Top Free Dispersed Camping near Alturas, CA

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Alturas, look no further. The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Alturas just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Alturas, CA (7)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Alturas

5 Reviews of 7 Alturas Campgrounds


  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tickner Rd
    May. 16, 2023

    Tickner Rd

    Quiet except for passing trucks

    After checking out South Lava Beds and West Tionesta (so named on The Dyrt app) this was the winner for us. There was greenery and living trees all around and it made for such a nicer environment. On Sunday, the area was completely silent, except for birds chirping. One logging truck drove by, as well as one park ranger truck, otherwise we didn’t see anybody.  However. On Monday morning all the trucks started rolling through. We left about 9 or 10am and maybe 10 trucks had gone by.  And they're noisy.  And the dirt they kick up is fine and silty, so it just floats around long after they've passed. Definitely a buzz kill! We were debating staying two nights, but the trucks convinced us to leave.

     Good enough (not great) cell service for both Verizon and ATT. We actually didn’t need to use our levels for this spot, which is always a treat. Easy access for our 26ft class c and I believe bigger rigs would be ok here as well. No amenities here, obviously, so please pack out your trash.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from West Tionesta
    May. 16, 2023

    West Tionesta

    Desolate

    Another one of these Dyrt campsites with zero info other than the location- thank you to whoever is adding these. This spot is a little further down the road from South Lava Beds, and would be fine, but we decided to keep going and find something a little less surrounded by blackened and burned trees and debris. There are piles of them everywhere, so I don’t know if workers come through here periodically- we didn’t see anybody when we were here on a Sunday. The area is still recovering from a 2020 fire 

    (Caldwell Fire, I believe). 

    Good cell reception, to our surprise. Our 26ft Class C had no problems reaching this spot, just take it slow once you leave the paved road. The dirt road is ok but there were a few dips and ruts that we had to go around. This would make a fine spot to stop over at, but it was a little too barren for us to want to stay here.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Lava Beds
    May. 16, 2023

    South Lava Beds

    Area Still Recovering From Fire

    I don’t know who’s adding these dispersed camping spots on The Dyrt (as there are no reviews or any additional info other than the location) but it’s much appreciated. We stopped to check this place out and would have stayed here for the night but decided to keep going and check out one more place first. 

    The location is easily accessed from the main road, no problems for our 26ft Class C. Cell service was surprisingly good for both Verizon and ATT. There’s a messy little fire pit here, but no other markers. The spot is off the road and has some sad blackened or dead trees surrounding it. 

    This area is still recovering from a big fire in 2020 and there are piles of burned logs and debris all over the area, giving it a desolate feel. The area is nice and quiet though, and very little traffic. Would make a great stop for a few days.

  • Cheryl M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Duncan Reservoir South Site
    Nov. 20, 2021

    Duncan Reservoir South Site

    Duncan Reservoir off season

    Found this unmapped camping spot by following a USFS access road to an old boat launch area. Water is too low now to launch, but several fire rings, an older seasonally maintained pit toilet and minimal noise and light pollution made for a great stay. I am fully self contained.



Guide to Alturas

Camping near Alturas, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and peaceful retreats. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by a creek or a family-friendly campground, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, including those around Lassen Creek Campground. One camper mentioned, "There’s multiple hikes like Bumpass Hill. There’s stunning views and lakes."
  • Rock Hounding: If you're into rock hounding, head to Lassen Creek Campground where people often search for obsidian. A visitor shared, "It's close to Davis Creek where people rockhound for Obsidian."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Plum Valley Campground, are near water bodies ideal for fishing. One reviewer noted, "Love staying here. Lots to do nearby mostly obsidian collection and fishing."

What campers like:

  • Peaceful Environment: Campers appreciate the tranquility of places like Stough Reservoir Campground. A visitor said, "No cell service solitude with the high-passing jets as my only company."
  • Natural Beauty: Many enjoy the scenic views, especially at Blue Lake Campground. One camper remarked, "It is a nice campground on a beautiful lake."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers often mention the roomy sites at places like Junipers Reservoir RV Resort. A reviewer noted, "The sites are large with plenty of shade."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, such as Lassen Creek Campground, lack basic facilities. A camper pointed out, "Dry Camp with pit toilets. No designated campsites, find a fire ring and make your spot."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Stough Reservoir Campground, are only accessible from May to October. One visitor warned, "Be aware of snow in May."
  • Road Conditions: The roads can be rough, especially to places like Plum Valley Campground. A camper mentioned, "The road can be a little rough to the campground with some deep ruts."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Lassen RV Resort that offer amenities for kids. One family shared, "The owners were very friendly and made us feel welcome."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games or plan hikes to keep kids entertained. A camper at Blue Lake Campground noted, "There is a trail that circumnavigates the entire shoreline."
  • Pack for Comfort: Make sure to bring warm clothes, especially if camping in cooler months. A visitor at Lassen Creek Campground mentioned, "It was cold in April, but very clean, beautiful and peaceful."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds have size limits for RVs. A reviewer at Plum Valley Campground said, "19 ft trailer may be the max."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you prefer more amenities, consider Lassen RV Resort which offers full hookups. One camper praised, "The sites were very spacious and had full hookups."
  • Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Many campgrounds have dirt roads that can be challenging. A visitor at Stough Reservoir Campground noted, "The road is 2+ miles of dirt - gravel to the CG."

Camping near Alturas, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Just be sure to plan ahead and know what to expect!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Alturas, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Alturas, CA is Duncan Reservoir South Site with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Alturas, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.