Best Dispersed Camping near Eastman Lake in California

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Eastman Lake, look no further. Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your California excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Eastman Lake (35)

    Robert's photo of a dispersed camping area at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site near Fish Camp, CA

    1. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    29 Reviews
    51 Photos
    1094 Saves
    Fish Camp, California

    Dispersed Camping is allowed in the National Forest except in the area surrounding Huntington Lake, Shaver Lake, Bass Lake, Redinger Lake, and the Merced River Canyon. Campfire permits are required at all times whenever you plan to have a fire on public land outside of a developed campground. When building a fire please remember to only pick up down and dead wood that is no larger than wrist size and to never leave a campfire unattended.

    You can obtain a campfire permit at any Forest office or online at http://www.prevetnwildfireca.org/. Be sure to check and see if campfire restrictions are in effect, when campfire restrictions are in place you will not be able to make a fire in dispersed camping areas (Developed Designated Campgrounds Only) but, you will be able to operate gas stoves, and lanterns with your permit.

    When camping in the Forest proper food storage is also required either using a bear box, or by the proper use of the counter balance method. While camping anywhere in the forest also keep in mind that there are other people in the forest and we advise you to respect them and their space.

    You may stay at one campsite for a limit of 14 days and you may stay on each district for a limit of 21 days before we will ask you to vacate. Please follow ENVUM maps for all designated roads and vehicle limitations.

    We ask you to always remember to pack out what you pack in. Human waste needs to be buried 6 to 8 inches deep. For any other questions about visiting and camping in the forest and in the wilderness please visit LeaveNoTrace.org.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    miranda's photo of a dispersed camping area at Hardin Flat Road near Eastman Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hardin Flat Road near Eastman Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hardin Flat Road near Eastman Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hardin Flat Road near Eastman Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hardin Flat Road near Eastman Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hardin Flat Road near Eastman Lake, CA

    2. Hardin Flat Road

    12 Reviews
    44 Photos
    355 Saves
    Eastman Lake, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Megan A.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping near Fish Camp, CA

    3. Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    15 Photos
    656 Saves
    Fish Camp, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping near Eastman Lake, CA

    4. Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

    1 Review
    83 Saves
    Eastman Lake, California
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Tent Cabin
    Tucker B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed near Bridgeport, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed near Bridgeport, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed near Bridgeport, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed near Bridgeport, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed near Bridgeport, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed near Bridgeport, CA

    5. Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    50 Photos
    921 Saves
    Bridgeport, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Matt S.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park near Yosemite Valley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park near Yosemite Valley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park near Yosemite Valley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park near Yosemite Valley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park near Yosemite Valley, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park near Yosemite Valley, CA

    6. Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

    1 Review
    11 Photos
    52 Saves
    Yosemite Valley, California

    A wilderness permit is required year-round for backpacking, overnight climbing, or any other overnight stay in the Yosemite Wilderness. A wilderness permit is not required for day hikes (unless hiking to Half Dome) or for staying in lodging facilities and frontcountry campgrounds.

    Wilderness permits are only issued to a limited number people for each trailhead in order to provide outstanding opportunities for solitude, as required by the Wilderness Act. Since many trails are very popular, reservations are recommended. Of each daily quota for a trailhead, 60 percent can be reserved ahead of time. Normally, 40 percent of wilderness permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis at park wilderness centers.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed

    $5 - $10 / night

    Jared E.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Mono Lake South Dispersed near Lee Vining, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mono Lake South Dispersed near Lee Vining, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mono Lake South Dispersed near Lee Vining, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mono Lake South Dispersed near Lee Vining, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mono Lake South Dispersed near Lee Vining, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mono Lake South Dispersed near Lee Vining, CA

    7. Mono Lake South Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    35 Photos
    617 Saves
    Lee Vining, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Daniel S.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping near June Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping near June Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping near June Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping near June Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping near June Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping near June Lake, CA

    8. Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    34 Photos
    763 Saves
    June Lake, California

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services, such as trash removal, tables, or toilets. There are extra responsibilites and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    Most of the land in Inyo and Mono counties is publicly owned. Dispersed camping (camping outside of designated campgrounds) is allowed throughout much of the area. If you plan to backpack into a wilderness area to camp, you will need a wilderness permit, issued at Inyo National Forest visitor centers. If you wish to camp outside of developed campgrounds/sites, there are a few things you need to know:

    Land Ownership: The three major land-owning agencies in the Eastern Sierra are the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the City of Los Angeles. Dispersed camping is allowed on most Forest Service and BLM land. However, camping is prohibited on land owned by the City of Los Angeles.

