Dispersed camping near Lone Pine, California primarily occurs on BLM land with temperatures that can fluctuate by 40°F between day and night. The Alabama Hills area sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation while offering stark desert terrain with minimal shade. Due to 2022-2023 management changes, campers must now use designated sites marked with camping signs rather than setting up anywhere among the rock formations.
What to do
Explore rock formations: The unique rock formations at Alabama Hills Side Trail Dispersed Campsite provide excellent bouldering opportunities. "Very cool spot for bouldering, very secluded and scenic if you love a mars looking panorama lol feels like outer space," notes Gabby G.
Hike to Mobius Arch: Located along Movie Road, this natural stone arch frames Mt. Whitney perfectly for photographers. At Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road, Andrew P. shares, "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."
Stargaze: Clear desert skies with minimal light pollution create prime conditions for astronomy. "It's very basic. Great views of the backside of Mount Whitney," reports Linda L. about Hogback Creekside Camp.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the natural spacing at designated sites. Hailey S. notes about Alabama Hills Recreation Area: "Beautiful site with lots of spaces for dispersed camping where you don't feel like you're camping next to anyone. The view of the Sierra Nevadas is unmatched."
Rock climbing access: Several sites offer convenient rock climbing within walking distance. Frederick S. states about Alabama Hills Side Trail: "Do you like rock climbing? Do you like beautiful views? This is the place where you can camp, wake up in the morning drink coffee, walk less than 100 yards and go climbing."
Easy town access: The proximity to Lone Pine (under 10 minutes) for supplies and amenities. David V. explains, "This is the go to free camping area that my friends and I go to when we don't want a campground. Its dispersed camping in the Alabama hills. No toilets or amenities so thats a little bummer. Its might be worth it to pay $8 a night at a campground if you want easy access to toilets. Tuttle creek is up the road and is a good option."
What you should know
Designated sites only: Recent management changes have significantly restricted camping areas. Emily D. reports about Alabama Hills Recreation Area: "The only places you can camp are designated now. Tuttle creek. Everywhere else there are signs for no camping and only day use."
Arrive early: Sites fill quickly, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Kai K. advises, "Was one of the most beautiful campgrounds I've stayed at. Just unfortunate that most the spots are labeled 'Day Use Only.' Luckily we ran into someone nice enough to offer sharing their campground. Definitely a place you'd want to show up 4-5 hours early to find a spot."
No facilities: Come fully prepared with water and waste management plans. "There are no specified camping spots, no restrooms, no available water, and no sewer or trash dumping areas available. Just the wilderness at its finest," notes C N.
Tips for camping with families
Temperature preparation: Pack for extreme temperature changes between day and night. Mark A. from Alabama Hills Dispersed Site advises, "One of my all time favorite places to camp in fall and spring. Not too hot, not too cold. Absolutely stunning views."
Road navigation: Most main roads are accessible with standard vehicles, but side roads may require higher clearance. Stephanie R. shares, "Road is sandy but with clearance is fine."
Wind protection: Position tents strategically to manage consistent afternoon winds. Kent G. notes about Alabama Hills Dispersed Site, "First site is large and was to turn around a larger trailer or rv. The first can offer wind protection from the north."
Tips for RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some dispersed sites can accommodate large RVs while others are more suitable for smaller vehicles. For Alabama Hills North, J M. advises, "Awesome location, easy to reach with a 4X4. Low clearance vehicles may need to be careful."
Leveling requirements: Many sites require leveling equipment due to uneven terrain. Megan S. notes about Alabama Hills Recreation Area, "Roads are flat and my small sedan had no problem navigating."
Limited turnaround space: Scout sites before committing to parking. John M. recommends, "I went towards the end of December 2020 as an initial test on my new (to me) truck. Super easy to find, head left at the one traffic light in Lone Pine, then take a right onto movie road. 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."
