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Dispersed Camping

Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, near Tahoe National Forest, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a bit of solitude in nature. This area offers a true back-to-basics experience, with no electric hookups or running water, but you can still enjoy a good Verizon signal for those who need to stay connected.

The location is perfect for outdoor activities, with numerous trails for biking and hiking right at your doorstep. Campers have raved about the stunning night views and the ability to find a private spot to set up camp. One visitor mentioned, “The night views are amazing!” so don’t forget to bring your telescope for some stargazing.

While there are no picnic tables or trash services, the natural beauty and peacefulness make up for it. Many campers appreciate the freedom to choose their own site, with plenty of space to spread out. Just remember to pack out what you pack in! If you’re looking for a place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors, Bear Valley is definitely worth checking out.

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Location

Bear Valley Dispersed Camping is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Sierraville: Drive 11 miles south on Hwy 89 to Little Truckee Summit. Drive 6 miles east of Little Truckee Summit on Cottonwood Creek Road. From Truckee: Drive 17 miles north on Hwy 89 to Little Truckee Summit. Drive 6 miles east of Little Truckee Summit on Cottonwood Creek Road.

Coordinates

38.45986961 N
120.03748036 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 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 Bear Valley Dispersed Camping needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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out of 5

7 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2024

Pin is incorrect

So disappointing this app has failed us like 5 times now on camping spots. Not the right location.

Sitena
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Aug. 20, 2024

Crowded

Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping.

Siteby picket ball courts, near entery
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by DJ M., August 20, 2024
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by DJ M., August 20, 2024
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2023

Dispersed camping at its finest

There are no Volt toilets here nor running water but pretty good Verizon signal. Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk.

SiteThere are no marked sites as long as it doesn't say don't camp here you're good to pick one.
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Serena W., August 13, 2023
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Serena W., August 13, 2023
Reviewed Aug. 13, 2023

Camp in Bear Valley Park

This is a nice little private camp spot for the most part, There's a campground with its own fence around it for private camping With signs posted very near it, "no camping here" in the other spots without the signs good to go.

SiteRandom spots with driveways already made out of dirt.
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Serena W., August 13, 2023
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Serena W., August 13, 2023
Reviewed May. 26, 2023

Great place to dispersed camping!

Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare. There is a point where the paved road disappears and is only dirt road, you can keep driving as far as you want, it is easy to find a good spot to park and set your camp. The night views are amazing!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Claudia M., May 26, 2023
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Claudia M., May 26, 2023
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Reviewed Oct. 18, 2020

Great overnight camping spot!

We arrived when it was dark and had no problem finding a spot! It was open with plenty of spots & we were the only ones! Perfect spot for star gazing!!

Reviewed Sep. 6, 2020

Group event camping

Stayed here for 2 nights during the 2019 Pursuit Norcal Event (outdoor adventure camp for adults). Due to the nature of the event, we were very close to other campers but the site itself had a lot of tree cover, shade and probably awesome camping at any other time. There is open field adjacent that was used as the event hub. Location was near trails to rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Esther Y., September 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Esther Y., September 6, 2020
  • Review photo of Bear Valley Dispersed Camping by Esther Y., September 6, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Bear Valley dispersed camping located?

Bear Valley Dispersed Camping is located in a mountainous area accessed via a road that starts paved but eventually turns to dirt. As you climb higher into the mountains, the road becomes increasingly curvy. You can continue driving on the dirt road to find your preferred camping spot. The area features wooded sections and open fields, making it ideal for those seeking a remote camping experience with beautiful mountain views and stargazing opportunities.

What facilities are available at Bear Valley Campground?

Bear Valley Campground offers primitive camping with minimal facilities. There are no vault toilets or running water available, so campers should come prepared with their own water supply and sanitation solutions. The campground does feature wooded areas providing good shade and natural privacy between some sites. There's also an adjacent open field area. Some sections have fenced private camping areas with posted signs indicating where camping is not permitted.

What do reviews say about Bear Valley Y Camp?

Bear Valley appears to be different from Bear Valley Y Camp. The Bear Valley dispersed camping area offers a private, natural camping experience with wooded sites and good Verizon cell reception. The area features many trails for hiking and biking. Visitors appreciate the cool mountain weather, stargazing opportunities in the open fields, and the ability to find secluded spots. The location is described as having nearby lake access, hiking opportunities, and shopping conveniences. Some campers note that spots may sometimes be occupied without visible activity.

Are there photos of Bear Valley Campground available online?

Yes, photos of Bear Valley Campground are available online. You can find images showing the wooded camping areas, surrounding trails, and open field sections suitable for stargazing. The Dyrt app and website likely contain user-submitted photos that showcase the camping experience. These visual resources can help you get a better sense of the campground's layout, terrain, and natural features before your visit.