Best Dispersed Camping near Dunlap, CA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Dunlap? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Dunlap just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Dunlap, CA (30)

    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

    2. Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

    5 Reviews
    6 Photos
    110 Saves
    Dunlap, California

    Tips and rules on dispersed camping: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd883625

    Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

    There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

    Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

    The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

    Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

    The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

    1. Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

    2. Leaving campfire unattended.

    3. Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

    4. Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

    5. Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

    6. Removing forest products without a permit.

    7. Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

    Here are some tips to appropriate dispersed camping: More information on dispersed camping here.

    1. Protect standing trees from nails and scars from axes, knives and hatchets. Use only dead and down trees for firewood.

    2. Bury human waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet from any waterway or trail. DO NOT bury toilet paper–PACK IT OUT

    3. Wash at least 200 feet away from any water source using biodegradable soap.

    4. Set up camp more than 200 feet from any waterway or trail.

    5. Take a litterbag to carry out all refuse. Do not leave trash in fire rings. Do not bury trash.

    6. A campfire permits is required to have a campfire, charcoal barbeque, or camp stove. Use existig fire grates or fire rings. Gather only dead and down firewood. Firewood may not be transported off of the Forest without a permit.

    7. Avoid leveling or digging trenches around tents. Place tent on bare ground and not on vegetation.

    8. Protect your food from the bears and other animals. Keep your food and anything with a scent stored in an airtight container in your car truck. If your vehicle has no truck, put everything on the floor, cover it well and close the windows. Always, Keep a clean campsite.

    9. LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE BETTER THAN WHEN YOU ARRIVED!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road

    4. FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road

    3 Reviews
    6 Photos
    131 Saves
    Hume, California

    Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

    There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

    Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

    The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

    Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

    The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

    1. Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

    2. Leaving campfire unattended.

    3. Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

    4. Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

    5. Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

    6. Removing forest products without a permit.

    7. Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 14S29
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 14S29
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot

    6. Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    55 Saves
    Dunlap, California

    Tips and rules on dispersed camping: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd883625

    Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

    There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

    Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

    The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

    Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

    The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

    1. Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

    2. Leaving campfire unattended.

    3. Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

    4. Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

    5. Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

    6. Removing forest products without a permit.

    7. Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

    Here are some tips to appropriate dispersed camping: More information on dispersed camping here.

    1. Protect standing trees from nails and scars from axes, knives and hatchets. Use only dead and down trees for firewood.

    2. Bury human waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet from any waterway or trail. DO NOT bury toilet paper–PACK IT OUT

    3. Wash at least 200 feet away from any water source using biodegradable soap.

    4. Set up camp more than 200 feet from any waterway or trail.

    5. Take a litterbag to carry out all refuse. Do not leave trash in fire rings. Do not bury trash.

    6. A campfire permits is required to have a campfire, charcoal barbeque, or camp stove. Use existig fire grates or fire rings. Gather only dead and down firewood. Firewood may not be transported off of the Forest without a permit.

    7. Avoid leveling or digging trenches around tents. Place tent on bare ground and not on vegetation.

    8. Protect your food from the bears and other animals. Keep your food and anything with a scent stored in an airtight container in your car truck. If your vehicle has no truck, put everything on the floor, cover it well and close the windows. Always, Keep a clean campsite.

    9. LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE BETTER THAN WHEN YOU ARRIVED!

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • No image available

      7. Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site

      1 Review
      68 Saves
      Hume, California

      Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

      There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

      Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

      The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

      Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

      The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

      Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

      Leaving campfire unattended.

      Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

      Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

      Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

      Removing forest products without a permit.

      Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • No image available
        • No image available
          • No image available
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          Showing results 1-10 of 30 campgrounds

          Recent Dispersed Reviews in Dunlap

          39 Reviews of 30 Dunlap Campgrounds


          • KThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 14S29
            Nov. 30, 2024

            Forest Rd 14S29

            Small site

            We arrived just before dark, it’s quite a small site. Room for 4 vans max, ideal for 3. We used to chocks to level up as it’s pretty uneven in parts. But a great nights sleep, we had the place to ourselves

          • KThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
            Nov. 30, 2024

            Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

            Worth the drive in

            We arrived in the dark and met one vehicle who was coming down. We were lucky there was enough room to pass plus in the dark you can see what’s coming as other reviews mention, the road in is narrow in parts and around 1 mile before you get to the camp ground. We had the place to ourselves in our campervan, there was room for a few more vehicles. Great views coming down in the morning

          • mario U.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
            Nov. 9, 2024

            Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area

            Very primitive spot but great views and free.

            I visited both parks and needed a place to sleep in my car, I had seen this spot on this site before so I looked and found it, it’s a dirt road but my matrix did fine driving through. Very close to the Chicago stump! Lots of wood laying around also.

          • GThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
            Sep. 23, 2024

            Forest Road 14S11 North Camp

            NOT Big Rig friendly

            This is a really nice area for camping on the side of the road here, but we only could've squeezed our 39ft Class A into maybe 2 of these spots.  Usually when a dispersed site is marked Big Rig Friendly, we'll find that there is a large paved or gravel area for us to pull into and setup before you get to dirt road or off-road sites. There is a large paved area at this location, but we received a warning citation the next day, stating that we weren't allowed to camp there.  It's confusing because this is the exact same setup as any other "snow play" or "sno-park" areas that have allowed camping in the gravel or paved areas area. 

            The paved area does have a couple of small stakes that say "no camping", but in our past dispersed camping experiences, those were used to mark areas where tents and vehicles couldn't pull off-road to camp.  Apparently those stakes refer to the paved area in this case?  There wasn't any reasoning provided on our citation, other than "find another area to camp."

          • renee P.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
            Jul. 15, 2024

            Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

            Tucked away from the world

            While the road to get up there is a bit nerve wracking (hoping no one comes around those corners the other direction!) It's worth taking it slow and steady. We were the only ones there and enjoyed a very peaceful night bathed in moonlight and the sounds of nature. Great place!

          • oThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
            Jun. 23, 2024

            Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area

            Perfect camping spot

            Easy to find if you turn on that road leading to Chicago stump. Keep driving down and you’ll see dispersed camping spots. Beautiful views, quiet, peaceful & there are some fire rings already built.

          • OThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
            May. 25, 2024

            Forest Road 14S11 North Camp

            Super Nice

            Very good spot to camp, there were plenty of spots and most had rings. There was also a bathroom so that was nice. Right off of the main road that goes throughout the whole park

          • JThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Independence BLM Dispersed
            May. 8, 2024

            Independence BLM Dispersed

            Completely Inaccessible - May 2024

            There are rocks blocking the turn off. If you still proceed the trail is completely washed out. No way to proceed with a trailer and you will ahem have to back down the road which is approximately zero fun.

          • hamza P.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site
            May. 4, 2024

            Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site

            Great little spot

            Secluded with very little traffic. Especially good if you're traveling with dogs to let them roam around. There's a stream and waterfall downhill that makes for great hikes.

          • LThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
            Apr. 26, 2024

            FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road

            Rally nice spot on the Sequoia National forest

            Nice big camp spot in the Sequoia National Forest, the road was really calm mid-April, we had no car during the night. The spot has firepits, a camping table and loads of bushes. The view is nice on the forest or a mountain top. We were alone but the spot is big enough for 3 or 4 véhicules, the access is just before the U turn.

          • Jan N.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 14S29
            Nov. 13, 2023

            Forest Rd 14S29

            Small, but good for one night

            Since it's offseason and the Campgrounds were closed, we quickly needed to find an alternative and were happy to stay a quiet night at this spot. There is space for maximum 4 small RVs. Large RVs should avoid this place!

