Dispersed camping near Bridgehaven, California typically experiences temperature fluctuations of 30-40°F between daytime and nighttime, particularly at higher elevation sites above Clear Lake. Sites along High Valley Road and the surrounding BLM lands lie at elevations ranging from 1,800-2,600 feet, creating distinct microclimates. Target shooting is permitted in designated areas of the BLM land but prohibited within 150 yards of camping sites or developed recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing at creekside sites: Sheldon Creek offers access to small stream fishing in seasons with adequate water flow. "Camped in our car. A little muddy but not too bad for our 4Runner. There was a nice little creek and a fire pit. Had the area to ourselves likely due to the rain," notes one Sheldon Creek visitor.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities from ridgeline campsites. "It's not too bad of a road up there. Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October. Looking forward to a springtime visit," reports a camper.
Off-road exploration: Cow Mountain Recreation Area features technical off-road courses accessible from camping areas. "Always fun. Love going to the tech course with our off-road buggy. Crawled all over that hill," shares a visitor at Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed.
What campers like
Panoramic lake vistas: Higher elevation sites provide sweeping views across Clear Lake. "Beautiful spot, was able to get a lake view. Easy to get to and relatively clean," writes one camper about Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Seasonal creek access: Water features are limited but valued when present. "We only had one neighbor who seemed pretty friendly, which was a relief as you're pretty far out in a remote area. Overall this is a beautiful spot where we felt safe," notes a Sheldon Creek visitor.
Solitude and privacy: Less developed sites offer separation from other campers. "Came up here in September of 2024. There were about 3-4 families around the main campsites, seemingly set up to have a whole bbq! Was able to find a bit of solitude a bit deeper into the campsite," reports one camper.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads deteriorate significantly after rainfall. "The road to this pin is completely impassable in any regular vehicle, this would require an ATV. We took a regular AWD midsize SUV, after seeing the review with photos of a regular car. The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff," warns a visitor to High Valley Rd Dispersed.
Facilities maintenance issues: Toilet facilities may be unusable despite being present. "You might want to be prepared to dig your own toilet though as the toilet set up was completely infested with spiders," advises one camper.
Site cleanliness concerns: Trash management varies widely between locations. "So much trash left behind here! We tried to pick up what we could but there's quite the mess left behind from others who were there prior. Pack it in, pack it out!" reports a Sheldon Creek visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: Locations with minimal facilities provide better options for children. "Sheldon Creek is a BLM campsite up a winding dirt/gravel road. We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up. Signs will direct you in the right direction, and lead you to a campground with spots to pitch tents or park/hangout."
Weather preparedness: Temperature variations require extra clothing layers. "Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!" advises a visitor to Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience unexpected sounds that might disturb light sleepers. "The drive up was full of breathtaking views, and even though the road was quite bumpy, dusty, and steep at times, our AWD Kia made it up no problem. Only complaint is that one group that was set up near us went hunting in the middle of the night," shares a Mayacmas Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path. Otherwise 10/10 for our truck camper, had the place to ourselves for the 4th of July weekend," shares a Sheldon Creek camper.
Alternative parking strategies: Some areas offer better options than attempting difficult access roads. "The ride up was rough. The views made it all worth it. The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate," notes a visitor to Mayacmas Campground.
Access route selection: Approach directions matter significantly for vehicle clearance. "I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging. It was steep with loose dirt in spots. It was an adventure. I am going to try north access into Lucerne later," advises one Smittle Creek visitor.
