Best Dispersed Camping near Duncans Mills, CA
BLM Sheldon Creek provides free dispersed camping north of Duncans Mills, accessed via a winding dirt and gravel road. The site features a few primitive spots with picnic tables, fire pits, and a vault toilet. Most vehicles can handle the journey, though trailers and large RVs are not recommended due to limited turning space and rough terrain. A small creek runs through the area, offering a water source that requires treatment before use.
Several other dispersed options exist in the region, including Cow Mountain Recreation Area near Lakeport and Lakeview Dispersed Campground. Lakeview sits on high ground with Clear Lake views, but requires navigating steep, dusty roads that become challenging during wet conditions. As a visitor commented, "The road is extremely narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff. There is no way to turn around once you start up it." Sites typically feature user-built fire rings, and the area can experience high winds. Most dispersed camping in this region has no services, so visitors must bring all supplies and follow strict pack-out practices.
