Dispersed camping near Folsom, California ranges from 2,000 to 7,000 feet in elevation across the Eldorado National Forest region. Temperature differentials between day and night often exceed 30 degrees during spring and fall months, requiring careful preparation. Cellular connectivity varies widely by carrier, with Verizon generally providing the most reliable coverage in these remote locations.
What to do
River access camping: At Silver Fork River Camping, visitors can set up tents at one of three established sites. "You cross the bridge over the river and the trail is to the right. All the sites are on the river and have paths down to the water with a little beach," reports a camper who visited in June when "the water was still very cold."
Hiking and exploration: Union Valley Reservoir offers extensive shoreline for day hikes between swimming spots. One visitor noted, "Pulled off Union valley road and set up camp with our Rooftop tent. Little cold up here in November but made for some great pre-snowfall camping!"
Stargazing opportunities: Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off provides excellent night sky viewing. A camper who stayed four days mentioned "amazing views of the sunset and sunrise" and noted the site's remoteness means minimal light pollution for astronomical observation.
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Less crowded experiences can be found during shoulder seasons. "Not too many people in between seasons. Summer time is not bad," according to a regular visitor to Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping.
Ready-made campsites: Many dispersed areas have existing improvements from previous visitors. At USFS Silver Fork Dispersed, campers report finding "nice and flat [spots], right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring."
Extended stays permitted: Longer camping durations are possible with proper permits. One visitor mentioned staying at a specific Silver Fork site "for 7 days (10/31-11/6) and only saw one other person on the primitive roads."
Supply proximity: Quick access to forgotten essentials. "A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It's well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home," reports a Silver Fork visitor.
What you should know
Site conditions vary dramatically: Some areas have substantial burn damage that affects the camping experience. At Mormon Emigrant Trail Pull Off, a visitor noted "Unfortunately there was a massive fire here and there is nothing to look at but burned out trees."
Changing regulations: Fee structures may change without notice. One Union Valley visitor complained, "Can't even park and enjoy the view without getting harassed by the overweight goon they call a 'camp host'. $10 day fee? Naw. Been coming here for years FOR FREE."
Location discrepancies: GPS coordinates may not accurately indicate campsite locations. A frustrated camper reported arriving at Silver Fork Dispersed to find "Showed up to pinned spot around 3pm and saw zero people. It was basically just a road to what I think was a state park?"
Litter management concerns: Environmental impact from previous visitors remains problematic. A Union Valley camper reported "There was trash EVERYWHERE. Broken glass, toilet trash, bottles and cans, we were really disappointed."
Tips for camping with families
First-timer sites: For new family campers, choose sites with minimal technical access challenges. "[We] found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream... Easy road to get out there," suggests a visitor to Silver Fork River Camping.
Educational opportunities: Fire recovery areas provide teaching moments about forest ecology. One parent camping with their 9-year-old noted, "Caldor Fire damage was evident everywhere, but this made it easy for my son to chop down a small dead tree that we used for firewood."
Weather preparation: Significant temperature fluctuations require flexible clothing options. "It was breezy, which made it chillier than the temps indicated, but we were fine and very toasty once in our tent cots," reported a winter camper with their child.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Vehicle height and ground clearance determine site accessibility. At Independence Hill, visitors warn "The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying- especially in the dark" making approach challenging for larger vehicles.
Site scouting advice: Take time to find level ground before setting up. "We recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped," advises a Silver Fork camper.
Alternative pull-offs: Large vehicles can find accommodations on unmarked roads. "Even if the main spot is occupied there's a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp. A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around," reports a camper at Mormon Emigrant Trail.
