Dispersed camping areas near Greenfield, California offer primitive camping options across public lands managed by federal agencies. Most sites sit at elevations between 2,500-3,500 feet, with temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to over 100°F in summer months. Access routes vary significantly in quality, with sandy roads that can become impassable after rain events.
What to do
Riverside activities: At Chico Flat Dispersed Camping, campers can enjoy immediate river access. "It's only a 3 minute walk down to the river," notes one visitor, while another adds, "The stargazing at night was spectacular. The site we chose was a bit of a rocky walk from the car, but worth it to have a more private spot."
Mountain biking: The area surrounding Keyesville Recreation Area offers extensive trail systems. "Lots of trails to ride bikes," mentions one camper, while another notes that "there are more secluded spots accessible to even Class A rigs further down." The area supports both beginner and intermediate trails.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Stine Cove Recreation Site provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "Watch eagles prey on ducks, pelicans gather, hear the frogs croak," reports one camper. The shoreline areas attract various bird species, particularly during migration seasons.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The dark skies at Carrizzo Plain National Monument create exceptional stargazing conditions. "I visited in January on my way to the Bay Area and loved this campsite. I didn't see anyone else around, nor did I see any wildlife, so it was very quiet and peaceful. The stars were also quite visible with minimal light pollution," writes one camper.
Solitude opportunities: Several free camping areas near Greenfield provide isolation from crowds. A camper at Hanning Flat Dispersed Area reports, "My pup and I stayed for three nights and didn't see another person or vehicle the whole time. So peaceful, quiet, sunny, green." Another notes, "Sometimes you can go days without a single car passing by."
River sounds: The running water creates natural white noise at select sites. "The river is nice to fall asleep to, and some sites have a lot of shade, where others do not. Plenty of trees along the river to set up a hammock," writes one camper about Keyesville Recreation Area. The river currents vary seasonally, with calmer conditions typically occurring in late summer.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access routes require careful driving. At Evans Road Dispersed Camping, a camper advises, "There are about 3 dirt road pull offs in this area. The 2 on the south side are attainable with careful driving and 2 wheel drive." They add that other nearby sites "need a higher wheel clearance and careful consideration."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns significantly impact camping conditions. At Hanning Flat, a visitor warns, "it's a sandy dried up lake bed and we had to dig ourselves out in the morning." Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer heat often exceeds 95°F during daytime hours.
Variable crowds: Usage patterns change dramatically by season and day of week. During summer at Chico Flat, one camper reports, "I wen't 6/14/2020 with the plans of camping there but couldn't unfortunately. It was so crowded, people were using it as a parking lot." Weekdays typically see fewer visitors than weekends at all dispersed areas near Greenfield.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: River conditions can change rapidly. A Chico Flat camper notes, "Use caution in early spring and summer months the river is very fast and DANGEROUS!" Parents should maintain constant supervision of children near any water features, as currents may be stronger than they appear.
Site selection: Finding flat tent spots requires advance planning. At Carrizzo Plain, a camper notes, "The area is hilly and beautiful with enough flatness and openness to pitch a tent without issue." Families should arrive early to secure the limited number of level camping areas, particularly during peak weekends.
Temperature preparation: Bring appropriate gear for extreme temperature swings. "It was about 15 degrees (F) colder than was forecasted (20 F vs 35 F) at night, so be prepared to be a bit chilly if visiting during the winter," advises one Carrizzo Plain visitor. Families should pack additional layers for unexpected weather changes.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility limitations: Not all dispersed areas can accommodate larger vehicles. At West Keyville, one RVer cautions, "BEWARE: there is quite a steep and narrow entry road into the site. I drove in with a 30 feet class A camper and I am little worried if I will get out tomorrow. Also I smacked some leaves off of a tree on my way in with my 13" clearance."
Finding level spots: RVers report challenges finding flat parking. At Stine Cove, a camper in a 30-foot rig reports, "Plenty of space, we had no problems finding a spot for our 30ft RV." Many dispersed camping areas near Greenfield require careful positioning to achieve a level setup.
Generator restrictions: Rules vary across locations. "The generator can be used until 10 p.m.," notes a Chico Flat camper, while other areas prohibit generators entirely. RVers should research specific regulations for each area before arrival, as enforcement has increased in recent years.
