Best Dispersed Camping near Kyburz, CA
El Dorado National Forest provides multiple dispersed camping areas around Kyburz, California, primarily along forest roads and near water features. Key locations include USFS Silver Fork Dispersed, Iron MT. Dispersed, Packsaddle Pass, and scattered sites around Union Valley Reservoir. Most sites are primitive with no facilities and require campers to be self-sufficient. Several areas show evidence of past forest fires, creating a mix of burned and unburned sections throughout the region.
Access roads vary significantly between locations, with some sites requiring high-clearance vehicles while others are accessible to standard passenger cars. The Silver Fork area features relatively well-maintained roads leading to flat camping spots, though some secondary routes may be challenging after rain. Visitors need California Campfire Permits for any open flames, and seasonal fire restrictions are common during summer and fall months. "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," noted one visitor about the Silver Fork area. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services exist at any of these sites, requiring strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
These primitive camping areas typically provide solitude, though proximity to Highway 50 means some locations experience road noise. Many campers appreciate the river access at Silver Fork, where several established spots include small beaches. According to one camper, "We found a great spot about 4 miles before Silver Fork campground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring." Higher elevation sites like Iron Mountain offer expansive views with one visitor noting, "The view from this area is spectacular. Beautiful sunsets too." Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier, with some areas providing adequate coverage while others remain completely disconnected. Winter access is limited by snow conditions, with some locations requiring Sno-park permits between November and May.
