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Best Dispersed Camping near Etna, CA

26 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options surround the Mount Shasta area near Etna, California, with Castle Lake being a popular location offering multiple primitive sites. The Castle Lake dispersed area features pullouts along the access road with established fire rings and views of Mount Shasta. Most sites are accessible with standard vehicles, though some of the lower sections require higher clearance. The road becomes partially inaccessible during winter months due to snow, with some areas remaining wet after snowmelt through May.

Trinity Lake offers additional free lakeside camping with open field sites that provide privacy despite having no amenities. Other options include dispersed camping near Lake Shastina and the Red Fir area, which provides flat, shaded sites suitable for various vehicle sizes. Pack out all trash as these sites have no facilities, toilets or running water. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with some areas permitting campfires while others prohibit them entirely. "The lake campsites are still closed mid-May," notes a visitor, while another mentions that the Red Fir area is "large enough that the nearest neighbor was at least 25 yards away."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Etna, California (19)

    1. Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta

    9 Reviews
    Mount Shasta, CA
    30 miles

    "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."

    "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."

    2. Castle Lake Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Dunsmuir, CA
    30 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. North Trinity Lake

    4 Reviews
    Trinity Center, CA
    32 miles

    "This is disbursed lakeside camping with no facilities."

    "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"

    4. Mt. Shasta Area

    2 Reviews
    Castella, CA
    31 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 !!"

    5. red fir campground

    3 Reviews
    Mount Shasta, CA
    34 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."

    6. Sand Flat Wild Camping

    3 Reviews
    Mount Shasta, CA
    34 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."

    7. Dispersed near Lake Shastina

    1 Review
    Weed, CA
    34 miles

    8. bunny flat dispersed

    1 Review
    Mount Shasta, CA
    35 miles

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

    9. Gumboot Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Castella, CA
    26 miles

    10. Rail Line Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Macdoel, CA
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 926-4511

    "Easy to locate. Dirt is very soft making it difficult to drive off the beaten path without an all wheel drive. All season tires were a plus with our rear wheel drive sprinter van."

    "There are only a few pullouts here, and no one else was around."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Etna, CA

22 Photos of 19 Etna Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Etna, CA

26 Reviews of 19 Etna 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!

  • Greg B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp

    Secluded & beautiful Meadow

    This secluded camp is well worth the effort to find.  I've been 3 times and finally decided to add it to The Dyrt.  Upon this return, I tried to find it online (Six Rivers's official site) but found no info.  There are two ways to this camp, the longer from Willow Creek, or the shorter from Hawkins Bar.  Both ways are via forest service roads that are "fair".  There are 3 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring.  There is one vault toilet that was stocked with 'the papers'.  There is NO trash service or cans and NO POTABLE WATER.  There is a tiny creek running nearby if needed.  There is MAYBE one (1) bar of Verizon service, but it is extremely unreliable.  I came here to see the Perseids Meteor Shower, on a Sunday night/Monday, and did not see a soul.

  • 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.

  • 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 Etna

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Etna, California, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of locations perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Castle Lake Campground

  • Nestled in a picturesque setting, Castle Lake Campground provides stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
  • The area is accessible via a drive-in route, making it convenient for campers with various types of vehicles.
  • While amenities are limited, the lack of crowds allows for a more intimate experience with nature, perfect for those who enjoy solitude.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Etna, California

  • Consider visiting Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta, which offers a variety of small sites along a dirt road, suitable for vans and small trailers.
  • Always pack in and pack out your trash, as many sites, like Gumboot Campground, do not provide waste disposal facilities.
  • Be prepared for varying conditions; some areas may be inaccessible due to snow or wet ground, as noted by visitors to North Trinity Lake.

Scenic views and outdoor activities at Mt. Shasta Area

  • The Mt. Shasta Area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, making it a prime spot for photography and outdoor adventures.
  • Campers can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking to boating, all while surrounded by the majestic backdrop of Mt. Shasta.
  • This area is well-reviewed for its spacious spots, allowing for a comfortable camping experience while still being close to nature's wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best dispersed camping spots near Etna, Wyoming?

For excellent dispersed camping near Etna, Wyoming, check out Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta, which features multiple well-spaced sites along a dirt road offering privacy from other campers. Another great option is red fir campground, where you'll find flat spots scattered among trees, suitable for vehicles up to 21 ft. Both locations offer beautiful surroundings with natural features nearby, though they lack facilities or running water, so come prepared with everything you need.

Is 4WD required for accessing dispersed camping sites near Etna?

Most dispersed camping areas near Etna are accessible without 4WD, though road conditions vary by location and season. At North Trinity Lake, dispersed sites can be reached via multiple side dirt roads from the main road. Similarly, at Mt. Shasta Area dispersed sites, standard vehicles can navigate most access roads during dry conditions. While 4WD isn't strictly necessary, higher clearance is beneficial for rougher sections. Some campers report successfully accessing sites in sedans and even a Prius, though they note it can be bumpy. After rain or snow, conditions may deteriorate and require more capable vehicles.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Etna, Wyoming?

When dispersed camping near Etna, Wyoming, follow standard regulations: camp at least 100-200 feet from any water source, stay on existing sites, and pack out all trash. At areas like Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp, camping is typically limited to 14 days in a 28-day period. Fire restrictions may be in effect seasonally - several campers noted fire bans during summer months. Check with the local Forest Service office before your trip for current regulations and obtain any required permits. No facilities are provided, so practice Leave No Trace principles and come prepared with water and waste disposal solutions.

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