Dispersed camping areas near Echo Lake, California provide primitive camping options at elevations between 6,000-8,500 feet in the El Dorado National Forest. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-80°F with sudden weather shifts common at higher elevations. Most primitive camping sites require campers to bring their own water and pack out all waste, with no established facilities beyond occasional fire rings.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Head to Blue Lakes Road for primitive camping with nearby trail access. "We had a wildflower-filled meadow to ourselves in early August with plenty of near-by trails for dirt bikes, Jeeping, horses, mountain biking or hiking," reports one visitor to Dispersed USFS.
Riverside relaxation: Silver Fork River offers secluded camping spots with water access. A camper at Silver Fork River Camping notes: "You cross the bridge over the river and the trail is to the right. There are a total of 3 established sites... All the sites are on the river and have paths down to the water with a little beach."
Off-road exploring: The area features multiple OHV trails for day trips. A visitor to Iron MT. Dispersed mentions: "There are also many OHV trails close by," making it ideal for those bringing off-road vehicles for backcountry exploration.
What campers like
Elevated viewpoints: Several sites offer panoramic vistas from higher elevations. At Packsaddle Pass, campers enjoy "beautiful views of strawberry valley" according to a recent visitor, while another camper at Iron MT. Dispersed described: "The views from this place are amazing. The abandoned ski lifts are pretty cool to look at and hike along them as well."
Star viewing conditions: Clear mountain skies create excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Bear Valley Dispersed Camping called it a "Perfect spot for star gazing!!" while another at Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping observed: "Serene Camping. There were definitely a few long term campers here. But the place was very clean. No cell service fyi."
Accessible solitude: Many sites balance remoteness with reasonable accessibility. A visitor to USFS Silver Fork Dispersed shared: "Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring. Easy road to get out there."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Overnight stays in El Dorado National Forest require permits. According to one camper: "You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov."
Unpredictable access: Road conditions vary significantly by season and weather. At Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping, a visitor warned: "The access to the dispersed camping, in the hill overlooking the water, is gated and locked. There seem to be plenty of spots to use enroute to the water, just not at the location."
Limited services: Basic amenities are scarce or nonexistent. As one camper stated: "KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it, pick up your trash (and other's if you see any), respect the area and it will respect you. NO CAMP SERVICES — There is no trash service or even dumpsters at the signed entrance; pack it in pack it out. There are no restrooms in the area either."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access spots: Some areas offer relatively simple entry points suitable for family camping. A visitor to Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping noted: "It is a great site just near the road. We arrived on Monday afternoon and there were lots of places. There were other people but everyone has enough space. There's a pit restroom which seems comparatively new."
Pre-established sites: Look for spots with basic amenities already in place. A visitor described finding "a nice spot near the top with a wide open clearing, perfect for watching the sun set next to a fire," while another at Echo Summit Dispersed shared: "This location was the site of a fire several years ago, this means that many of the trees have been cleared making it a good site for starlink users like me."
High elevation challenges: Be prepared for temperature swings and altitude effects. One camper advised: "Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you're not used to high altitude."
Tips from RVers
Clearance considerations: Many primitive sites require vehicles with adequate ground clearance. A camper at Hope Valley Dispersed noted: "There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you'll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear."
Size restrictions: Large rigs face limitations on many forest roads. One camper warned: "The road towards the cabins has a very tight turn that will not allow anyone over 25 feet- though I'd recommend smaller," while another mentioned successfully navigating with "my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off."
Level site hunting: Finding flat parking takes time but is essential. A camper advised: "The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated. There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped."
