Best Dispersed Camping near Alabama Hills, CA

Free camping in the Alabama Hills desert landscape has become increasingly popular with dispersed campers looking for a primitive experience. You'll find no facilities here - no toilets, no water sources - so being self-sufficient is essential. The main camping areas fall under Bureau of Land Management (BLM) jurisdiction, which enforces a 14-day maximum stay. When setting up camp, keep at least 200 feet from water sources and roads to minimize your impact. Many of the best spots require high-clearance vehicles since the dirt roads can get rough, especially after rain. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for camping here, while summer brings intense heat that makes camping difficult without proper preparation. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as they change seasonally and are strictly enforced. Food storage matters here - proper containment keeps local wildlife from becoming problems at your campsite. Cell service throughout Alabama Hills is spotty at best, so download maps beforehand and let someone know your plans. The nearest supplies are in Lone Pine, about 10-15 minutes away, where you can get water, food, and fuel before heading to your site. Despite the lack of amenities, the dramatic rock formations against the Sierra Nevada backdrop make the extra preparation worthwhile.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Alabama Hills, California (49)

    1. Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    87 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    "Location- ALABAMA HILLS, Lone Pine- Movie Rd. CA. Tent Dry Camping. BLM Land, for disperse camping. No reservations required, unless you choose to stay at a “campground”."

    "Everything about Alabama Hills is incredible. From the moment you drive down Whitney Portal Rd to Movie Rd, it has uniquely amazing views. Movie Rd has the best dispersed camp spots."

    2. Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

    8 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    3 miles

    "Please be respectful and leave no trace so we can keep this gem open. We’ve been here several times and it never disappoints."

    "Exploring Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road is like stepping onto a film set straight out of a Western movie."

    3. Alabama Hills Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Alabama Hills, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    "First site is large and was to turn around a larger trailer or rv. The SuperDrive get to spots is getting a large rut go slow and even my Subaru Forester had no issue."

    "Road is sandy but with clearance is fine."

    4. Alabama Hills Side Trail Dispersed Campsite

    5 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    1 mile

    "The BLM page for Alabama Hills gives perfect directions the coordinates below took us out of town east.

    Take Hwy 395 to Lone Pine."

    "walk less than 100 yards and go climbing."

    5. Alabama Hills on Movie Road

    4 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    5 miles

    "Hello TheDyrt Community,

    The Alabama Hills on Movie Road, located in California, is a stunning desert landscape famous for its unique rock formations and breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains"

    6. Alabama Hills North

    2 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    4 miles

    "Awesome location, easy to reach with a 4X4 Low clearance vehicles may need to be careful"

    "Rolled in after midnight and no one else was around."

    8. Hogback Creekside Camp

    2 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    7 miles

    "This site is so close to the road, we could see them make the turn off Hogback road. No trees, just bushes. It's okay. Pretty basic. Great views of the backside of Mount Whitney."

    9. Hogback Creek Road

    1 Review
    Alabama Hills, CA
    7 miles

    10. Outpost Camp Dispersed

    1 Review
    Alabama Hills, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2483
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Showing results 1-10 of 49 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Alabama Hills, CA

167 Reviews of 49 Alabama Hills Campgrounds



Guide to Alabama Hills

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Alabama Hills, California, where stunning landscapes and unique rock formations await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Alabama Hills Recreation Area

  • The Alabama Hills Recreation Area features incredible rock formations and scenic trails, making it a perfect spot for hiking and photography.
  • Visitors have noted the area’s accessibility for both drive-in and walk-in camping, allowing for a flexible camping experience.
  • With no permits required and the option to have campfires, this location is ideal for those looking to enjoy a relaxed camping atmosphere.

Top activities while free camping near Alabama Hills

  • Adventurers can explore the nearby trails, including a short hike that leads to a picturesque stream, enhancing the overall camping experience.
  • The area is known for its excellent stargazing opportunities, thanks to minimal light pollution, making it a favorite for night sky enthusiasts.
  • For those who enjoy off-roading, the surrounding terrain offers various 4x4 roads that lead to secluded camping spots, perfect for a more adventurous stay.

Must-see attractions for dispersed campers

  • The iconic rock formations in the Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road have served as backdrops for numerous films, providing a unique blend of nature and cinema history.
  • Campers can take advantage of the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, especially during sunset, which creates a breathtaking landscape.
  • The area is rich in history, with remnants of old movie sets and trails that tell the story of Hollywood's past, making it a fascinating destination for both nature lovers and film buffs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the BLM rules for camping in Alabama Hills?

BLM rules for Alabama Hills include a 14-day stay limit within any 28-day period. Camping is now restricted to designated sites only due to recent policy changes. Practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, use existing fire rings (when fire restrictions allow), and maintain at least 200 feet distance from water sources. Portable toilets are required as there are no facilities. Independence BLM Dispersed follows similar regulations and is a good alternative if Alabama Hills is full. All motorized vehicles must stay on established roads. Dome Rock Dispersed Camping operates under comparable rules if you need another option in the region.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Alabama Hills?

Dispersed camping in Alabama Hills is primarily accessible via Movie Road, which connects to Whitney Portal Road just west of Lone Pine. Alabama Hills Recreation Area offers numerous dispersed sites among the unique rock formations. The main camping area spreads throughout the recreation area, with many secluded spots branching off the main road. For the best sites with views of Mount Whitney and the Sierra Nevada mountains, explore Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road. Note that recent BLM policy changes have limited dispersed camping to marked spots only, so look for designated camping areas when you arrive.

Is camping in Alabama Hills free?

Yes, camping in Alabama Hills is completely free. As BLM-managed public land, Alabama Hills Dispersed Site provides no-fee camping with no reservations required. This makes it a popular destination for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking spontaneous adventure. While camping is free, remember there are no amenities—you must bring all supplies including water, and pack out all waste. If Alabama Hills is full or you're seeking alternatives, Hogback Creekside Camp is another free dispersed camping option in the region. Though free, camping is now limited to designated sites only due to recent BLM policy changes to protect the area.