Best Dispersed Camping near Grizzly Flats, CA

El Dorado National Forest surrounds Grizzly Flats, California, offering extensive dispersed camping opportunities across rugged Sierra Nevada terrain. The area features numerous free camping options including USFS Silver Fork Dispersed, Mormon Emigrant Trail Pull Off, and Silver Fork River Camping. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with primitive conditions being the norm. Packsaddle Pass and Iron Mountain Dispersed areas provide additional options for those seeking more remote experiences. The region's camping landscape was significantly affected by the Caldor Fire, with burn areas still evident throughout parts of the forest, though many unburned sections remain accessible.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, with many sites requiring high-clearance vehicles to access. As one camper noted, "Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car." Permits are required for overnight use in much of El Dorado National Forest and can be obtained through recreation.gov. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, with most areas offering limited connectivity suitable only for basic text messages. Summer brings warmer temperatures and drier conditions, while winter access is often limited by snow. Fire restrictions are common during dry months, and campers should verify current regulations before planning trips.

Many visitors highlight the scenic views as a primary attraction, particularly at higher elevations. One reviewer of Silver Fork Dispersed camping mentioned staying "on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent." Riverside camping spots along Silver Fork River are especially popular, with established fire rings and beach access. Weekday visits typically offer more solitude than weekends, when popular areas like Scotts Lake Road can become crowded with RVs and vans. Most dispersed sites lack amenities, requiring campers to bring all necessary supplies including water. Leave No Trace principles are essential, as several reviewers noted concerns about trash at some locations. Wildlife sightings are common, with cattle occasionally wandering through camping areas near Hope Valley.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Grizzly Flats, California (21)

    1. Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    1 Review
    Grizzly Flats, CA
    7 miles

    "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."

    2. Iron MT. Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Eldorado National Forest, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 324-4442

    "The ground is very flat and many areas are paved with gravel. At 7500 feet above sea level, the view is wide and the scenery is beautiful, especially the sunset view."

    "The Mormon Emigrant Trail can be accessed from there (East side, going West to Sly Park.) You can hear the Highway a little, but nonetheless very peaceful area."

    3. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 622-5061

    "The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp."

    "The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated."

    4. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2324

    "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!"

    "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"

    5. Silver Fork River Camping

    1 Review
    Kyburz, CA
    17 miles

    "We were at another location up the road that was listed on Dyrt and the Forest Service Fire Team came up and started talking and they suggested this site and its awesome."

    6. Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Twin Bridges, CA
    22 miles
    Website

    "Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!"

    "Great location. Not sure it would be a good location if it's been raining. May hear the occasional road noise"

    7. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Echo Lake, CA
    33 miles

    "Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east."

    "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."

    8. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sierraville, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 994-3401

    "Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare."

    "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."

    9. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 532-3671

    "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up."

    "Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded but still a good spot."

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Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Grizzly Flats, CA

63 Reviews of 21 Grizzly Flats Campgrounds



Guide to Grizzly Flats

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Grizzly Flats, California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Activities While Free Camping Near Grizzly Flats

Essential Tips for Dispersed Camping

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles, especially in pristine areas like Echo Summit Dispersed, where maintaining cleanliness is crucial.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; the Carson Pass Dispersed Site requires campers to bring their own water and supplies.
  • Check for any necessary permits before heading out, as some areas may have specific regulations, such as those found at Luther Pass Dispersed Camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Grizzly Flats, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Grizzly Flats, CA is Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Grizzly Flats, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 21 dispersed camping locations near Grizzly Flats, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.