The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Independence, CA

181 Reviews

Multiple dispersed camping areas exist on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands near Independence, California, with notable options including Independence BLM Dispersed, Creek Side Independence Dispersed, and Alabama Hills Recreation Area. These sites are situated in the Eastern Sierra region between Mount Whitney and the Owens Valley, providing primitive camping opportunities with minimal development and no facilities. Most sites permit tent and RV camping without reservation or fee, though camping regulations have changed in some areas like Alabama Hills.

Access to many dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved roads with varying conditions. Recent reviews indicate several areas have deteriorating road conditions, with Independence BLM Dispersed described as "completely washed out" and "inaccessible" as of mid-2024. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most sites, particularly for Alabama Hills North and areas along Hogback Road. Campfires are permitted at most locations when no fire restrictions are in place, but no drinking water, toilets, or other amenities are available. Campers must pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.

The dispersed sites around Independence provide exceptional views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with Alabama Hills offering distinctive rock formations and views of Mount Whitney. Creek Side Independence features sites near running water, with a visitor noting the "breathtaking peace" of camping beside "roaring waters." Alabama Hills has undergone management changes, with camping now restricted to designated sites only. A reviewer pointed out that "many areas where you used to be able to camp have been signed 'no camping'" and advised arriving "4-5 hours early to find a spot" during busy periods. Some areas like Independence Creek Dispersed BLM Site have become completely inaccessible, with one visitor reporting it "leads to a sewer treatment plant and road is gated."

Map showing campgrounds near Independence, CaliforniaExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Independence, California (53)

    1. Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    87 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    "Location- ALABAMA HILLS, Lone Pine- Movie Rd. CA. Tent Dry Camping. BLM Land, for disperse camping. No reservations required, unless you choose to stay at a “campground”."

    "Camped in the dispersed camping area late April. This place is beautiful! No facilities so bring your water, bathroom equipment, cooking and cleaning supplies."

    2. Independence BLM Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Independence, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    "Independence is on Hwy 395 about an hour south of Bishop and about half an hour north of Alabama Hills.  Which is to say it's a great location with a lot of places to explore and hike.  "

    3. Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

    8 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    17 miles

    "Please be respectful and leave no trace so we can keep this gem open. We’ve been here several times and it never disappoints."

    "Exploring Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road is like stepping onto a film set straight out of a Western movie."

    4. Creek Side Independence Dispersed 2

    1 Review
    Seven Pines, CA
    3 miles

    "Mountain side relatively flat dirt area to park. Has a sizable fire ring for the cold nights! Absolutely magical to sit next to the creek listening to the roaring waters! Much needed after the desert!"

    5. Alabama Hills on Movie Road

    4 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    14 miles

    "Hello TheDyrt Community, The Alabama Hills on Movie Road, located in California, is a stunning desert landscape famous for its unique rock formations and breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains"

    6. Hogback Creekside Camp

    2 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    13 miles

    "This site is so close to the road, we could see them make the turn off Hogback road. No trees, just bushes. It's okay. Pretty basic. Great views of the backside of Mount Whitney."

    7. Alabama Hills North

    2 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    15 miles

    "Awesome location, easy to reach with a 4X4 Low clearance vehicles may need to be careful"

    "Rolled in after midnight and no one else was around."

    8. Independence Creek Dispersed BLM Site

    1 Review
    Independence, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 872-5000

    9. Alabama Hills Side Trail Dispersed Campsite

    5 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    19 miles

    "The BLM page for Alabama Hills gives perfect directions the coordinates below took us out of town east. Take Hwy 395 to Lone Pine."

    "walk less than 100 yards and go climbing."

    10. Django Free Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Lone Pine, CA
    16 miles
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 53 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Independence Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Independence, CA

91 Photos of 53 Independence Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Independence, CA

181 Reviews of 53 Independence Campgrounds

  • Nissa N.
    Jun. 11, 2020

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    Incredible disperse Camping

    Location- ALABAMA HILLS, Lone Pine- Movie Rd. CA. Tent Dry Camping. BLM Land, for disperse camping. No reservations required, unless you choose to stay at a “campground”.

