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Best Dispersed Camping near Martis Creek Lake

109 Reviews

Numerous dispersed camping opportunities surround the Martis Creek Lake area, with several free sites within 20-30 miles. Tahoe Dispersed Camping and Kyburz Flats receive high ratings from visitors, with the latter featuring basic toilet facilities. Most sites permit campfires, though seasonal restrictions likely apply. Access roads vary significantly in quality, with many requiring high-clearance vehicles. A review of Kyburz Flats noted "Road is rough, especially after first mile to interpretive site. Was fine in my 2WD van but have high clearance and was dry. Might be worse if muddy or low clearance vehicle."

Big Dog Valley and Granite Chief Wilderness offer additional dispersed camping options with varying accessibility. Reviews indicate Big Dog Valley features "rudimentary campsites, no fire rings or tables" but provides "awesome views." Bear Lake Road dispersed sites require more challenging access, with one reviewer describing it as "paved until you reach the real spot where you can actually set up camp. It is VERY rocky and looks like it's pretty beaten up by Off Road Vehicles." For backpackers, Loch Leven Lakes provides beautiful lakeside camping accessed via hiking trails. Most dispersed sites lack amenities, so campers should pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Martis Creek Lake (36)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Martis Creek Lake

109 Reviews of 36 Martis Creek Lake Campgrounds

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2023

    Scout Camp at Fort Churchill

    Gorgeous Riparian Forest

    Scout camp is on the Carson river and within the tall cottonwoods. Camp in the shade or out in the open if it’s very windy as the trees can shed branches. Garbage collection and pit toilets. Nice trail along the River.

    As of October 2023 the access road to scout camp was washed out. But there is dispersed camping on the terrace to the south.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    Endless Possibilities

    The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp. I stayed at N38.768811• W 120.238630° — on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent. At this specific sight, there are no overhead trees. Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car. I stayed here for 7 days (10/31-11/6) and only saw one other person on the primivite roads. The above coordinates are about a 6 mile drive in from US50. You will see a campground on your right about 5 miles down when driving in, about a mile further down the road you will come up on the dirt road leading you up the mountain.

    A couple of notes:

    1. You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov
    2. Cell phone reception is very spotty, in and out of a couple of bars throughout the drive in. — AT&T coverage. At the above coordinates, there were 2 bars of low grade coverage allowing basic texts to send. Not enough service for web browsing or sending photos via text.
    3. This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt. You will find yourself going in and out of them while driving.
    4. KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it, pick up your trash (and other’s if you see any), respect the area and it will respect you.
    5. NO CAMP SERVICES — There is no trash service or even dumpsters at the signed entrance; pack it in pack it out. There are no restrooms in the area either.
  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Dispersed USFS

    Worth the climbs to get here!!

    This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off. There were a lot of other campers for Labor Day weekend but the rest of the time there was no one around. Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction. PLEASE NOTE: There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you’ll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed. If you’re moderate to high clearance rig you’ll be fine just be mindful. The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking. Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you’re not used to high altitude.

  • John C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Scout Camp at Fort Churchill

    Large area, space for RV's and smaller vehicles.

    There is a few large, flat, hard-pack areas to park in and multiple dirt roads that lead off to smaller, more secluded sites. Many of the roads will require 4-wheel drive and high clearance but they are not too bad. Some of the area is free while other parts appear to require payment. Many travel trailers out here with huge set-ups and multiple vehicles.

  • J
    Jun. 24, 2021

    Dispersed Camping near Fort Churchill

    No Go for Class A due to rotted access roads

    We drove thru both Fort Churchill State Park Campground and Scout Camp near by. We were looking for a place to camp for the night. We have a 36ft class A with a tow. Fort Churchill Campground is not accessible if you love the paint job on your rig. For lower profile campers it would be ok. Narrow dirt roads with sage brush to scratch you and overhanging low tree branches to ruin solar and a/c.

    Scout camp access is deeply rotted so our Class A couldn't safely get in there, otherwise there would have been plenty of space for us.

  • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Echo Summit Dispersed

    Not dispersed camping

    This spot is national forest, and overnight camping is not allowed. We had a knock from someone with the forest service the next morning who was very kind and let us know that overnight is not allowed.

    Look up lakes and forest in this area on google — not many places allow dispersed camping

  • Shane C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2022

    Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping with campground layout/feel

    Camped here for a night in early October. Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east. Most sites are obvious, with a driveway and stone fire ring. We like a more "dispersed" feel, but felt comfortable. 

    There are no services - bring all the water you will need and practice "leave no trace." This goes for your waste (human and animal) as well. I wish I could say that we didn't see any dog waste or "TP Flowers" but we did. Not a significant amount, but any is too much.

    The place was pretty much full, but still good vibes and quiet neighbors. Very close to Hwy. 88, so road noise and campers coming in looking for a spot after dark. Gets quiet later in the evening.

    Overall, a nice spot.

  • Tim R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    Standard Dispersed Camping

    Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!

  • Raymond B.The Dyrt PRO User
    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!

Guide to Martis Creek Lake

Dispersed camping near Martis Creek Lake offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and explore the stunning surroundings.

Scenic Views while Free Camping near Martis Creek Lake

  • Experience breathtaking vistas at Reno View Dispersed, where you can enjoy the sparkling lights of Reno from your campsite.
  • The drive to Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed can be challenging, but the stunning scenery and the chance to wake up to a snowy landscape make it worthwhile.
  • At Loch Leven Lakes, you’ll find serene waters surrounded by majestic mountains, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Outdoor Adventures for Dispersed Campers

  • For those seeking a quick escape, Big Dog Valley offers numerous trails to explore, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
  • If you’re looking for a rugged experience, BLM FLATTOP provides access to off-road trails that lead to stunning views and hidden gems in the area.
  • The hiking opportunities at Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed are plentiful, allowing you to discover the beauty of Tahoe National Forest.

Unique Experiences for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Martis Creek Lake dispersed camping located?

Martis Creek Lake dispersed camping is located near Truckee, California, in the Sierra Nevada mountains. This area offers similar dispersed camping experiences to Tahoe Dispersed Camping, situated in the Tahoe National Forest. The lake sits between Truckee and the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, making it accessible from Interstate 80 and Highway 267. The surrounding area includes multiple forest roads that lead to dispersed camping opportunities, similar to those found at Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed nearby. Always check current forest service regulations before planning your stay.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping at Martis Creek Lake?

Dispersed camping at Martis Creek Lake follows standard USFS regulations. Similar to Echo Summit Dispersed, you should verify that overnight camping is permitted in your specific location, as some nearby areas prohibit it. The 14-day stay limit typically applies, and campers must practice Leave No Trace principles. Campfires may require permits depending on seasonal fire restrictions. At Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed, similar rules apply where camping is limited to established sites with existing fire rings. Always check current regulations with the Tahoe National Forest ranger district before your trip, as rules can change seasonally.

What amenities are available for dispersed camping at Martis Creek Lake?

Martis Creek Lake dispersed camping offers minimal amenities, typical of dispersed camping areas. Like USFS Silver Fork Dispersed, you'll find spacious sites with natural surroundings but no developed facilities. There are no potable water sources, restrooms, or trash services, so campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Some sites may have informal fire rings, similar to those at Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping, but you'll need to bring your own firewood (subject to fire restrictions). Cell service can be spotty depending on your exact location. Be prepared for self-sufficient camping with all necessary supplies.

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