Cattle frequently wander through this dispersed camping area along Scotts Lake Road, adding an unexpected pastoral element to the high-elevation experience. Located within Toiyabe National Forest at roughly 7,000 feet, the site sits just off Highway 88 in Hope Valley, where a dirt road leads to multiple camping spots spread across a quarter-mile stretch.
The lower camping area attracts primarily RV users, with established sites featuring stone fire rings and obvious pull-through spaces. Susan L. found the area "very quiet here, not hearing any road noise" when camping with a 40-foot fifth wheel. However, evening arrivals searching for spots can create temporary disturbances, and Highway 88 traffic becomes noticeable during peak hours.
Road conditions vary significantly depending on intended destination. The main dirt access road handles RVs up to 40 feet without difficulty, though seasonal rain creates muddy patches and potholes. Campers attempting to reach Scotts Lake itself face increasingly rocky terrain that challenges motorcycles and requires high-clearance vehicles for the steeper sections.
Summer brings heavy mosquito populations, particularly problematic for tent campers and those leaving vehicle windows open overnight. The area fills quickly during peak season, with Shane C. noting it was "pretty much full" during an October visit. A vault toilet provides basic facilities, though campers must pack out all waste and bring their own water.
The site works best for RV campers comfortable with established dispersed camping protocols and those seeking free overnight stays while exploring the greater Sierra Nevada region. Campers exploring the area can find places to camp near Echo Lake for additional options at higher elevations.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsScotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping is located in California near Echo Lake
Coordinates
38.76610445 N
119.941919 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/20/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 21 usersLast on 6/20/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 6/20/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 21 usersLast on 6/20/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- 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 Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 40 min from Carson City, NV
- 1 hr 7 min from Reno, NV
- 1 hr 46 min from Sacramento, CA
- 2 hrs 10 min from Stockton, CA


























