Best Dispersed Camping near Long Barn, CA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Long Barn? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Long Barn, CA (26)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed

    3. Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    11 Photos
    64 Saves
    Stanislaus National Forest, California

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services like trash removal, and few or no facilities such as tables and fire pits, are provided.

    Dispersed camping takes a lot more effort than camping in a developed campground, but for those with an adventurous spirit, it can be a lot of fun.

    Here are some important points to remember about dispersed camping:

    The maximum length of stay in a forest ranger district is 21 days per year. Please practice good outdoor ethics about camping, travel and behavior while visiting. Dispersed campers are allowed to park within one vehicle length (including any tow vehicle) of a National Forest transportation route and walk into camp. Dispersed camping is not permitted in developed campgrounds and day use areas. Other areas closed to dispersed camping include historical and archaeological sites. Also, be certain that you are within the boundaries of the National Forest before setting up camp. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway. Dispersed camping is not allowed in these areas: within one mile of Pinecrest Basin along 7N83, Clark Fork Road along Hwy 108 between Clark Fork Road and Kennedy Meadows Road Leave No Trace Camping – Camp so no one notices you while you are there, and no one even knows you were there after you leave. Please respect nature and other visitors by keeping noise to a minimum. Always pack out whatever you pack in. No permanent structures are to be constructed to an area, such as building rock-lined fire pits, trenches around tents, or carving into trees. Human waste should be deposited in a hole dug 6 - 10 inches deep and then covered with organic soil. Vehicles are not permitted off of roads, but if you can safely park your vehicle adjacent and parallel to the road and are not blocking the roadway, you may park and camp. Most sites will have a parking spot nearby while other sites may not. Because the footprint of a vehicle can have a large impact to soils, please do not create new “parking spot” for a campsite. Please park in designated or already impacted spots. If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    4. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    153 Saves
    Arnold, California

    Dispersed camping takes a lot more effort than camping in a developed campground, but for those with an adventurous spirit, it can be a lot of fun.

    Here are some important points to remember about dispersed camping:

    The maximum length of stay in a forest ranger district is 21 days per year. Please practice good outdoor ethics about camping, travel and behavior while visiting. Dispersed campers are allowed to park within one vehicle length (including any tow vehicle) of a National Forest transportation route and walk into camp. Dispersed camping is not permitted in developed campgrounds and day use areas. Other areas closed to dispersed camping include historical and archaeological sites. Also, be certain that you are within the boundaries of the National Forest before setting up camp. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway. Dispersed camping is not allowed in these areas: within one mile of Pinecrest Basin along 7N83, Clark Fork Road along Hwy 108 between Clark Fork Road and Kennedy Meadows Road Leave No Trace Camping – Camp so no one notices you while you are there, and no one even knows you were there after you leave. Please respect nature and other visitors by keeping noise to a minimum. Always pack out whatever you pack in. No permanent structures are to be constructed to an area, such as building rock-lined fire pits, trenches around tents, or carving into trees. Human waste should be deposited in a hole dug 6 - 10 inches deep and then covered with organic soil. Vehicles are not permitted off of roads, but if you can safely park your vehicle adjacent and parallel to the road and are not blocking the roadway, you may park and camp. Most sites will have a parking spot nearby while other sites may not. Because the footprint of a vehicle can have a large impact to soils, please do not create new “parking spot” for a campsite. Please park in designated or already impacted spots. If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. We want you to learn some of the many reasons to enjoy the quiet and solitude of dispersed camping, it’s up to you to LEAVE NO TRACE.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Leavitt Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Leavitt Lake
    • No image available

      6. Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

      1 Review
      77 Saves
      Eastman Lake, California
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • Tent Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Iron MT. Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

      10. Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

      1 Review
      11 Photos
      47 Saves
      Yosemite Valley, California

      A wilderness permit is required year-round for backpacking, overnight climbing, or any other overnight stay in the Yosemite Wilderness. A wilderness permit is not required for day hikes (unless hiking to Half Dome) or for staying in lodging facilities and frontcountry campgrounds.

