Top Free Dispersed Camping near Rancho Murieta, CA

Want to go dispersed camping near Rancho Murieta? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your California camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Rancho Murieta, CA (5)

    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    1. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    27 Photos
    217 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    2. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    216 Saves

    If you like to camp away from it all, but you prefer to drive there in your car, the National Forests have just what you are looking for. Most of the land in the National Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Visitors can camp just about anywhere in the national forest, unless specifically prohibited*. Maps and staff are available at most Forest Service offices to assist visitors in finding a suitable spot. Not being in a developed campground means that there will not be certain conveniences: Maximum stay limit for camping outside of a developed campground is 10 days per district/per calendar year. Please remove all your equipment and garbage when you leave. Water Quality: It is best to bring your own water. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated. Human Waste: Proper disposal of human waste is important. Leaving human waste in dispersed camping areas can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a camping area. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200' away from water sources and campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly. No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    5. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    151 Saves

    Dispersed camping takes a lot more effort than camping in a developed campground, but for those with an adventurous spirit, it can be a lot of fun.

    Here are some important points to remember about dispersed camping:

    The maximum length of stay in a forest ranger district is 21 days per year. Please practice good outdoor ethics about camping, travel and behavior while visiting. Dispersed campers are allowed to park within one vehicle length (including any tow vehicle) of a National Forest transportation route and walk into camp. Dispersed camping is not permitted in developed campgrounds and day use areas. Other areas closed to dispersed camping include historical and archaeological sites. Also, be certain that you are within the boundaries of the National Forest before setting up camp. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway. Dispersed camping is not allowed in these areas: within one mile of Pinecrest Basin along 7N83, Clark Fork Road along Hwy 108 between Clark Fork Road and Kennedy Meadows Road Leave No Trace Camping – Camp so no one notices you while you are there, and no one even knows you were there after you leave. Please respect nature and other visitors by keeping noise to a minimum. Always pack out whatever you pack in. No permanent structures are to be constructed to an area, such as building rock-lined fire pits, trenches around tents, or carving into trees. Human waste should be deposited in a hole dug 6 - 10 inches deep and then covered with organic soil. Vehicles are not permitted off of roads, but if you can safely park your vehicle adjacent and parallel to the road and are not blocking the roadway, you may park and camp. Most sites will have a parking spot nearby while other sites may not. Because the footprint of a vehicle can have a large impact to soils, please do not create new “parking spot” for a campsite. Please park in designated or already impacted spots. If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. We want you to learn some of the many reasons to enjoy the quiet and solitude of dispersed camping, it’s up to you to LEAVE NO TRACE.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Rancho Murieta

19 Reviews of 5 Rancho Murieta Campgrounds


  • Raymond B.
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Jul. 15, 2024

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Overnight stay

    We recently spent a night at this campsite and found it to be perfect for a quick overnight getaway. The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated.

    There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped.

    A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It’s well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home, making it easy to grab any last-minute necessities.

    Overall, it was a delightful stay. Just remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in!

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    It was okay

    Pretty easy to get to and lots of spaces for dispersed sites. There was trash EVERYWHERE. Broken glass, toilet trash, bottles and cans, we were really disappointed. We found a spot pretty hidden which was rad but someone was shooting litteraly all night long which was frustrating. We probably won’t come back.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Jun. 21, 2024

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Great spot

    Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring. Easy road to get out there.

  • A S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    It's a paid site now.

    Can't even park and enjoy the view without getting harassed by the overweight goon they call a "camp host". $10 day fee? Naw. Been coming here for years FOR FREE. Not paying now.

  • Orion B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Dec. 19, 2023

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Beautiful free camping is a real thing!

    My 9 yr old son wanted to try camping in or near the snow, and the weather was favorable on this December weekend (high 56, low 39). We are pretty new to camping and not hardcore, but this was very easy and comfortable. We camped right at the entrance because nobody was there and there was plenty of flat area. Easily accessible on paved roads. Spotted a rock climber on the nearby rock face when we arrived, who later came by to pick up his car he had parked there.

    Caldor Fire damage was evident everywhere, but this made it easy for my son to chop down a small dead tree that we used for firewood. It was breezy, which made it chillier than the temps indicated, but we were fine and very toasty once in our tent cots.

    We found a few beer bottles around (which we took home to recycle), and small amounts of building waste such as concrete. But overall the setting was peaceful and beautiful. Amazing to have a resource like this that's free. We brought a privacy shelter and portable camp toilet, and our own water. Those are really the only things you need that would normally be provided by a paid campsite.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Nov. 8, 2023

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Endless Possibilities

    The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp. I stayed at N38.768811• W 120.238630° — on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent. At this specific sight, there are no overhead trees. Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car. I stayed here for 7 days (10/31-11/6) and only saw one other person on the primivite roads. The above coordinates are about a 6 mile drive in from US50. You will see a campground on your right about 5 miles down when driving in, about a mile further down the road you will come up on the dirt road leading you up the mountain.

