Best Dispersed Camping near Likely, CA

The northeastern California landscape surrounding Likely features primarily dispersed camping options on public lands, with several sites situated near lakes and reservoirs. Duncan Reservoir South Site offers primitive camping with basic amenities including seasonally maintained pit toilets and established fire rings. East Eagle Lake and Rocky Point provide free lakeside camping opportunities with minimal facilities. These dispersed sites typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, though amenities are limited and campers should arrive prepared for self-sufficient stays.

Access to camping areas near Likely requires navigating dirt and gravel roads of varying quality. As one camper noted about Duncan Reservoir, there are "graded dirt roads a few miles from highway" leading to "small camping areas with not many people." Most sites lack drinking water, hookups, or regular maintenance. The region experiences significant seasonal variations, with some areas becoming inaccessible during winter months or periods of heavy precipitation. Water levels at reservoir sites like Duncan can fluctuate dramatically, affecting both access and the camping experience. One visitor observed that "water is too low now to launch, but several fire rings, an older seasonally maintained pit toilet and minimal noise and light pollution made for a great stay."

Campers frequently mention the quiet, uncrowded nature of dispersed sites in this region. The Lesson Trail Marker Road Side Stop serves as a convenient "creek side good for stop over" according to reviews, while Rocky Point is described as a "large barren area with a toilet near the lake" that offers "good distance away from roads and houses" with "lake view." East Eagle Lake receives positive feedback for its accessibility and open space, with one visitor noting they "had the area to ourselves" and enjoyed "a nice walk by the lake." Most sites feature minimal light pollution, making them suitable for stargazing. The combination of lake access, relative solitude, and free camping makes these areas particularly appealing for self-contained travelers seeking basic outdoor experiences without crowds or costs.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Likely, California (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Likely, CA

5 Photos of 5 Likely Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Likely, CA

3 Reviews of 5 Likely Campgrounds


  • Cheryl M.
    Nov. 20, 2021

    Duncan Reservoir South Site

    Duncan Reservoir off season

    Found this unmapped camping spot by following a USFS access road to an old boat launch area. Water is too low now to launch, but several fire rings, an older seasonally maintained pit toilet and minimal noise and light pollution made for a great stay. I am fully self contained.

  • tom P.
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Rocky Point Dispersed Camping

    Suitable but barren

    There's signs acknowledging it's free camping. Large barren area with a toilet near the lake. Not great for a tent but can make it work. Good distance away from roads and houses. Lake view.

  • Rich R.
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Duncan Reservoir South Site

    Great pit stop

    Graded dirt road a few miles from highway. Small camping area but not many people.


Guide to Likely

Dispersed camping near Likely, California typically involves remote sites scattered across high desert terrain at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping well below freezing. Most camping locations require visitors to bring their own water supply and practice proper waste management, as facilities are minimal throughout this northeastern California region.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Eagle Lake provides accessible fishing spots for campers staying at East Eagle Lake dispersed site. One visitor noted they planned to "revisit heading south. Maybe wet a worm?" at this location, which consists of "just an open field next to the lake."

Stargazing sessions: The minimal light pollution at Duncan Reservoir South Site creates ideal conditions for night sky observation. According to camper Cheryl M., the site offers "minimal noise and light pollution," which "made for a great stay" for self-contained visitors.

Morning lake walks: Several camping areas provide direct lake access for casual strolls. At East Eagle Lake, one camper reported they "took a nice walk by the lake" and appreciated having "the area to ourselves," making it a peaceful location for morning exploration.

What campers like

Uncrowded atmosphere: The region's remote location means fewer visitors even during peak seasons. At Duncan Reservoir South Site, one camper described the appeal of the "small camping area but not many people" reached via "graded dirt road a few miles from highway."

Overnight convenience: For travelers passing through, several sites serve as practical stopover points. The Lesson Trail Marker Road Side Stop features a "road side area, gravel surface" that's "creek side good for stop over" on state land according to reviewer John L.

Lake views: Many dispersed sites offer water vistas without the crowds of developed campgrounds. Rocky Point Dispersed Camping provides a "good distance away from roads and houses" with a "lake view," though one camper noted it's a "large barren area" that's "not great for a tent but can make it work."

What you should know

Limited facilities: Expect minimal amenities at most sites near Likely. At Rocky Point, there's a basic "toilet near the lake" but the area is described as "suitable but barren" by a recent visitor.

Seasonally maintained: Facilities that do exist often receive only periodic attention. At Duncan Reservoir, a camper noted there was "an older seasonally maintained pit toilet" available for use, which is typical for the region's dispersed sites.

Access challenges: Road conditions vary widely by season and location. One camper at East Eagle Lake mentioned they "drove right by it" initially, suggesting unmarked or unclear access points, which is common for dispersed camping areas in this region.

Tips for camping with families

Prepare for temperature swings: The high desert climate means significant variation between day and night temperatures, particularly important for families with young children. Pack appropriate clothing layers for all conditions.

Scout for level areas: Many dispersed sites have uneven terrain. At Rocky Point, one camper noted the area was "not great for a tent," so families should arrive with daylight hours remaining to find suitable tent spots.

Wildlife awareness: The region hosts various wildlife including deer, coyotes, and occasional black bears. Store food properly and maintain appropriate distance from any animals encountered during your stay.

Tips from RVers

Limited turnaround space: While some areas can accommodate larger vehicles, navigation can be challenging. The Rocky Point area is marked as "big-rig friendly" but lacks developed parking areas or designated sites.

Self-containment essential: Most dispersed camping in the Likely area requires complete self-sufficiency. One RVer at Duncan Reservoir noted, "I am fully self contained," which was important since the "water is too low now to launch" and facilities were minimal.

Overnight parking options: For those needing just a quick rest, some areas serve as functional overnight stops. One traveler at East Eagle Lake "pulled off around 10:30-11 pm on a roadtrip, and car camped in the parking lot," recommending to park "further from the road and away from road to avoid getting flashed by incoming cars."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Likely, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Likely, CA is Dan Ryan Place South Camp with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Likely, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.