      Wilderness permits are only issued to a limited number people for each trailhead in order to provide outstanding opportunities for solitude, as required by the Wilderness Act. Since many trails are very popular, reservations are recommended. Of each daily quota for a trailhead, 60 percent can be reserved ahead of time. Normally, 40 percent of wilderness permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis at park wilderness centers.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Dispersed

      $5 - $10 / night

    Show More
    Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews in Long Barn

    68 Reviews of 26 Long Barn Campgrounds


    • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
      Nov. 9, 2024

      Hardin Flat Road

      Dispersed Camping MINUTES from Yosemite NP

      Spent (2) nights here and loved it. Enough T-Mobile service for messaging and lite web browsing. Spacious pull-out with a small rock fire pit. I believe fires are allowed as long as you have a permit.

      ~8min drive to Big Oak Entrance and ~40min drive to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. Why stay at Hodgdon when you can stay here!

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Oct. 27, 2024

      Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

      Great 1 night stay

      Came on a Saturday around 4pm, there were 2 other campers other than me so it wasn’t busy at all. No service for at&t. Overall had a good stay here with my 2 dogs

    • Miles L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping
      Sep. 25, 2024

      Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

      A few spots scattered along the road

      Nothing fancy or too expansive, but a handful of spots on either side of the road. Certainly easier to settle in before it’s dark.

    • OThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
      Sep. 6, 2024

      Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

      Large dirt pull off

      Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time but even if the main spot is occupied there’s a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp. A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around. Completely free and peaceful but 0 amenities so come prepared. Currently there is an abandoned red semi truck cab so it’s easy to find not sure if that will ever be moved in the future though!

    • Stephen B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Aug. 30, 2024

      Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

      Beautiful, popular, treacherous

      I’m motorcycle camping and the ground level was about half full, mostly RVs, so I attempted to head up Scott Lake Road.

      The dirt was manageable but there are sections of large rocks difficult to pass on two wheels. I crossed several but I dropped my bike before the second circle. Defeated and exhausted from a long day’s ride, I headed back down to set up my camp among the RV set.

      No shade to the lifestyle but this is an awfully long drive to watch TV at top volume.

    • EThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Leavitt Lake
      Aug. 29, 2024

      Leavitt Lake

      Great lake

      This is a beautiful lake. I like visiting it and geometry dash breeze which is amazing. Upon reaching the lake, you will discover approximately twelve camping spots. These sites are fairly basic, each equipped with uncomplicated stone fire pits, though only around half of them seem to feature picnic tables based on my observation. Upon our arrival, all the Lakeview sites were occupied, prompting us to locate a pleasant spot towards the back to set up our camp. Unfortunately, there is a segment of the camping area that would typically be open for use but was closed off by the Department of Fish and Game(DFG) due to environmental concerns. It's regrettable as there were some appealing campsites situated beyond that wooden barrier.

    • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bear Valley Dispersed Camping
      Aug. 20, 2024

      Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

      Crowded

      Wooded campground, cool weather, good phone reception, many spots taken with no activity probably by locals. Lake, hiking, close shopping.

    • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
      Aug. 11, 2024

      Hardin Flat Road

      Pine and Cedar forest

      All wheel drive, okay. Large grounds, many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes). Camped upper level. Please pack in, pack out, don't make others clean up after you.

    • Julia H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Aug. 8, 2024

      Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

      Great

      Lots of people ! come early for a spot. nice views around. lots and lots of bugs. i sleep in my car and crack the windows a little bit and i woke up to a shit ton of bugs that got in my car. even more surrounding the cars. very quiet at night, maybe i just got lucky lol.

    • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
      Jul. 18, 2024

      Hardin Flat Road

      Really Nice Stay close to Yosemite

      This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn’t even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect. It’s 4 stars because you could hear the traffic from the main road from my spot

    • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
      Jul. 16, 2024

      Hardin Flat Road

      Great spot

      Awesome spot close to Yosemite, road isn’t too bad and it’s absolutely beautiful. I wasn’t bothered . I recommend arriving a little early, we didn’t have a little trouble finding the right road.

