Best Dispersed Camping near El Portal, CA

El Portal is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. El Portal is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near El Portal, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near El Portal, California (42)

    1. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    37 Reviews
    Fish Camp, CA
    16 miles
    Website

    "After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."

    "Great location, close to Yosemite Park which allows you to sleep for free. the spot was clean, impressive camper vans were present and they were parked on the tarmac. lots of pitches, vans can be placed"

    2. Hardin Flat Road

    15 Reviews
    Eastman Lake, CA
    11 miles

    "I stayed to car camp and had an overall nice time. There was a good amount of ice but with 4x4 not problem. The ice was melting so if you go anytime after the snow should be a lot less."

    "Great spot a little farther up Hardin Flat Rd. I am parked across from a private drive so I can turn around with my RV if needed."

    3. Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Fish Camp, CA
    16 miles

    "Here is the correct location. You can take a dirt road from this parking lot in order to camp in the woods.

    Dropped pin https://goo.gl/maps/2gskCbuY8XRMD82x5"

    "As previously mentioned, these coordinates are not correct, if you travel beyond the coordinates towards the South Park Entrance and pass the Springdale Campground on your left, you will see a sign shortly"

    4. Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

    1 Review
    Yosemite Valley, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 372-0200

    $5 - $10 / night

    "Booked a last minute permit for the Pohono trail on a recent trip and had Dewey Point as one of my camp sites! Beautiful views of el cap and the valley made for an iconic back country spot !"

    6. Van Haven Dispersed Site Yosemite

    1 Review
    Groveland, CA
    18 miles

    "Great views along the John Muir trail. 24 hour Public restroom .o2miles from camp site."

    8. Mono Lake South Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Lee Vining, CA
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2400

    "All around Mono Lake is USFS and BLM land that is open for dispersed camping, as long as you stay above the 1941 water line (you will see signs marking this line, which is fairly close to the lake)."

    "We stayed here for a single night while on a road trip, the drive in along CA-120 was beautiful."

    9. Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    June Lake, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2400

    "You can get maps for this area at some of the information boards at the beginning of the dirt roads, they also have an app that will show you all the roads in the area."

    "We boondocked in Inyo National Forest just last weekend, September 27-29, and it felt like we had the place to ourselves."

    10. Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 924-5500

    "Got here on Sunday - plenty of spots to park the camper van both Sunday and Monday. Multiple turn offs on the Scenic Loop road to camp at. No bathrooms, water, electricity, or fire rings."

    "As you drive along this road, every 10 seconds you will pass a dirt road. Each dirt road has multiple campsites!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 42 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near El Portal, CA

155 Reviews of 42 El Portal Campgrounds



Guide to El Portal

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near El Portal, California, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the great outdoors.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near El Portal

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to stunning trails, with the Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site providing a serene base just outside Yosemite National Park.
  • For those who enjoy fishing, the nearby waters offer opportunities to cast a line and relax in nature, especially around the Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping area.
  • Wildlife watchers can spot various species in their natural habitat, making the Hardin Flat Road a great choice for those looking to connect with nature.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Goat Meadow

  • This spot is known for its beautiful scenery and privacy, making it a favorite among campers who want to enjoy a peaceful retreat, as highlighted in reviews of the Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site.
  • Campers have noted the convenience of being close to Yosemite without needing a reservation, which is a significant advantage during peak seasons.
  • While the mosquitoes can be a nuisance, they tend to calm down after dark, allowing for a more enjoyable evening experience.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near El Portal, California

  • Arriving early is recommended, especially at the Hardin Flat Road, where spots are spacious and well-spread out, ensuring a quieter experience.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; many areas, like the Kamook Staging Camp, do not offer drinking water or toilets, so plan accordingly.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to maintain the natural beauty of these spots, particularly in areas like Gladys Lake Backcountry, where preserving the environment is crucial for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near El Portal, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near El Portal, CA is Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near El Portal, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 42 dispersed camping locations near El Portal, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.