Best Dispersed Camping near Cool, CA
Planning a dispersed camping trip near Cool? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Cool, CA (12)
1. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
Kyburz, California5 Reviews•10 Photos•219 SavesIf you like to camp away from it all, but you prefer to drive there in your car, the National Forests have just what you are looking for. Most of the land in the National Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Visitors can camp just about anywhere in the national forest, unless specifically prohibited*. Maps and staff are available at most 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: Maximum stay limit for camping outside of a developed campground is 10 days per district/per calendar year. Please remove all your equipment and garbage when you leave.
Water Quality: It is best to bring your own water. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated.
Human Waste: Proper disposal of human waste is important. Leaving human waste in dispersed camping areas can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a camping area. 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 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
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
2. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Kyburz, California6 Reviews•27 Photos•223 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
3. Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
Grizzly Flats, California1 Review•1 Photo•3 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
4. 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
5. 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. Iron MT. Dispersed
Eldorado National Forest, California6 Reviews•20 Photos•357 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- WiFi
- Alcohol
7. Grouse Ridge Campground
Emigrant Gap, California2 Reviews•4 Photos•74 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
8. Independence Hill Dispersed
Be the first to review!Gold Run, California- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Bowman Lake Dispersed
Sierra City, California2 Reviews•13 Photos•43 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
10. 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 Cool
31 Reviews of 12 Cool Campgrounds
Tim R.
Guide
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!
- OOnyx E.Guide
Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
Large dirt pull off
Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! 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. A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around. Completely free and peaceful but 0 amenities so come prepared. Currently there is an abandoned red semi truck cab so it’s easy to find not sure if that will ever be moved in the future though!
- SShawn 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.
- Raymond B.Traveler
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!
- 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
- BBlair K.Traveler
Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
It was okay
Pretty easy to get to and lots of spaces for dispersed sites. There was trash EVERYWHERE. Broken glass, toilet trash, bottles and cans, we were really disappointed. We found a spot pretty hidden which was rad but someone was shooting litteraly all night long which was frustrating. We probably won’t come back.
- BBlair K.Traveler
USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Great spot
Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring. Easy road to get out there.
- DDanny R.Scout
Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed
Dispersed camping
Great location. Not sure it would be a good location if it's been raining. May hear the occasional road noise
- 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.
A S.ScoutUnion Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
It's a paid site now.
Can't even park and enjoy the view without getting harassed by the overweight goon they call a "camp host". $10 day fee? Naw. Been coming here for years FOR FREE. Not paying now.
- Verna T.Traveler
Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
My Favorite Place to camp
I always have a great experience camping here. Not too many people in between seasons. Summer time is not bad
Orion B.TravelerUSFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Beautiful free camping is a real thing!
My 9 yr old son wanted to try camping in or near the snow, and the weather was favorable on this December weekend (high 56, low 39). We are pretty new to camping and not hardcore, but this was very easy and comfortable. We camped right at the entrance because nobody was there and there was plenty of flat area. Easily accessible on paved roads. Spotted a rock climber on the nearby rock face when we arrived, who later came by to pick up his car he had parked there.
Caldor Fire damage was evident everywhere, but this made it easy for my son to chop down a small dead tree that we used for firewood. It was breezy, which made it chillier than the temps indicated, but we were fine and very toasty once in our tent cots.
We found a few beer bottles around (which we took home to recycle), and small amounts of building waste such as concrete. But overall the setting was peaceful and beautiful. Amazing to have a resource like this that's free. We brought a privacy shelter and portable camp toilet, and our own water. Those are really the only things you need that would normally be provided by a paid campsite.
- AAlexTraveler
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:
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Jakey and Alex L.Guide
Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed
Beautiful, but a hard drive in
The road in is paved until you reach the real spot where you can actually set up camp. It is VERY rocky and looks like it’s pretty beaten up by Off Road Vehicles.
If you have a Trailer or RV this is NOT the place to go. There is another spot down the road that is better.
Forecast said no rain… it rained. Woke up this morning to 4inches of snow! It was majestic.
- Jakey and Alex L.Guide
Granite 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
Callie C.GuideUSFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Location possibly pinned incorrectly
Showed up to pinned spot around 3pm and saw zero people. It was basically just a road to what I think was a state park? There were multiple spots off to the side where ppl had previously parked/camped w/ fire pits. But I did not feel comfortable pulling off…No service, it was rainy, and not sure how my vehicle would hold up. If planning to visit I would look to see if you need forest permit.
Serena W.TravelerUSFS Silver Fork Dispersed
Dispersed camping
Plenty of dispersed camping spots. My flat spot that I found not too far from a Creek and I even had 2 bars on my cell phone and watch the movie.
- TTed T.Guide
Iron MT. Dispersed
Covered in snow
The site was covered in snow, and there was a sign saying no camping in snow clearing conditions. Additionally you aren’t allowed in without a Sno-park permit from November 1st to may 31st.
For those that can get it, I had no service with Verizon or t-mobile
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.
Raven P.GuideIron MT. Dispersed
Gorgeous Views!
Stayed at this location when there was about a foot of snow on the ground, so I didn't feel comfortable driving into the actual camping area, instead I stayed over night on the paved round about. Nice and quite and woke up to gorgeous views! It looks like they are cutting down trees in the area that you would camp at so there are big piles of logs everywhere.
Good place to hike around, I could see this place being perfect for the summer!
- MMattTraveler
Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
There’s nothing here
It’s just the boat launch. Perhaps u can get away with hanging out, not sure. The access to the dispersed camping, in the hill overlooking the water, is gated and locked.
There seem to be plenty of spots to use enroute to the water, just not at the location.
- RRoger L.Traveler
Loch Leven Lakes
Loch Leven lake
We took Salmon lake trailhead which is shorter trail.
Christopher N.TravelerIron MT. Dispersed
Perfect overnight spot
Great place to get off the road and sleep for the night.
Nick M.TravelerUnion Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
Great dispersed camping with lake view
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!
Guide to Cool
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cool, California, where nature meets adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom to explore stunning landscapes while embracing the great outdoors.
Scenic Views and Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers
- Experience breathtaking vistas at Grouse Ridge Campground, where you can hike to nearby lakes and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- The Loch Leven Lakes area offers a variety of hiking trails leading to serene lakes, perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.
- For those seeking solitude, Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off provides ample space to set up camp while enjoying stunning sunsets and sunrises.
Fishing and Water Activities While Free Camping Near Cool
- The Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping area is ideal for fishing enthusiasts, with plenty of spots to cast a line and enjoy the peaceful waters.
- At Bowman Lake Dispersed, you can enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake, making it a perfect spot for water activities.
- The picturesque setting of Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed allows for swimming and relaxing by the water, providing a refreshing escape during hot summer days.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Cool, California
- Always practice Leave No Trace principles at locations like USFS Silver Fork Dispersed to keep the area pristine for future visitors.
- Be prepared for limited amenities at Lake Valley Rd Pullout, as it lacks drinking water and restrooms, so bring everything you need.
- Check road conditions before heading to Iron MT. Dispersed, as some routes may require a high-clearance vehicle, especially after rain or snow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cool, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cool, CA is Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping with a 3-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cool, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Cool, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.