Dispersed camping near Foresthill, California ranges in elevation from 2,500 to 7,500 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the region. Tahoe National Forest and El Dorado National Forest provide the primary public lands for free camping, with significantly different seasonal accessibility. Winter conditions typically close higher elevation sites from November through May, while lower elevation areas remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: From Loch Leven Lakes, visitors can explore multiple connected lakes. "We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites. The middle lake is very large and had many beautiful spots to camp. But we headed to the upper lake since a lot of day hikers go to the middle lake," reports camper Azizah T.
Winter camping: Iron MT. Dispersed offers accessibility during shoulder seasons. "Stayed at this location when there was about a foot of snow on the ground, so I didn't feel comfortable driving into the actual camping area, instead I stayed over night on the paved round about. Nice and quite and woke up to gorgeous views!" notes Raven P.
Rock climbing: Silver Fork Dispersed area provides access to climbing routes. "Spotted a rock climber on the nearby rock face when we arrived, who later came by to pick up his car he had parked there," mentions Orion B., highlighting the multi-use nature of the area.
What campers like
Seasonal temperature differences: Campers appreciate the cooler high-elevation camping during summer months. "We were there last weekend in June and there was still snow on the ground. Woot! It was awesome. It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento," writes Linda L. about her stay at Grouse Ridge Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Bowman Lake Dispersed provides excellent fishing access. "The lake is gorgeous, a great fishery, and there are plenty of inspirational views and solitude to be had," notes Chris N., who visited during late spring.
Sunset views: Several sites offer exceptional sunset viewing. At Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping, "First come first serve sites although plenty, fill up fast. Luckily there is a lot of Dispersed camping all the way around the lake! So beautiful, and the lake is really warm in the summer," reports Kristen M.
What you should know
Fire regulations: Campfire availability varies by site and season. "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," notes Orion B. about Silver Fork, demonstrating how fire damage creates available firewood in some areas.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. "I had no service with Verizon or t-mobile," reports Ted T. about Iron MT. Dispersed, while at Mormon Emigrant Trail Pull Off, camper Onyx E. needed to "check out a few spots to get WiFi AT&T one bar."
Required permits: Many areas require permits even for dispersed camping. "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," explains a camper about Silver Fork Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly lakes: "We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks. I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites," warns Azizah T. about Loch Leven Lakes, suggesting families pack extra bug protection.
Wildlife awareness: "I did read though that last week there were some rattlesnake sightings, so just be cautious of snakes," advises Sammy B. from Loch Leven Lakes, reminding families to teach children about wildlife safety.
Alternative activities: When camping with children, having backup plans helps. "The town nearby is a bit eerie but fun to explore," notes Emily C. about the historic mining town near Independence Hill Dispersed, offering an educational diversion.
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: "The road was much more technical than a standard forest service road, but doable in most stock crossover vehicles or better. We had a borrowed AWD Transit van and did it with some patience and strategic line choice," explains Har Rai K. about access to Grouse Ridge Campground.
Optimal arrival timing: "I would start early in the day to make sure you get good parking as this is a very popular trail, and so that you can get a good campsite," advises Sammy B. about Loch Leven Lakes, noting the importance of timing for securing preferred spots.
Site selection strategy: "There are a couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around," notes Onyx E. about Mormon Emigrant Trail Pull Off, emphasizing the importance of finding flat ground for comfortable vehicle camping.
