Best Dispersed Camping near Mammoth Lakes, CA

Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Mammoth Lakes area, with numerous free sites on public lands managed by Inyo National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management. Popular locations include Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping (both main and Eastside areas), Crab Cooker Hotsprings, and Upper Deadman Creek. These primitive sites offer varying levels of seclusion and access to natural features. According to reviews, "Scenic Loop has multiple turn offs to camp at" with sites that are "pretty dispersed but close enough to downtown."

Most dispersed camping areas require self-sufficiency as amenities are non-existent. No drinking water, toilets, or trash service is available at these sites. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste. Fire restrictions are common and strictly enforced throughout the region, especially during summer and fall. Several campers noted that "some of the roads can get a bit rough, so make sure you know your vehicle's limits." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many areas, though some sites are accessible with standard passenger cars.

The Mammoth Lakes region features several natural hot springs scattered throughout the forest. These thermal features provide a unique camping experience, though they vary in accessibility and seasonal flow. As one visitor reported, "Water is only flowing in winter months" at some springs. Cell service varies widely by location and carrier. Weather conditions can change rapidly at these higher elevations, with warm days, cool nights, and occasional afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. The standard stay limit for dispersed camping is 14 days. Rangers patrol popular areas to monitor usage and enforce regulations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Mammoth Lakes, California (63)

    1. Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 924-5500

    "Got here on Sunday - plenty of spots to park the camper van both Sunday and Monday. Multiple turn offs on the Scenic Loop road to camp at. No bathrooms, water, electricity, or fire rings."

    "As you drive along this road, every 10 seconds you will pass a dirt road. Each dirt road has multiple campsites!"

    2. Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside

    9 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 924-5500

    "Our Tacoma made it to the campsites toward the back of the grounds just fine, but there was access closer to the main road for vehicles without high clearance."

    "Multiple locations near by not listed. It gets a bit dusty and windy. Lots of off road vehicles.

    All the camper vans rolled in after dark and it filled up quick."

    3. Crab Cooker Hotsprings - Dispersed Camping

    11 Reviews
    Inyo National Forest, CA
    9 miles
    Website

    "4x4 or high clearance coming in. Long dirt road with dips and rocks. Water only flowing in winter months. Lots of tent camping spots along with 8 back in spots. Really amazing views 360 degrees."

    "About 8 spots at the end of the dirt road. Only one bar of service. It would be hard to access with anything thing over 22ft."

    4. Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    June Lake, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2400

    "You can get maps for this area at some of the information boards at the beginning of the dirt roads, they also have an app that will show you all the roads in the area."

    "We spent a total of 6 days out in the Inyo national forrest, outside of mammoth lakes. There are hot springs scattered through out the forrest. Clothing optional."

    5. Sawmill cut off

    4 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    3 miles

    "Pass the two normal campgrounds and there’s a ton of turn offs to camp at. We have a 30ft so it was pretty big and it was freeeeeeee"

    "With mountain biking trails throughout."

    6. Upper Deadman Creek

    4 Reviews
    Devils Postpile National Monument, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2400

    "Free site, can stay for up to 14 days. Some nice flat sites, lots of trees and a creek nearby."

    "Great dispersed campground for those looking for more nature and privacy. Great place to go atv or off roading. Nice little creek near by and hiking trails."

    7. Mono Lake South Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    Lee Vining, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 873-2400

    "All around Mono Lake is USFS and BLM land that is open for dispersed camping, as long as you stay above the 1941 water line (you will see signs marking this line, which is fairly close to the lake)."

    "The cab-over cantilever @front (facing east) also gave shade in the late afternoon heat! "

    8. BLM Road to Hot Springs

    2 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    9 miles

    "Winter doesn’t have as many open dispersed camping area near mammoth as summer so it’s good for that"

    9. Hilltop Hot Springs

    3 Reviews
    Inyo National Forest, CA
    9 miles

    "There is a small parking lot & a turn around for cars, it’s not as “dispersed” as advertised."

    "We showed up around 3 am and the main loop was taken so we slept in the little parking lot for the hot springs."

