Camper submitted image from Dome Rock Dispersed Camping - 1
View All
Camper submitted image from Dome Rock Dispersed Camping - 2
Nature
Camper submitted image from Dome Rock Dispersed Camping - 3
Roads
Camper submitted image from Dome Rock Dispersed Camping - 4
People
Camper submitted image from Dome Rock Dispersed Camping - 5
Animals

Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Dome Rock Dispersed Camping

Dome Rock Dispersed Camping, near Ponderosa, California, offers a rugged escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. This area is perfect for campers who appreciate the simplicity of the outdoors, with no facilities like bathrooms or trash services, so be ready to pack out what you bring in.

Visitors have highlighted the stunning views and clear night skies, making it a great spot for stargazing. One camper noted, “We stayed at an upper spot with great view and wonderful night sky.” The location is also a hit for rock climbing enthusiasts, with nearby routes that promise adventure and breathtaking scenery.

While the access road can be bumpy, it’s manageable for most vehicles, and there are multiple spots to choose from for setting up camp. Just remember to bring your own water and firewood, as these aren’t available on-site. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with a touch of wilderness, Dome Rock is a solid choice.

Suggest an Edit

Location

Dome Rock Dispersed Camping is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

36.06814638 N
118.53154655 W

Open in Google Maps

The Dyrt Alerts

Get reservations at sold-out campgrounds.

Learn More

Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • 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 Dome Rock Dispersed Camping needs a permit.

Drive Time


Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

50%
25%
25%
0%
0%

4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 11, 2023

Great dispered camping with a nice view

There are about five spots for disperesed camping, we stayed at an upper spot with great view and wonderful night sky. We felt very safe here. Road is bumpy, so drive very carefully, but we saw RVs to get there. (October 2023)

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Pavla L., October 11, 2023
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Pavla L., October 11, 2023
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Pavla L., October 11, 2023
Reviewed Jul. 17, 2022

Tucked away

This dispersed camping area is off the western divide. Recommend a truck if going in but have seen cars drive in. Can also hike in. Multiple areas to choose from if you want to camp. No water, toilets or trash. You need a fire permit for a propane stove, no fires. Pack out all trash. Dark at night. Trees for hammocks. Have yet to experience wild life there other than lizards and birds.

SiteNorth of dome
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Ash M., July 17, 2022
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Ash M., July 17, 2022
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Ash M., July 17, 2022
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2018

Convenient access for rock climbing

This camping area is at the end of dirt road Route 21S69, there is a sign for Dome Rock. It's very close to Ponderosa, a small town(?) with a general store and lodges, so that makes it super convenient if you need to buy some standard supplies.

At the end of the dirt road there is a parking area. You can camping anywhere in this area, no fee. Just make sure to apply for a fire permit ahead of time. There are NO facilities at this campground - no bathrooms or trash even. That said, it is a beautiful area, especially if you want to rock climb or hike with great views, including The Needles. Rock climbing info for the area can be found here.

Keep in mind that this location is at ~7,000ft elevation, so the temperatures will be cooler here, and you should plan accordingly.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Leslie R., August 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Leslie R., August 31, 2018
  • Review photo of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping by Leslie R., August 31, 2018
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Dome Rock Dispersed Camping?

    Dome Rock Dispersed Camping is located at 7150 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Dome Rock Dispersed Camping?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Dome Rock Dispersed Camping, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Dome Rock Dispersed Camping have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Dome Rock Dispersed Camping does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Dome Rock Dispersed Camping?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is unknown.