Dispersed camping near Camptonville, California encompasses several public lands within Tahoe National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 feet. The area receives significant snowfall between November and April, often closing higher elevation access roads until late spring. Water availability fluctuates seasonally, with natural streams typically running highest during spring snowmelt and diminishing by late summer.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Loch Leven Lakes offers multiple alpine lakes with excellent swimming conditions in summer. One camper noted, "I'm super excited to go back. I will say the hike up was a bit difficult with a heavy backpack due to all the rocks you have to climb over on the trail, but the view of the lakes at the top makes it all worth it."
Hiking options: The trails around Granite Chief Wilderness provide varied terrain for day hikes. A visitor experienced "the first snow" during their autumn stay, commenting that it was "insanely beautiful" after an overnight rain turned to snow.
Fishing access: Kyburz Flats provides nearby stream access. A camper described it as having "a few roads with a couple campsites. Pure dispersed camping. But beautiful, any AWD car can make it down these roads. Only about 2 miles of the main road."
What campers like
Seasonal temperature differences: The elevation changes provide natural cooling during summer months. One camper at Grouse Ridge Campground mentioned, "It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground."
Privacy between sites: Several free camping areas near Camptonville offer significant distance between camping spots. A visitor described finding "many available campsites" and "so much privacy" at higher elevation lakes.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas support diverse wildlife populations. One camper recommended staying alert as "last week there were some rattlesnake sightings, so just be cautious of snakes," but also noted, "Bugs there were virtually nonexistent as I don't think I got bit by any."
What you should know
Winter access limitations: Snow closes many roads to dispersed camping areas between late fall and spring. A visitor to Lake Valley Rd Pullout warned, "Don't Go In Winter," explaining they "got stuck for over a day trying to get to the site. Tow truck also got stuck."
Vehicle requirements: Most dispersed camping locations require appropriate vehicles. At Bowman Lake Dispersed, a camper advised that sites are "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."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans may prohibit campfires, particularly during dry summer months. Campers should check current restrictions before visiting, as regulations change based on fire danger levels. Some dispersed sites have permanent fire rings when fires are permitted.
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival timing: Popular camping areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. One visitor recommended, "I'd start early in the day to make sure you get good parking as this is a very popular trail, and so that you can get a good campsite."
Safety precautions: Prepare children for wilderness conditions and wildlife encounters. A camper mentioned bringing "traction boards and a winch" when driving to remote sites, noting they "could help you through unexpected obstacles and are recommended to have on hand."
Bear awareness: Independence Hill Dispersed and surrounding areas have active black bear populations. While exploring the historic town nearby, one camper advised, "come with everything you need" since there are few amenities and noted the area "worked for one night" but had "so much glass and shell casings everywhere."
Tips from RVers
Road condition information: Recent rain can significantly affect forest road quality. A camper at Granite Chief noted, "road turns from pavement to 4x4" and they "pulled over right after the pavement ended."
Site selection strategy: Arrive early to secure level parking at dispersed sites. A visitor observed that some sites can accommodate larger vehicles but recommended scouting first, explaining, "coordinates lead to historic sheep camp site. Can probably camp next to it but better spots just beyond though road gets even rougher."
Limited clearance areas: Many access roads have low-hanging branches and narrow passages. One camper described Grouse Ridge access as "the last five miles to get to this campground was narrow and rocky" but emphasized "narrow and rocky are okay" given the campground's quality.