    10. Owens River Road Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Inyo National Forest, CA
    9 miles
    Website

    "All the spots closest to 395 were taken when we went in late September, but we found this spot that I've marked here that was easily accessible in our 26ft Motorhome.  "

    "Dirt roads are narrow for an 8 foot wide RV but doable. Only 2bars for Verizon. It’s slow but can still text and call."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mammoth Lakes, CA

212 Reviews of 63 Mammoth Lakes Campgrounds



Guide to Mammoth Lakes

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mammoth Lakes, California, where stunning landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without the confines of traditional campgrounds.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Mammoth Lakes, California

  • Bring a high-clearance vehicle when visiting Sage Hen Dispersed, as the dirt roads can be rough and may require extra clearance.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at Upper Deadman Creek, where you’ll need to bring your own water and pack out all trash.
  • If you’re looking for a quiet spot, Owens River Road Dispersed offers numerous secluded areas along the river, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Scenic Loop

  • The Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping area is ideal for those who want to be close to town while still enjoying the beauty of nature, with plenty of spots to choose from.
  • For a more rugged experience, the Obsidian Meadows Dispersed site features high-clearance access and stunning rock formations, perfect for adventurous campers.
  • If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot, consider Highway 120 Roadside Dispersed Campsite, which provides ample space for larger groups and easy access to nearby attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best spots for dispersed camping around Mammoth Lakes?

The Mammoth Lakes area offers excellent dispersed camping options. Sage Hen Dispersed is accessible via a washboarded dirt road off Highway 120, though be aware of potential snow in early spring and low-hanging branches. Owens River Road Dispersed provides numerous camping spots along the road, with sites closer to Highway 395 filling up first during peak seasons. For those seeking higher elevation options, Inyo National Forest has multiple dispersed sites on forest service roads. Most dispersed sites around Mammoth Lakes require some level of clearance for vehicles, though many are accessible without 4WD. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and check current fire restrictions before your trip.

Where can I find free camping in the Mammoth Lakes area?

Free camping abounds near Mammoth Lakes on public lands. Laurel Springs Campground offers free dispersed camping with a 14-day maximum stay, though access requires navigating narrow paths not suitable for large rigs. Crab Cooker Hotsprings - Dispersed Camping provides free camping with stunning 360-degree views, though accessing it requires 4x4 or high-clearance vehicles. Additional free camping can be found along forest service roads throughout Inyo National Forest. For a unique experience, areas surrounding Mammoth Lakes on Highway 395 offer numerous pullouts and forest roads for dispersed camping. Remember that free sites typically have no amenities, so come prepared with water, waste disposal plans, and awareness of current fire restrictions.

What are the BLM camping regulations near Mammoth Lakes?

BLM lands near Mammoth Lakes typically allow dispersed camping with a 14-day maximum stay within any 28-day period. Mono Lake South Dispersed camping areas on USFS and BLM land require campers to stay above the 1941 water line (marked by signs). Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site and surrounding BLM areas have seasonal fire restrictions, particularly during summer months. All BLM camping requires packing out trash and human waste management. Campsites must be at least 200 feet from water sources, and existing fire rings should be used when fires are permitted. Always check current regulations with the local BLM office or visitor center before your trip, as restrictions may change seasonally.

What is boondocking like around Mammoth Lakes?

Boondocking around Mammoth Lakes offers spectacular mountain scenery with diverse camping experiences. At Gladys Lake Backcountry, Ansel Adams Wilderness, you'll find pristine backcountry sites with epic scenery and solitude, though these require hiking in. For vehicle-accessible boondocking, sites vary widely in terms of accessibility and amenities. Many areas experience significant temperature swings—warm days and cool nights even in summer. Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent at most sites (Verizon reported no service at many locations). Roads range from manageable dirt paths to rough terrain requiring high clearance. Seasonal considerations are important; many higher elevation sites are snow-covered until late spring. Come fully self-sufficient with water, waste management solutions, and be prepared for wildlife encounters.

Is there a map of dispersed camping areas in Mammoth Lakes?

While there isn't a single comprehensive map dedicated solely to dispersed camping in Mammoth Lakes, several resources can help you locate suitable areas. The Inyo National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) show roads where dispersed camping is permitted and can be downloaded from the USFS website or obtained at ranger stations. Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed and similar areas appear on these maps with designated roads where camping is allowed. Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping areas are also marked on national forest maps. Apps like The Dyrt Pro feature custom map layers showing user-reported dispersed camping locations. Always verify current regulations at visitor centers or ranger stations before setting up camp.