Top Free Dispersed Camping near Bear Valley, CA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Bear Valley? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your California camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bear Valley, CA (24)

    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    1. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    21 Photos
    518 Saves
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    2. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    16 Photos
    403 Saves
    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    4. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    27 Photos
    217 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed USFS
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed USFS
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed USFS
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed USFS

    6. Dispersed USFS

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    132 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    7. Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    14 Saves

    Most of the land in the Na􏰀onal Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Visitors can camp just about anywhere in the na􏰀onal forest, unless specifically prohibited*. Maps and staff are available at most Forest Service offices to assist visitors in finding a suitable spot.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    8. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    151 Saves

    Dispersed camping takes a lot more effort than camping in a developed campground, but for those with an adventurous spirit, it can be a lot of fun.

    Here are some important points to remember about dispersed camping:

    The maximum length of stay in a forest ranger district is 21 days per year. Please practice good outdoor ethics about camping, travel and behavior while visiting. Dispersed campers are allowed to park within one vehicle length (including any tow vehicle) of a National Forest transportation route and walk into camp. Dispersed camping is not permitted in developed campgrounds and day use areas. Other areas closed to dispersed camping include historical and archaeological sites. Also, be certain that you are within the boundaries of the National Forest before setting up camp. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway. Dispersed camping is not allowed in these areas: within one mile of Pinecrest Basin along 7N83, Clark Fork Road along Hwy 108 between Clark Fork Road and Kennedy Meadows Road Leave No Trace Camping – Camp so no one notices you while you are there, and no one even knows you were there after you leave. Please respect nature and other visitors by keeping noise to a minimum. Always pack out whatever you pack in. No permanent structures are to be constructed to an area, such as building rock-lined fire pits, trenches around tents, or carving into trees. Human waste should be deposited in a hole dug 6 - 10 inches deep and then covered with organic soil. Vehicles are not permitted off of roads, but if you can safely park your vehicle adjacent and parallel to the road and are not blocking the roadway, you may park and camp. Most sites will have a parking spot nearby while other sites may not. Because the footprint of a vehicle can have a large impact to soils, please do not create new “parking spot” for a campsite. Please park in designated or already impacted spots. If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. We want you to learn some of the many reasons to enjoy the quiet and solitude of dispersed camping, it’s up to you to LEAVE NO TRACE.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Hope Valley Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed

    10. Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    11 Photos
    63 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services like trash removal, and few or no facilities such as tables and fire pits, are provided.

    Dispersed camping takes a lot more effort than camping in a developed campground, but for those with an adventurous spirit, it can be a lot of fun.

    Here are some important points to remember about dispersed camping:

    The maximum length of stay in a forest ranger district is 21 days per year. Please practice good outdoor ethics about camping, travel and behavior while visiting. Dispersed campers are allowed to park within one vehicle length (including any tow vehicle) of a National Forest transportation route and walk into camp. Dispersed camping is not permitted in developed campgrounds and day use areas. Other areas closed to dispersed camping include historical and archaeological sites. Also, be certain that you are within the boundaries of the National Forest before setting up camp. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway. Dispersed camping is not allowed in these areas: within one mile of Pinecrest Basin along 7N83, Clark Fork Road along Hwy 108 between Clark Fork Road and Kennedy Meadows Road Leave No Trace Camping – Camp so no one notices you while you are there, and no one even knows you were there after you leave. Please respect nature and other visitors by keeping noise to a minimum. Always pack out whatever you pack in. No permanent structures are to be constructed to an area, such as building rock-lined fire pits, trenches around tents, or carving into trees. Human waste should be deposited in a hole dug 6 - 10 inches deep and then covered with organic soil. Vehicles are not permitted off of roads, but if you can safely park your vehicle adjacent and parallel to the road and are not blocking the roadway, you may park and camp. Most sites will have a parking spot nearby while other sites may not. Because the footprint of a vehicle can have a large impact to soils, please do not create new “parking spot” for a campsite. Please park in designated or already impacted spots. If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
Showing results 1-10 of 24 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Bear Valley

93 Reviews of 24 Bear Valley Campgrounds


  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Summit Dispersed
    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

  • Miles L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

    A few spots scattered along the road

    Nothing fancy or too expansive, but a handful of spots on either side of the road. Certainly easier to settle in before it’s dark.

  • Stephen B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful, popular, treacherous

    I’m motorcycle camping and the ground level was about half full, mostly RVs, so I attempted to head up Scott Lake Road.

    The dirt was manageable but there are sections of large rocks difficult to pass on two wheels. I crossed several but I dropped my bike before the second circle. Defeated and exhausted from a long day’s ride, I headed back down to set up my camp among the RV set.

    No shade to the lifestyle but this is an awfully long drive to watch TV at top volume.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Leavitt Lake
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Leavitt Lake

    Great lake

    This is a beautiful lake. I like visiting it and geometry dash breeze which is amazing. Upon reaching the lake, you will discover approximately twelve camping spots. These sites are fairly basic, each equipped with uncomplicated stone fire pits, though only around half of them seem to feature picnic tables based on my observation. Upon our arrival, all the Lakeview sites were occupied, prompting us to locate a pleasant spot towards the back to set up our camp. Unfortunately, there is a segment of the camping area that would typically be open for use but was closed off by the Department of Fish and Game(DFG) due to environmental concerns. It's regrettable as there were some appealing campsites situated beyond that wooden barrier.

  • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    Crowded

    Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping.

  • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Pine and Cedar forest

    All wheel drive, okay. Large grounds, many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes). Camped upper level. Please pack in, pack out, don't make others clean up after you.

