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Best Dispersed Camping near Alleghany, CA

31 Reviews

Bowman Lake Dispersed Camping and Grouse Ridge Campground offer primitive camping options in the hills surrounding Alleghany, California. Both locations require navigating rough, rocky roads with substantial clearance needed, particularly the final miles to Bowman Lake. According to reviews, "The road to get here is rocky, but worth every second" and visitors recommend "4x4 with decent clearance" for access. These free sites provide basic amenities, with Grouse Ridge offering picnic tables, vault toilets and trash service, while Bowman Lake sites include fire rings and bear boxes despite being more remote.

Several additional dispersed camping areas exist within driving distance, including Lake Valley Road pullouts and Dog Valley. Most sites allow fires and pets but provide no drinking water, hookups or other facilities. Winter access becomes extremely challenging, with one visitor noting they "got stuck for over a day" at Lake Valley Road. For backpackers, Loch Leven Lakes offers water-adjacent primitive camping accessible by trail, where "you have so much privacy" according to campers who praise the "very serene and quiet" atmosphere despite occasional mosquito issues. Fire restrictions commonly apply during dry months throughout the region.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Alleghany, California (16)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Alleghany, CA

27 Photos of 16 Alleghany Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Alleghany, CA

31 Reviews of 16 Alleghany Campgrounds

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Tahoe Dispersed Camping

    Great New Spot

    The turn off to the dirt road was 300 ft past where the app said it was. Once we got deeper into the forest my gps wasn’t on the the route depicted on Dyrt, but it’s a fun trail. We went in about a mile in our RAM Promaster converted van then turned around and took a big flat spot closer to the road.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Bowman Lake Dispersed

    Lake side Campsites

    If you are looking to be near the water and no service, this is perfect. The rough road in I believe must keep some folks out but the lake is amazing.

  • Azizah T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2021

    Loch Leven Lakes

    Quiet dispersed camping

    We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites. But also a lot of the nice view spots were occupied since we didn’t start our hike up early, we started at 5:30pm. The middle lake is very large and had many beautiful spots to camp. But we headed to the upper lake since a lot of day hikers go to the middle lake and don’t always pack out what they pack in. All the sites are very dispersed and you have so much privacy. We saw some people even camping on the boulders! It was very serene and quiet with very respectful campers. The trail up is a bit confusing if you don’t pay absolute attention to where you are going. You can find some orange markings or stacked rocks that help you stay on the path. Reaching our destination was amazing. We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks. I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites. But, it’s the outdoors what do you expect? Overall very beautiful area to camp!

  • Emily C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2025

    Independence Hill Dispersed

    horrible road up, cool historic town

    The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying- especially in the dark. We camped in our 4runner as we got there when it was dark and there was so much glass and shell casings everywhere from what seems to be a local shooting area. the town nearby is a bit eerie but fun to explore. it worked for one night! No amenities, but a bathroom and paid campsite down the rugged road so come with everything you need. Hike nearby with waterfall is beautiful

  • E
    Apr. 23, 2024

    Dog Valley

    Our favorite !

    Dog Valley is a special place where we come to boondock. It’s quite and has a great creek. People come out here to camp, ride atvs, side by sides, dirt bikes, or off road. People target practice a lot and the ranger is very nice.

  • M
    Oct. 16, 2022

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    There’s nothing here

    It’s just the boat launch. Perhaps u can get away with hanging out, not sure. The access to the dispersed camping, in the hill overlooking the water, is gated and locked.

    There seem to be plenty of spots to use enroute to the water, just not at the location.

  • Autumn L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Bowman Lake Dispersed

    Highly Recommend !

    The road to get here is rocky, but worth every second! We love spending our time here. Found a perfect spot with easy access to water right outside of our tent. Very friendly area for our dog - zero ticks the whole weekend! Would highly recommend the drive but make sure your vehicle is able to go up steep rocky roads.

  • Chris N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Bowman Lake Dispersed

    Great Late Spring Escape

    This place was a slice of heaven, but only accessible by way of 4 x 4 with decent clearance. The trail will take you off road for quite some time , but it's well with the adventure. Traction boards and a winch could help you through unexpected obstacles and are recommended to have on hand, but you most likely won't need them. No running water, but there are restroom buildings, fire rings and bear boxes to use. Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent. The lake is gorgeous, a great fishery, and there are plenty of inspirational views and solitude to be had.

  • Jakey and Alex L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2023

    Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed

    Beautiful, but a hard drive in

    The road in is paved until you reach the real spot where you can actually set up camp. It is VERY rocky and looks like it’s pretty beaten up by Off Road Vehicles.

    If you have a Trailer or RV this is NOT the place to go. There is another spot down the road that is better.

    Forecast said no rain… it rained. Woke up this morning to 4inches of snow! It was majestic.

Guide to Alleghany

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Alleghany, California, where nature's tranquility awaits. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Scenic Lakeside Retreats for Dispersed Campers

  • The Bowman Lake Dispersed area offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, ideal for those seeking solitude by the water.
  • Campers can enjoy fishing and swimming in the lake, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip after a day of hiking.
  • Access to this location requires a rugged drive, but the stunning scenery and peaceful environment make the journey worthwhile.

Adventure Awaits: Hiking and Exploration

  • The Loch Leven Lakes area is known for its hiking trails that lead to beautiful lakes, providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.
  • Campers can find numerous dispersed sites along the trails, allowing for a private and serene camping experience amidst nature.
  • Be prepared for some mosquito activity, so bringing bug spray is essential for a comfortable stay.

Ideal Spots for Campfires and Relaxation

  • At Grouse Ridge Campground, campers can enjoy the warmth of a campfire while surrounded by stunning mountain views.
  • This area features picnic tables and fire rings, making it a great place to unwind after a day of outdoor activities.
  • The cooler temperatures at this location provide a refreshing escape from the heat, making it a popular choice during the summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Alleghany, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Alleghany, CA is Bowman Lake Dispersed with a 4.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Alleghany, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 16 dispersed camping locations near Alleghany, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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