    Absolutely breathtaking place, it feels like you’ve landed on another planet or as if you’ve been taken back into time, to the early dawn of mankind days. This was our first disperse/dry camping and I wouldn’t camp any other way, it was marvelous.

    Directions- Once at Alabama Hills, Take Hwy 395 to Lone Pine. (it’s a proper town with restaurants/ grocery stores/ car workshops). Turn west at the stoplight onto Whitney Portal Road, drive 2.5 miles to Movie Road, turn right & the road turns into a “well groomed dirt path” from that point onwards “The world is your oyster! You can basically set up camp anywhere. As you drive down the groomed dirt path, there are multiple exits to various dirt paths leading inwards, where you can pick your spot to set up camp.

    One very important thing is you MUST come here in a GOOD condition 4WD! There’s NO other way. You don’t want to get WHEELS stuck on the dirt path. We had rented a 4WD for the weekend.

    We camped about 3miles in Movie Rd. Another good thing is if you run out of any supplies or have car trouble “Lone Pine” town is nearby you can drive over in minutes or call for any help. Phone service & wifi is available only on the groomed dirt path, also a bit unstable, however manageable for a call or text. So you’ll have to walk out of your campsite back to main rd.

    It’s wonderful to go on hikes and explore during the day, that’s what we did. Evenings we’d sit around fire and cook dinner. Then at night time S’mores time! (we have a camp fire permit) you get it online.

    Another important item to have around is a sturdy SHOVEL, as it’s very sandy here and the shovel is very multi-purpose, well at any camp for that matter. Bring Plenty of WATER, it’s very dry out here. As there are no water taps around, unless you head back to Lone Pine. Also you MUST clean up after, bring along a few trash bags or a bin, to clear up before you leave. LEAVE no Trace. Keep nature clean.

    This is purely disperse camping. You’ll have to bring everything of your own. Our camp was a 3days/ 2nights. Arrived on Friday and left on Sunday morning. Waking up every morning to this spectacular view, is pure bliss! We’d definitely be coming back here a few more times! If you haven’t already then hop on a 4WD and head over to Alabama Hills!

  • goose10091203 The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2025

    Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site

    Great spot near the road

    Was a great place to stay. Plenty of shade for you, plenty of sun for you solar panel. Load road, you camp near the side, but it's not heavily trafficked even on the weekends. They are many spots nearby. Some really pretty of you walk and camp. Most are car accessible and has amazing views! Totally recommend

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 3, 2021

    Independence BLM Dispersed

    Free dispersed camping outside of Independence, CA

    Independence is on Hwy 395 about an hour south of Bishop and about half an hour north of Alabama Hills.  Which is to say it's a great location with a lot of places to explore and hike.  

    This land is a good spot to stay for a few nights while exploring the area, or if you just need a free place to sleep.  The spot we marked here is about 2 miles west of Independence, but there are a few other cleared out areas that you can camp on, just check Google satellite maps.  We didn't see anyone else camping on the BLM land while we stayed here, but we saw a lot of people driving up and down Onion Valley Rd.

    The area is clean and very quiet, zero shade and zero amenities.  Please help keep it clean by packing out your trash.

    Some of the dirt roads might need a high clearance vehicle but on the spot I've marked we made it fine in our 26ft motorhome.

  • J
    Apr. 27, 2017

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    Peaceful

    Camped in the dispersed camping area late April. This place is beautiful! No facilities so bring your water, bathroom equipment, cooking and cleaning supplies. The wind picks up in the afternoon so the tent was put to the test. We wrapped our sleeping bags up so the dust wouldn't accumulate on/ inside them. If your looking for quiet and close by rock climbing, here is the place!

