Top Free Dispersed Camping near Little Lake, CA

Looking for dispersed camping near Little Lake? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Little Lake, CA (46)

    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area

    1. Wagon Wheel Staging Area

    11 Reviews
    39 Photos
    132 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Trona Pinnacles
    Camper-submitted photo from Trona Pinnacles
    Camper-submitted photo from Trona Pinnacles
    Camper-submitted photo from Trona Pinnacles
    Camper-submitted photo from Trona Pinnacles
    Camper-submitted photo from Trona Pinnacles

    2. Trona Pinnacles

    15 Reviews
    75 Photos
    388 Saves

    Dispersed camping is allowed on for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. There is no potable water or developed facilities other than a single vault toilet on site. Pack out all trash. There are no trash services. In the desert environment, even natural items like orange peels take years to decompose. Travel on existing roads and trails. Vegetation in this climate can take decades to recover when crushed by off road driving or parking. Camp in campgrounds if available. Using campgrounds reduces the number of vehicles, so that the great views are not blocked. Have a great time. The Trona Pinnacles are a great place to explore natural wonders and experience your public lands.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Brush Creek Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Brush Creek Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Brush Creek Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Brush Creek Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Brush Creek Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Brush Creek Recreation Site

    3. Brush Creek Recreation Site

    7 Reviews
    15 Photos
    264 Saves

    Brush Creek is a dispersed camping or day use site open year round. There are vault toilets available and seasonal trash bins. This is where the Brush Creek meets the Upper Kern River and is a good spot for fishing. Campfire permits are required for campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves. Permits are available at your local Ranger Station or online at preventwildfireca.org

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Firewood Available
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description
    Camper-submitted photo from Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description

    4. Chico Flat Dispersed Camping - Partially Closed, See Description

    8 Reviews
    26 Photos
    164 Saves

    Dispersed Camping on Upper Kern River approximately 4 to 5 miles north from Kernville. Ther is no water available at this location. Portable toilets and trash recepticals are available during__summer months. See Larger Picture Here.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanning Flat Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanning Flat Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanning Flat Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanning Flat Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanning Flat Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanning Flat Dispersed Area

    5. Hanning Flat Dispersed Area

    6 Reviews
    36 Photos
    185 Saves

    Dispersed Camping on the shore of Lake Isabella. Vault toilet available. No trash recepticals available (Pack In-Pack Out). ALL Upper Kern Dispersed Camping sites, under restrictions - No Camping or Campfires are allowed within 25 feet of the water___s edge.

    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Ant Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Ant Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Ant Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Ant Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Ant Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Ant Canyon

    6. Ant Canyon

    4 Reviews
    20 Photos
    463 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed

    7. Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    34 Photos
    235 Saves

    Keysville (formerly Keyesville) is a historic mining area that offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Set in rolling terrain amidst a blue oak and foothill pine woodland, Keysville is dissected by the lower Kern River. A little exploration can turn up a wealth of historic resources, including a variety of mining structures and features, a historic fort, and the famous Walker Cabin. Keysville offers commercial and noncommercial white-water rafting opportunities as well as fishing, recreational gold panning, and dispersed camping. A network of over seventy miles of trails provides for mountain biking, equestrian, and motorized recreation use.

    Travel Responsibly - on designated roads and trails or in permitted areas

    Respect The Rights of Others - including private property owners and all recreational trail users, campers and others to allow them to enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed. Educate Yourself - by obtaining travel maps and regulations from public agencies, planning for your trip, taking recreation skills classes and knowing how to use and operate your equipment safely. Avoid Sensitive Areas - such as meadows, lakeshores, wetlands and streams, unless on designated routes. Do Your Part - by leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species, restoring degraded areas and joining a local enthusiast organization.

    https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/documents/files/Keysville%20arch%20E%20low%20res.pdf

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
    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
    Camper-submitted photo from Lions rock dispersed
Showing results 1-10 of 46 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Little Lake

204 Reviews of 46 Little Lake Campgrounds


  • Ryan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground

    Inaccurate Coordinates

    Arrived at the coordinates and had no place to turn off the road. Also, the area was hit by wildfires (maybe 2 years ago) so it's all pretty barren. Camped at Holey Meadows campground a few miles away.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)

    Perfect.

    This campsite was fantastic. Access was easy with a 4x4, but may be a little tough for a 2WD car. Plenty of space for a small trailer to maneuver.

    Highly recommend. Perfect for an off-road trailer or overland setup.

  • Andrew P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Aug. 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.

  • Cameron L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
    Aug. 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!

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed

    Guy just sitting in trees near the end

    All the spots at the front were taken here so we had to drive almost all the way to end. Don’t go down the final steep hill, you might not make it up. It’s very tight there and you have to do a 20 point turn to turn back.

    We walked down the hill and our friend saw some random guy come out the trees and follow us as we were walking back up. He might be living there because there was so much trash

    2 stars because the area itself is nice, there’s the river nearby and internet was good

  • Erik R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Jul. 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.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Wagon Wheel Staging Area

    Gorgeous but DON’T GO IN THE SUMMER

    We arrived in the evening, when it was still 33 celcius (95f), but the whole day it was about 45 celcius (113f). So the place was as hot as it can be. But that won’t change my rating too much. Because if the weather was a bit cooler I would have loved this even more, when we woke up, we were greeted by a beautiful desert. If you have an AC that you can put on during the night, it shouldn’t be a problem!

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area
    Jul. 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!

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
    Jun. 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.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • Caroline D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stine Cove Recreation Site
    May. 4, 2024

    Stine Cove Recreation Site

    the spot looked perfect, but the location didn't match

    we looked around the indicated GPS point but at this location, but house or ranch, nothing that looks like the photos posted previously. too bad the spot looked magnificent but with night falling and fatigue from the road we finally slept facing the road in the post office parking lot.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Recreation Area
    May. 2, 2024

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    Nice spot with great views.

