Dispersed camping near Alabama Hills, California takes place within a designated National Scenic Area managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This desert landscape sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation with the dramatic Sierra Nevada mountain range creating a backdrop of 14,000+ foot peaks. Recent management changes have significantly reduced available camping areas, with many former dispersed sites now designated as day-use only.
What to do
Explore movie filming locations: Movie Road features numerous sites where Western films and blockbusters were shot. "The only places you can camp are designated now. Tuttle creek. Everywhere else there are signs for no camping and only day use," notes Emily D. about Alabama Hills Recreation Area.
Photograph rock formations at dawn: The unique geological features capture dramatic shadows as the sun rises over the Owens Valley. At Alabama Hills North, camper Rachele V. reports: "2nd time at this spot and loved it! Rolled in after midnight and no one else was around."
Night photography sessions: The area offers exceptional stargazing with minimal light pollution. "The stars and the Milky Way are insane! So many constellations and shooting stars and satellites," shares Rachel W. about the night sky viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The rock formations create natural separations between camping areas. "Very nice spot with a nice view of Mt Whitney," says Jahro M. about Django Free Dispersed.
Cool season temperatures: Fall through spring offers the most comfortable camping weather. Mark A. notes about Alabama Hills Recreation Area: "Hands down my favorite place to camp! Granted, you won't get the facilities or running water, but as far as beauty and open space go this place is unmatched... Gets pretty toast in the summer though."
Access to Lone Pine: The town provides necessary supplies just minutes away. "It's so quiet at night you could hear a pin drop. The stars and the Milky Way are insane! So many constellations and shooting stars and satellites. Sunset was amazing over Mt. Whitney," explains Rachel W.
What you should know
Camping now restricted to designated sites only: Free dispersed camping has been significantly limited. "Awesome landscape to camp in. All the sites are designated so look for the map at the entrance to find one. We arrived on a Monday afternoon at 5 pm (mid May) and found just one site left," reports marcus K. about Movie Flat Road.
No facilities available: There are no permanent toilets or water sources at most sites. "No toilets or amenities so thats a little bummer. Its might be worth it to pay $8 a night at a campground if you want easy access to toilets. Tuttle creek is up the road and is a good option," advises David V.
Early arrival recommended: Sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Definitely a place you'd want to show up 4-5 hours early to find a spot. Otherwise, the roads were not too bad. The below freezing temps were well worth the stunning views," notes Kai K.
Tips for camping with families
Explore alternative campgrounds when full: Have backup options ready. "The BLM page for Alabama Hills gives perfect directions the coordinates below took us out of town east. Take Hwy 395 to Lone Pine. Turn west at the stoplight onto Whitney Portal Road, drive 2.5 miles to Movie Road, turn right," advises Katie T..
Pack extra water: No sources exist in the camping areas. "This site is on Horseshoe Meadow Road about 1/2 mile north of the Tuttle Creek site. There are 3 legal spots with camping signs," explains Kent G.
Winter camping preparation: Temperatures drop significantly after dark. "Below freezing temps were well worth the stunning views," mentions Kai K., highlighting the need for proper cold-weather gear.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions vary: Some access roads require careful navigation. "The SuperDrive get to spots is getting a large rut go slow and even my Subaru Forester had no issue. The second and third have better views. But the first can offer wind protection from the north," explains Kent G. about Alabama Hills Dispersed Site.
Site selection for views: The best spots for scenic vistas require advance planning. "There are a ton of sites so drive around until you find one you like. Lots of premade fire pits to use. Sites are pretty spread out so you won't really see/hear your neighbors. Roads are flat and my small sedan had no problem navigating," shares Megan S.
Leverage level sites: Look for the few naturally level areas. "First two are level. Third will need leveling blocks. First site is large and was to turn around a larger trailer or rv," notes Kent G.
