Dispersed camping near Big Pine, California offers primitive sites where visitors can experience eastern Sierra Nevada landscapes without developed facilities. Located at 4,000 feet elevation, the area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations with summer highs reaching 100°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Many dispersed camping areas surrounding Big Pine require preparedness for self-sufficient backcountry stays on public lands.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: The Volcanic Tableland area features unique rock formations popular with climbers. "Sad Boulders is a rock climber's playground. There are petroglyphs to be found on some of the boulders in the area, as well as rattle snakes, only saw one baby though," notes one visitor to Volcanic Tableland BLM Dispersed Camping.
Night sky observation: The remote locations provide exceptional stargazing conditions with minimal light pollution. A camper at Volcanic Tableland BLM Dispersed Camping shared, "I drove in at night and the Milky Way was shining bright. Got some decent star shots."
Creek exploration: Several sites offer access to flowing creeks for water play and relaxation. At McGee Creek, a visitor reported, "The creek was 40 feet from our spot, running well (Spring of 2023 after record snowfall) and the dog loved playing in it."
Ancient petroglyphs: The area contains significant Native American rock art sites. Campers should respect these cultural resources and view them without touching. "Areas are being restored so tread lightly and 'Don't Crush the Brush'," advises a Volcanic Tableland camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite periods of higher usage, the dispersed layout maintains solitude. One visitor to Alabama Hills Recreation Area noted, "Beautiful site with lots of spaces for dispersed camping where you don't feel like you're camping next to anyone. The view of the Sierra Nevadas is unmatched."
Cell connectivity: Many dispersed sites maintain usable signal strength for basic communication needs. A Volcanic Tableland camper reported, "There is ok Verizon service, better ATT service, and T-Mobile alternated between roaming and no service."
Stone fire rings: Pre-existing fire rings can be found at many sites when seasonal fire restrictions allow. At Deep Canyon, a camper mentioned, "Good amount of spots. Some soft gravel/sand areas, but made it everywhere fine with fwd. The area was dry when I was there. Nice views."
Morning tranquility: The peaceful early hours offer unique appreciation of the landscape. A Volcanic Tableland visitor observed, "Morning was exceptional. Pure stillness. Good sun for solar charging."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads range from easily passable to challenging. A camper at McGee Creek noted, "The road becomes dirt and while bumpy in places, our class B van with low clearance did fine going slow."
Seasonal closures affect access: Some dispersed areas close temporarily due to weather or maintenance. One McGee Creek visitor found, "Road was closed so we walked the half mile or so in. Beautiful spot!"
Fire restrictions change throughout the year: Always verify current fire regulations before planning to have a campfire. "No fires" appears in several reviews during high-restriction periods.
Goatheads and other hazards: Natural hazards require preparation. One camper warned, "Something we hadn't noticed before were all the goatheads, everywhere. Watch your dog's paws."
Limited available spots: Some areas have few viable camping locations. A visitor to Independence BLM Dispersed observed, "The campground is gone, few spots are all ultra rough except a couple space you can squeeze in. Very rough and totally unmaintained."
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early for best spots: Prime locations fill quickly, especially on weekends. "There were only a few other campers here when we stayed the week before Christmas and there were plenty of spots open," noted a visitor to Volcanic Tableland.
Pack extra water: The arid climate requires more hydration than you might expect. With no potable water available at dispersed sites, families should bring at least 1 gallon per person per day.
Prepare for temperature swings: The desert climate creates significant day-to-night temperature variations. A camper at Creek Side Independence Dispersed 2 recommended, "Has a sizable fire ring for the cold nights!"
Bring shade structures: Most areas lack natural cover from the sun. Portable canopies or umbrellas help create comfortable daytime spaces.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: Larger rigs require careful location scouting. At Volcanic Tableland, a camper observed, "The road along the back side of the stone 'wall' has gotten worse since we were here last. Parts of it are really rutted and washed out. Hopefully they are fixed at some point, not sure I'd feel comfortable driving our class c on it as it is now."
Solar power viability: The abundant sunshine makes solar charging effective. "Good sun for solar charging" reported one visitor about the conditions at Volcanic Tableland.
Locate nearby dump facilities: Since dispersed sites lack waste disposal, plan for alternatives. "Easy drive to Bishop for supplies, and the free dump & water fill at the Speedway at the other end of town is really nice," suggests a Volcanic Tableland camper.
Be mindful of washboard roads: Many access roads feature corrugation requiring slower driving. "The road in, Casa Diablo, is gravel and heavily washboarded," noted one Volcanic Tableland visitor.
