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Best Dispersed Camping near Dunsmuir, CA

34 Reviews

Several dispersed camping areas surround Mount Shasta near Dunsmuir, California, with Castle Lake offering the most options. This free camping area features multiple pull-off sites along dirt roads with views of Mount Shasta. The access road requires careful navigation, as one visitor noted "the turn off is about a mile after coordinates listed" and another mentioned it being "bumpy for a regular sedan." Most sites accommodate tents and small vehicles, while larger rigs and trailers may struggle with limited turnaround space.

Bunny Flat and Red Fir provide alternative free camping spots on national forest land. Red Fir offers flat, shaded sites scattered among trees, approximately 25 yards apart, with enough room for vehicles up to 21 feet. Sand Flat and Upper Sand Flat areas are accessible via Everett Highway, though visitors report the forest service road becomes snow-covered and impassable during winter months. No amenities exist at any of these locations - all are primitive backcountry sites requiring visitors to pack in water and pack out waste. Fire restrictions commonly apply during summer and fall months.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Dunsmuir, California (17)

    1. Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta

    9 Reviews
    Mount Shasta, CA
    6 miles

    "Really easy trail was about a mile past the coordinates on google map but it’s a very obvious dirt road. Stayed at the 5th site in which is spacious and has a few paths for small hikes."

    "It’s a dirt road but not bad at all. You have to keep going pasta where it takes you on google maps until you see a dirt road turnoff on the right."

    2. Castle Lake Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Dunsmuir, CA
    6 miles

    "This spot is great, plenty of space, quiet, great views of Mount Shasta, easy to access."

    "High and dry. Great view of Shasta Mtn. 8 campers here in mid May. All 2 wheel low clearance accessible. 8 or more still available for higher clearance vehicle. T-Mobile reception good."

    3. red fir campground

    3 Reviews
    Mount Shasta, CA
    8 miles

    "Just across the street from the red fir group campground, there is a good area among the trees for dispersed camping. No facilities or running water. Pretty flat spots scattered around between trees."

    "Pull in and park / camp… flat space to park or set up a tent. No services but they have outhouses about a mile up the road. No reservations or assigned spots. Quiet and comfortable. I will be back."

    4. Sand Flat Wild Camping

    4 Reviews
    Mount Shasta, CA
    8 miles

    "We couldn’t get more than a quarter mile up the very rocky forest service road. The road is completely snow covered. Two others had the same problem."

    "Spent one night here and decided to move locations."

    5. Mt. Shasta Area

    2 Reviews
    Castella, CA
    9 miles

    "Winter time really is its best time but beware and plan ahead, a lot of the camp sites are closed in that time of year!"

    "Shasta is breathtaking pictures can’t do it justice A place to experience lakes streams hiking camping boating snow sports water sports the great outdoors !!"

    6. bunny flat dispersed

    1 Review
    Mount Shasta, CA
    8 miles

    "Close to mt Shasta. Lots of other people here. Road is rough, don't recommend a super low clearance vechile"

    7. Upper Sand Flat

    1 Review
    Mount Shasta, CA
    8 miles

    8. Mount Shasta Nordic Center

    Be the first to review!
    Mount Shasta, CA
    6 miles

    9. Dispersed near Lake Shastina

    1 Review
    Weed, CA
    20 miles

    10. Mt Shasta Clear Creek Route Dispersed Camping

    Be the first to review!
    Mount Shasta, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 226-2500
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Dunsmuir, CA

18 Photos of 17 Dunsmuir Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Dunsmuir, CA

34 Reviews of 17 Dunsmuir Campgrounds

  • Victoria B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2025

    Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta

    Serene Escape

    Really easy trail was about a mile past the coordinates on google map but it’s a very obvious dirt road. Stayed at the 5th site in which is spacious and has a few paths for small hikes.

  • Grace A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta

    Close to the lake. Beware of bugs

    Overall good stay. I don’t think you can do fires right now and there wasn’t too many options of where to stay, but we ended up finding a spot that fit 2 SUVs. It’s a dirt road but not bad at all. You have to keep going pasta where it takes you on google maps until you see a dirt road turnoff on the right. It was pretty hot at night, and a bunch of bugs so keep that in mind. There was plenty of shade at the spot we found. It was a like 10 minute drive to the lake which is what makes this spot so worth it!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 3, 2025

    Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta

    Perfect campsite!

    Great campsite! Will be bumpy for a regular sedan but we did see a Prius roll by. There a 3-5 sites along the road and very spread apart. We did not hear any other campers even though there were at least 2 nearby. Google will try to get you to the coordinates but doesn’t know about the existence of the final dirt road to get you there. So it gets you to a point and then expects you to walk across a small ravine. But as the other reviewers stated, keep going on the road keeping in mind that you are trying to get to exact coordinates listed which are accurate. See one of my pics. Google has you stop at the red X, but keep going along the blue path drawn.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 21, 2021

    Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed

    At Least It’s Free

    We thought this might be a nice place to stay the night or even longer, but next time if we need a place to sleep we’ll just find one of the turnouts off of Hwy 299. I could see this being a good place for people who live locally to come and hang out in nature by the creek for a few days, but this isn’t a place I’d recommend as a destination. There is so much dead brush and cut trees all over the place here, possibly from cleanup after a fire?  Would recommend larger rigs avoid this area due to the number of low hanging tree branches.