    Maps: Anyone planning a dispersed camping trip should invest in a copy of the Inyo National Forest map, which depicts land ownership as well as roads, streams, trails and other features. The map also shows “restricted use areas” where dispersed camping is not allowed.

    Restricted Use Areas: Certain high-use recreation zones, including those along paved roads leading into the mountains, are not open to dispersed camping (see Inyo National Forest map). Dispersed camping is not allowed in the following areas: Horseshoe Meadow, Onion Valley, Big Pine Creek, Bishop Creek, Rock Creek, McGee Creek, Convict Lake, Mammoth Lakes, Reds Meadow Valley, June Lakes Loop, Lee Vining Canyon, Lundy Canyon, Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, and any research area.

    Owens River: All land along the Owens River is owned by the City of Los Angeles, and is closed to camping.

    Length of Stay: On Inyo National Forest land, you may camp up to 28 days per six months on any one ranger district (there are 4 ranger districts on the Inyo –Mt. Whitney, White Mountain, Mammoth, and Mono Lake). Always check with your local ranger station.

    Locating a Dispersed Campsite: Look for an area at the end of a spur road or a pullout that is clear of vegetation and has a hard, compacted surface. These sites might have a primitive fire ring. Stay on established roadways; do not drive off-road to camp. Try to select a campsite at least 100 feet from lakes and streams.

    Campfires and Fire Permits: If you plan to build a campfire or use a barbeque or camp stove, you must obtain a campfire permit from a Forest Service, BLM, or CalFire office. You must have a shovel and a container of water (for drowning the fire). Clear an area least 5 feet wide all the way around your fire ring down to mineral soil. During times of high fire danger, camp fires are prohibited; always check with the local fire office or ranger station for fire restrictions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Leavitt Lake near Bridgeport, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Leavitt Lake near Bridgeport, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Leavitt Lake near Bridgeport, CA

    9. Leavitt Lake

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    129 Saves
    Bridgeport, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Kamook Staging Camp near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kamook Staging Camp near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kamook Staging Camp near Fish Camp, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Kamook Staging Camp near Fish Camp, CA

    10. Kamook Staging Camp

    3 Reviews
    5 Photos
    31 Saves
    Fish Camp, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
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Showing results 1-10 of 35 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Eastman Lake

157 Reviews of 35 Eastman Lake Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Nov. 30, 2024

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Ideal

    Quite a large level area, though it was November and not peak season so there were loads of space. We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles and we parked with loads of space between. When we left early in the morning a handful more of vehicles had joined.

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Nov. 9, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Dispersed Camping MINUTES from Yosemite NP

    Spent (2) nights here and loved it. Enough T-Mobile service for messaging and lite web browsing. Spacious pull-out with a small rock fire pit. I believe fires are allowed as long as you have a permit.

    ~8min drive to Big Oak Entrance and ~40min drive to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. Why stay at Hodgdon when you can stay here!

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Kamook Staging Camp

    Hidden space close to Yosemite NP

    I was expecting bad conditions because of the previous comments but it was actually a good surprise. It's very close to the entrance of Yosemite, in our case it was very quiet and well isolated. There is no view or wow effect but it's great location and isolated.

  • Jacob T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Obsidian Meadows Dispersed
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Obsidian Meadows Dispersed

    Decent camp site

    Pulled in here since the sun was setting and we wouldn’t make it to lone pine. Nice off road trail with some scattered sites.

  • Miles L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

    A few spots scattered along the road

    Nothing fancy or too expansive, but a handful of spots on either side of the road. Certainly easier to settle in before it’s dark.

  • Mouni The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Lake South Dispersed
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Mono Lake South Dispersed

    Amazing Spot

    This was an amazing find, there’s only maybe 1 spot that wouldn’t require AWD it gets to be somewhat deep sandy/gravely roads after that. But otherwise, close to the lake, beautiful, and peaceful.

    I have ATT and had plenty of service here.

  • Mouni The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Kamook Staging Camp

    Not ideal

    This is more of an ATV spot, I arrived on a Sunday evening and the ATV people were set up and essentially taking up most of the spots meant for camping. They were using the many many trails meant for ATVs before I arrived and, when I parked a decent distance away from where they were set up, they opted to ride circles around my RV throwing dust everywhere and revving their engines (likely an attempt to run me off). The open space at the top of the hill where the restrooms are is meant for camping, I would NOT ADVISE taking any of the other roads as they are steep, uneven, and you will struggle to turn around.

