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Dispersed Camping

Bowman Lake Dispersed

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Bowman Lake Dispersed is located near the Sierra Nevada mountains, featuring rugged terrain with forests and lakes. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include the scenic Bowman Lake and hiking trails in the Tahoe National Forest.

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Location

Bowman Lake Dispersed is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

39.45808853400466 N
120.61201268924415 W

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Access

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

Connectivity

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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.


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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 14, 2025

Awesome site for SUVs

Awesome site, stayed in my van on the boat launch. There are tent sites above the boat ramp with bear boxes and fire rings. Left side of tent sites is very loud due to the rushing river. Very secluded from others, only 2 others on the boat ramp in vans. do not attempt to do this in anything smaller than an SUv sedans would definitely not be able to make it to this site. Road has lots of holes and rocks sticking up out the ground.

Siteboat ramp
Month of VisitSeptember
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  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Hannah R., September 14, 2025
  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Hannah R., September 14, 2025
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Reviewed Jul. 14, 2025

Highly Recommend !

The road to get here is rocky, but worth every second! We love spending our time here. Found a perfect spot with easy access to water right outside of our tent. Very friendly area for our dog - zero ticks the whole weekend! Would highly recommend the drive but make sure your vehicle is able to go up steep rocky roads.

Month of VisitJuly
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Reviewed Sep. 6, 2024

Lake side Campsites

If you are looking to be near the water and no service, this is perfect. The rough road in I believe must keep some folks out but the lake is amazing.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Shawn M., September 6, 2024
  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Shawn M., September 6, 2024
  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Shawn M., September 6, 2024
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 21, 2024

Great Late Spring Escape

This place was a slice of heaven, but only accessible by way of 4 x 4 with decent clearance. The trail will take you off road for quite some time , but it's well with the adventure. Traction boards and a winch could help you through unexpected obstacles and are recommended to have on hand, but you most likely won't need them. No running water, but there are restroom buildings, fire rings and bear boxes to use. Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent. The lake is gorgeous, a great fishery, and there are plenty of inspirational views and solitude to be had.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Chris N., July 21, 2024
  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Chris N., July 21, 2024
  • Review photo of Bowman Lake Dispersed by Chris N., July 21, 2024
  • (7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the road condition for accessing Bowman Lake Campground?

The road to Bowman Lake is extremely rough and challenging, requiring a 4x4 vehicle with good clearance. It's a long off-road journey with rocky terrain that can present unexpected obstacles. Having traction boards and a winch is recommended for safe travel. The difficult access likely keeps visitor numbers down, but those who make the journey consider the trek worthwhile for the secluded experience that awaits.

Where are the dispersed camping areas around Bowman Lake in California?

Dispersed camping at Bowman Lake is available directly along the shoreline of the lake. Campers can find spots with easy water access, perfect for setting up tents close to the water's edge. The remote nature of this location means you'll likely find privacy and space to set up camp. The dispersed areas are primarily accessible via the rough access road that leads to the lake, and sites are first-come, first-served. Due to the remote location and difficult access, you'll typically find fewer crowds here than at developed campgrounds in the Tahoe region.

What amenities are available at Bowman Lake Campground in California?

Bowman Lake Dispersed offers a true primitive camping experience with essentially no amenities. There are no developed facilities such as bathrooms, running water, trash service, or established fire rings. Campers need to be fully self-sufficient, bringing all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal equipment. The site offers natural beauty and seclusion in place of conveniences. Cell service is unavailable, providing a genuine disconnect from technology.

What recreational activities are available at and around Bowman Lake?

Bowman Lake offers excellent water-based recreation opportunities in a serene setting. Swimming and wading in the lake are popular activities, with campsites available right near the water's edge. The lake is perfect for paddling sports like kayaking and canoeing. Fishing is also available for those looking to catch their dinner. The surrounding area is dog-friendly with minimal wildlife concerns like ticks. Hiking around the lake shores and enjoying the peaceful natural environment are additional draws for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a remote wilderness experience.