  • Rachel W.
    Aug. 14, 2020

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    Unworldly. Tranquil. Amazing

    Everything about Alabama Hills is incredible. From the moment you drive down Whitney Portal Rd to Movie Rd, it has uniquely amazing views. Movie Rd has the best dispersed camp spots. All with amazing views. SUV would probably be best for navigating the roads or at least 4x4. They’re all pretty far apart so they’re private. It’s so quiet at night you could hear a pin drop. The stars and the Milky Way are insane! So many constellations and shooting stars and satellites. Sunset was amazing over Mt. Whitney. The moon rise was quite the experience. Then sunrise... it was all just so beautiful!! Highly highly recommended! Pack lots of water! Lone Pine is nearby for firewood. But I think fires are currently restricted! As always pack it in and pack it out. Leave no trace!

  • Amber D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 7, 2019

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    The VIEWS!!!

    High desert meets Sierra Nevadas in a magical rock playground with views of My Whitney. This spot literally has it all. Right off the 395, you have access to civilization and amenities. It's dispersed camping, but heavily used sites are well established. The deeper into the park you venture, the more primitive and less crowded it becomes. Take a quick drive and you're at Whitney Portal. We lucked out and had 360 degrees of the best views ever! Loads to do here. Popular for rock climbing, hiking, spectacular night sky, wildflowers, photography. Even though it's right off the highway you feel like you're on another planet. No facilities. Pack it in, pack it out. Hands down, one of the best camp spots I've ever had!

  • Brenda
    Mar. 26, 2021

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    Beautiful

    Great place. Snowed a bit on the first day but had beautiful views of Mt. Whitney. For sure a popular place but we were able to find a nice place to set up, and still not have neighbors nearby. Check out their IG @alabama_hills and practice leave no trace.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 28, 2021

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    Popular and crowded place!

    Very very beautiful area, but we had a really hard time finding a spot that wasn't already taken.  Even far away from the movie filming locations (where the crowds were insane!), no matter how remote and tucked away the clearing was that we found on google satellite map, someone was already camping there when we got there. Granted this was on a Saturday in March.  It's possible that it clears out during the week and when the weather isn't so beautiful.

    We ended up finding two different spots, both extremely quiet and peaceful. 

    Warning about the extremely annoying and prolific gnats! 

    Also watch out that there's private land in this area too, so have your BLM and Forest Service layers ready.

    Cell service was spotty throughout the area, with mostly very weak or non-existent signal for all 3 carriers.

  • B
    Jun. 2, 2021

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    Incredible terrain, beautiful skies, super easy access

    Please note:  This review is regarding the dispersed camping.  There are (at least) two formal camp grounds right near the dispersed camping area.

    We went up there with another family, both of us towing camping trailers with 4x4 trucks.  A 4x4 is not needed, nor is a high clearance vehicle.  All of the camping spots in the dispersed area are either off the the side of the main road, or down small roads branching from the main.  A lot of the sites are not visible from the main road, you need to travel down the little road to see if anyone is there.  Easy to do if you are in a car or truck.  A little more challenging if you are towing something big.  If it looks like there are a lot of people there and you are driving something that can not turn around easy, I would suggest dropping of your trailer at the beginning of the dispersed camping area and scouting out your spot.  Every spot has an incredible view.  The terrain is awesome.  There are several short hiking loops in the area.

    The only thing I would change is that we would park further off of the main road.  Some people rip down the dirt roads in their cars and dirt bikes. 

    Also, there is an evening breeze that can come out of nowhere and relocate your chairs and adjust your awning so you might want to put them away before calling it a night.

Guide to Independence

Dispersed camping near Independence, California offers primitive sites in the Eastern Sierra region at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 6,000 feet. The area experiences extreme temperature variations with summer highs often exceeding 100°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most dispersed camping zones require traveling on unpaved roads through desert terrain punctuated by seasonal creek beds and rock formations.