          • Kristi D.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
            Oct. 24, 2023

            Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

            Private remote campsite

            I found this last minute after digging through many campspots on the north side of Sequoia National Park, but most were closed for the season. Everything else was a little bit of a drive away

            You have to get up a steep incline, right road off of the main road and the road is narrow. It was not our favorite part.

          • Pavla L.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
            Oct. 11, 2023

            Forest Road 14S11 North Camp

            Plenty of space in the forest

            We stayed here in October 2023 for two nights. There are many spaces alongside this forest road, there are lots of trees, so you feel private though there were quite many people camping alongside the road. We found our own space easily both nights. Great view on the night sky.

          • Pavla L.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
            Oct. 11, 2023

            Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area

            Fine safe spot

            We stayed here in October 2023 for our first night in the forest, we stayed at a place near the main road since we arrived late in the night. More place are further the road. It was a safe fine spot with a nice morning view over the canyon.

          • RThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
            Jun. 27, 2023

            Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

            Great little spot for a couple nights close to lots of OHV trails

            Stayed here in my 22ft RV after leaving kings canyon and sequoia checking out general Sherman and some other trees. Had my dual sport with me so after parking for first night I unloaded and the next day I road all over the trails. The coolest thing was the fire tower calledDelilah lookout. Highly recommend! Great place for a 2 night stay especially if you have a dirtbike/enduro

          • therealquaid D.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
            Nov. 11, 2022

            Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

            Nice spot with reception

            This spot is flat, large (fits 2 big rigs at least) and has T-mobile and Verizon reception. In a 2 week period I did have some hunters come by and start shooting very close to the RV but other than that everyone just passes by on the road towards Millwood OHV.

            To get here make a right when you get to an intersection pointing towards sequoia lake. This spot is the last turnout wide enough for big rigs afterwards the road gets too narrow.

          • therealquaid D.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
            Nov. 11, 2022

            Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot

            Free camping away from hunters

            I’ve camped here for 14 days on two different occasions. It’s very private other than the manager for the Armenian Camp who comes up and down the road everyday, a few more campers on the weekend.

            Heads up to warm afternoons as they get a lot of flies.

            Follow signs to the Armenian Campground, the road is fully paved and the campground keeps snow off the entrance forest road in the winter. Big rigs can make it okay. I’ve actually seen a semi drive down this spot.

            We had 2 bars of Verizon and intermittent T-Mobile signal. The nearest dump station is at Sequoia RV Park in Dunlap, you just drop $20 in their box and use any available site they have.

          • Y
            Camper-submitted photo from Independence BLM Dispersed
            Oct. 7, 2022

            Independence BLM Dispersed

            Amazing view but place is super rough

            Amazing view, but the campground is gone, few spots are all ultra rough except a couple space you can squeeze in. Very rough and totally unmaintained.


          Drive Time


          Guide to Dunlap

          Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Dunlap, California, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

          Dispersed campers should check out Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area

          • Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area provides easy access to beautiful views and peaceful surroundings, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
          • Campers have noted the presence of fire rings, which adds to the convenience of enjoying a cozy campfire under the stars.
          • With no permit required and pets allowed, this spot is ideal for families and furry friends alike.

          Scenic views for dispersed campers at Sequoia Forest Hunting Area

          • Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597 is tucked away from the crowds, offering a serene environment for those seeking solitude.
          • The road leading to this spot can be a bit challenging, but the breathtaking views and peaceful nights make the journey worthwhile.
          • Campers have enjoyed the proximity to OHV trails, making it a great base for outdoor adventures.

          Top activities while free camping near Dunlap at Forest Road 14S11 North Camp

          • Forest Road 14S11 North Camp is known for its ample space and numerous fire pits, perfect for gathering around with friends and family.
          • Campers have reported a great view of the night sky, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
          • The presence of a bathroom adds a level of convenience that many appreciate while enjoying the outdoors.

          Frequently Asked Questions

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

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Dunlap, CA is Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area with a 3.8-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

            TheDyrt.com has all 30 dispersed camping locations near Dunlap, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.