Best Dispersed Camping near Middletown, CA

Middletown, CA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Middletown, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Middletown, California (11)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Middletown, CA

16 Photos of 11 Middletown Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Middletown, CA

33 Reviews of 11 Middletown Campgrounds


  • C
    Aug. 9, 2022

    BLM Sheldon Creek

    Pleasant BLM camping, hot in the summer.

    A decent drive off the highway, but a good one. A few nice views. Google maps will not get you there, we followed the directions on this page.

    Only 2 spots up here, maybe 3. But we had it to ourselves on a weeknight. The Bathroom (vault toilet) had toilet paper. There was some water in the creek, but it wasn’t super easy to access. 

    The site itself is nothing special, just a couple of pullouts in the woods. Probably very hot during the day since you’re up on a ridge. Can’t beat free though.

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2023

    BLM Sheldon Creek

    FREE BLM campground - travel trailers not advised

    Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can’t turn back once on the path.

    Otherwise 10/10 for our truck camper, had the place to ourselves for the 4th of July weekend, beautiful fresh water creek running through, great toilet & even a fire pit with abundance of wood around.

    There are about 4/5 sites, only 2 with actual fire pits.

    Please keep it amazing by keeping it clean.

    FREE

  • Summer A.
    Jul. 17, 2022

    BLM Sheldon Creek

    Perfect Spot!

    Sheldon Creek is a BLM campsite up a winding dirt/gravel road. We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up. Signs will direct you in the right direction, and lead you to a campground with spots to pitch tents or park/hangout. There are even picnic tables, fire pits, and bathrooms. I didn’t get a chance to check out the bathrooms, but they looked decent. We only had one neighbor who seemed pretty friendly, which was a relief as you’re pretty far out in a remote area. Overall this is a beautiful spot where we felt safe. Would definitely recommend!

  • Jaye S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Lakeview Dispersed Campground

    Decent dispersed site

    Drive up to the site all incline dirt road ~6 miles - we made it up without 4 wheel drive but some areas were a little sketchy. Overall pretty dusty too. Sites themselves were decently maintained, some trash from previous campers but nothing major. This area is a popular for target practice so if the sounds of gunshots throughout the day isn’t your vibe, then this spot might not be suitable. Overall beautiful sunrises and sunsets and starry night sky

  • Chris C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 3, 2025

    High Valley Rd Dispersed

    Easy and chill!

    Very nice spot with multiple places to pull over and camp. There’s views of Lear Lake if you want to walk a bit. No water nearby. The road is very dusty on the way up!

  • Catherine L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Cowboy Camp

    Quiet

    Quiet stop, but I wouldn't call it the most beautiful stop I've ever stayed. Camping spots are to the left and the right I'd the day use. Pit toilets. No garbage.

  • Robert H.
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Lakeview Dispersed Campground

    High Above Clear Lake

    Beautiful spot with some views of the lake. No services, but had cell service (CC). I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging. It was steep with loose dirt in spots. It was an adventure. I am going to try north access into Lucerne later. (See Google for more info)

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Lakeview Dispersed Campground

    First Time Camping - Perfect

    First time camping and going somewhat off road.

    If you’re worried about your vehicle making it up we saw a tesla and a nissan altima up there. My subaru made it up perfectly. I would however recommend AWD or a little higher clearance.

    South road is somewhat rough and the north road seems to be the smoother but longer road.

    Clean area, but dusty. Can be busy 2 other campers showed up quietly while I was asleep but kept their distance. Where I set up there were some log chairs and a previously built fire pit.

    Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!

    We did not got many bugs which was great.

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Clear Lake View Point Dispersed

    Absolutely not! Nowhere to camp and a terrible road

    As soon as I started going up an extremely steep hill and saw a sign that said not a through street, I should have turned around but it was impossible with my 30-foot car and trailer. I am Bart Upon A frightening , rutted, unmaintained road that is only suitable for off-road vehicles for sick four wheel drives . Barely made it out of there with everything working as it should on car and trailer and actually got stuck at one point and had to use logs to get myself traction. Do not try this and there is nowhere to stop and set up a ten , at all!


Guide to Middletown

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Middletown, California, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Middletown, California

  • When visiting Cowboy Camp, be prepared for a rustic experience, as there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups available.
  • It's advisable to bring your own firewood and trash bags, as sites like BLM Sheldon Creek do not provide these essentials.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife while camping at Lakeview Dispersed Campground, as the area is known for its natural beauty and diverse fauna.

Enjoy fishing and hiking while free camping near Middletown

  • The scenic views and proximity to water make Clear Lake View Point Dispersed a great spot for fishing enthusiasts looking to cast a line.
  • Hikers will appreciate the trails accessible from Mayacmas Campground, which offer stunning vistas and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
  • For those who enjoy horseback riding, Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed is a popular destination with trails suitable for equestrian adventures.

Dispersed campers should check out BLM Sheldon Creek

  • Located near Hopland, BLM Sheldon Creek offers a peaceful retreat with a babbling brook and plenty of space for setting up camp.
  • This area is well-suited for those who enjoy solitude, as it tends to be less crowded compared to other spots in the region.
  • Be prepared for a bit of a trek to reach Lakeview Dispersed Campground, as the access road can be challenging but rewarding with beautiful views.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Middletown, CA is Lakeview Dispersed Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 14 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Middletown, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.