Val C.
Guide
GuideLeavitt Lake
Not Accessible by Car
I have a truck. i got about a half mile in before the snow washed out the road. you can still hike in. high clearance and 4wd a must
Dispersed Camping near Camp Connell, CA
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Dispersed camping is permitted in Stanislaus National Forest and El Dorado National Forest near Camp Connell, California, with multiple free primitive sites accessible via forest roads. Popular locations include Top of Arnold along Forest Route 5N56, Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, and several sites along Silver Fork in El Dorado National Forest. These areas typically feature undesignated camping spots with established fire rings but minimal other development on public land.
Access roads to most dispersed sites require careful navigation, with many campers reporting rough, rutted dirt roads that may become impassable during wet conditions. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for areas like Top of Arnold, while some locations such as Silver Fork Dispersed and Mormon Emigrant Trail pull-offs can accommodate standard vehicles. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during dry periods. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services are available at most sites, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Camping is generally limited to 14 days within a 30-day period on national forest land.
The dispersed camping areas provide varying experiences based on elevation and forest density. Sites at higher elevations offer panoramic views, while those near waterways provide water access but may have more insects. One camper at Silver Fork noted: "We stayed at a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent." Sites near Arnold feature some dirt bike activity but remain relatively quiet. A visitor to Top of Arnold mentioned: "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." Cell service varies by location, with some areas providing limited connectivity for basic communication.
Best Dispersed Campgrounds near Camp Connell (30)
1. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
"A very secluded primitive site that is only a couple miles or less to town over paved and dirt roads. The roads are not four-wheel drive and are perfect for van lifers."
"Be sure to obtain a fire permit from Cal fire and check fire restrictions in the area have a bucket full of water and a shovel next to your fire at all times again this place was amazing"
2. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
"Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare."
"Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."
3. Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
"Powerlines are nearby but there are a few fire pits. They seem to be logging the area and running cattle but it’s pretty quiet."
4. Iron MT. Dispersed
"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."
"The Mormon Emigrant Trail can be accessed from there (East side, going West to Sly Park.) You can hear the Highway a little, but nonetheless very peaceful area."
5. El Dorado National Forest, off Cal Hwy 88
"This is a fairly easy to reach dispersed site in the El Dorado NF, north of HWY 88 and about 1-2 miles from a developed NF campground called PiPi (pr PiePie)."
6. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
"Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east."
"Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."
7. Hardin Flat Road
"Access road isn’t bad and it’s close to the park."
"I stayed to car camp and had an overall nice time. There was a good amount of ice but with 4x4 not problem. The ice was melting so if you go anytime after the snow should be a lot less."
8. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
"The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp."
"The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated."
9. Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
"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."
10. Dispersed USFS
"This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes."
"Several areas along Blue Lakes Rd offer dispersed camping."
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Camp Connell, CA
75 Photos of 30 Camp Connell Campgrounds
Damien M.
Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
Esther Y.
Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
Alicia
Iron MT. Dispersed
Camden Z.
Shealor Lakes Dispersed Backcountry
SpentBrassOffroad B.
Silver Fork River Camping
Jacqueline G.
Dispersed USFS
Orion B.
USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Tim R.
Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed
Alex P.
Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
Chris V.
Echo Summit Dispersed
Nick M.
Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
Jessica S.
Van Haven Dispersed Site Yosemite
Dispersed Camping Reviews near Camp Connell, CA
102 Reviews of 30 Camp Connell Campgrounds
Mark L.
TravelerVan Haven Dispersed Site Yosemite
Rugged, Remote, Dusty
Red Cloud Rd offers few viable camping sites. The road becomes increasingly rough and eroded, with deep ruts and drainages. 4WD or AWD is necessary. Site offers scenic views, unobstructed night sky, and interesting exploration.
Leave no trace!
- AAlexTraveler
USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Endless Possibilities
The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp. I stayed at N38.768811• W 120.238630° — on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent. At this specific sight, there are no overhead trees. Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car. I stayed here for 7 days (10/31-11/6) and only saw one other person on the primivite roads. The above coordinates are about a 6 mile drive in from US50. You will see a campground on your right about 5 miles down when driving in, about a mile further down the road you will come up on the dirt road leading you up the mountain.
A couple of notes:
- You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov
- Cell phone reception is very spotty, in and out of a couple of bars throughout the drive in. — AT&T coverage. At the above coordinates, there were 2 bars of low grade coverage allowing basic texts to send. Not enough service for web browsing or sending photos via text.
- This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt. You will find yourself going in and out of them while driving.
- KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it, pick up your trash (and other’s if you see any), respect the area and it will respect you.
- NO CAMP SERVICES — There is no trash service or even dumpsters at the signed entrance; pack it in pack it out. There are no restrooms in the area either.
Jacqueline G.GuideDispersed USFS
Worth the climbs to get here!!
This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: 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. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. 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 (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.
Kevin C.
