Top Free Dispersed Camping near Chilcoot, CA

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Chilcoot, look no further. Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Chilcoot, CA (19)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley

    2. Dog Valley

    4 Reviews
    16 Photos
    93 Saves

    There is no "campground here" Please be aware most of the Dog / Sardine Valley is private property and a working ranch. The places near the valley floor with picnic tables - those are sheep camps. The places with firepits, also sheep camps. Please respect private property and make sure you are camping in the BLM / USDA lands that rim the valley. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Dog Valley provides excellent viewing of both wildflowers and flowering shrubs. Forest, meadows, and streams make up Dog Valley’s landscape, creating a cool and refreshing retreat for this popular recreation area. Dog Valley is also home to two rare plant species, Dog Valley ivesia and Webber’s ivesia. Dog Valley ivesia can only be found in Dog Valley. Other attractions include wildlife viewing and the Crystal Peak Mine, a popular spot for crystal-hounds. Dog Valley offers a variety of opportunities to view wildflowers in the Jeffery pine forests and meadows. As you enter Dog Valley from Verdi, you will see the recovery from the 1994 Crystal Fire with displays of mahala mat, silvery lupine, and chokecherry. Explore the openings in the forest with extensive displays of mule’s ear, balsamroot, buckwheats, paintbrushes, yampah, bitterbrush, bare-stem desert parsley, and manzanita. Walking around, it is easy to enjoy the smaller, less visible flowers, including collomia, prairie star flower, and blue-eyed Mary. Wetter areas have displays of shooting stars, delphinium, and Rydberg’s penstemon. Best Viewing Times: The best time to visit is June and July. Safety First: Creeks and streams can cross the road. Be careful when crossing water and watch for washed-out portions of the road. The road can be very muddy. California OHV registration is required for all vehicles. Campfire permits are also required in California and can be obtained from the Carson District Office or the campground host.

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp

    3. Moon Rocks Camp

    2 Reviews
    16 Photos
    38 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
    • No image available

      6. Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp

      1 Review
      2 Saves
      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed

      7. Bowman Lake Dispersed

      2 Reviews
      13 Photos
      37 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground

      8. Grouse Ridge Campground

      2 Reviews
      4 Photos
      68 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes

      9. Loch Leven Lakes

      2 Reviews
      7 Photos
      107 Saves

      The 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.

      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Toilets
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from East of Pyramid Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from East of Pyramid Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from East of Pyramid Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from East of Pyramid Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from East of Pyramid Lake
      Camper-submitted photo from East of Pyramid Lake
    Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Chilcoot

    32 Reviews of 19 Chilcoot Campgrounds


    • Tyler C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Baldwine East Dispersed Camping
      Nov. 2, 2024

      Baldwine East Dispersed Camping

      NO CAMPING

      there was one other review that said the same, but this spot is just off the road so I thought I’d double check. it’s not only on a gas pipeline, but you’re also verging on private property.

    • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Oct. 12, 2024

      BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed

      Not easily accessible

      The two closest roads coming in from the West are blocked off and labeled no unauthorized vehicles. This is due to the construction of the new neighborhoods and they probably annexed the area. You could probably access it from the East but I have no idea how many miles it would be in from where you would come in.

    • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
      Oct. 12, 2024

      Peavine Road Dispersed Camping

      Complete trash dump

      It's sad where we have this public land to camp on and people just dump tons and tons of trash and abandoned cars and demolished cars on the property would not recommend going. There's some more BLM land about 15 to 20 minutes north on Red Rock road.

    • Paxton B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp
      Sep. 30, 2024

      Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp

      The road is terrible

      Not really sure if we camped in the right spot. It isn’t great, but it got the job done to just crash for a night. Felt like we were in a construction zone

    • Anna B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
      Sep. 8, 2024

      Moon Rocks Camp

      Camping on Mars

      (September 28th, 2023) Got here after dark and found an empty clearing to park in for the night. The moon and the stars were so bright, it felt like we were on another planet. Got to explore the area in the morning, such a cool spot! Very quiet when we were there.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
      Sep. 6, 2024

      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.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
      Jul. 21, 2024

      Bowman 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.

