Best Dispersed Camping near Coloma, CA

Dispersed camping opportunities in the Sierra Nevada foothills near Coloma, California include several primitive sites on U.S. Forest Service land within El Dorado National Forest and surrounding areas. Free backcountry camping can be found at Union Valley Reservoir, along the Mormon Emigrant Trail, and near Silver Fork River. These sites typically feature minimal development with no established facilities. El Dorado National Forest contains numerous pull-off areas that accommodate tent and RV camping in primitive settings, particularly along Forest Service roads where campers can find established but rustic sites.

Access to many dispersed camping areas requires careful planning due to variable road conditions. Several sites near Union Valley Reservoir have dirt access routes that may become difficult during wet weather. The Mormon Emigrant Trail pull-off offers big-rig friendly access, while sites like Independence Hill feature rougher approaches. A camper noted, "The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying—especially in the dark," highlighting the need for caution on some routes. Most areas permit camping for up to 14 days, though seasonal fire restrictions are common during summer and fall. Almost all sites lack drinking water, toilets, and trash service, requiring visitors to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

The dispersed camping experience around Coloma provides opportunities for solitude and natural settings. Silver Fork sites offer creek or river proximity, with one reviewer mentioning, "We found a great spot about 4 miles before Silver Fork campground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring." Iron Mountain Dispersed camping features views from higher elevations around 7,500 feet, with abandoned ski lifts creating an unusual backdrop. Highway noise can sometimes be heard at certain sites, though most remain relatively peaceful. Many areas show evidence of prior wildfire activity, particularly near Silver Fork where the Caldor Fire impact is visible. Cell reception varies significantly by location and carrier, with most sites offering limited or no connectivity.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Coloma, California (19)

    1. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2324

    "Pulled off Union valley road and set up camp with our Rooftop tent. Little cold up here in November but made for some great pre-snowfall camping!"

    "Luckily there is a lot of Dispersed camping all the way around the lake! So beautiful, and the lake is really warm in the summer"

    3. Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    2 Reviews
    Grizzly Flats, CA
    26 miles

    "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."

    4. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 622-5061

    "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."

    5. Iron MT. Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Eldorado National Forest, CA
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 324-4442

    "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."

    6. Loch Leven Lakes

    4 Reviews
    Norden, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 265-4531

    "We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites."

    "We took Salmon lake trailhead which is shorter trail."

    7. Silver Fork River Camping

    1 Review
    Kyburz, CA
    35 miles

    "We were at another location up the road that was listed on Dyrt and the Forest Service Fire Team came up and started talking and they suggested this site and its awesome."

    8. Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    3 Reviews
    Emigrant Gap, CA
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 587-3558

    "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."

    9. Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Twin Bridges, CA
    40 miles
    Website

    "Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!"

    "Great location. Not sure it would be a good location if it's been raining. May hear the occasional road noise"

    10. Grouse Ridge Campground

    3 Reviews
    Emigrant Gap, CA
    43 miles
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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Coloma, CA

48 Reviews of 19 Coloma Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    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:

    1. 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
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.
  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Echo 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

  • Tim R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    Standard Dispersed Camping

    Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!

  • Raymond B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2024

    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!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Azizah T.The Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • Michael S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2022

    Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    Peaceful spot

    Great spot for a tent or small trailer. 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. 2 bars LTE of Verizon.

  • Damien M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2023

    Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    Fun Spot

    Super fun spot went in September. Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded but still a good spot.

  • Emily C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 20, 2025

    Independence Hill Dispersed

    horrible road up, cool historic town

    The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying- especially in the dark. We camped in our 4runner as we got there when it was dark and there was so much glass and shell casings everywhere from what seems to be a local shooting area. the town nearby is a bit eerie but fun to explore. it worked for one night! No amenities, but a bathroom and paid campsite down the rugged road so come with everything you need. Hike nearby with waterfall is beautiful


Guide to Coloma

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Coloma, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

  • This location allows for easy access with plenty of spaces for setting up camp, although visitors have noted some litter in the area. Check it out here.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of fires and the ability to bring alcohol, making it a great spot for a relaxed getaway.
  • While it’s not big rig friendly, it accommodates both tents and RVs, providing options for different camping styles.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Coloma, California

  • The Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off offers a spacious area with stunning views, perfect for those looking to enjoy peaceful surroundings without any fees.
  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities; this area is completely free and requires campers to come fully equipped for their stay.
  • Weekdays are ideal for visiting, as the area tends to be less crowded, allowing for a more tranquil experience.

Scenic views for dispersed campers at USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

  • Located not far from the main road, USFS Silver Fork Dispersed provides a spacious area with various site options, making it easy to find the perfect spot.
  • This site is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
  • Campers have reported beautiful surroundings and the convenience of a nearby gas station for any last-minute supplies, enhancing the overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Coloma, CA?

Free dispersed camping can be found in the El Dorado National Forest near Coloma. Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed offers standard dispersed camping on national forest land with paved main roads and dirt roads branching off to camping areas. Some spots provide beautiful views of Strawberry Valley. Another option is Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off, which features large pull-off areas with amazing sunset and sunrise views. The site has a few level spots and can accommodate multiple vehicles. Remember that dispersed camping follows Forest Service regulations including a typical 14-day stay limit.

Are there any free tent camping options in Coloma?

Yes, there are several free tent camping options near Coloma. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed offers spacious areas with numerous primitive roads to explore and find camp. Some spots provide 360° views with stunning sunrises and sunsets. For a more adventurous option, Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed provides great spots for tent camping, though the dirt road has ruts and potholes. Despite the rough access, it's manageable even in smaller vehicles. Be prepared for occasional noise from nearby activities like dirt bikes or target practice, but these typically don't last long.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites in Coloma?

Dispersed camping sites around Coloma are primitive with minimal to no amenities. At Silver Fork River Camping, you'll find established sites with river access but no facilities. Similarly, Bowman Lake Dispersed offers beautiful lakeside camping but requires traveling a rough road and has no services or cell coverage. Most dispersed sites in the area follow true primitive camping principles - no toilets, running water, trash service, or hookups. Pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Some areas have enough cell service for basic communication (Verizon reported 2 bars LTE at some locations), but connectivity varies greatly by location and carrier.