Rustic camping near Hensley Lake provides access to Sierra National Forest's diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 5,500 feet. The area experiences warm days and cool nights during summer months, with temperatures often dropping 30°F after sunset. Several dispersed sites accommodate both tent and vehicle camping with varying degrees of privacy and road access challenges.
What to do
Stargazing at elevation: The open clearings at Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site provide excellent night sky viewing at 5,200 feet. "Couldn't recommend this place more. Coyotes and bears are active in the area—coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" warns Alexander Mark C.
Sledding in winter months: Winter visitors can access the Snow Play area near dispersed camping options. "When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3" of snow, whereas other spots were about 6-8". I'm glad I didn't set up in the parking lot though, as around 7am, the place filled up with people sledding," notes Alexander Mark C.
Hiking from camp: Hardin Flat Road camping areas connect to multiple trails. "All wheel drive, okay. Large grounds, many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes). Camped upper level," reports DJ M. These sites are approximately 10 minutes from Yosemite's entrance and 40 minutes from the Valley.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing at Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping. "Nothing fancy or too expansive, but a handful of spots on either side of the road. Certainly easier to settle in before it's dark," notes Miles L. These sites sit roughly a 10-minute drive from one of Yosemite's entrances.
Proximity to park entrances: Sites along Hardin Flat Road offer strategic positioning. "This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn't even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect," writes Bobby J.
Cell service availability: Many dispersed sites maintain usable connections. "Beautiful area surrounded by trees so lots of shade. Came on 4th of July so the crowd is a lil rowdy but I found a spot farther away which is nice!" reports Taryn R. at Goat Meadow. Another camper mentioned, "Perfect spot near Yosemite south entrance. Very quite and private."
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Different insect populations affect camping comfort throughout the year. At Van Haven Dispersed Site Yosemite, "Small plot of land near the forest road with great views. Great views along the John Muir trail. 24 hour Public restroom .02 miles from camp site," notes Jessica S.
Holiday crowds: Popular dispersed areas fill quickly during peak periods. "Close to Yosemite entrance, which was great. Stayed about a week which also crossed over Memorial Day weekend. Arrived the Tuesday before. This place gets CROWDED. At 5:30 it's like everyone got off work and headed home, it's nuts," reports Katelin M.
Road conditions: Access routes vary significantly in quality. "Red Cloud Rd offers few viable camping sites. The road becomes increasingly rough and eroded, with deep ruts and drainages. 4WD or AWD is necessary," warns Mark L. Another visitor mentions, "The road getting there has tons of potholes and the road in the site is super super bumpy."
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early for best spots: The most level, shaded locations fill quickly. "Went on 4/5/24 - 4/7/24. I stayed to car camp and had an overall nice time. There was a good amount of ice but with 4x4 not problem. The ice was melting so if you go anytime after the snow should be a lot less," reports Martin A.
Bear safety measures: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. "Coyotes and bears are active in the area. Coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" warns a camper at Dewey Point Backcountry Site. Secure food storage containers are essential for overnight stays.
Water planning: No water sources exist at most dispersed sites. "No bathrooms over here and no dumpsters. Gets a little cold at night (April) but not unbearable by any means. Pretty quiet (with the right groups around you), easily accessible and comfortable," notes Dylan B.
Tips from RVers
Site assessment for larger vehicles: Larger rigs require careful location selection. "Plenty of space for all vehicle sizes. Roads are very accessible. Nice and wooded," reports Ty P. Scout potential sites during daylight hours to evaluate clearance and turning radius limitations.
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed areas have uneven terrain. "If you enter from the Dinkey Creek entrance get ready for some good offroad ohv trail action. I was able to get my 13ft offroad camper up there but it was a struggle," notes a visitor to Bald Mountain Lookout.
Park entrance traffic: Plan travel timing carefully. "I will say if it's a holiday weekend and you leave camp headed into town be prepared for at least an hour in traffic due to backup from the park entrance," warns a camper. Morning arrivals and mid-week visits minimize congestion at entrance gates and along access roads.
