Best Dispersed Camping near Camptonville, CA
Planning a dispersed camping trip near Camptonville? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Camptonville, CA (11)
1. Bowman Lake Dispersed
Sierra City, California2 Reviews•13 Photos•43 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
2. Grouse Ridge Campground
Emigrant Gap, California2 Reviews•4 Photos•74 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. Lake Valley Rd Pullout
Emigrant Gap, California2 Reviews•6 Photos•52 SavesMost of Tahoe National Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Dispersed camping is prohibited in certain areas, generally within a ¼ mile of major highway corridors, in the Lakes Basin Area (Sierra Buttes), near Prosser, Boca, Stampede, French Meadows, and Sugar Pine reservoirs, and other locations. Please see the full list of areas where dispersed camping is not allowed below.
Maps and staff are available at most Tahoe Forest Service offices to assist visitors in finding a suitable spot.
Not being in a developed campground means that there will not be certain conveniences:
Water Quality: Be prepared to bring your own drinking water or have a water filter. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated. Human Waste:Proper disposal of human waste is crucial. Human waste can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a dispersed camping area for future users. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200' away from water sources and dispersed campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly. No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out Maximum stay limit for camping is 14 days per District. Please remove all your equipment and garbage when you leave. The beauty of the natural vegetation around your campsite is probably why you chose it. Keep it healthy and growing by not cutting anything down, not putting nails into trees, and treading carefully along meadows, streamsides, and other sensitive areas. Keep your vehicle at least twelve feet from designated roads and trails to prevent resource damage and to adhere to Travel Management Regulations.
When you pick your spot, make sure that it is at least 200 feet away (about seventy paces) from streams and lakes, to help protect streamside vegetation, and prevent water degradation and sedimentation. Dispersed campsites must be outside the boundary markings of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping closure areas.
There are many fine camping spots you can reach on Tahoe National Forest motorized routes and trails, but some routes may be rough, steep, or narrow and not suited for low-clearance or for large recreation vehicles.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. Loch Leven Lakes
Norden, California2 Reviews•7 Photos•109 SavesThe Loch Leven begins at Placer County Road Pla-9140-2 and ends at High Loch Leven Lake. At the south end of lower Loch Leven, a trail junction continues left to middle and high Lochs, or right to Salmon Lake. Fishing is generally good, and camping is dispersed throughout the basin. Campfire permits are required for campfires, backpacking stoves, BBQs, and lanterns.
- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Stag Point
Be the first to review!La Porte, California•19 Saves1 dispersed site at trail head with fire pit and table only. At Stag Point 5 dispersed units. First come first serve. Pit toilet, fire rings, no water, no garbage services Pack in/Out.
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
7. Independence Hill Dispersed
Be the first to review!Gold Run, California- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed
Tahoma, California2 Reviews•11 Photos•147 SavesThe Granite Chief Wilderness was designated a Wilderness area in 1984 because of its pristine nature, natural beauty, and primitive, non-motorized recreational opportunities. Located on the west shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe, the Granite Chief Wilderness is managed by the Tahoe National Forest. This 25,680 acre wilderness offers beautiful valley meadows and spectacular 9000 foot granite peaks.
- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Camptonville
10 Reviews of 11 Camptonville Campgrounds
- S
Shawn M.
Traveler
Bowman Lake Dispersed
Lake side Campsites
If you are looking to be near the water and no service, this is perfect. The rough road in I believe must keep some folks out but the lake is amazing.
Chris N.
GuideBowman Lake Dispersed
Great Late Spring Escape
This place was a slice of heaven, but only accessible by way of 4 x 4 with decent clearance. The trail will take you off road for quite some time , but it's well with the adventure. Traction boards and a winch could help you through unexpected obstacles and are recommended to have on hand, but you most likely won't need them. No running water, but there are restroom buildings, fire rings and bear boxes to use. Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent. The lake is gorgeous, a great fishery, and there are plenty of inspirational views and solitude to be had.
- LLinda L.Guide
Grouse Ridge Campground
Amazing spot for a campground.