    A couple of notes:

    1. You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov
    2. Cell phone reception is very spotty, in and out of a couple of bars throughout the drive in. — AT&T coverage. At the above coordinates, there were 2 bars of low grade coverage allowing basic texts to send. Not enough service for web browsing or sending photos via text.
    3. This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt. You will find yourself going in and out of them while driving.
    4. KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it, pick up your trash (and other’s if you see any), respect the area and it will respect you.
    5. NO CAMP SERVICES — There is no trash service or even dumpsters at the signed entrance; pack it in pack it out. There are no restrooms in the area either.
  • Damien M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Sep. 18, 2023

    Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    Fun Spot

    Super fun spot went in September. Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded but still a good spot.

  • Callie C.
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Sep. 2, 2023

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Location possibly pinned incorrectly

    Showed up to pinned spot around 3pm and saw zero people. It was basically just a road to what I think was a state park? There were multiple spots off to the side where ppl had previously parked/camped w/ fire pits. But I did not feel comfortable pulling off…No service, it was rainy, and not sure how my vehicle would hold up. If planning to visit I would look to see if you need forest permit.

  • Serena W.
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Jul. 29, 2023

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Dispersed camping

    Plenty of dispersed camping spots. My flat spot that I found not too far from a Creek and I even had 2 bars on my cell phone and watch the movie.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    May. 24, 2023

    Iron MT. Dispersed

    Covered in snow

    The site was covered in snow, and there was a sign saying no camping in snow clearing conditions. Additionally you aren’t allowed in without a Sno-park permit from November 1st to may 31st.

    For those that can get it, I had no service with Verizon or t-mobile

  • Raven P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Nov. 21, 2022

    Iron MT. Dispersed

    Gorgeous Views!

    Stayed at this location when there was about a foot of snow on the ground, so I didn't feel comfortable driving into the actual camping area, instead I stayed over night on the paved round about. Nice and quite and woke up to gorgeous views! It looks like they are cutting down trees in the area that you would camp at so there are big piles of logs everywhere.

    Good place to hike around, I could see this place being perfect for the summer!

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 16, 2022

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    There’s nothing here

    It’s just the boat launch. Perhaps u can get away with hanging out, not sure. The access to the dispersed camping, in the hill overlooking the water, is gated and locked.

    There seem to be plenty of spots to use enroute to the water, just not at the location.

  • Michael S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Sep. 12, 2022

    Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    Peaceful spot

    Great spot for a tent or small trailer. The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up. Some noise from chainsaws in the distance one day, and some target practice, but neither lasted long. 2 bars LTE of Verizon.

  • Tisha S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Aug. 12, 2021

    Iron MT. Dispersed

    This place is really cool and easy to find! Great views!

    This place is really cool and easy to find! Great views

    Weather isn’t to hot and very secluded.

  • Caroline U.
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Jun. 23, 2021

    Iron MT. Dispersed

    Great dispersed camping area

    The view from this area is spectacular. Beautiful sunsets too. It is a pretty open area with lots of room to camp. It is now an abandoned ski resort. The Mormon Emigrant Trail can be accessed from there (East side, going West to Sly Park.) You can hear the Highway a little, but nonetheless very peaceful area. We had 3 bars of AT&T connection there. Will be back

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Sep. 25, 2020

    Iron MT. Dispersed

    Amazing views

    The views from this place are amazing. The abandoned ski lifts are pretty cool to look at and hike along them as well. I camped right on the edge where the view was as far from the highway as possible. The only downfall is that you can hear the highway. I went on a Tuesday. But I could tell the place gets busy at some point. I would go again.



Guide to Rancho Murieta

Camping near Rancho Murieta, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Acorn Campground. A review stated, "This is a very clean and well-maintained State campground."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many families enjoy Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park. One family shared, "Great overall experience... Can’t beat the location."
  • Abundant Recreation: Campers love the variety of activities available at Lake Camanche. A visitor mentioned, "We love it at this lake."

What you should know:

  • Bear Precautions: If you're camping at Ice House Campground, be aware of bears. One camper warned, "The campground had 3 bears that were visiting every night."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Acorn Campground, lack showers and electric hookups. A review noted, "Not expensive and has bathrooms, garbage, fire pits and picnic tables but no privacy."
  • Road Noise: At North Grove Campground — Calaveras Big Trees State Park, some sites experience road noise. A visitor mentioned, "Some road noise from Hwy 4, trucks going by were sometimes pretty noticeable."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Coloma Resort, which has a playground and pool. One parent said, "The campground is walking distance from the historic town of Coloma."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to bring bikes for trails at Woodward Reservoir. A camper suggested, "Bring your bikes if you have them because the ride to the dam is nice."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A camper at Lake Camanche mentioned, "We love it at this lake. Ice cream at the store is a must."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site at Collins Lake Recreation Area. One reviewer noted, "They do have some sites for larger RVs drive-through 40 foot max."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Expect busy weekends at popular spots like Lake Camanche. A visitor shared, "Got very crowded on the weekend."
  • Bring Water Shoes: If you're heading to Woodward Reservoir, be cautious of rocky areas. A camper advised, "Recommend water shoes, although this may only help a little as the rocks are quite large."

Camping near Rancho Murieta, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Rancho Murieta, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Rancho Murieta, CA is USFS Silver Fork Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 6 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Rancho Murieta, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Rancho Murieta, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.