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Map showing campground location near Independence, California
Camper submitted image from Independence BLM DispersedView 8 Photos
RoadsMap showing campground location near Independence, California

Independence BLM Dispersed

3 ReviewsAdd Review

Road conditions vary significantly at this Bureau of Land Management dispersed camping area west of Independence. Some campers report accessing the main area with a 26-foot motorhome, while others describe washed-out sections requiring backing down rough terrain. The scattered camping spots sit on open ground without shade or amenities, approximately two miles from town along dirt access routes.

Recent visitors note that some traditional access points have been blocked by rocks, and trail conditions have deteriorated. Cell service remains available in the area. Campers use this free site as a base for exploring nearby recreation areas or as an overnight stop along Highway 395, though the lack of maintained facilities means packing out all trash is essential.

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Map & DirectionsIndependence BLM Dispersed is located in California near Independence

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

36.78113504 N
118.22679467 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/16/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 4 users

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/16/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 4 users

Access

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

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

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

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Independence BLM Dispersed

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

34%
0%
34%
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34%

3.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Remote BLM site with amazing views but deteriorating access conditions. Recent visitors report washed-out roads and blocked turnoffs making entry difficult, especially with trailers.

Reviewed May. 8, 2024

Completely Inaccessible - May 2024

There are rocks blocking the turn off. If you still proceed the trail is completely washed out. No way to proceed with a trailer and you will ahem have to back down the road which is approximately zero fun.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Oct. 7, 2022

Amazing view but place is super rough

Amazing view, but the campground is gone, few spots are all ultra rough except a couple space you can squeeze in. Very rough and totally unmaintained.

Site1
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Independence BLM Dispersed by Yves B., October 7, 2022
  • Review photo of Independence BLM Dispersed by Yves B., October 7, 2022
  • Review photo of Independence BLM Dispersed by Yves B., October 7, 2022
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Apr. 3, 2021

Free dispersed camping outside of Independence, CA

Independence is on Hwy 395 about an hour south of Bishop and about half an hour north of Alabama Hills.  Which is to say it's a great location with a lot of places to explore and hike.  

This land is a good spot to stay for a few nights while exploring the area, or if you just need a free place to sleep.  The spot we marked here is about 2 miles west of Independence, but there are a few other cleared out areas that you can camp on, just check Google satellite maps.  We didn't see anyone else camping on the BLM land while we stayed here, but we saw a lot of people driving up and down Onion Valley Rd.

The area is clean and very quiet, zero shade and zero amenities.  Please help keep it clean by packing out your trash.

Some of the dirt roads might need a high clearance vehicle but on the spot I've marked we made it fine in our 26ft motorhome.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Independence BLM Dispersed by Laura M., April 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Independence BLM Dispersed by Laura M., April 3, 2021
  • Review photo of Independence BLM Dispersed by Laura M., April 3, 2021
  • (5) View All
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Unknown Campground?

Independence BLM Dispersed offers very minimal to no amenities. This is a true dispersed camping area with no facilities provided. There are no restrooms, water sources, trash services, or designated fire rings. The area is completely unmaintained with rough terrain. Campers should come fully self-sufficient with all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal options. Pack out everything you bring in and practice Leave No Trace principles.

How do I make reservations at Unknown Campground?

No reservations are needed for Independence BLM Dispersed camping as this is a first-come, first-served dispersed camping area on public land. However, be aware that recent conditions have severely limited access - there are reports of rocks blocking the turnoff and washed-out roads that make entry difficult or impossible, especially with trailers. Before planning a stay, check with the local BLM office for current conditions and accessibility information.

What is the elevation of Independence BLM Dispersed?

Independence BLM Dispersed is located at 4494 feet.

Are fires allowed at Independence BLM Dispersed?

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

Is there cell phone reception at Independence BLM Dispersed?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is excellent coverage for AT&T, excellent coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.

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