Top Free Dispersed Camping near Kaweah Lake

Planning a dispersed camping trip near Kaweah Lake? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Kaweah Lake, CA (48)

    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

    3.

    Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

    4 Reviews
    6 Photos
    97 Saves
    Dunlap, California

    Tips and rules on dispersed camping: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd883625

    Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

    There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

    Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

    The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

    Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

    The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

    1. Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

    2. Leaving campfire unattended.

    3. Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

    4. Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

    5. Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

    6. Removing forest products without a permit.

    7. Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

    Here are some tips to appropriate dispersed camping: More information on dispersed camping here.

    1. Protect standing trees from nails and scars from axes, knives and hatchets. Use only dead and down trees for firewood.

    2. Bury human waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet from any waterway or trail. DO NOT bury toilet paper–PACK IT OUT

    3. Wash at least 200 feet away from any water source using biodegradable soap.

    4. Set up camp more than 200 feet from any waterway or trail.

    5. Take a litterbag to carry out all refuse. Do not leave trash in fire rings. Do not bury trash.

    6. A campfire permits is required to have a campfire, charcoal barbeque, or camp stove. Use existig fire grates or fire rings. Gather only dead and down firewood. Firewood may not be transported off of the Forest without a permit.

    7. Avoid leveling or digging trenches around tents. Place tent on bare ground and not on vegetation.

    8. Protect your food from the bears and other animals. Keep your food and anything with a scent stored in an airtight container in your car truck. If your vehicle has no truck, put everything on the floor, cover it well and close the windows. Always, Keep a clean campsite.

    9. LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE BETTER THAN WHEN YOU ARRIVED!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
    Camper-submitted photo from Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot

    6.

    Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    54 Saves
    Dunlap, California

    Tips and rules on dispersed camping: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd883625

    Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

    There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

    Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

    The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

    Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

    The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

    1. Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

    2. Leaving campfire unattended.

    3. Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

    4. Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

    5. Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

    6. Removing forest products without a permit.

    7. Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

    Here are some tips to appropriate dispersed camping: More information on dispersed camping here.

    1. Protect standing trees from nails and scars from axes, knives and hatchets. Use only dead and down trees for firewood.

    2. Bury human waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet from any waterway or trail. DO NOT bury toilet paper–PACK IT OUT

    3. Wash at least 200 feet away from any water source using biodegradable soap.

    4. Set up camp more than 200 feet from any waterway or trail.

    5. Take a litterbag to carry out all refuse. Do not leave trash in fire rings. Do not bury trash.

    6. A campfire permits is required to have a campfire, charcoal barbeque, or camp stove. Use existig fire grates or fire rings. Gather only dead and down firewood. Firewood may not be transported off of the Forest without a permit.

    7. Avoid leveling or digging trenches around tents. Place tent on bare ground and not on vegetation.

    8. Protect your food from the bears and other animals. Keep your food and anything with a scent stored in an airtight container in your car truck. If your vehicle has no truck, put everything on the floor, cover it well and close the windows. Always, Keep a clean campsite.

    9. LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE BETTER THAN WHEN YOU ARRIVED!

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road

    7.

    FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    102 Saves
    Hume, California

    Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

    There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

    Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

    The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

    Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

    The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

    1. Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

    2. Leaving campfire unattended.

    3. Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

    4. Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

    5. Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

    6. Removing forest products without a permit.

    7. Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • No image available

      8.

      Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site

      1 Review
      53 Saves
      Hume, California

      Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

      There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

      Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.

      The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.

      Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.

      The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:

      Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.

      Leaving campfire unattended.

      Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.

      Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.

      Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.

      Removing forest products without a permit.

      Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water

      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground

      9.

      Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground

      6 Reviews
      23 Photos
      483 Saves
      Johnsondale, California

      Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.

      There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.

      Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Dispersed
      • Market
      • Picnic Table
    Showing results 1-10 of 48 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Kaweah Lake

    79 Reviews of 48 Kaweah Lake Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
      August 22, 2024

      Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

      Quiet, remote, beautiful

      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. I was legit, alone.

