviews consistently mention proper food storage as essential. The setting combines riparian meadow, forest, and mountain ecosystems within a compact area.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no lodge within the campground, but nearby Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant.

Programs & ActivitiesNo explicit information about cultural or educational programs was provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by site
double sites allow additional capacity.

Groups

No group camping sites are mentioned.

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, phone, or in-person.

AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly detailed in the source material.

Site SizeSite sizes vary. Some are suitable for small trailers or tents, while others can accommodate medium-sized RVs. "Our site was long enough for our 20' trailer." (Dottie C, user review)

PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is limited. "No privacy between campsites." (Cathy K, user review) "The site next to us was pretty much in our site as well." (Matthew R, user review).

Total Campsites30 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites on the periphery for privacy. Avoid sites near dumpsters or restrooms for better experiences.

Best CampsitesSites #5 and #20 offer more privacy and space, though they sit close to the vault toilets.

Need help booking Sardine Lake?

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

Sardine Lake Campground provides basic amenities and is operated by the Tahoe National Forest. Amenities include several single-family campsites and one double site equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, and food storage locker. Vault toilets and drinking water are available. Firewood is not sold on-site, and campers are advised to protect local forests by buying firewood locally. The campground does not have showers, electricity, or sewer hookups.

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Sardine Lake

The Sardine Lake Campground area offers diverse recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and gold panning. Its proximity to Sardine Lakes and Sand Pond enables water-related activities, and the site is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic hiking trails.

Hiking4.0/5

Proximity to Deer Lake, Tamarack Lakes trails and the Pacific Crest Trail; extensive trail network.

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing is popular for rainbow and brook trout; walking access to multiple lakes.

Boating4.0/5

Boating available at Sardine Lake; nearby Gold Lake has a developed boat ramp.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Area described as rich in wildlife, with birds such as bald eagles observed.

Water Sports4.0/5

Swimming2.0/5

Swimming is prohibited in Sardine Lake; allowed at nearby Sand Pond only.

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Mid-elevation, clear fall skies and remote setting favor dark-sky viewing.

Photography4.5/5Dramatic mountain backdrop, lakes and wildlife provide excellent photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete 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.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; the campground uses vault toilets.

Food Storage RequiredLockers are available at each site for securely storing food 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.

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 facilities are available but proximity to dumpsters can be an issue for some sites. "The site we'd chosen (#27) was SO close to the dumpsters and the smell was NOT pleasant." (Michelle Z, user review)

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

4.1

147 reviews

Satisfactory

Sardine Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Sardine Lake Campground highlight its breathtaking natural beauty, convenient access to nearby lakes, and the variety of recreational activities available. However, frequent complaints involve site layout issues, lack of privacy, noise disturbances, and occasional maintenance shortcomings.

Review Summaries

Based on 147 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects noted by users include: "Beautiful scenery and paddling opportunities." (Katherine C, user review) "Lovely little campground with great proximity to 3 lakes (walking distance)."...

Based on 147 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include limited privacy, noise disturbances, and proximity to restrooms or dumpsters: "No privacy between campsites." (Cathy K, user review) "The pit toilets were covered in flies...

Based on 147 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 18: "Unfortunately, others staying at the campground were up until 2am playing music." (Laura E, user review) Site 27: "SO close to the dumpsters and the smell was NOT pleasant." (Michelle Z,...

Based on 147 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Not a lot of regulation around quiet hours." (Hannah P, user review) "Bring water shoes for exploring Sand Pond and Upper Sardine Lake." (Mary L, user review) "Don't recommend going in the summer,...

Based on 147 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months tend to be busier with noise complaints, while early fall is reported to be quieter and more enjoyable. "We don't recommend going in the summer, but beginning of fall." (Emo.panda, user...

Based on 147 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The lake is gorgeous and the weather is usually very nice up until November." (Emo.panda, user review) "Quiet and peaceful, but too close to neighboring sites." (Matthew R, user review) "Beautiful...

Based on 147 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility-specific reviews are not available.

Based on 147 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed, but some users noted issues with unleashed pets. "There also was one family that had a dog that kept running around off leash." (Lisa F, user review)

Based on 147 reviews

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Sardine Lake

$24.00 - $48.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC - Double: $48.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

No campsite fee categories listed.

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

263,000+ 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

Go if

You want multi-lake access for paddling and fishing in a mid-elevation Sierra setting during shoulder season.

Skip if

You need site privacy, guaranteed water service or prefer avoiding seasonal noise issues.

Nearby Campgrounds

Salmon Creek Campground, Salmon Creek, North Yuba River Area

Salmon Creek sits in Tahoe National Forest near Sierra City, a mid-elevation campground operated by the Forest Service at 6,000 feet. Reviewers praise spacious sites and clean vault toilets, plus quick access to alpine lakes and trails. The campground runs seasonally with tent, RV, and primitive options, vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings.

Sardine Lake

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Campground Map

Weather at Sardine Lake

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Sardine Lake

Planning Tips

About Sardine Lake

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Sardine Lake?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Sardine Lake

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Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

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How campers graded it

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Overview

Ask Camp Sage about Sardine Lake

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Sardine Lake

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Sardine Lake?

Amenities available

Things to do at Sardine Lake

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews