Several dispersed camping areas exist near Fish Camp, California, primarily in Sierra National Forest land. Goat Meadow Dispersed Camp Site and Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping are the main options, both located just outside Yosemite National Park's southern entrance. These primitive sites sit on national forest land where camping is permitted without developed facilities or reservations. Hardin Flat Road also offers additional dispersed camping opportunities slightly farther from Fish Camp.
Access roads to these dispersed sites vary in quality and may require careful navigation. Goat Meadow features flat terrain accessible to most vehicles including small RVs and vans, though some sections have uneven ground. As one visitor noted, "Keep going and you'll find at least 4 or 5 big private areas separated by huge cut logs all with plenty of room to turnaround." Most areas have no amenities—no water sources, toilets, or trash service. Fire restrictions are common, particularly during summer and fall months. The standard 14-day stay limit applies to all dispersed camping in this national forest region.
These areas provide convenient bases for Yosemite exploration without park camping fees. The proximity to Yosemite's South Entrance makes these sites popular during peak season. According to a camper review, "We were the only RV here and had it to ourselves an entire week (granted it's early November). Can't beat the proximity to Yosemite south entrance." Insect activity can be significant in warmer months, with one visitor reporting, "The only negative was the biting bugs which were everywhere & hungry." Cell service ranges from nonexistent to spotty depending on the specific location. The sites offer a primitive camping experience with natural separation between camping spots provided by trees and terrain features. During busy periods, arriving early is recommended as these free sites can fill quickly, especially on summer weekends.
"Excellent spot 7 min from the Yosemite South Wawona Entrance. Im staying at a dispersed camping spot in late July and there is level, paved parking with tent camping spots."
"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."
"Nestled amongst trees right on the edge of Yosemite. Was quite busy when I was there but managed to find a quiet spot tucked away & private."
"GPS will take you straight to Goat meadow snow play area (look for signs too). Once you reach the area hang right to the dirt road and pick a spot!"
"Being so close to the entrance to Yosemite and yet deep in the peace of the forest is a golden treat. This road has both the Hardin Flat and the hardin Dispersed sites."
"Access road isn’t bad and it’s close to the park."
"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 !"
from $5 - $10 / night
"Did an impromptu visit for 3 days and just van camped in this forest road. Works great if you can deal with driving in and out. Good camping spots here and there, tons of overnight parking areas."
"Firstly, the spots aren’t actually on Evergreen; they’re on an easily missed dirt road near Aspen Valley Rd."
"Hard and flat Road right by a little stream where we could park our 22-ft van with a bike trailer. Our dog could run around free. We enjoyed a quiet evening."
"Very nice and quiet spot, very close to Yosemite entrance, ideal if you weren't able to get a reservation."
"Our Tacoma made it to the campsites toward the back of the grounds just fine, but there was access closer to the main road for vehicles without high clearance."
"Multiple locations near by not listed. It gets a bit dusty and windy. Lots of off road vehicles. All the camper vans rolled in after dark and it filled up quick."
GuideThis place was packed on a Saturday in November! We ended up parked in the lot. No cell service for ATT. Would've been really nice if we had gotten an actual site. We saw there were tables and fire pits at the sites. We didnt use the bathrooms but they were there as well as a dumpster.
GuideGreat spot near the park entrance. Lots of spots kind of clustered together and other people camping. Zero AT&T reception.
ScoutScenic overlook of Mono Lake not far off hwy 395, but very quiet and peaceful. Can be very windy though.
GuideThere is so many spots back here! We stayed a bit closer to 395 and it was easy to navigate with a 26’ RV. We had initially looked for a spot on the Mammoth side of the highway but found this dirt roads more level and open for the RV. Lovely minus some sort of small critter kept waking me up in the night.
TravelerThe 0.5 mile gravel road has washboards and potholes but it’s short and offers at least a handful of pullouts for flat parking/camping. There’s nothing around except high desert views of the mountains and nearby hot springs. The signs indicate a 14-day camping limit.
ScoutFirst spot with a 22 feet TT. No problem, amazing view
GuideLoads of space! Not many people here in October. Park lot had two trailers and the trail to the right is wide open with numerous pullouts. Lots of great trails around for the dogs.
GuideThis is actually a really nice free dispersed camping site. Once you get to the Goat Meadows sign if you go left you will find a large parking lot with bathrooms. There were probably ten rigs or so jst camping up on the parking lot. If you go right down the hill you will find multiple dispersed camping sites. They are a little obscure, but some have nice fire rings that let you know it’s a site. They are very well spaced so even when you have neighbors you will hardly see or hear them. At the top of the hill where you go left or right was a camp host looking site but not sure if it is actually, but there was a camper there with a bumper pull trailer who uses a very loud shop type cheap generator that you can literally hear all over the area. Luckily, he turned it off about 10pm but started it up around 8am. If it weren’t for him probably would have given this site five stars. Also, T-Mobile and ATT both had zero cell service our phones were both on SOS but that really wasn’t a problem for us.
RangerNot even sure i found the exact place. Go through a little neighborhood an come to a gravel road. Found a little turn around an spent the night. Didnt see anyone. Cell coverage enough to get texts.