    Depending on the time of year, it may be hard to find a spot. You can't park anywhere, but there are designated spots to camp in. I went at the end of April and it was packed. 

    You might be able to park overnight and leave early in the morning in some areas, not sure how much they patrol the area. 

    No cell coverage for T-Mobile, but I used my WeeBoost and got two bars, enough to make calls and texts.  

    Use caution when traversing though the area to find a site if you have a normal sedan or normal vehicle height. The road is bumpy and there can areas that are steep. 

    My Van got stuck through a slot canyon as I was trying to find a site. I didn't have my recovery tracks, since it was a last minute stop on the way back from Mammoth. 

    With the help of a nice nearby camper who had a wench, we were able to free my van in three hours.  It was around midnight, so I ended up just driving out and parking in Lone Pine to sleep for a few hours.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinto Peak View Camp
    Apr. 18, 2024

    Pinto Peak View Camp

    Really nice quiet spot right by the road of Death Valley national park

    There’s a road that takes you to the spot where you can camp, there’s concrete squares in a majority of the spots in a wide area but if you keep down the gravel road you’ll find cleared areas with fire pits, there’s even a road that you can park on top of a hill.

    36.34098° N, 116.61444° W

  • Fabiola T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Recreation Area
    Apr. 7, 2024

    Alabama Hills Recreation Area

    BUCKET LIST SPOT

    THIS PLACE IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. HEAVEN ON EARTH!!! Only thing I would advise against is getting there in the dark. We got there around 9pm and it started snowing. We couldn’t see a foot ahead of us and had no idea where we were. Finding an overnight spot was almost impossible. However the view we woke up to the next morning was out of this world. We were the in April. Nights are cold (we god snow) temperature during the day is very comfortable! Cell phone service is touch and go. Garbage disposal available at entrance as wells as porta potties. The overnight spots can be hard to find and are popular. Get there before noon if you want to secure a spot. Absolutely worth the detour. Don’t hesitate. Just go!

  • Kent G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
    Apr. 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.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed
    Mar. 25, 2024

    Keyesville Recreation Area Dispersed

    Stayed a night

    We pulled in at night time around 10:30PM. I was scared it would be sketchy, but turned out to be a smooth dirt road. We encountered multiple other campers as well before we found a suitable turnout. Loved the accessibility. We woke up to a beautiful little spot near the water; would definitely camp again here

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ballarat Ghost Town
    Feb. 27, 2024

    Ballarat Ghost Town

    I think I was in the right spot.

    Campground had some nice spots for dry camping. I planned to stay on BLM land off the road but this seemed part of the ghost town private property. It was late and I was confused..I need to go back and donate $5.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wagon Wheel Staging Area
    Jan. 17, 2024

    Wagon Wheel Staging Area

    Beautiful spot to stay

    Arrived in the dark and woke up to find a beautiful spot. Quiet, plenty of space and very few people here. Be prepared for freezing temps overnight in colder months.

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hanning Flat Dispersed Area
    Dec. 22, 2023

    Hanning Flat Dispersed Area

    Nice quiet spot, 4x4 ideal

    We were looking for a place to car camp on our way up toward sequoia and stopped here. Was easy to locate even at night. Would suggest 4x4 and wouldn’t recommend heavier vehicles as it’s a sandy dried up lake bed and we had to dig ourselves out in the morning. No fire pits or bathrooms.



Guide to Little Lake

Camping near Little Lake, California, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by the water or a more developed campground, there are options to suit every camper's needs.

What to do:

  • Explore Fossil Falls: This area is known for its unique volcanic rock formations. One camper mentioned, “The sites are very spread out and the cinder cone and volcanic rock around are awesome scenery” at Fossil Falls Campground.
  • Fishing and Hiking: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. One reviewer shared, “The fishing was great” while staying at Kennedy Meadows Campground.
  • Stargazing: The clear skies around Little Lake make it a perfect spot for stargazing. A visitor noted, “The stars were amazing and the sunrise was on point too” at Fossil Falls Campground.

What campers like:

  • Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the stunning views and natural surroundings. One camper said, “It was very quiet and secluded” at Fossil Falls Campground.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer plenty of space between sites. A reviewer mentioned, “The sites are clean and well maintained” at KRS RV Resort@Camp James.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Campers enjoy seeing local wildlife. One camper shared, “A friendly family of bears made their presence at night” while staying at KRS RV Resort@Camp James.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kennedy Meadows Campground, have minimal facilities. A visitor noted, “No water, no trash, no bathrooms, no cell/wifi.”
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the warmer months. One camper warned, “The mosquitos here are biblical at night” at Kennedy Meadows Campground.
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A camper mentioned, “Rough road depending on rain washout” at Fossil Falls Campground.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like clean bathrooms and picnic areas. One family enjoyed, “The campground is nice overall” at KRS RV Resort@Camp James.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A camper noted, “So many things to do and the campground resort is ran good” at KRS RV Resort@Camp James.
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially near water. One parent shared, “The workers home was right across the way from our campsite” at KRS RV Resort@Camp James.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Access: Make sure your RV can access the campground. A reviewer mentioned, “If you have a 4x4 vehicle, it’s recommended” at Fossil Falls Campground.
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Some areas can be windy, so secure your setup. One camper said, “The wind woke me up at 3am” at Trona Pinnacles.
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check campgrounds like KRS RV Resort@Camp James that offer them.

Camping near Little Lake, California, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just be prepared for the unique challenges and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Little Lake, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Little Lake, CA is Wagon Wheel Staging Area with a 4.6-star rating from 11 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Little Lake, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 46 dispersed camping locations near Little Lake, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.