    Also, this is a popular shooting area because we saw a ton of ammunition casings as well as broken glass and clay pigeons and other items used for target practice. Oh, and we heard a bunch of gunshots in the middle of the night.

    Once you enter the BLM land area, you will cross a narrow one lane bridge. From there you can go left, through a narrow and brush and low-hanging-tree-limbed gravel road (larger rigs beware) to a small clearing at the end which is large enough for a group, but too small for more than one party to feel comfortable there. 

    If you turn right from the bridge you have a long road for a few miles along the creek. This road is at times narrow and bumpy with low hanging limbs, and at times wide and smooth and easy to drive. Along this road are several unmarked, undeveloped, and completely unmaintained clearings where you can camp. There are no fire pits or any other indication that it’s a camp site (which is a good thing because per the info board fires aren't allowed). We did pass one trailer that appears to be residing here permanently. 

    The public road eventually dead ends about 2 miles in and turns into private property, at which point there’s a large-ish space where you can turn around. 

    Zero cell service, though the WeBoost gave the Verizon phone a couple of weak bars. The T-Mobile hotspot and the ATT cell phone were not improved by the WeBoost.

  • Regina L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta

    Beautiful Forest

    It was my husband and I's first time trying dispersed camping, and this was beautiful. We really enjoyed the location. It was one way in 1 way out. So we felt safe. The only issue we had was there were a lot of bugs, but I believe that is due to the time of year. Would definitely stay here again. Few small spots at beginning of dirt road and then a few larger further down. Surrounded by dense forest.

  • George B.
    Jun. 19, 2018

    Mt. Shasta Area

    A mountain that soars above

    Mt. Shasta is a place that’s beautiful from every angle. If you’re on the road or on the mountain all it does is takes your breath away.

    Stay where it’s more comfortable for you but at least go and stay and see this beauty!

    Winter time really is its best time but beware and plan ahead, a lot of the camp sites are closed in that time of year!

  • Ryan Z.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    North Trinity Lake

    Not accessible

    The coordinates and GPS lead to a random part of the highway surrounded by hills. Not real or inaccessible in vehicle, lake may be dried up.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 7, 2020

    North Trinity Lake

    Gorgeous Lakeside Camping

    This is disbursed lakeside camping with no facilities.

  • Karen T.
    May. 24, 2021

    North Trinity Lake

    a lovely area

    • dispersed camping
    • no amenities
    • a beautiful open field with the woods in the back and Trinity lake in the front
    • you could camp in the open field or in the woods

Guide to Dunsmuir

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Dunsmuir, California, where nature's tranquility awaits. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Breathtaking Views at Mt. Shasta Area for Dispersed Campers

  • The Mt. Shasta Area offers spacious spots surrounded by breathtaking scenery, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Visitors rave about the stunning views of Mt. Shasta, which provide a picturesque backdrop for camping, hiking, and photography.
  • This location features essential amenities like drinking water and sanitary dumps, ensuring a comfortable stay while enjoying the great outdoors.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Castle Lake Campground

  • Nestled near Castle Lake, this area is known for its peaceful surroundings and beautiful views of the lake and mountains.
  • While it lacks some amenities, the natural beauty and tranquility make it a great spot for those looking to connect with nature.
  • Be prepared for seasonal access issues, as snow can block some areas, but the stunning scenery is worth the visit.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Dunsmuir, California: Sand Flat Wild Camping

  • This site is perfect for those seeking a more rugged experience, with no permits required and a chance to enjoy the wilderness.
  • Access can be challenging during certain times of the year, so check road conditions before heading out to avoid disappointment.
  • The area is known for its natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate solitude and the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping sites near Dunsmuir, CA?

Several dispersed camping options exist near Dunsmuir. Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta is a popular choice, accessed via a dirt road about a mile past where Google Maps coordinates indicate. This area offers 3-5 well-spaced sites that can accommodate multiple vehicles. Another option is Red Fir Campground, which has dispersed camping across from the group campground with flat spots scattered among trees, suitable for vehicles up to 21-foot campervans. Look for obvious dirt road turnoffs when searching for these sites, as GPS coordinates may not always be accurate. Most sites are accessible by regular vehicles, though high-clearance is preferable for some areas.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping around Dunsmuir, CA?

Dispersed camping around Dunsmuir follows standard Forest Service regulations. At Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed, camping is permitted on public land, but seasonal fire restrictions apply—especially during summer and fall when campfires may be prohibited entirely. The Mt. Shasta Area follows a typical 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period. Most dispersed sites require campers to pack out all trash and human waste. No permits are generally required for dispersed camping, but staying within established sites is strongly encouraged to minimize environmental impact. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as these change throughout the season based on conditions.

What amenities can I expect at dispersed camping areas near Dunsmuir?

Dispersed camping areas near Dunsmuir are truly primitive with minimal to no amenities. At North Trinity Lake, you'll find lakeside camping with no facilities—just beautiful open fields backed by woods with the lake in front. Similarly, the dispersed area at Castle Lake Dispersed Camping offers no running water or facilities. These sites are characteristic of true dispersed camping: no toilets, no trash service, no picnic tables, no fire rings (although some may have informal fire spots), and absolutely no water sources. You must bring everything you need, including water, and pack out all waste. The trade-off is privacy, natural settings, and typically no fees. Cell service is often limited or non-existent.

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