Union Flat

Star3.94
76 reviews
Union Flat Campground, near Highway 49 (general location)

Quick Facts

3,422 ft

Price

$24 - $48/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

25 campsites

Season

Open April 15 to Oct...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Yuba River Ranger Station 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
Union Flat
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Union Flat charges $24 for standard non-electric, tent-only, and walk-to sites during peak season. Double tent-only sites are $48 per night....
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Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$48.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(530)478-6253
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What Campers Say

3.94

Mixed Reviews

Based on 76 reviews

27 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefullocationwater

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Union Flat Campground are mixed, praising its natural beauty and proximity to the river, but critiquing issues such as road dust, noisy neighbors, and limited amenities."

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Campground Map

Union Flat Campground, near Highway 49 (general location)

Union Flat

Union Flat Campground, near Highway 49 (general location)

Driving directionsFrom Downieville, take Highway 49 north about 6 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway.
Highway 49 provides direct access to the campground, and it is located approximately 6 miles north of Downieville. Accessibility is straightforward, though some reviews note dust issues due to the single dirt road layout within the campground.
Nearby places
Downieville - 6 miles, Sierra City - 6 miles
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in nearby towns, Downieville and Sierra City, approximately 6 miles from the campground. The nearest gas station is 40 miles away at Bassetts Station.

Best Time to Camp at Union Flat

From mid-April through mid-October, Union Flat awakens to welcome adventurers during its peak season. Spring arrives with crisp mornings perfect for riverside coffee, while summer brings warm days ideal for wading in cool mountain waters. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a canvas of changing colors. Mountain weather can shift from cool dawn mists to warm afternoon sunshine, creating perfect conditions for both active exploration and lazy riverside afternoons. Late summer may bring drier conditions and occasional fire restrictions, reminding visitors of the delicate balance between recreation and conservation in this treasured landscape.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Positive summer reviews; peak season with favorable weather and river access.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open through mid-Oct with maples and oaks; pleasant fall conditions noted.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Opens Apr 15; crisp mornings and pleasant riverside spring conditions reported.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed mid-Oct to mid-Apr; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 15 - October 15 (peak season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open April 15 to October 15 annually. Reservations start from June 25.
  • Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may apply during hot and dry conditions.

About Union Flat

Tucked away along the pristine North Yuba River, Union Flat Campground offers an intimate escape into California's Gold Country wilderness. This hidden gem provides both traditional tent camping and secluded walk-to sites, where the gentle sounds of rushing water create nature's perfect soundtrack. While larger campgrounds bustle with activity, Union Flat maintains a peaceful atmosphere that draws those seeking tranquility. Days here unfold with riverside fishing, exploring historic mining trails, and discovering remnants of the gold rush era that still whisper stories of fortune seekers who once panned these very waters.
Union Flat Campground accommodates tent and RV campers, with single-family and double sites available. Some sites are tent-only.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights allowed per stay.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Union Flat Campground offers a variety of recreational activities focused on its proximity to the North Yuba River. Popular activities include fishing, swimming, hiking, and gold panning. Seasonal opportunities for rafting, tubing, and kayaking enhance the experience.
HikingHiking trails are accessible within the campground and nearby attractions like the Pacific Crest Trail. "Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area," states the official source.
FishingRainbow trout fishing is a highlight, especially at dusk. "The fish were most active at dusk. We could see them jumping and tail flips but no dice," a user remarked.
SwimmingSwimming and wading opportunities are available in the North Yuba River. No designated swimming areas or safety measures are mentioned.
BikingMountain biking trails are accessible nearby, including routes in Downieville. "Convenient location for Downieville MTB riding," one user noted.
BoatingSeasonal rafting, tubing, and kayaking are available in the North Yuba River. Nearby Sardine Lakes offer additional boating opportunities with rentals provided.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is high, as well as dust from vehicle movement. The campground’s closeness to Highway 49 may expose visitors to road noise.
Active AlertsFire restrictions may apply during hot and dry conditions.

Weather at Union Flat

Reviews

3.9
76 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Union Flat has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Union Flat Campground are mixed, praising its natural beauty and proximity to the river, but critiquing issues such as road dust, noisy neighbors, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 76 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests appreciated the scenic location by the North Yuba River and the peaceful sound of rushing water. "Beautiful little campground right next to the Yuba River," summarized a reviewer.
Based on 76 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include noise from the highway, disruptive campers, and dust stirred up by vehicles on the single dirt road through the campground. "Plenty of partying going on in many of the...
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Based on 76 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Several recommendations were provided by past visitors: "#11 is by far the best site to be next to the river," shared one guest. "Be aware there’s no gas station at Downieville or Sierra City,"...
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Based on 76 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Positive reviews often highlight the elevated camping experience during summer months due to favorable weather conditions and river access. Negative trends are associated with busy weekends and party...
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Based on 76 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Lovely little campground right next to the Yuba river. Beautiful." "Vault toilets are pretty well maintained." "Easy access to highway, the river, you name it." "Campground was full of rude,...
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Based on 76 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #11 is highlighted for its proximity to the river. Sites along the river are favored for their scenic views. "Site #10 is also good for gold panning opportunities."
Based on 76 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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