Free Camping Collection
Dispersed Camping
Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site, near Yosemite National Park, is a fantastic spot for those looking to camp without the hassle of reservations. This area offers a free and spacious environment, perfect for setting up tents or RVs, with plenty of trees providing shade and privacy.
Visitors rave about the peaceful atmosphere, especially at night when the stars shine bright due to minimal light pollution. Many campers have found their ideal spots, with some noting, “This is the most perfect dispersed camping in the area,” highlighting the easy access and established fire pits left by previous visitors.
While the location is close to the south entrance of Yosemite, it’s also a bit of a trek to the valley, so plan accordingly. Be prepared for some pesky mosquitoes during the warmer months, but they tend to quiet down after dark, allowing for a more enjoyable evening around the campfire.
If you’re looking to explore, you’re just a stone's throw from the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite. Whether you're hiking, stargazing, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Goat Meadow is a solid choice for a memorable camping experience.
Description
National Forest
Dispersed Camping is allowed in the National Forest except in the area surrounding Huntington Lake, Shaver Lake, Bass Lake, Redinger Lake, and the Merced River Canyon. Campfire permits are required at all times whenever you plan to have a fire on public land outside of a developed campground. When building a fire please remember to only pick up down and dead wood that is no larger than wrist size and to never leave a campfire unattended.
You can obtain a campfire permit at any Forest office or online at http://www.prevetnwildfireca.org/. Be sure to check and see if campfire restrictions are in effect, when campfire restrictions are in place you will not be able to make a fire in dispersed camping areas (Developed Designated Campgrounds Only) but, you will be able to operate gas stoves, and lanterns with your permit.
When camping in the Forest proper food storage is also required either using a bear box, or by the proper use of the counter balance method. While camping anywhere in the forest also keep in mind that there are other people in the forest and we advise you to respect them and their space.
You may stay at one campsite for a limit of 14 days and you may stay on each district for a limit of 21 days before we will ask you to vacate. Please follow ENVUM maps for all designated roads and vehicle limitations.
We ask you to always remember to pack out what you pack in. Human waste needs to be buried 6 to 8 inches deep. For any other questions about visiting and camping in the forest and in the wilderness please visit LeaveNoTrace.org.
Location
Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site is located in California
Coordinates
37.49166919 N
119.624964 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site needs a permit.