    • A
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM FLATTOP
      Jul. 6, 2024

      BLM FLATTOP

      Access Sucks

      The road kinda sucks but VC is a good time. It was nice other than the road. Please remember to pack everything out, there was a lot of trash I had to pick up that was left behind by others.

    • LThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
      Jun. 30, 2024

      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.

    • EThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
      Apr. 23, 2024

      Dog Valley

      Our favorite !

      Dog Valley is a special place where we come to boondock. It’s quite and has a great creek. People come out here to camp, ride atvs, side by sides, dirt bikes, or off road. People target practice a lot and the ranger is very nice.

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Mar. 8, 2024

      BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed

      One of my favorite spots

      I love the quietness of this spot and the view is wonderful! The only thing I don’t like is that they took the port-a-potty out, quite possibly for the cold season.

    • Genevieve R.
      Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
      Dec. 29, 2023

      Moon Rocks Camp

      Beautiful! Easy access.

      I live nearby, so my family and I went for the day. We left just before sunset. It's gorgeous here. The dirt road is pretty good and not difficult for my Jeep Trailhawk 4x4. There were about 3 other groups. We were there on a Thursday. We walked around the whole area where the rocks were. The campsite overlooks a valley where there is an airport. We saw a couple of paragliders. On the way in from Reno, it's very easy to find. I would love to stay here in my travel trailer. There were some huge rigs out there. All of those people had dune buggies, but nobody was driving around on the rocks when we were there. There are no amenities at all. There is just a big clearing for campers. We took our dog. She had fun.

    • Genevieve R.
      Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
      Dec. 28, 2023

      Peavine Road Dispersed Camping

      Lots of trash and shells

      I live 10 minutes away, so I checked it out. It's sketchy driving in with a lot of trailers and cars along the road closer to the main road. There may or may nor have been people in them. We didn't see people walking around except one guy who was walking his dog on the dirt road and another guy nearby with a table next to his car. Maybe he was flying a drone. The dirt road was very rutted in a few areas. No big deal, but I was in my Jeep Trailhawk 4x4. I didn't have my trailer with me. The view of the city is great, but that's it. The area to pull off is not that big, so I think it would be crowded with more than 2 other trailers. It wasn't windy at all when we were there, but I'm sure it could be because it can be very windy in this area. I wouldn't stay here unless I absolutely had to for the night. I did hear gunshots in the distance. We only stayed a few minutes to take a few pictures. No amenities like fire rings or tables.

    • K
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM FLATTOP
      Oct. 13, 2023

      BLM FLATTOP

      Bad road

      I tried driving up the other day, but couldn’t make it due to rocks. The road starts out as a nice, easy fire road, gets a little rocky, and then by mile 6 or 7 it goes full blown rock garden. SxS’s were going through it slowly, if that helps.

      Virginia City seems like a fun little town, though. And the area itself is pretty cool, just couldn’t make it all the way.

    • Ray R.
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Sep. 23, 2023

      BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed

      right off housing development that's expanding fast

      Not such a good place. Housing construction getting very close. Lots of local foot traffic. Didn't feel comfortable here, almost felt as I was intruding. It does beat driving around aimlessly searching for a spit, plus its rather close to freeway. You have to leave somewhat early. Lots of joggers and mountain bikers. It has been trashed in the past so left lots of bad tastes in folks.

    • Sage P.
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Sep. 15, 2023

      BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed

      Bad vibes, good views

      Did the trick for a night. There was one man with two rv’s there during our visit that gave us pretty bad vibes. Couldn’t go much further up the hill in our 2-wheel drive vehicle. All in all, it’s a gravel lot and road, good views, cool spot.

    • Corey H.
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Jul. 12, 2023

      BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed

      Decent place to sleep for the night

      Tucked off, dirt road with enough seclusion and privacy to feel comfortable at night. Be forewarned that the road is super rough and you will definitely need a car with more clearance to get up it. There is a little pull out before you get to where the directions take you that is perfectly cool to camp. I wouldn’t go all the way up that little stretch of road past the water tanks unless you have a 4x4. The pullout also has a portajohn and sink if needed.