The last five miles to get to this campground was narrow and rocky. Once we got to the campground, I realized narrow and rocky are okay. We were there last weekend in June and there was still snow on the ground. Woot! It was awesome. Quite a few sites there with fire rings, beat up, bear boxes that didn't open and picnic benches that were in bad shape. They had two pot toilets. This was a very busy campground. Lots of traffic on and out, I'm sure to beat the heat. It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground. I can't wait to go back.
- EEli F.
Scout
Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed
Hard to get to
Site looks beautiful but road turns from pavement to 4x4. Pulled over right after the pavement ended. Lots of mosquitos
- CCasandra E.Scout
Grouse Ridge Campground
Several camping spots. Numerous lakes to hike and a lookout tower with great views .
Great camping spot and quiet.
Jakey and Alex L.GuideGranite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed
Easy drive in, absolutely beautiful!
It rained when we got here… which over night at some point turned into the first snow!!!
How insanely beautiful!
Highly recommend this spot
Laura M.
Legend
Lake Valley Rd Pullout
Everything covered in snow right now
We were looking for an overnight spot in this area and checked out this listing but there's just still too much snow at this time. The weather isn't cold, but the snow plows have pushed all the snow off the road so that it's impossible to get to any pullouts or open dispersed camping areas.
Roads are clear though, if you want to drive through and check it out.
We actually had cell reception with Verizon and Att here, which surprised us.
It's a beautiful area to come back to when the snow clears!
William J.ScoutLake Valley Rd Pullout
Don't Go In Winter.
Got stuck for over a day trying to get to the site. Tow truck also got stuck. Would not recommend coming until spring.
- RRoger L.Traveler
Loch Leven Lakes
Loch Leven lake
We took Salmon lake trailhead which is shorter trail.
Azizah T.
RangerLoch Leven Lakes
Quiet dispersed camping
We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites. But also a lot of the nice view spots were occupied since we didn’t start our hike up early, we started at 5:30pm. The middle lake is very large and had many beautiful spots to camp. But we headed to the upper lake since a lot of day hikers go to the middle lake and don’t always pack out what they pack in. All the sites are very dispersed and you have so much privacy. We saw some people even camping on the boulders! It was very serene and quiet with very respectful campers. The trail up is a bit confusing if you don’t pay absolute attention to where you are going. You can find some orange markings or stacked rocks that help you stay on the path. Reaching our destination was amazing. We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks. I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites. But, it’s the outdoors what do you expect? Overall very beautiful area to camp!
Guide to Camptonville
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Camptonville, California, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of locations perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility in the great outdoors.
Stunning Lakeside Retreats for Dispersed Campers
- For those who love being near water, Bowman Lake Dispersed provides a picturesque setting with amazing views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for fishing and relaxation.
- If you're up for a bit of a drive, Loch Leven Lakes offers a stunning backdrop for camping, with multiple lakes to explore and plenty of privacy among the dispersed sites.
- The scenic Grouse Ridge Campground is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and is a great spot for those looking to escape the heat, as it tends to be significantly cooler than nearby cities.
Adventure Awaits: Top Activities While Free Camping Near Camptonville
- Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails leading to Loch Leven Lakes, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and the chance to swim in the refreshing waters.
- For a more rugged experience, the journey to Grouse Ridge Campground involves navigating narrow, rocky roads, making it a thrilling adventure for those with 4x4 vehicles.
- Fishing is a popular activity at Bowman Lake Dispersed, where anglers can cast their lines in a serene environment, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Essential Tips for Dispersed Camping in the Area
- Be prepared for a lack of amenities at places like Bowman Lake Dispersed, where there are no restrooms or trash services, so plan accordingly and pack out what you bring in.
- Mosquito repellent is a must when camping at locations such as Grouse Ridge Campground, especially during warmer months when these pests are abundant.
- Always check road conditions before heading to Brooks Creek, as access can be limited due to closures or rough terrain, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Camptonville, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Camptonville, CA is Bowman Lake Dispersed with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Camptonville, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Camptonville, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.