RangerTop of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
Deep woods, close to town
A very secluded primitive site that is only a couple miles or less to town over paved and dirt roads. The roads are not four-wheel drive and are perfect for van lifers. I would not pull a trailer of any kind up here. Or a vehicle with low clearance. Deep in the woods surrounded by forests and undergrowth nice flat spots to park and set up camp. 2 to three bars Verizon no facilities of any kind. There are a few random fire pits. This area is closed in the winter due to snow but is the perfect weather during shoulder seasons, not too hot not too cold.
- JJeff L.
ScoutLeavitt Lake
High Sierra Lake
We visited Lake Levitte, back in June 2021. I would recommend a high clearance vehicle, ad there are some technical sections. If you watch your line, you can make it. This location has become too popular by many YouTube videos. When we arrived, there were at least 7 other groups there. Location is beautiful and will definitely return in the future.
Ciara W.GuideEcho Summit Dispersed
Not dispersed camping
This spot is national forest, and overnight camping is not allowed. We had a knock from someone with the forest service the next morning who was very kind and let us know that overnight is not allowed.
Look up lakes and forest in this area on google — not many places allow dispersed camping
Shane C.TravelerScotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping with campground layout/feel
Camped here for a night in early October. Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east. Most sites are obvious, with a driveway and stone fire ring. We like a more "dispersed" feel, but felt comfortable.
There are no services - bring all the water you will need and practice "leave no trace." This goes for your waste (human and animal) as well. I wish I could say that we didn't see any dog waste or "TP Flowers" but we did. Not a significant amount, but any is too much.
The place was pretty much full, but still good vibes and quiet neighbors. Very close to Hwy. 88, so road noise and campers coming in looking for a spot after dark. Gets quiet later in the evening.
Overall, a nice spot.
- Raymond B.Traveler
USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Overnight stay
We recently spent a night at this campsite and found it to be perfect for a quick overnight getaway. The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated.
There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped.
A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It’s well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home, making it easy to grab any last-minute necessities.
Overall, it was a delightful stay. Just remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in!
Guide to Camp Connell
Dispersed camping near Camp Connell, California offers several options across Stanislaus and El Dorado National Forests at elevations between 5,000-8,300 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, with forest roads closing seasonally during winter months. The surrounding area features mixed conifer forests with ponderosa pine, sugar pine, and incense cedar trees.
What to do
Fishing access: Multiple dispersed camping spots provide river access, particularly along Silver Fork. "There are a total of 3 established sites. 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. It's a popular fishing spot with the locals," reports a camper at Silver Fork River Camping.
Stargazing: Open areas away from light pollution create excellent viewing conditions. At Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, one visitor noted, "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! Perfect spot for star gazing!!"
Mountain biking: The region offers numerous trails for various skill levels. "There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences," says one camper, while another at Dispersed USFS mentions "near-by trails for dirt bikes, Jeeping, horses, mountain biking or hiking."
What campers like
Panoramic views: Elevated camping spots provide exceptional scenery. A visitor at Iron MT. Dispersed 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." Another camper noted, "Great spot with an amazing view. There are also many OHV trails close by."
Solitude: Many dispersed sites offer privacy despite proximity to more popular areas. A camper at Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off reported, "Large pull off area I found and stayed at 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."
Accessible water features: Streams and lakes enhance the camping experience. A visitor to Silver Fork River Camping described sites that "are on the river and have paths down to the water with a little beach," while another camper mentioned "Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking."
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. At Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed, a camper reported, "It's suitable enough of a campground, Verizon works. There is sun for solar panels and enough shade to be fine mostly." At Iron MT. Dispersed, visitors had mixed experiences: "We had 3 bars of AT&T connection there," while another noted, "I had no service with Verizon or t-mobile."
Road conditions: Access routes vary in difficulty and may change seasonally. A visitor to Dispersed USFS 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."
Camping permits: Some areas require permits for overnight stays. A camper at Silver Fork Dispersed noted, "You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov."
Tips for camping with families
Look for established sites: Pre-used areas often have basic improvements. At Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping, a visitor with a family mentioned, "We are new to dispersed camping and have a 40 ft 5th wheel as well as a GMC Denali 350 dually. We need a large space to fit into. We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded."
Consider campsite proximity: Some areas are close to recreational facilities. A camper noted that their spot was "near enough to Rush Creek Lodge that you could hear kid noise from the pool during the day but it got quiet after 9pm."
Pack insect protection: Bug activity varies by location and season. One visitor warned, "Lots of ticks! be prepared," while another mentioned avoiding creek-side camping because "the spots along the creek were very buggy. We found one away from the water and not at all buggy."
Tips from RVers
Arrive early for level spots: Finding suitable parking for larger vehicles requires planning. A camper at Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping advised, "We had our choice of several places to set up. It is very quiet here, not hearing any road noise. A forest ranger told us there were more spaces up near the lake, but we didn't venture up there."
Check elevation and grade: Higher sites may require more powerful vehicles. A visitor to Dispersed USFS mentioned, "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 (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you're not used to high altitude."
Scout before committing: Pre-check sites for suitability before attempting to park. "We recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped," advised an overnight camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed
campsite near Camp Connell, CA?
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Camp Connell, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Camp Connell, CA is Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find
dispersed camping near
Camp Connell, CA?
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Camp Connell, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 30 dispersed camping locations near Camp Connell, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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