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Dispersed Camping

Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping, near Yosemite National Park, offers a serene escape into nature with its vast, undeveloped areas perfect for setting up camp. Visitors often rave about the beautiful forest surroundings and the abundance of spots to choose from, making it a great choice for those seeking solitude.

This location allows campfires, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars. However, be prepared for a rustic experience—there are no amenities like drinking water or toilets, so plan accordingly. As one camper noted, “We felt really secluded when we found our spot,” highlighting the peaceful atmosphere that many appreciate.

For adventure seekers, the area is a gateway to stunning trails and breathtaking views, especially with its proximity to Yosemite's east entrance. Reviewers have mentioned the thrill of exploring nearby dirt roads and the joy of discovering hidden gems in the wilderness. Just remember, some roads can be rough, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

Whether you're looking to unwind in a quiet spot or embark on outdoor adventures, Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature. Just be sure to pack in what you pack out, as this area relies on visitors to keep it pristine.

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Location

Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.78641404 N
118.97570467 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Pine Glen

Pine Glen

34 min away

Devils Postpile

Devils Postpile

49 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-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
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

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

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Phone Service
  • 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.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping needs a permit.

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General Info


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Reviews

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13 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 11, 2025

Awesome dispersed camping sights

Passed mammoth exit about 4 miles is a rest stop just pass the rest stop is the back road to Owen’s river take a right and it total dispersed camping both sides of the road

Siteon the left about 1/4 of a mile in
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Randy W., August 11, 2025
  • camping in sierra’s
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  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Randy W., August 11, 2025
Reviewed Nov. 27, 2022

Grant lake review

The site was absolutely beautiful, very cold when we went but some of the trails are breathtaking.

Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Dylan G., November 27, 2022
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  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Dylan G., November 27, 2022
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Reviewed Aug. 9, 2022

Amazing secluded spot right outside Yosemite

We followed the coordinates and it didnt take us to any camp spots, however there were a lot of open areas that looked like you could camp there but we didn't see any fire pits or any signs. 

We kept driving father down multiple dirt roads and eventually found a big open area where we set up camp. This spot was very sandy and we would've been stuck without 4wd. Overall a very nice, quiet, and secluded spot only 15 minutes away from the east entrance of Yosemite. 

Here are the coordinates for the exact spot we were at (37.786569, -118.990848)

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Michael D., August 9, 2022
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Michael D., August 9, 2022
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Michael D., August 9, 2022
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Reviewed Jul. 2, 2022

Lots of area and very secluded

There is lots of area to disperse camp. I personally would recommend not going as far as the GPS coordinates. I came up in my truck towing my teardrop trailer, and I probably should’ve stopped about a mile before it. There were plenty of spaces down lower that were just as nice. There weren’t as many higher up. once I found my spot it was really quiet. I found some nice trees to be in. Wasn’t very busy even though it was the Fourth of July. two bars with Verizon Wireless.

SiteNA
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Jeffrey F., July 2, 2022
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Jeffrey F., July 2, 2022
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Jeffrey F., July 2, 2022
Reviewed Jun. 16, 2022

Owens river rd and bald mountain rd.

I dispersed camped on both both owens river rd and bald mountain. Both sites were beautiful but the one on bald mountain rd seemed to have more bugs. Both roads were decent to drive on and are spaced well from other sites. Didn't see another person from either site. Alot of nice dirt roads to take walks on too.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Amanda R., June 16, 2022
Reviewed Nov. 26, 2021

Live like a king

Awesome spot, I guess they filmed the movie tremors somewhere out here along with a bunch of cowboy flicks. Great access to mount Whitney trails and close to lone pine in case you gotta restock.

Sitedispersed
Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Matt L., November 26, 2021
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2021

Beautiful, secluded spot

We were near where the coordinates take you and we didn’t see another person the entire time we were here! We saw a few fellow campers on our way in but felt really secluded when we found our spot. Expected to see more obvious pull in spots for camping but we did not, so you might have to go a ways in. All the obvious camping spots close to the highway were taken when we got here on Friday afternoon. Some soft gravel, soft sand and rough roads but we managed in our truck + trailer. Weather was beautiful with afternoon storms which we loved. Would absolutely come back!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Kylee M., July 12, 2021
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Kylee M., July 12, 2021
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Reviewed Nov. 7, 2020

Beautiful

A gorgeous spot for the middle of the woods! The creator site up the scenic route is 10x better!

