About HAMPSHIRE ROCKS
Overview Hampshire Rocks Campground is located in the Tahoe National Forest on the banks of the South Yuba River, near the Rainbow/Big Bend exit along Interstate 80. Visitors enjoy the area for its cool temperatures, access to the South Yuba River, fishing, and nearby trail opportunities, as well as its historic significance along the California Emigrant Trail. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest. Recreation The South Yuba River offers swimming, and rainbow trout fishing. The surrounding area offers hiking, road biking, mountain biking, and off-road vehicle trails. The historic California Emigrant Trail passes through the campground.Facilities The campground offers single-family campsites, a few of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.Natural Features The campground is situated on the north bank of the upper South Yuba River in a forest of lodgepole pines. Some sites are adjacent to the river, which flows gently through this particular area. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (530) 265-4531. Nearby Attractions Donner Lake is located 14 miles east of the campground via Historic Route 40/Lincoln Highway, known as the nation's first transcontinental highway. Many points of interest lie along Route 40, including China Wall, Rainbow Bridge, Sugar Bowl, Lake Van Norden and Ice Lakes. Other attractions include Donner Summit PCT, Loch Leven, and Castle Peak Trailheads, Fordyce 4x4 jeep trail, and Grouse Ridge Non-Motorized Area.Charges & Cancellations 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). * No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most
How to Get There
From Truckee, Calif., take Highway 80 west 17 miles. Take the Rainbow/Big Bend exit. If westbound, turn left under the freeway to the campground entrance. If eastbound, turn right at the stop sign.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to HAMPSHIRE ROCKS
Heading to HAMPSHIRE ROCKS? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for HAMPSHIRE ROCKS?
No central reservation system listed for HAMPSHIRE ROCKS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232261) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HAMPSHIRE ROCKS?
From Truckee, Calif., take Highway 80 west 17 miles. Take the Rainbow/Big Bend exit. If westbound, turn left under the freeway to the campground entrance. If eastbound, turn right at the stop sign.
How do I contact HAMPSHIRE ROCKS?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-478-6253.
References & Official Resources
