Free dispersed camping along HWY 178 in Sequoia National Forest keeps things simple: no fee, no reservation, and drive-in access suitable for big rigs. One camper noted the highway noise does not carry into the site, and a hiking trail is accessible from the pullout. No cell service here. Campers exploring campgrounds near Sequoia National Forest will find nearby alternatives like Kern Canyon Road Dispersed — Sequoia NF a few miles northeast if this spot is taken.
Description
Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.
There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.
Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.
The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.
Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.
The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:
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Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.
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Leaving campfire unattended.
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Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.
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Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.
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Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.
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Removing forest products without a permit.
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Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water
Here are some tips to appropriate dispersed camping: More information on dispersed camping here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd883625
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHWY 178 Pullout is located in California near Bodfish
Coordinates
35.536166 N
118.631679 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/22/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/22/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
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 HWY 178 Pullout - Dispersed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 37 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 1 hr 35 min from Visalia, CA
- 1 hr 43 min from Hanford, CA
- 2 hrs 24 min from Oxnard, CA
