Gold Country - California - page 836

The cheapest way to stay the night are in the USFS campgrounds east from Sierra City
along Hwy 49. Wild Plum , Sierra , Chapman Creek and Yuba Pass all have vault toilets
and running water (Sierra has river water only), and first-come, first-served sites. Wild
Plum (47 sites) is the most scenic. North of Hwy 49, 2 miles north of Bassetts on Gold
Lake Hwy, Salmon Creek is one of several great USFS campgrounds. It has vault toilets,
running water and first-come, first-served sites for RVs and tents, but no hook-ups. This
site offers the most dramatic view of the Sierra Buttes with no crowds. Sites 16 and 20 are
separated from the rest by a creek.
Buttes Resort CABIN
( 530-862-1170; www.buttesresort.citymax.com ; 230 Main St; cabins $90-155)
In the heart of Sierra City, the small Buttes Resort occupies a lovely spot overlooking the
river and is a favorite with hikers looking to recharge. Most cabins have a private deck and
barbecue, some have full kitchens. You can borrow bikes and games from the wilderness-
loving owners.
Big Springs Gardens AMERICAN
( 530-862-1333; bigspringgardens.com ; 32163 Hwy 49; adult/child $15/10, entry incl buffet $35-39;
brunch noon Wed-Sun mid-Jun-Sep)
Offers the perfect brunch of berries from the surrounding hills and trout fresh from the
pond, served in an open-air dining area (reservations required). Friday BBQ dinners in
July and August as well. There are hiking trails through the 'Wild Garden,' a waterfall-
laced natural area with pretty views. You have to call ahead to do any of the above.