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Reviewed Aug. 13, 2020

Beautiful dispersed camping

You can get maps for this area at some of the information boards at the beginning of the dirt roads, they also have an app that will show you all the roads in the area. What’s nice is the map color codes the roads so that you know what your vehicle is capable of driving on. Some of the roads can get a bit rough, so make sure you know your vehicles limits. Once you get out there, enjoy! It’s so beautiful and quiet. Please make sure you pack in and pack out your trash, there are no services for that. Also, be aware of fire restrictions!

  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Alex P., August 13, 2020
Reviewed Oct. 3, 2019

Boondockers welcome!

We boondocked in Inyo National Forest just last weekend, September 27-29, and it felt like we had the place to ourselves. The location was incredible, there were fellow boondockers around, but not too close, and it felt like we had the place to ourselves. There is no water on site that we found, but we knew that going in. Our rig was 58' long and we had no issues getting in or out. We enjoyed Jeeping on the trails in Inyo National Forest, and we enjoyed the peace and quiet. We will be back.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Thad & Savannah R., October 3, 2019
Reviewed Jul. 16, 2018

Inyo/Lee Vining Boondocking

Without a doubt one of the best boondocks of the trip. The exact coordinates are: 37.924790, -119.033893. There is a large pullout (soft gravel) that loops around. Excellent view of mono lake and the east entry into Yosemite. There are no fire rings at this spot and the conditions are dry, dry, dry so caution is in order. We lit no fires, only the stove in the rig. Wild life abounds and the evenings are super quiet. We boondocked several sites and found this one to be the one to pass on info about as it is just too cool. Happy dispersed site hunting!

Site37.924790, -119.033893
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Oct. 15, 2017

Excellent...got our hot spring on!

We spent a total of 6 days out in the Inyo national forrest, outside of mammoth lakes. There are hot springs scattered through out the forrest. Clothing optional. If your clever and or smart enough to find them your in for a real treat. The driving can get rough on some of the roads but for the most part our mini van handled it well. We met all kinds of people in different springs while camping. It was great fun.

The dispersed camping is all over the place. No amenities. Well a hot spring is the ultimate amenity if you ask me. Carry in carry out. Use only existing fire pits. Good luck on the hot spring hunt.

Cheers!

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Daniel S., October 15, 2017
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Daniel S., October 15, 2017
  • Review photo of Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping by Daniel S., October 15, 2017
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping spots near June Lake?

You can find excellent dispersed camping spots near June Lake in several areas of Inyo National Forest. Popular locations include the area near Mono Lake with coordinates 37.924790, -119.033893, which offers expansive views. Another good option is to look along Owens River Road, which has multiple pullouts suitable for camping. Bald Mountain Road also provides dispersed camping options with good spacing between sites. Many of these locations offer seclusion while still being relatively accessible, though some roads may require higher clearance vehicles.

What are the rules for dispersed camping in Inyo National Forest?

Dispersed camping in Inyo National Forest follows standard backcountry regulations. Camping is limited to 14 days in a 30-day period. You must camp at least 100 feet from water sources and in previously disturbed areas when possible. Campfires require permits and may be restricted seasonally - check current fire restrictions before your trip. Pack out all trash and waste. Some areas have specific vehicle restrictions, so check maps at information boards at the beginning of dirt roads. The forest also offers an app showing road conditions and vehicle suitability. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and minimize your impact.

What activities can I do while camping at June Lake Loop?

The June Lake Loop area offers numerous outdoor activities. Hiking is abundant with breathtaking trails throughout the surrounding forest. Fishing opportunities exist in June Lake itself and nearby waters. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic landscapes, especially views of Mono Lake. Hot springs are scattered throughout the forest for those who enjoy soaking (some are clothing optional). Wildlife viewing, stargazing, and mountain biking are also popular. In winter, the area transforms for snow sports. The nearby town provides options for dining and resupplying. Mount Whitney trails are also accessible from the general region.

Do I need reservations for camping in the June Lake area?

For dispersed camping in Inyo National Forest near June Lake, no reservations are needed. These sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Simply find an appropriate spot along accessible forest roads and set up camp. However, developed campgrounds in the June Lake area typically do require reservations, especially during peak summer months and weekends. For the best dispersed camping experience, arrive early on weekdays to secure more secluded spots, particularly during busy summer and fall seasons. The dispersed areas can accommodate various camping setups from tents to small trailers depending on road access.

Is there free dispersed camping available at Grant Lake?

Yes, free dispersed camping is available near Grant Lake as part of Inyo National Forest's dispersed camping areas. The area features pull-outs and open spaces where you can set up camp without fees. These sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Look for previously used areas with established pullouts to minimize environmental impact. While camping is free, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so come prepared with all necessary supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles.