Best Dispersed Camping near Clio, CA

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Clio, look no further. Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Clio, including photos, reviews, and tips. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Clio, CA (24)

    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
    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 Grouse Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground

    3. Grouse Ridge Campground

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    74 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley

    4. Big Dog Valley

    4 Reviews
    16 Photos
    95 Saves
    Verdi, Nevada

    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
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    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

    5. Loch Leven Lakes

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    110 Saves
    Norden, California

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    6. Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    53 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California

    Most 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
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        Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
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        Showing results 1-10 of 24 campgrounds

        Recent Dispersed Reviews in Clio

        27 Reviews of 24 Clio Campgrounds


        • 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.The Dyrt PRO User
          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.

        • 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.

        • MThe Dyrt PRO User
          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.The Dyrt PRO User
          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.The Dyrt PRO User
          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.

        • Ray R.The Dyrt PRO User
          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.The Dyrt PRO User
          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.The Dyrt PRO User
          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 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.The Dyrt PRO User
          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.

        • Daisee Mae S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from CA-139 Pull Off Area
          Oct. 25, 2022

          CA-139 Pull Off Area

          Somewhere to Rest

          This is literally right off the highway, it might be hard to spot unless someone else is there.

          The roads to the spots are a little rutted, no low profile vehicles, but it’s easy to access.

          There is no name to this place, and the bulletin board has zero information.

          Possibly 5-6 spaces. The most people that was here any given night were just stopping for a place to rest for the night.

          No bathrooms, trash or water. One of the locals said there is a junk yard you can walk to from here but we never found it.

          Traffic noise dies down around 10/11PM. Unless the occasional driver is honking at absolutely nothing, it’s pretty quiet.

          We heard gunshots around 9PM that lasted for about an hour. Seems the people around here hunt at night.

          Definitely just a place to rest or gather yourself for a couple of days. I’m not sure about the amount of time you can stay here. But hey, it’s free!

        • Azizah T.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
          Sep. 21, 2021

          Loch 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!

        • Joey P.
          Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley
          Oct. 9, 2018

          Big Dog Valley

          Might be in the process of being decommissioned

          Rudimentary campsites, no fire rings or tables at any of the campsites. The cement pullouts are still there. I’ve been up in that area a lot in the past three years and the gate that is at the opening is open sometimes and closed and locked at other times. Not really sure what’s going on with the site. On a brighter note the snowflowers were going off earlier this season!

        • Jake H.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Big Dog Valley
          Aug. 10, 2018

          Big Dog Valley

          Quick Escape

          Dog Valley is my favorite quick escape from town. There are so many places to explore that it doesn't get old.


        Drive Time


        Guide to Clio

        Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Clio, California, where nature's tranquility awaits. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

        Tips for free and dispersed camping near Clio, California

        • Be prepared for rough roads when heading to places like Bowman Lake Dispersed, as the journey can be challenging but rewarding with breathtaking views.
        • Always carry your own water and supplies, as many spots, including Grouse Ridge Campground, do not offer drinking water or trash disposal.
        • Keep an eye out for wildlife and be cautious of mosquitoes, especially in areas like Dog Valley, where they can be abundant during warmer months.

        Scenic lakes for dispersed campers

        • The picturesque Loch Leven Lakes offers serene camping spots with stunning views, perfect for those who enjoy hiking and fishing.
        • For a more secluded experience, consider Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp, where you can find privacy and beautiful natural surroundings.
        • The tranquil waters of Snag Lake Campground provide a peaceful backdrop for fishing and relaxing by the shore.

        Outdoor activities while free camping near Clio

        • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails leading to Three Cornered Meadow, where you can explore the stunning landscape and enjoy the solitude.
        • For those interested in off-roading, the Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area is an excellent choice, offering trails and open spaces for adventure.
        • Fishing is a popular activity at Bowman Lake Dispersed, where anglers can enjoy a day on the water surrounded by beautiful scenery.

        Frequently Asked Questions

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

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Clio, CA is Bowman Lake Dispersed with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

          TheDyrt.com has all 24 dispersed camping locations near Clio, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.