Dispersed camping sites near Fish Camp, California offer primitive accommodations at elevations between 5,000-5,500 feet in Sierra National Forest. The coniferous forest terrain features moderate summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-85°F. These rustic camping options provide basic access to undeveloped natural areas without formal campground infrastructure.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife enthusiasts camping at Goat Meadow Dispersed Camp Site often spot deer wandering through campsites. As one camper observed, "She wasn't afraid of us at all, just minding her business eating away." Coyotes are also active in the area.
Winter recreation: The Goat Meadow area transforms into a snow play area during winter months. When camping in early spring, some spots may still have snow coverage. "When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3", whereas other spots were about 6-8"," reported one visitor in March.
Hiking access: Campers at Evergreen Rd Dispersed Camping have quick access to less-crowded sections of Yosemite. A camper noted, "Great little spot within 10 minutes of one Yosemite's entrance." This location serves as an excellent base for day hikes while staying outside park boundaries.
Natural separation between sites: At Hardin Flat Road dispersed camping, the forest creates natural privacy. "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," one camper explained about their experience.
Multiple camping options: The Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping area offers various pullout spots along Mount Raymond Road. A camper described, "To the left which was a parking lot possibly with sites (could not see) or to the right, which was a very large cleared space. I saw the remains of a few fires so I assumed I was in the right spot."
Early season quietude: Spring and fall bring fewer crowds to dispersed camping areas. "Quite a large level area, though it was November and not peak season so there were loads of space," reported one Goat Meadow camper. Shoulder season visitors often have first choice of prime spots with natural features.
Holiday traffic considerations: During peak holidays, traffic to Yosemite backs up significantly. A camper at Hardin Flat Dispersed warned, "I will say if it's a holiday weekend and you leave camp headed into town be prepared for at least an hour in traffic due to backup from the park entrance."
Insect precautions: Biting insects pose challenges during warmer months in these camping areas. Pack appropriate repellent and protective clothing as some campers report significant issues: "What a brilliant place! Nestled amongst trees right on the edge of Yosemite... Only negative was the biting bugs which were everywhere & hungry."
Wildlife safety measures: Bear and coyote activity requires proper food storage. One camper reported, "Coyotes and bears are active in the area—coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" Secure food containers are essential for overnight stays in these areas.
Early arrival strategy: With children, securing a suitable spot early is crucial. A visitor to Hardin Flat Road advised, "Lots of available spots along Hardin Flat Road, most with good shade. Passed 10-15 pull out spots for car campers, and at least 10 more easily accessible spots for tents. We were there peak season but mid-week and spots were easy to find."
Water planning: No potable water exists at these sites, requiring families to bring sufficient supplies. Pack 1-2 gallons per person per day, especially during summer. "No amenities over here and no dumpsters," noted one camper, underscoring the importance of self-sufficiency.
Safety considerations: Families should be aware of specific environmental hazards. At Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site, a camper warned about "lots of ticks! be prepared." Conduct regular tick checks and bring appropriate first aid supplies for these rustic camping experiences.
Road condition awareness: RV campers should carefully assess road conditions before attempting access. At Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted, "Bumpy roads around the actual camping area but manageable in a camper van. Actually saw a few big rigs here too."
Turnaround space considerations: When evaluating dispersed sites for larger vehicles, prioritize spots with adequate turnaround space. One RVer at Hardin Flat Road shared, "I am parked across from a private drive so I can turn around with my RV if needed," highlighting the importance of exit planning for larger vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Fish Camp dispersed camping located?
Fish Camp dispersed camping is generally located near Yosemite National Park in California. The area is situated along the southern entrance to Yosemite, close to Highway 41. Similar to Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping, Fish Camp sites are nestled among trees right on the edge of Yosemite, offering convenient access to the park. The area is primarily surrounded by Sierra National Forest land where dispersed camping is permitted on forest service roads, following proper regulations.
Do I need a permit for dispersed camping at Fish Camp?
Typically, no special permit is required for dispersed camping at Fish Camp, but standard dispersed camping regulations apply. Similar to Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping, you should follow maximum stay limits, which are typically 14 days within a 30-day period. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as they're common in summer months. While permits aren't usually needed for dispersed camping, you should still check with the Sierra National Forest office for any seasonal restrictions or fire permit requirements if you plan to have a campfire.
What amenities are available at Fish Camp dispersed camping?
Fish Camp dispersed camping offers very minimal amenities, similar to most dispersed sites. Like Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping, there are no bathrooms, water sources, electricity, or established fire rings. At Laurel Springs Campground, another dispersed area, campers note there's typically no cell phone signal. You'll need to pack in all necessary supplies including water and pack out all trash. These sites are truly primitive, focusing on natural surroundings rather than facilities. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles during your stay.
When is the best time of year to camp at Fish Camp?
The best time to camp at Fish Camp is late spring through early fall (May-October), when weather conditions are most favorable. Similar to Sage Hen Dispersed, snow can still be present on roads in mid-April, making access challenging. At Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site, summer brings warm days with good breezes, though insects can be abundant (bring bug spray). Fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, while winter camping is possible but requires preparation for snow and cold conditions. Always check road conditions before heading out, especially in shoulder seasons.
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