Dispersed camping near Big Bar, California concentrates in the Eldorado National Forest where elevations range from 7,000-8,300 feet across various sites. Many locations sit along forest service roads with access to rivers and reservoirs, offering primitive camping conditions without developed facilities. Weather fluctuates significantly with summer temperatures ranging from 75-85°F during days and dropping to 40-50°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can reach freezing.
What to do
Fishing access: Several dispersed sites provide river fishing opportunities, particularly at Silver Fork River Camping where each site includes paths down to the water. "Each site is large enough for 3 campers to fit. Stone fire pits had already been established as well. It's a popular fishing spot with the locals," notes one camper.
Lake recreation: Camping near Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping allows for swimming and water activities. "So beautiful, and the lake is really warm in the summer," reports a visitor who found plenty of spots despite the popularity during peak season.
Hiking trails: The area offers numerous hiking paths, especially near Bear Valley. According to one camper, "Location was near trails to rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking." Many trails connect campgrounds to viewpoints and fishing spots, with varying difficulty levels suitable for different skill levels.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies make this region ideal for night sky viewing. One camper at Bear Valley noted, "Perfect spot for star gazing!! We arrived when it was dark and had no problem finding a spot! It was open with plenty of spots & we were the only ones!"
What campers like
Elevated viewpoints: Many sites provide scenic vistas across the forest and valleys. At Iron MT. Dispersed, a camper shared, "The ground is very flat and many areas are paved with gravel. At 7500 feet above sea level, the view is wide and the scenery is beautiful, especially the sunset view."
River proximity: Campers appreciate sites with direct water access. A visitor to Silver Fork River Camping noted, "All the sites are on the river and have paths down to the water with a little beach. When we were there in early June the water was still very cold."
Seclusion: Many campers value the privacy found at Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off. One reviewer stayed "for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time but even if the main spot is occupied there's a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp."
Cell service: Unlike many remote camping areas, several locations maintain reasonable connectivity. At Top of Arnold, a camper mentioned, "2 bars LTE of Verizon," while another noted they could even "watch the movie" with their cell service.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access varies significantly between sites. At Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed, one camper noted, "You don't need 4x4 but you definitely will need a vehicle with some decent clearance. There are some weirdly purposefully placed speed bumps on the west end of the road."
Seasonal availability: Winter access becomes limited or impossible at higher elevations. A camper at Iron Mountain warned, "The site was covered in snow, and there was a sign saying no camping in snow clearing conditions. Additionally you aren't allowed in without a Sno-park permit from November 1st to May 31st."
Fire regulations: Restrictions vary by location and season. While some sites like Iron Mountain and Bear Valley permit fires in established rings, others enforce complete bans, particularly during dry summer months or following wildfire activity in the area.
Permit requirements: Some areas require camping permits. At Dispersed USFS sites, permits are mandatory rather than optional. Check with the Eldorado National Forest office before camping to ensure compliance with current regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites: For families with younger children, choose locations with minimal hiking required. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping offers drive-up sites that work well for groups. A visitor mentioned, "Stayed here for 2 nights during the 2019 Pursuit Norcal Event. Due to the nature of the event, we were very close to other campers but the site itself had a lot of tree cover, shade and probably awesome camping at any other time."
Elevation considerations: The high elevation affects children differently than adults. One camper at Dispersed USFS sites recommended: "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 but just take it easy if you're not used to high altitude."
Swimming options: Kids enjoy cooling off in Union Valley Reservoir during summer months. "Not too many people in between seasons. Summer time is not bad," notes a regular visitor who considers it their "favorite place to camp."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about proper food storage and trash management, as bears and other wildlife frequent these areas, particularly during spring and summer months.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most rustic camping areas near Big Bar accommodate smaller RVs better than large rigs. At Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed, a camper noted, "Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!"
Leveling challenges: Many sites require careful positioning. A visitor to Forest Route 4N39 suggested, "Drive to the back area for tree shade and level grounds. Side of road camping. Camping on Ridgeline."
Road hazards: RVers should scout roads before committing. One visitor to Dispersed USFS sites warned: "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."
Water planning: No dispersed sites provide hookups or water sources. RVers must bring sufficient water or know where to fill tanks. "Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction," advised one experienced RVer.
