About RAMSHORN
Overview Ramshorn Campground is located off of Highway 49, in the North Yuba River area west of Downieville. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, mountain biking, motorcycle singletrack, hunting, fishing, and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest. Recreation A network of trails crisscrosses the surrounding area. The 5.8-mile Halls Ranch Trail is open to hiking, mountain biking, and motorized use. The Yuba River Trail can be accessed nearby at the Rocky Rest Trailhead. The North Yuba River offers swimming, floating, and rainbow trout fishing. The river is a popular destination for seasonal rafting, kayaking and tubing.Facilities The campground offers several single-family sites, all of which are designated for tent camping only. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets are provided.Natural Features Ramshorn Campground is located on the steep slopes of the North Yuba River Valley between the Indian Valley Recreation Area and Downieville. The campground's two loops are situated among abundant blackberry bushes in a forest of cedar and fir trees. Shady oak trees are scattered around the upper loop. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (530) 265-4531. Nearby Attractions Ramshorn Campground is located along the Yuba Donner Scenic Byway (Highway 49) near many gold rush era historical sites and old mining towns such as Camptonville, Goodyears Bar, and Downieville. Many points of interest lie along Highway 49 and are part of the 49 miles of Highway 49 driving tour; look for interpretive signs and other historical sites along this tour route. Other attractions include the North Yuba River, Indian Valley Outpost, New Bullards Bar Reservoir, Downieville, and a network of miles of multi use hiking, biking, and motorcycle singletrack. Charges & Cancellations No Show Policy A no-sh
How to Get There
From Downieville, take Highway 49 south for about 5.5 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway. From Nevada City, take Highway 49 north for about 36 miles. The campground is on the left side of the highway.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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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
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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 RAMSHORN
Heading to RAMSHORN? 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 RAMSHORN?
No central reservation system listed for RAMSHORN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234543) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to RAMSHORN?
From Downieville, take Highway 49 south for about 5.5 miles. The campground is on the right side of the highway. From Nevada City, take Highway 49 north for about 36 miles. The campground is on the left side of the highway.
How do I contact RAMSHORN?
You can reach the park at phone: (530)478-6253.
References & Official Resources
