Dispersed camping near Downieville offers primitive sites throughout Tahoe National Forest and adjacent public lands. Located at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, the area features Sierra Nevada granite formations and mixed conifer forests. Most sites lack facilities and require self-sufficiency, with camping options concentrated along forest service roads and near alpine lakes.
What to do
Fishing at alpine lakes: Bowman Lake Dispersed provides excellent fishing opportunities in a remote setting. A camper noted, "This place was a slice of heaven, but only accessible by way of 4 x 4 with decent clearance." The lake supports a healthy fish population with trout being the primary catch.
Hiking network: Numerous trails connect camping areas to scenic vistas and additional lakes. At Loch Leven Lakes, one visitor mentioned, "We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites." These backcountry lakes require a moderately challenging hike of approximately 3.5 miles one-way.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide optimal wildlife viewing times. Campers regularly report deer sightings, with occasional black bear encounters. One visitor to Kyburz Flats described the area as having "quiet woods and fields" ideal for wildlife spotting.
What campers like
Solitude and space: The dispersed nature of sites provides privacy uncommon at developed campgrounds. As one camper at Loch Leven Lakes stated, "All the sites are very dispersed and you have so much privacy. We saw some people even camping on the boulders!"
Swimming opportunities: Grouse Ridge Campground offers access to refreshing alpine lakes. A visitor reported, "We went mid week in August and it wasn't too crowded. The views were beautiful and the water was perfect."
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from summer valley heat. One camper at Grouse Ridge noted, "It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground."
Freedom from connectivity: Most sites have limited or no cell service. This digital detox appeals to many seeking to disconnect. In Dog Valley, a camper appreciated that "there are so many places to explore that it doesn't get old."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access to many free camping sites near Downieville requires high-clearance vehicles. A camper visiting Kyburz Flats stated, "Road is rough, especially after first mile to interpretive site... Was fine in my 2wd van but have high clearance and was dry. Might be worse if muddy or low clearance vehicle."
Seasonal access limitations: Winter conditions render many sites inaccessible from November through May. At Lake Valley Road Pullout, a visitor warned, "Everything covered in snow right now... 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."
Wildfire impacts: The North Complex Fire has permanently altered the landscape and camping options. Rogers Cow Camp will not reopen, with a recent visitor reporting it is "burnt to the earth after the North Complex Fire... large dead and down trees prevent access to the campground."
Bear awareness: Proper food storage is essential. Some sites like Bowman Lake provide bear boxes, with one visitor noting, "No running water, but there are restroom buildings, fire rings and bear boxes to use."
Tips for camping with families
Lake accessibility: For families with younger children, select sites with shorter walks to water. At Big Dog Valley, campers find "really great spots for quick close camp trips" that don't require extensive hiking with gear.
Insect preparedness: Alpine lakes attract mosquitoes, particularly in early summer. Pack appropriate repellent and protective clothing. A Bowman Lake camper advised, "Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent."
Timing considerations: Mid-week visits reduce competition for prime spots. A Grouse Ridge visitor mentioned, "We went mid week in August and it wasn't too crowded," making it easier to secure family-friendly sites.
Elevation acclimatization: The higher elevation can affect children more significantly than adults. Plan for gradual acclimatization and maintain hydration. Activities may require more breaks than at lower elevations.
Tips from RVers
Site reconnaissance: Given the primitive nature of dispersed camping areas, scouting potential sites before bringing in larger vehicles is recommended. Road conditions change seasonally and after storms.
Water conservation: No hookups exist at any free camping sites near Downieville. One Bowman Lake visitor advised coming prepared with ample water supplies: "No running water, but there are restroom buildings, fire rings and bear boxes to use."
Size limitations: Most forest roads leading to dispersed sites have narrow sections with tight turns. Larger RVs should focus on established pullouts rather than remote locations. Even at established sites like Dog Valley, a camper noted the "road narrow and rocky but I have seen worse."
Leveling challenges: Mountain terrain creates naturally uneven camping spots. Bring additional leveling blocks as most sites lack prepared surfaces.
