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Best Dispersed Camping near Alpine Meadows, CA

93 Reviews

Dispersed camping areas surround Alpine Meadows, California, with several free sites located throughout nearby national forest lands. Granite Chief Wilderness offers drive-in and walk-in primitive camping options, while Bear Lake Road provides additional dispersed sites. Loch Leven Lakes features hike-in backcountry camping with natural water sources. Other nearby options include Union Valley Reservoir dispersed camping and Kyburz Flats, all situated on public lands with varying levels of accessibility and minimal amenities.

Access to most dispersed sites requires careful navigation of unpaved roads that deteriorate beyond paved sections. Bear Lake Road is described as "very rocky and beaten up by off-road vehicles," making it unsuitable for trailers or RVs. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many areas, particularly during spring when snowmelt can create muddy conditions. Several locations become completely inaccessible during winter months, with one visitor reporting being "stuck for over a day" attempting winter access to Lake Valley Road sites. Most areas permit campfires, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply, and almost none provide drinking water or toilet facilities.

The camping experience varies significantly across these dispersed areas. Granite Chief Wilderness offers particularly scenic settings, with one camper noting "absolutely beautiful" surroundings that occasionally feature unexpected weather: "It rained when we got here, which overnight turned into the first snow." Loch Leven Lakes provides exceptional privacy and serenity, with "very dispersed sites where you have so much privacy." Kyburz Flats features "quiet woods and fields" accessible via rough roads that "might be worse if muddy or in a low clearance vehicle." Visitors to Union Valley Reservoir report mixed experiences, with some expressing frustration about recent management changes and others noting "lots of dispersed camping all the way around the lake."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Alpine Meadows, California (32)

    1. Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Tahoma, CA
    8 miles
    Website

    2. Loch Leven Lakes

    4 Reviews
    Norden, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 265-4531

    "We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites."

    "We took Salmon lake trailhead which is shorter trail."

    3. Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed

    1 Review
    Tahoma, CA
    9 miles
    Website

    4. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Echo Lake, CA
    32 miles

    "Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east."

    "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."

    5. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2324

    "Pulled off Union valley road and set up camp with our Rooftop tent. Little cold up here in November but made for some great pre-snowfall camping!"

    "Luckily there is a lot of Dispersed camping all the way around the lake! So beautiful, and the lake is really warm in the summer"

    6. Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    3 Reviews
    Emigrant Gap, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 587-3558

    "The weather isn't cold, but the snow plows have pushed all the snow off the road so that it's impossible to get to any pullouts or open dispersed camping areas."

    7. Kyburz Flats

    2 Reviews
    Sierraville, CA
    23 miles

    "Was fine in my 2wd van but have high clearance and was dry. Might be worse if muddy or low clearance vehicle. Also, coordinates lead to historic sheep camp site."

    "I went to stay at a paid campground nearby but they said my dogs would have to be leashed, so he suggested this place for us. It has a few roads with a couple campsites. Pure dispersed camping."

    8. Grouse Ridge Campground

    3 Reviews
    Emigrant Gap, CA
    25 miles

    9. Tahoe Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Verdi, NV
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 587-3558

    "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."

    10. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 622-5061

    "The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp."

    "The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Alpine Meadows, CA

57 Photos of 32 Alpine Meadows Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Alpine Meadows, CA

93 Reviews of 32 Alpine Meadows Campgrounds

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Endless Possibilities

    The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp. I stayed at N38.768811• W 120.238630° — on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent. At this specific sight, there are no overhead trees. Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car. I stayed here for 7 days (10/31-11/6) and only saw one other person on the primivite roads. The above coordinates are about a 6 mile drive in from US50. You will see a campground on your right about 5 miles down when driving in, about a mile further down the road you will come up on the dirt road leading you up the mountain.

    A couple of notes:

    1. You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov
    2. Cell phone reception is very spotty, in and out of a couple of bars throughout the drive in. — AT&T coverage. At the above coordinates, there were 2 bars of low grade coverage allowing basic texts to send. Not enough service for web browsing or sending photos via text.
    3. This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt. You will find yourself going in and out of them while driving.
    4. KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it, pick up your trash (and other’s if you see any), respect the area and it will respect you.
    5. NO CAMP SERVICES — There is no trash service or even dumpsters at the signed entrance; pack it in pack it out. There are no restrooms in the area either.
  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Dispersed USFS

    Worth the climbs to get here!!

    This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Echo Summit Dispersed

    Not dispersed camping

    This spot is national forest, and overnight camping is not allowed. We had a knock from someone with the forest service the next morning who was very kind and let us know that overnight is not allowed.

