Dispersed camping near Greenwood, California ranges from 3,500-7,500 feet elevation across Eldorado National Forest, creating dramatic temperature differences between sites. During summer months, lower-elevation riverside camps can reach 90°F while high mountain locations maintain comfortable 70°F temperatures. Road conditions worsen significantly after rainfall, particularly at Bowman Lake where rocky terrain requires 4WD vehicles.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several dispersed sites offer direct water access for anglers. At Silver Fork River Camping, each of the three established sites includes "paths down to the water with a little beach" and is "a popular fishing spot with the locals," according to a camper who visited in June when "the water was still very cold."
Rock climbing opportunities: Areas near Independence Hill provide natural climbing surfaces. One camper noted finding "a rock climber on the nearby rock face" during their arrival who "later came by to pick up his car he had parked there."
Alpine lake swimming: Summer temperatures make lake camping sites ideal for swimming. At Union Valley Reservoir, a camper reported "the lake is really warm in the summer" despite its higher elevation location.
Hiking to waterfalls: Trails near some dispersed sites lead to seasonal waterfalls. A camper at Independence Hill mentioned "hike nearby with waterfall is beautiful" though they cautioned about "the road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying- especially in the dark."
What campers like
Spacious isolation: Many dispersed camping areas offer considerable privacy. At USFS Silver Fork Dispersed, one camper praised the "endless possibilities" for finding spots, adding that "besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent."
Wildlife encounters: The forest setting provides wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at Independence Hill described an unexpected bear encounter: "I scared two black bears as I was walking (don't I wish I had that on film...). And yes, that's his footprint on my van door - he was checking out the bag of garbage I had stored on my roof."
Year-round accessibility: Different elevation camps provide options throughout seasons. An Iron Mountain visitor noted winter beauty: "Stayed at this location when there was about a foot of snow on the ground... Nice and quite and woke up to gorgeous views!"
Temperature escape: Higher elevation sites provide relief during hot valley temperatures. A camper at Grouse Ridge Campground found "It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary: Many sites demand specific vehicle capabilities. At Bowman Lake Dispersed, a camper warns "do not attempt to do this in anything smaller than an SUV. Sedans would definitely not be able to make it to this site. Road has lots of holes and rocks sticking up out the ground."
Seasonal accessibility: Snow impacts higher elevation camps well into traditional camping season. A Grouse Ridge camper reported "We were there last weekend in June and there was still snow on the ground."
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits even for rustic camping near Greenwood. A camper at USFS Silver Fork Dispersed noted "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."
Site selection timing: Popular areas fill quickly during peak season. A camper at Loch Leven Lakes advised "I'd 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 and enjoy the lakes for as much time as possible."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some dispersed sites work well for families new to primitive camping. At Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off, a camper found "Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time but even if the main spot is occupied there's a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp."
Child-friendly adventures: Nearby activities can engage younger campers. One parent shared their experience: "My 9 yr old son wanted to try camping in or near the snow, and the weather was favorable on this December weekend (high 56, low 39). We are pretty new to camping and not hardcore, but this was very easy and comfortable."
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness matters for family camping. At Loch Leven Lakes, a visitor noted "I did read though that last week there were some rattlesnake sightings, so just be cautious of snakes."
Bring mosquito protection: Insect populations can be intense at certain sites. A Bowman Lake camper warned "Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal RV access: Winter conditions severely restrict RV camping options. A Lake Valley Road visitor cautioned "We were looking for an overnight spot in this area and checked out this listing but there's just still too much snow at this time. The weather isn't cold, but the snow plows have pushed all the snow off the road so that it's impossible to get to any pullouts or open dispersed camping areas."
RV size limitations: Most rustic sites near Greenwood cannot accommodate larger rigs. While some areas permit RVs, a camper at Independence Hill noted specific limitations: "there are at least 6 good sites, including a large flat area that can take any size RV."
Self-contained requirements: No hookups exist at any dispersed sites. One experienced camper recommended "We brought a privacy shelter and portable camp toilet, and our own water. Those are really the only things you need that would normally be provided by a paid campsite."