    • Raymond B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Jul. 15, 2024

      USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

      Overnight stay

      We recently spent a night at this campsite and found it to be perfect for a quick overnight getaway. The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated.

      There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped.

      A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It’s well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home, making it easy to grab any last-minute necessities.

      Overall, it was a delightful stay. Just remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in!

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

      Burnside lake

      We went just up the road into the wildlife reserve and drove all the way up to burnside lake. Beautiful. Definitely need 4x4 and the road is super bumpy. We had a great spot that looked over the mountains. Would definitely come back. Lots of places to choose from along the way to the lake.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Luther Pass Dispersed Camping

      Good in a pinch

      This place is beautiful but it’s a designated free camp ground and has minimal spots on one side. The other side was so jammed full. We ended up squeezing in a parking space and asked the ranger for permission to use our pop up there (she was super nice about it). Trash, fire pits, bathrooms are all available there. Single lane road getting in to it was a little harry with other cars. Decent place if you need a safe space to rest.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Jun. 21, 2024

      USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

      Great spot

      Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring. Easy road to get out there.

    • Susan L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Jun. 17, 2024

      Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

      What a beautiful place for our 40 ft 5th wheel

      We are new to dispersed camping and have a 40 ft 5th wheel as well as a GMC Denali 350 dually. We need a large space to fit into. We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded. We had our choice of several places to set up. It is very quiet here, not hearing any road noise. A forest ranger told us there were more spaces up near the lake, but we didn’t venture up there.

    • Jr A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
      Jun. 9, 2024

      Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

      Easy access and lots of spots

      You follow a dirt road and have camping spots along the road. When I was here it was jammed packed RV, vans and tents all set up along the road. To me it was good for a an overnight stay. No At&t service what so ever. Little highway noise.

    • VThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
      May. 31, 2024

      Luther Pass Dispersed Camping

      Good Camping Spot Near SLT

      Parked my car and walked into my campsite 50m? Not ideal if you are car camping but not terrible. Tables, bear boxes, toilets and fire ring provided. First come first serve. Adequate TMobile service.

    • Maile H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
      May. 29, 2024

      Hardin Flat Road

      Unlabeled road and awesome

      Kind of hard to find the road i just had to guess based on the pin point but i guessed right and immediately saw spots. i turned left and there were a few spots didn't explore to the right.

      So beautiful great place to stop in order to get into the park early if you don't have a reservation

    • B
      Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
      May. 29, 2024

      Hardin Flat Road

      Beautiful & Convenient BUT

      May 28, 2024

      Convenient to park entrance & beautiful landscape BUT finding a spot late at night was very difficult.

      However, I noticed that the temperature over night here was about 10 degrees warmer that other areas nearby (we were at about 51 degrees at night but areas closer to Rush Creek Lodge and on Evergreen Road were in the 40’s.



    Guide to Long Barn

    Dispersed camping near Long Barn, California, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of sites, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind.

    Tips for free and dispersed camping near Long Barn, California

    • Many dispersed camping areas, like Hardin Flat Road, allow campfires, making it easy to enjoy evenings under the stars.
    • It's essential to pack in and pack out your trash, as sites such as Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed do not provide trash disposal services.
    • Arriving early can help you secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, where sites can fill up quickly.

    Scenic views and outdoor activities for dispersed campers

    Dispersed campers should check out Iron MT. Dispersed

    • This area is known for its gorgeous views and open spaces, making it a favorite among those seeking solitude and natural beauty, as highlighted in reviews of Iron MT. Dispersed.
    • The site is accessible by vehicle, but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to rough terrain, ensuring a more adventurous experience.
    • Campers can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while still being close to hiking trails and other outdoor activities, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Long Barn, CA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Long Barn, CA is Hardin Flat Road with a 4.6-star rating from 12 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Long Barn, CA?

      TheDyrt.com has all 26 dispersed camping locations near Long Barn, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.