Gifford Trailhead

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Beautiful Hidden Gem – Worth the Windy Drive! Mineral Bar in Colfax, CA is such a beautiful hidden gem, just about an hour and change from Sacramento. The drive up is scenic with wide freeways until you get to the little town of Colfax. From there, it’s about 10-15 more minutes to the river access — but be warned, once you turn off for the river, the road gets very narrow, steep, and... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Beautiful Hidden Gem – Worth the Windy Drive! Mineral Bar in Colfax, CA is such a beautiful hidden gem, just about an hour and change from Sacramento. The drive up is scenic with wide freeways until you get to the little town of Colfax. From there, it’s about 10-15 more minutes to the river access — but be warned, once you turn off for the river, the road gets very narrow, steep, and windy. It takes about 7–8 minutes to make it down, and I would not recommend trying it with a big RV or trailer (maybe a small one if you’re brave, but I wouldn’t chance it). Before you cross the bridge, there’s a restroom and river access with a dirt/wood staircase down to the water. The bathroom was impressively clean! Once you cross the bridge, you reach the campgrounds. There’s very limited parking, and it’s $10 to park (cash or card when we went). We got there around 9:30–10am and had no problem finding a spot, but by noon it was packed, and people were circling for parking. The campground itself is dry camping only — no water or electricity. I didn’t check out the campground bathrooms so I can’t speak to those, but the sites were about half full when we visited in early June. The paths down to the river from the campground are rocky and take a bit of a walk, so come prepared. Now the river? Absolutely stunning — clear, cool, and refreshing. There’s no sandy beach, but the rocks are smooth. Definitely wear water shoes though — it’s rocky and you’ll want that extra grip. It’s also dog friendly, which was a huge plus for us! Our pup Guapo had a blast swimming and exploring the water. All in all, this is a perfect day trip if you come early and are ready for a bit of rugged terrain. Clean water, great views, and a peaceful vibe once you’re down there. Highly recommend for nature lovers, families, and dog parents alike!

We intentionally chose a campsite toward the back for more privacy, but unfortunately, one of the main trails to the water ran nearby. As a result, there was constant foot traffic from day users, which was both disruptive and distracting. We wouldn’t choose to camp here again. Additionally, we were disappointed by the lack of enforcement of basic regulations for both campers and day users. There... We intentionally chose a campsite toward the back for more privacy, but unfortunately, one of the main trails to the water ran nearby. As a result, there was constant foot traffic from day users, which was both disruptive and distracting. We wouldn’t choose to camp here again. Additionally, we were disappointed by the lack of enforcement of basic regulations for both campers and day users. There was frequent loud profanity and noticeable amounts of garbage left along the riverbeds. Given that this is a state park, we expected a higher standard of upkeep and oversight. We believe the staff could do more to maintain the area and ensure a more respectful environment, especially considering this is funded by taxpayer dollars.

We pulled up with questions and to obtain a camp map so we can plan a long stay with our friends a few months from now, but we couldn't get through the gate. The employee in the hut didn't see us, her coworker on the other hand exchanged eye contact multiple times and nothing came of it. Sat there for 5mins thinking she was busy, then I reversed out and left. We'll be staying at a lake house a cou... We pulled up with questions and to obtain a camp map so we can plan a long stay with our friends a few months from now, but we couldn't get through the gate. The employee in the hut didn't see us, her coworker on the other hand exchanged eye contact multiple times and nothing came of it. Sat there for 5mins thinking she was busy, then I reversed out and left. We'll be staying at a lake house a couple miles closer to Yuba City instead. Thanks for helping us decide quickly.

Thousand Trails Review 2025 I am writing this review after returning from a Lake of the Springs week at Oregon House, California. Thousand Trails owns this campground. We have been going there during the summer for a number of years. This is my latest review. I stayed as a guest in a newer cabin; the cost per night was pretty steep but we were able to take hot showers, cook and have our own s... Thousand Trails Review 2025 I am writing this review after returning from a Lake of the Springs week at Oregon House, California. Thousand Trails owns this campground. We have been going there during the summer for a number of years. This is my latest review. I stayed as a guest in a newer cabin; the cost per night was pretty steep but we were able to take hot showers, cook and have our own small side yard with table. Good A/C available in cabins. There was initially notice of the pool being closed until maybe August. But we found out it was open in mid July to our surprise. There was a functioning lake, boathouse, and Lodge with various games and activities. Direct TV available in cabins and at lodge. Rentals for the lake were available. LOS is also near highway 20 which takes you right up to Grass Valley and beyond. Collins Lake down the road a few miles. Lots of places to explore in the area. Pluses: Pool was open after being resurfaced. Lake was available for use. Dam had been repaired. Game cabinet in meadow stocked with equipment for use. Emergency radio/phones available for emergency use at key locations. Not sure if they go to phone mail if off hours or if a ranger picks up. The staff was outstanding. Minuses: Pool was closed on a Monday until 3pm without written notice for campers. Communication seemed to be an issue. Rental prices increased. Basic maintenance of cabins passable; but some needed thorough cleaning. Stayed in an older cabin the last two nights which seemed ADA compliant but could not reach top linen cabinets in bathroom. Some lights not working; we found a broken light cord in a cabin and flagged it for the cleaning/maintenance people. Often lacking sufficient linens; especially for the kitchen. Store food prices a bit steep. Minimal amount of bar soap supplied for a family of five. Cell phone connectivity spotty at laundry, trading post and lodge. Ranger not visible during the day or night. Laundry charged 2.50 a load with 0.25 surcharge per load for using a credit card. Does not take quarters. All electronic. Recommendations: A cell tower would be helpful not necessitating driving to the top of the ridge for signal. Fire and emergency instructions should be posted at all buildings and thoroughly reviewed at the initial check-in. There seems to be only one road out in an emergency. Unsure of the protocol. Provide a camper rental checkout sheet for cleaning and maintenance people for any outstanding problems. Enforce electronic vehicle (scooters) rules. We enjoy the park and the proximity to the Bay area. I would encourage the owners to keep improving the basic infrastructure and hold the costs; especially since they are now coming out with new rental scenarios. Many of us are seniors who have limited income. Make it affordable for all. Keep the family-friendly ambience.