What to do

Rock climbing routes: Alabama Hills Side Trail Dispersed Campsite offers immediate access to numerous bouldering opportunities. One camper noted, "Very cool spot for bouldering, very secluded and scenic if you love a mars looking panorama lol feels like outer space."

Astronomy observation: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Alabama Hills Recreation Area, one visitor remarked, "The stars and the Milky Way are insane! So many constellations and shooting stars and satellites."

Film location touring: Many sites sit among famous movie backdrops. At Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road, a camper shared, "Awesome landscape to camp in. All the sites are designated so look for the map at the entrance to find one."

What campers like

Creek access: Some sites offer the benefit of running water nearby. At Creek Side Independence Dispersed 2, a visitor enjoyed "Mountain side relatively flat dirt area to park. Has a sizable fire ring for the cold nights! Absolutely magical to sit next to the creek listening to the roaring waters!"

Rock formation privacy: The unique geography creates natural site separation. A camper at Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road reported, "I pulled in here looking for a campsite on my way up to mammoth. I was able to find a pretty dope spot surrounded by rocks, and nowhere near any other campers."

Morning views: The eastern exposure provides dramatic sunrise vistas. At Alabama Hills North, a reviewer mentioned, "2nd time at this spot and loved it! Rolled in after midnight and no one else was around."

What you should know

Road conditions: Many access routes have deteriorated significantly. A recent visitor to Independence BLM Dispersed reported, "There are rocks blocking the turn off. If you still proceed the trail is completely washed out. No way to proceed with a trailer."

Reservation timing: Arrive early during peak seasons. One camper at Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road advised, "We arrived on a Monday afternoon at 5 pm (mid May) and found just one site left. A few cleared out early in the morning so we moved over for a better view."

Regulatory changes: Camp only in designated areas at certain locations. A visitor noted, "The BLM page for Alabama Hills gives perfect directions... There's changes in 2022 more 'day use only signs' at the front. Keep heading towards the back and it opens up."

Tips for camping with families

Temperature preparation: Pack for extreme temperature swings. A camper at Alabama Hills Recreation Area shared, "Free campground. Plenty of random dirt roads leading to private sites nestled among giant rocks... Downside. Really really really hot in summer. Like. Insanely hot."

Site selection strategy: Scout options before setting up. One visitor recommended, "It is worth driving around and exploring before settling in if you are new here. I ended up packing up and moving a few times after poking around a bit."

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Independence?

Dispersed camping in the Independence area follows standard BLM regulations. At Alabama Hills Recreation Area, camping is limited to 14 days within a 28-day period. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and waste. Campfires may require permits depending on the season and fire restrictions. Some areas have recently implemented additional regulations to manage increased visitation, with certain spots now marked as no-camping zones. Always check current restrictions with the local BLM office or ranger station before your trip, as rules can change seasonally, particularly during high fire danger periods.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Independence?

The Eastern Sierra region near Independence offers several excellent dispersed camping options. Independence BLM Dispersed provides free camping along Highway 395, making it a convenient base for exploring the area between Bishop and Alabama Hills. About 30 minutes north, McGee Creek offers peaceful streamside camping on a dirt road accessible even with lower clearance vehicles when driven slowly. Both locations provide stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and serve as excellent jumping-off points for hiking and outdoor adventures in the Eastern Sierra.

What amenities are available at Independence dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas near Independence are primitive with no formal amenities. At Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site, you'll find plenty of shade and sun exposure for solar panels, but no facilities. Similarly, Independence Creek Dispersed BLM Site offers natural settings without developed amenities. Come prepared with all essentials: water for drinking and cleaning, portable toilet facilities, cooking equipment, and garbage bags to pack out all waste. Cell service varies by location but is generally available near main roads. The nearby town of Independence provides access to basic supplies, though selection is limited compared to larger towns like Bishop.

Keep Exploring