    There’s one spot at the entrance good for camping (away from most of the ATV action) but it is taken up by a permanent boondocker.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Leavitt Lake
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Leavitt Lake

    Great lake

    This is a beautiful lake. I like visiting it and geometry dash breeze which is amazing. Upon reaching the lake, you will discover approximately twelve camping spots. These sites are fairly basic, each equipped with uncomplicated stone fire pits, though only around half of them seem to feature picnic tables based on my observation. Upon our arrival, all the Lakeview sites were occupied, prompting us to locate a pleasant spot towards the back to set up our camp. Unfortunately, there is a segment of the camping area that would typically be open for use but was closed off by the Department of Fish and Game(DFG) due to environmental concerns. It's regrettable as there were some appealing campsites situated beyond that wooden barrier.

  • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    Crowded

    Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping.

  • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Pine and Cedar forest

    All wheel drive, okay. Large grounds, many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes). Camped upper level. Please pack in, pack out, don't make others clean up after you.

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    Plenty of spots (few for starlink)

    Plenty of spots either in this area or the one down the road. If you work remote keep searching and you’ll find a spot where starlink isn’t blocked by trees.

    10 minutes from town. About 25 minutes the famous mobil gas station. They sure did treat us good. Expensive gas but 2 water spigots, easy to access bathrooms and delicious meatloaf

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 1, 2024

    Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    too hot in summer, beware large trailers

    this site has limited turnarounds and would be challenging for motor homes over 24 feet and or trailers. Road is doable with a car but the grade sucks. Surface changes to sand half a mile from the springs, would be a risk for heavy vehicles when wet

  • Adrian J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Obsidian Meadows Dispersed
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Obsidian Meadows Dispersed

    Lots of rocks

    The road is maintained but requires high clearance.

    There are many sites on the way in and then 5 or 6 once at obsidian meadows trail head.

    A few rock fire rings, but cannot be used when we were there.

    Good AT&T and T-Mobile coverage

  • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Really Nice Stay close to Yosemite

    This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn’t even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect. It’s 4 stars because you could hear the traffic from the main road from my spot

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Hardin Flat Road

    Great spot

    Awesome spot close to Yosemite, road isn’t too bad and it’s absolutely beautiful. I wasn’t bothered . I recommend arriving a little early, we didn’t have a little trouble finding the right road.

  • Nathan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
    Jul. 3, 2024

    Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    Close, free, and beautiful

    We got there at 5pm on a Sunday. Went all the way to the back and In my opinion got the best spot. We had plenty of trees around us for privacy and shade. Highly recommend if you’re trying to camp close to Yosemite without a reservation. Only downside were the mosquitoes were on another level. They turned off once it got dark though.

  • Robert H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside

    Great Access to Sierra Nevadas.

    Nice flat spots along the Scenic Bypass road (not just where the map says). More secluded spots up the hill. The dirt hill road is fairly decent, but no medium+ to large rigs.

    5 minutes into Mammoth town. 30 mins to Route 120 west turn, that takes you into Yosemite (tioga pass). I enjoyed a week's stay here. Negatives? Poor and spotty cell. A lot of airborne dirt when dirtbikes, and ATV's are active on weekends.

    I would return to this enjoyable spot.

  • joel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mono Lake South Dispersed
    Jun. 15, 2024

    Mono Lake South Dispersed

    Over night stay

    Stop here after coming over the mountain through Yosemite needed a place to camp on the east side before we headed home. Very different place the ground is very soft with pea gravel like granite pine trees and pine cones had to use four low with the Jeep to pull our teardrop back in to camp spot. The camp spot that's marked on the app was taken so we turned right and left the hill and found one back further in the trees


Guide to Eastman Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Eastman Lake in California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a serene escape surrounded by stunning landscapes. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking vistas at Dewey Point Backcountry Site, where you can enjoy iconic views of El Capitan and the valley, making it a perfect backdrop for your camping adventure.
  • The Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site provides a peaceful setting with plenty of trees for shade and privacy, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat close to Yosemite.
  • For a more rugged experience, Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed offers camping along a scenic road with beautiful mountain views, perfect for nature lovers.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Eastman Lake

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of Hardin Flat Road, which is just a short drive from Yosemite National Park, providing access to numerous trails and outdoor activities.
  • Enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities at Leavitt Lake, where you can fish, hike, or simply relax by the water, making it a versatile spot for outdoor fun.
  • The Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping area features scattered spots along the road, perfect for settling in before dark and enjoying a night under the stars.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Eastman Lake in California

  • Always remember to pack in and pack out your trash to keep the natural environment pristine, especially at well-reviewed spots like Kamook Staging Camp, which can get busy.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, as places like Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; many areas, such as Summit Rd Dispersed, do not offer drinking water or toilets, so plan accordingly to ensure a comfortable stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Eastman Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Eastman Lake is Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site with a 4.4-star rating from 29 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Eastman Lake?

    TheDyrt.com has all 35 dispersed camping locations near Eastman Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.