Best Dispersed Camping near Mather, CA

Searching for the best camping near Mather, CA? Mather is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Mather, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Mather, California (35)

    1. Hardin Flat Road

    13 Reviews
    Eastman Lake, CA
    5 miles

    "I stayed to car camp and had an overall nice time. There was a good amount of ice but with 4x4 not problem. The ice was melting so if you go anytime after the snow should be a lot less."

    "Lots of available spots along Hardin Flat Road, most with good shade. Passed 10-15 pull out spots for car campers, and at least 10 more easily accessible spots for tents."

    3. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    36 Reviews
    Fish Camp, CA
    30 miles
    Website

    "After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."

    "Great location, close to Yosemite Park which allows you to sleep for free. the spot was clean, impressive camper vans were present and they were parked on the tarmac. lots of pitches, vans can be placed"

    4. Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

    1 Review
    Yosemite Valley, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 372-0200

    $5 - $10 / night

    "Booked a last minute permit for the Pohono trail on a recent trip and had Dewey Point as one of my camp sites! Beautiful views of el cap and the valley made for an iconic back country spot !"

    5. Van Haven Dispersed Site Yosemite

    1 Review
    Groveland, CA
    17 miles

    "Great views along the John Muir trail. 24 hour Public restroom .o2miles from camp site."

    6. Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Fish Camp, CA
    30 miles

    "Here is the correct location. You can take a dirt road from this parking lot in order to camp in the woods.

    Dropped pin https://goo.gl/maps/2gskCbuY8XRMD82x5"

    "As previously mentioned, these coordinates are not correct, if you travel beyond the coordinates towards the South Park Entrance and pass the Springdale Campground on your left, you will see a sign shortly"

    7. Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Stanislaus National Forest, CA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 459-9238

    8. Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    Bridgeport, CA
    44 miles

    "The address on google maps however DOES NOT lead to the camping destination but we ended up running into a couple of ATV’ers that led us in the right direction."

    "Just pull onto one of the dirt roads on the left and find a spot! Any car or smaller RV could easily drive the road."

    9. Leavitt Lake

    3 Reviews
    Bridgeport, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 932-7070

    "I have a truck. i got about a half mile in before the snow washed out the road. you can still hike in. high clearance and 4wd a must"

    "We visited Lake Levitte, back in June 2021. I would recommend a high clearance vehicle, ad there are some technical sections. If you watch your line, you can make it."

    10. Green Lake

    3 Reviews
    Mono City, CA
    33 miles

    "Ends at Green Lake with some phenomenal spots.

    Keep in mind, the lake is from snowmelt, so not particularly warm.

    Would get 5 stars if the bugs weren’t so bad."

    "I mean... all these little mammoth lakes are hidden gems but I loved my time hiking into green lake around thanksgiving time. A little more difficult to get to but worth it."

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Showing results 1-10 of 35 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mather, CA

168 Reviews of 35 Mather Campgrounds



Guide to Mather

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mather, California, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Mather, California

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at places like Hardin Flat Road, where sites can fill up quickly due to its proximity to Yosemite.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles; pack in what you pack out to keep the area pristine, as emphasized by visitors at Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; many spots, such as Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site, do not have drinking water or toilets, so plan accordingly.

Scenic views and attractions for dispersed campers

Top activities while free camping near Mather

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Mather, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mather, CA is Hardin Flat Road with a 4.6-star rating from 13 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Mather, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 35 dispersed camping locations near Mather, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.