      Great place to pull off and sit on a rock to watch the sun set over the mountains. Shade was minimal, but if you hide between the rocks like they do in that scene on the fire planet in Riddick you’ll be alright til it cools off.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
      August 20, 2024

      Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)

      Great Spot tucked off the road

      We stopped here on our way through Sequoia Nat’l Forest and loved it. The water is super clear and nice! We were the only ones staying here, so it was very quiet and calming. A handful of camping spots around this area, well worth the stay!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 14S29
      August 10, 2024

      Forest Rd 14S29

      Good for a night

      Quiet place on dirt, not really levelled but fine for a night and easily accessible with any car.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
      July 25, 2024

      Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

      Dennis H. Jackson

      Exploring Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road is like stepping onto a film set straight out of a Western movie. This iconic location in California has been the backdrop for countless films, thanks to its stunning rock formations and dramatic landscapes. If you're planning a visit, make sure to check out Castle app for an interactive and personalized travel guide that enhances your experience with custom itineraries and insights tailored to your interests. Whether you're a film buff or an outdoor enthusiast, the combination of real-world exploration and digital tools can make your adventure in the Alabama Hills truly unforgettable.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area
      July 20, 2024

      Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area

      Fantastic but very, very remote spot

      Not for big rigs! A very primitive but beautiful area. Tons of winding roads with lots of S curves Leading up to 9000 feet. Many great camping spots including close to Peppermint Creek. Completely dry area so no campfires until November. No services and no reception so pack it in and pack it out!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
      July 15, 2024

      Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

      Tucked away from the world

      While the road to get up there is a bit nerve wracking (hoping no one comes around those corners the other direction!) It's worth taking it slow and steady. We were the only ones there and enjoyed a very peaceful night bathed in moonlight and the sounds of nature. Great place!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Hogback Creekside Camp
      June 24, 2024

      Hogback Creekside Camp

      Nice spot by a swift running creek.

      This place was pretty easy to find, right off Hogback road. There are a couple of sites here, we picked the first one. After an hour or so two vans showed up and parked on the other side of the creek. 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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
      June 23, 2024

      Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area

      Perfect camping spot

      Easy to find if you turn on that road leading to Chicago stump. Keep driving down and you’ll see dispersed camping spots. Beautiful views, quiet, peaceful & there are some fire rings already built.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
      June 6, 2024

      Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road

      Crowded but Spectacular

      Despite mid week in May most “select” sites were taken. Many areas where you used to be able to camp have been signed “no camping.” VERY restrictive. That said, this place is special. Views are world class. Please be respectful and leave no trace so we can keep this gem open. We’ve been here several times and it never disappoints.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
      May 25, 2024

      Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground

      Definitely beautiful

      Does take about 45 mins to wind up there and i got there at 1:15am. Didn't find the campgrounds but had large side areas with forest machinery. Next to stream. Then if you continue on you will hit a 4 mile off road (my Corolla/any sedan OK) and see great views and waterfall! Nice!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
      May 25, 2024

      Forest Road 14S11 North Camp

      Super Nice

      Very good spot to camp, there were plenty of spots and most had rings. There was also a bathroom so that was nice. Right off of the main road that goes throughout the whole park

    • Camper-submitted photo from Independence BLM Dispersed
      May 8, 2024

      Independence BLM Dispersed

      Completely Inaccessible - May 2024

      There are rocks blocking the turn off. If you still proceed the trail is completely washed out. No way to proceed with a trailer and you will ahem have to back down the road which is approximately zero fun.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site
      May 4, 2024

      Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site

      Great little spot

      Secluded with very little traffic. Especially good if you're traveling with dogs to let them roam around. There's a stream and waterfall downhill that makes for great hikes.

    • Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
      April 26, 2024

      FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road

      Rally nice spot on the Sequoia National forest

      Nice big camp spot in the Sequoia National Forest, the road was really calm mid-April, we had no car during the night. The spot has firepits, a camping table and loads of bushes. The view is nice on the forest or a mountain top. We were alone but the spot is big enough for 3 or 4 véhicules, the access is just before the U turn.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
      April 2, 2024

      Alabama Hills Dispersed Site

      Alabama Hiils Dispersed site

      This site is on Horseshoe Meadow Road about 1/2 mile north of the Tuttle Creek site. There are 3 legal spots with camping signs. First two are level. Third will need leveling blocks. First site is large and was to turn around a larger trailer or rv. The SuperDrive get to spots is getting a large rut go slow and even my Subaru Forester had no issue. The second and third have better views. But the first can offer wind protection from the north. BLM. Carry in and out.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
      December 22, 2023

      Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park

      Secluded gorgeous dispersed camping

      Stunning. If you want privacy this is it. You are definitely alone. We went and there was only 1 other camper there - he was kinda weird and wanted to hang out but we politely asked him for privacy (he said he is there a lot). BRING water and fill up on gas before you go. There are 0 resources for you. It’s gorgeous, we will definitely be going back

    • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 14S29
      November 13, 2023

      Forest Rd 14S29

      Small, but good for one night

      Since it's offseason and the Campgrounds were closed, we quickly needed to find an alternative and were happy to stay a quiet night at this spot. There is space for maximum 4 small RVs. Large RVs should avoid this place!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
      October 24, 2023

      Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597

      Private remote campsite

      I found this last minute after digging through many campspots on the north side of Sequoia National Park, but most were closed for the season. Everything else was a little bit of a drive away

      You have to get up a steep incline, right road off of the main road and the road is narrow. It was not our favorite part.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Dome Rock Dispersed Camping
      October 11, 2023

      Dome Rock Dispersed Camping

      Great dispered camping with a nice view

      There are about five spots for disperesed camping, we stayed at an upper spot with great view and wonderful night sky. We felt very safe here. Road is bumpy, so drive very carefully, but we saw RVs to get there. (October 2023)

    • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
      October 11, 2023

      Forest Road 14S11 North Camp

      Plenty of space in the forest

      We stayed here in October 2023 for two nights. There are many spaces alongside this forest road, there are lots of trees, so you feel private though there were quite many people camping alongside the road. We found our own space easily both nights. Great view on the night sky.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
      October 11, 2023

      Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area

      Fine safe spot

      We stayed here in October 2023 for our first night in the forest, we stayed at a place near the main road since we arrived late in the night. More place are further the road. It was a safe fine spot with a nice morning view over the canyon.



    Guide to Kaweah Lake

    Camping near Kaweah Lake, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to all types of campers.

    What to do:

    • Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. At Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park, one reviewer mentioned, "It’s a stunning area of the park with the Topokah falls trail right inside the campground." This makes it a great base for hiking adventures.
    • Fishing: Kaweah Lake is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Campers at Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park noted, "There’s a 6-mile hike starting from the campground that leads to some waterfalls," which can be a great spot for fishing.
    • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Azalea Campground — Kings Canyon National Park shared, "Deer pass by your camper in the morning," making it a delightful experience for nature lovers.

    What campers like:

    • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One happy camper at Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground said, "Watching the Sun rise over the lake was unforgettable," highlighting the breathtaking views.
    • Convenience: Many appreciate the amenities nearby. A reviewer at Lodgepole Campground mentioned, "The market makes for great convenience and souvenirs," which is a nice touch for those who want to stock up on supplies.
    • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One visitor at Upper Stony Creek Campground — Sequoia National Forest noted, "It was sparsely crowded, very quiet," making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

    What you should know:

    • Restroom Conditions: Some campgrounds have mixed reviews about restroom cleanliness. A camper at Azalea Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were the most unattractive part," so be prepared for that.
    • Crowded Sites: Popular campgrounds can get busy. A visitor at Lodgepole Campground pointed out, "Some of the sites are a bit close together and it does get very crowded," so plan accordingly.
    • Elevation Changes: The elevation can affect temperatures. A reviewer at Sequoia RV Ranch noted, "The elevation also means it’s 10-15 degrees cooler than other campgrounds," which is something to keep in mind when packing.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites. A family at Princess Campground appreciated, "The spacing between the sites was very good," which is great for families needing room to spread out.
    • Activities for Kids: Find campgrounds with nearby activities. One camper at Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground mentioned, "The lake was gorgeous and we ended up spending a lot of time there," perfect for keeping kids entertained.
    • Safety Precautions: Always be aware of wildlife. A visitor at Sentinel Campground — Kings Canyon National Park advised, "Make sure you store ALL food and coolers in the bear box," to keep your family safe.

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Sequoia RV Ranch mentioned, "Easy to maneuver sites," which is a plus for RV travelers.
    • Water Access: Look for campgrounds with water hookups. A camper at Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA noted, "They had some cute stray cats," but also mentioned the need for better facilities, so check ahead.
    • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for some noise in busier campgrounds. A visitor at Potwisha Campground said, "It’s more of a party campground if that’s what you are going for," so if you prefer quiet, choose your campground wisely.

    Camping near Kaweah Lake, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kaweah Lake?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kaweah Lake is Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area with a 3.7-star rating from 9 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Kaweah Lake?

      TheDyrt.com has all 48 dispersed camping locations near Kaweah Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.