  • Julia H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great

    Lots of people ! come early for a spot. nice views around. lots and lots of bugs. i sleep in my car and crack the windows a little bit and i woke up to a shit ton of bugs that got in my car. even more surrounding the cars. very quiet at night, maybe i just got lucky lol.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Summit Dispersed
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Echo Summit Dispersed

    Echo peak free camping

    this location was the site of a fire several years ago, this means that many of the trees have been cleared making it a good site for starlink users like me. There are some power lines and it might be prettier if it had some unburned trees, but it’s great in a pinch and private. Take echo summit road from El dorado and you will see several places to chose from. The road towards the cabins has a very tight turn that will not allow anyone over 25 feet- though i’d recommend smaller.

    most likely impassable after snowfall.

  • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Really Nice Stay close to Yosemite

    This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn’t even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect. It’s 4 stars because you could hear the traffic from the main road from my spot

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Great spot

    Awesome spot close to Yosemite, road isn’t too bad and it’s absolutely beautiful. I wasn’t bothered . I recommend arriving a little early, we didn’t have a little trouble finding the right road.

  • Raymond B.
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    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!

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Burnside lake

    We went just up the road into the wildlife reserve and drove all the way up to burnside lake. Beautiful. Definitely need 4x4 and the road is super bumpy. We had a great spot that looked over the mountains. Would definitely come back. Lots of places to choose from along the way to the lake.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Luther Pass Dispersed Camping

    Good in a pinch

    This place is beautiful but it’s a designated free camp ground and has minimal spots on one side. The other side was so jammed full. We ended up squeezing in a parking space and asked the ranger for permission to use our pop up there (she was super nice about it). Trash, fire pits, bathrooms are all available there. Single lane road getting in to it was a little harry with other cars. Decent place if you need a safe space to rest.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    It was okay

    Pretty easy to get to and lots of spaces for dispersed sites. There was trash EVERYWHERE. Broken glass, toilet trash, bottles and cans, we were really disappointed. We found a spot pretty hidden which was rad but someone was shooting litteraly all night long which was frustrating. We probably won’t come back.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
    Jun. 21, 2024

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Great spot

    Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring. Easy road to get out there.

  • Susan L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    What a beautiful place for our 40 ft 5th wheel

    We are new to dispersed camping and have a 40 ft 5th wheel as well as a GMC Denali 350 dually. We need a large space to fit into. We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded. We had our choice of several places to set up. It is very quiet here, not hearing any road noise. A forest ranger told us there were more spaces up near the lake, but we didn’t venture up there.

  • Jr A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Easy access and lots of spots

    You follow a dirt road and have camping spots along the road. When I was here it was jammed packed RV, vans and tents all set up along the road. To me it was good for a an overnight stay. No At&t service what so ever. Little highway noise.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
    May. 31, 2024

    Luther Pass Dispersed Camping

    Good Camping Spot Near SLT

    Parked my car and walked into my campsite 50m? Not ideal if you are car camping but not terrible. Tables, bear boxes, toilets and fire ring provided. First come first serve. Adequate TMobile service.

  • Maile H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    May. 29, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Unlabeled road and awesome

    Kind of hard to find the road i just had to guess based on the pin point but i guessed right and immediately saw spots. i turned left and there were a few spots didn't explore to the right.

    So beautiful great place to stop in order to get into the park early if you don't have a reservation

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    May. 29, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Beautiful & Convenient BUT

    May 28, 2024

    Convenient to park entrance & beautiful landscape BUT finding a spot late at night was very difficult.

    However, I noticed that the temperature over night here was about 10 degrees warmer that other areas nearby (we were at about 51 degrees at night but areas closer to Rush Creek Lodge and on Evergreen Road were in the 40’s.



Guide to Bear Valley

Camping near Bear Valley, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails around the campgrounds. One camper mentioned, "The lake is a 5 min walk away not to mention near the start of many hiking trails in desolation wilderness," highlighting the easy access to beautiful hikes from Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. A reviewer at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park noted, "It was a huge plus that added to our trip and loving this campground," referring to the nearby beach access for water fun.
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for great stargazing. One happy camper shared, "The stars are my favorite to watch and to actually see the Milky Way is incredible," about their experience at Fallen Leaf Campground.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Many campers appreciate the roomy sites. A review from Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. A camper at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground said, "Toilets were well maintained and didn’t have an awful smell like most others."
  • Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is often highlighted. A visitor to D.L. Bliss State Park Campground remarked, "The site is gorgeous and so close to the Lake."

What you should know:

  • Bear Activity: Be prepared for bear encounters. A camper at Ice House Campground warned, "There were three bears around the campground the night we just stayed which was a little eerie to sleep with."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A reviewer at Nevada Beach Campground noted, "There are no shower facilities, no dump station, no trail maps."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busy campgrounds, especially in summer. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground mentioned, "The General Market was randomly closed for 4 days, for inventory."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with activities for kids. A camper at Tahoe Valley Campground said, "This is a great spot if you have kids."
  • Plan for Bear Safety: Make sure to store food properly. A camper at Ice House Campground advised, "It would have been nice to know, since we have little ones exploring the area behind us."
  • Bring Entertainment: Pack games or outdoor toys. A family at Pinecrest Campground enjoyed, "We played paddle board in the lake, watched the new Minion movie at the amphitheater."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Ensure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at RV Village Campground mentioned, "Spaces are relatively close together."
  • Be Aware of Amenities: Know what facilities are available. A camper at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground noted, "Drinking water is available."
  • Plan for Crowds: Arrive early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Fallen Leaf Campground said, "Check in took awhile, but worked out."

Camping near Bear Valley, California, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bear Valley, CA is Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping with a 3.9-star rating from 14 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 24 dispersed camping locations near Bear Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.