    Look up lakes and forest in this area on google — not many places allow dispersed camping

  • Tim R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    Standard Dispersed Camping

    Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!

  • Shane C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2022

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping with campground layout/feel

    Camped here for a night in early October. Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east. Most sites are obvious, with a driveway and stone fire ring. We like a more "dispersed" feel, but felt comfortable. 

    There are no services - bring all the water you will need and practice "leave no trace." This goes for your waste (human and animal) as well. I wish I could say that we didn't see any dog waste or "TP Flowers" but we did. Not a significant amount, but any is too much.

    The place was pretty much full, but still good vibes and quiet neighbors. Very close to Hwy. 88, so road noise and campers coming in looking for a spot after dark. Gets quiet later in the evening.

    Overall, a nice spot.

  • Raymond B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2024

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Overnight stay

    We recently spent a night at this campsite and found it to be perfect for a quick overnight getaway. The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated.

    There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped.

    A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It’s well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home, making it easy to grab any last-minute necessities.

    Overall, it was a delightful stay. Just remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in!

  • 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.

  • ron R.
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Peavine Road Dispersed Camping

    Complete trash dump

    It's sad where we have this public land to camp on and people just dump tons and tons of trash and abandoned cars and demolished cars on the property would not recommend going. There's some more BLM land about 15 to 20 minutes north on Red Rock road.

  • Genevieve R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 28, 2023

    Peavine Road Dispersed Camping

    Lots of trash and shells

    I live 10 minutes away, so I checked it out. It's sketchy driving in with a lot of trailers and cars along the road closer to the main road. There may or may nor have been people in them. We didn't see people walking around except one guy who was walking his dog on the dirt road and another guy nearby with a table next to his car. Maybe he was flying a drone. The dirt road was very rutted in a few areas. No big deal, but I was in my Jeep Trailhawk 4x4. I didn't have my trailer with me. The view of the city is great, but that's it. The area to pull off is not that big, so I think it would be crowded with more than 2 other trailers. It wasn't windy at all when we were there, but I'm sure it could be because it can be very windy in this area. I wouldn't stay here unless I absolutely had to for the night. I did hear gunshots in the distance. We only stayed a few minutes to take a few pictures. No amenities like fire rings or tables.

Guide to Alpine Meadows

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Alpine Meadows, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, each offering unique experiences, you're sure to enjoy the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

  • This area allows for a drive-in experience, making it easy to access your camping spot with a tent or RV.
  • While the scenery is beautiful, be prepared for some litter left behind by previous visitors, as noted in reviews.
  • Fires are permitted here, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Alpine Meadows, California

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep the area pristine, especially at spots like Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed, where visitors have noted the importance of cleaning up after themselves.
  • Be cautious of road conditions; some areas, such as Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed, may require a 4x4 vehicle due to rough terrain.
  • Check for any seasonal restrictions or requirements, as some locations may have specific rules regarding camping permits.

Top activities while free camping near Alpine Meadows

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes around Loch Leven Lakes, where you can find numerous trails leading to breathtaking views.
  • Fishing is a popular activity at Bowman Lake Dispersed, known for its clear waters and abundant fish.
  • For those seeking solitude, Tahoe Dispersed Camping offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of space to set up camp away from the hustle and bustle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Alpine Meadows dispersed camping?

Dispersed camping at Alpine Meadows offers very minimal amenities, as it's true wilderness camping. Dispersed USFS sites between Hope Valley and Blue Lakes provide no facilities - you'll need to bring everything you need and pack out all waste. Most sites feature established fire rings made of stones, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. At Kyburz Flats, you'll find primitive camping with no services, but the area does include an interpretive historical site. For all dispersed camping in this region, be prepared with your own water, toilet supplies, and waste disposal methods, as these are undeveloped areas without garbage service, restrooms, or potable water.

Where can I find Alpine Meadows dispersed camping spots?

Alpine Meadows dispersed camping spots can be found throughout the El Dorado National Forest area. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed offers numerous primitive roads to explore with camping spots, including some on peaks with 360° views. The coordinates on apps typically mark the entrance to dispersed areas, with many camping options branching off the main access points. Another option is Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed, which features a paved main road with dirt offshoots for camping and beautiful views of Strawberry Valley.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping at Alpine Meadows?

Typically, no special permit is required for dispersed camping in the Alpine Meadows area when camping on National Forest land, but you should always verify current regulations. Some areas like Echo Summit Dispersed do not allow overnight camping at all, as Forest Service rangers actively monitor these areas. When camping in Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping, you'll need to follow standard National Forest dispersed camping rules, including the 14-day stay limit. Always check with the local ranger district before your trip, as regulations can change seasonally.

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