      One thing to note! There are many joggers and bikers that go up this road pretty much as soon as the sun goes over the hill (about 6 in July) so just be aware of that when camping here. I wasn’t bothered by anyone and I had about 4 people pass by my car this morning.

    • Heather H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
      Jun. 17, 2023

      Peavine Road Dispersed Camping

      Better than a $90/night casino parking lot!

      Feels weird driving in, but there are some pull offs that have good views of the valley. Very open. Lots of trash and casings, but was quiet and felt safe. Good place to pull over if you are in the Reno area and just need to sleep.

    • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from East of Pyramid Lake
      May. 12, 2023

      East of Pyramid Lake

      Great boondocking

      This place is everything we look for when boondocking. It's quiet, open, easy to get to with our class c, flat(ish), cell service, and places to hike/walk around. There was nobody else around when we stayed here for 2 nights in May.

      The road is nearby but barely visible and you can hardly hear the cars. The rocks (tufas) are really neat and fun to climb.

      There's absolutely no shade so the sun makes it feel hotter than it is. And the wind comes through somewhat unpredictably so we couldn't keep our awning out.

      It's surprisingly clean, I mean there's some trash which is to be expected, but not huge amounts of it.

      There are a couple of little narrow roads you can take to find a more secluded spot, but I wouldn't attempt it unless your vehicle can handle it. There are a couple of random big dips to get past, and really there aren't very many camping opportunities past the big giant open area by the rocks. The big main area is huge and would easily fit several campers.

      Great place to boondock!

    • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
      May. 11, 2023

      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.
      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
      Feb. 15, 2023

      Lake 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.



    Guide to Chilcoot

    Camping near Chilcoot, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique vibe.

    What to do:

    • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the hiking options, with one reviewer mentioning, "Beautiful hiking within minutes of the campground with gorgeous views of the lake and boulders" at Sardine Lake.
    • Fishing and Swimming: Sardine Lake is a great spot for fishing and swimming. One visitor shared, "Just down the road from Sardine Lakes and Sand Pond, which are great for fishing and swimming."
    • Relaxing by the Water: Many campgrounds, like Boca Rest Campground, are located near lakes, making them perfect for a peaceful day by the water. A reviewer noted, "The lake is a great swimming temp in June, the views are gorgeous."

    What campers like:

    • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. At Gold Ranch Casino and RV Resort, one guest said, "The front desk lady was super super nice."
    • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained campgrounds are a big plus. A visitor at Donner Memorial State Park Campground mentioned, "Clean bathrooms. The showers were nice."
    • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer stunning views. A reviewer at Logger Campground said, "Gorgeous scenery."

    What you should know:

    • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways. A camper at Granite Flat noted, "The highway is really loud at night."
    • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Gold Lake 4x4 Campground lacks drinking water and showers, so plan accordingly.
    • Reservation Issues: Some campers have faced issues with reservations. A reviewer at Sparks Marina RV Park warned, "Believe the negative reviews. This campground will leave you stranded and not have a site available even if you have a reservation."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. One parent at Logger Campground said, "Great place for kids, right next to the water."
    • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. A camper at Boca Rest Campground mentioned, "The sites were spread apart enough so that you don't feel too close to neighbors."
    • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets for chilly nights. A visitor at Reno KOA at Boomtown Casino noted, "Cold nights starting in September."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Reno KOA at Boomtown Casino mentioned, "Sites are very close together and shorter."
    • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A camper at Gold Ranch Casino and RV Resort appreciated the "105-site FHU RV park."
    • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds may have limited hours for facilities. A visitor at Grand Sierra Resort & Casino RV Park noted, "Restrooms and laundry close at 5, open in the morning."

    Camping near Chilcoot, California, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or a quiet getaway. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Chilcoot, CA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chilcoot, CA is Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Chilcoot, CA?

      TheDyrt.com has all 19 dispersed camping locations near Chilcoot, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.