Dispersed camping opportunities near Benton, California provide access to unique geological features and hot springs in the Eastern Sierra region. The area sits at elevations ranging from 5,000-8,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between seasons and day-to-night shifts of 30-40°F. Many sites require high-clearance vehicles to access, especially during spring months when seasonal moisture affects dirt roads.
What to do
Hot spring soaking: Visit The Rock Tub Hot Springs where camping spots are available a short walk from natural hot springs. According to camper Thomas K., there are "6 spots with fire pits and short walk to hot springs. Can get windy. Good Verizon cell service. Excellent views."
Fishing local streams: Several campgrounds offer creek access for fishing, particularly during summer months. At Pine Grove Campground, Charlie T. notes, "Rock Creek runs right along side. There are a few camping spots along the main road. The lake has boats available to rent."
Hiking geological features: Explore volcanic formations and craters unique to this region. Near Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site, campers can "walk up the crater or hike down to the South Tufa area," according to reviews. The walking distance to these features ranges from 0.5-2 miles depending on your campsite.
What campers like
Dark night skies: The Eastern Sierra region offers exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. At Obsidian Meadows Dispersed camping area, sites are positioned well away from town lights, with Adrian J. noting, "There are many sites on the way in and then 5 or 6 once at obsidian meadows trail head."
Water features: Campsites near creeks are consistently rated highest. AngelBoo at Upper Deadman Campground shared, "The creek is lovely, and a wonderful place for the kids to play. There are some fish, but hard to catch."
Privacy between sites: Unlike developed campgrounds, dispersed sites offer more separation. Near Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping, one camper notes, "As you drive along this road, every 10 seconds you will pass a dirt road. Each dirt road has multiple campsites! Don't get discouraged if one person is at the beginning of the road, that's often the only people out there!"
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions: Spring melt makes many roads temporarily impassable. Chris V. warns about Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping: "Surface changes to sand half a mile from the springs, would be a risk for heavy vehicles when wet."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary significantly by location and season. During summer and fall months, complete fire bans are common regardless of fire rings present at sites. At Pine Grove Campground, reviewers mentioned issues with purchased firewood: "The wood for sell did not seem seasoned well—therefore it didn't burn hot."
Wind conditions: The area experiences frequent strong winds, particularly at higher elevations. At Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site, camper Emma warns, "The ash/sand might be a little soft for securing tents. When there is wind, it really blows." Consider bringing extra stakes or wind-resistant tent designs.
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: Creek-side camping provides natural entertainment. Amy B. at Upper Deadman Campground reports, "The creek is lovely, and a wonderful place for the kids to play."
Pit toilet considerations: Facilities where available tend to be basic. Paul N. notes about Upper Deadman, "The only downside is the stench of the pit toilets." At many sites, no facilities exist at all, requiring proper waste management practices.
Accessible hiking: Look for shorter trails appropriate for different ages. At 4th Recess Lake, while the full hike is challenging, portions of connecting trails offer more moderate terrain suitable for older children. One backpacker describes the payoff: "One of the awesome sights is the 'Alpine Glow' on the mountains as the sun sets, a sheer orange bathing the rocky slopes."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most dispersed camping areas have narrow, unpaved access roads. Jackara at The Rock Tub Hot Springs reports, "Parked overnight in the RV on the same road as the hotspring on a Wednesday night had no problems. 2 other vans were next to us."
Turnaround availability: Limited space for maneuvering larger vehicles affects site selection. Chris V. cautions about Scenic Loop: "This site has limited turnarounds and would be challenging for motor homes over 24 feet and or trailers."
Cell service for planning: Reliable connectivity exists at certain sites, important for many RVers. At Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site, Gustav H. reported "Good Verizon service (4G/LTS, 4 bars)" which can help with route planning and weather monitoring.
