Tent camping near Big Bar, California provides options across multiple national forest service lands at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet. The Shasta-Trinity and Mendocino National Forests surround this area along the Trinity River corridor, with seasonal temperatures ranging from 35°F nights in spring to 90°F days in summer. Most dispersed sites require campers to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: Several dispersed camping areas provide access to seasonal waterfall trails within 5-10 miles of camp. At Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, campers can find "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk" according to reviewer Serena W.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution at higher elevation sites makes for exceptional 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!"
Lake activities: Several campgrounds offer lake access for fishing, kayaking and swimming during summer months. At Lake Camanche, a camper shared: "Water is really nice!! Showers and laundry areas are cleaned daily. Rangers drive around to check on people. Boats have access to beaches hidden down a narrow river like area."
Nature exploration: The region features diverse ecosystems from pine forest to chaparral. One visitor to North Grove Campground mentioned: "There is plenty to do and trails to hike in this area, easy enough for families with children and rugged trail options for the more experienced hikers."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural terrain and vegetation provide good site separation at many dispersed locations. A reviewer at Top of Arnold said: "Super fun spot went in September. Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded but still a good spot."
Cell reception: Unlike many remote camping areas, several sites near Big Bar maintain usable cellular service. A camper at Rancho Seco Recreation Area shared: "Nice, peaceful well maintained campground that is within 30 minutes of our home for our first outing with our new travel trailer. Well kept secret!"
Weather patterns: The area's elevation provides natural cooling during summer months. At Top of Arnold, one reviewer wrote: "It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there. The hospitality was excellent. We will definitely be back."
Mixed forest environment: The combination of shade and sun creates comfortable tent sites. According to a Jenkinson Campground visitor: "The small portion of the lake with no wake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing and fishing has been good to excellent near the water fall. A nice easy hike will take you around the entire lake if you let it."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating unpaved forest roads. At Top of Arnold - FR 5N56, a camper advised: "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up. Some noise from chainsaws in the distance one day, and some target practice, but neither lasted long. 2 bars LTE of Verizon."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. At North Grove Campground, a visitor reported: "Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area."
Water availability: Most dispersed sites lack water sources, requiring self-sufficiency. A camper at Bear Valley noted: "There are no Volt toilets here nor running water but pretty good Verizon signal."
Site selection: Arrive early for best tent spots, especially during summer weekends. One camper at Rancho Seco Recreation Area mentioned: "There's a campground with its own fence around it for private camping With signs posted very near it, 'no camping here' in the other spots without the signs good to go."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas ideal for children. A visitor to Jenkinson Campground wrote: "We love this campground! The trails are perfectly maintained and you can go around the whole lake in 9miles. The hike to the waterfall is wonderful and depending where you start depends on length. You have to see it though! 33ft and the perfect spot to swim when it warms up."
Terrain considerations: Many tent sites have uneven ground requiring careful tent placement. At North Grove Campground, one camper noted: "The campsites are clean and spacious with large trees surrounding everywhere and the bathrooms at the campsites were well kept (which is a huge plus!)."
Safety precautions: Check sites carefully for hazards before setting up. A visitor to Boards Crossing advised: "Be mindful of your surroundings—there are many dead-standing trees and potentially hazardous branches, so choose your tent and eating areas carefully."
Amenities access: Know which facilities are available at your chosen site. A family at Camp Nauvoo shared: "This place is a hidden gem! It's beautiful, clean, and kid friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there. The hospitality was excellent."
Tips from RVers
Rig size limitations: Many forest roads restrict access to smaller vehicles and RVs under 25 feet. At Camp Nauvoo, a reviewer mentioned: "The owners of this campground have made it there mission that you have a wonderful experience if you are a newbie or seasoned camper. Great sites for families and romantic sites for couples."
Ground firmness: Seasonal conditions affect parking surfaces. One camper at Top of Arnold noted: "Only downside is the ground is basically dust dirt. My dogs love it, my bedding doesn't!"
Seasonal considerations: Visit during shoulder seasons for more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. A visitor to Rancho Seco Recreation Area advised: "This is a wonderful spot to stay for a few days in the off season. We stayed in February. Summers would be very hot and I imagine the area would be packed with day use folks."
