Dispersed camping near Navarro, California primarily takes place on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands along the inland valleys and mountainous regions. The area features oak-studded hills transitioning to redwood forests at higher elevations, with summer temperatures often reaching 90°F+ inland while coastal areas remain cooler. Access roads to many campsites deteriorate significantly during winter rainy periods, making spring through fall the most reliable seasons for vehicle access.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed, visitors regularly encounter diverse wildlife. As one camper explained, "It's not too bad of a road up there. Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October."
Off-road adventuring: Many dispersed camping areas offer technical challenges for properly equipped vehicles. At Usal Beach Campground, one camper advised, "The road was a bit rougher than expected (took us roughly 45 min from the paved road to camp). People made it down in mini vans but I personally wouldn't try it."
Water activities: Seasonal creeks provide opportunities for water access at several sites, though flows diminish significantly by midsummer. A visitor to Sheldon Creek noted, "It was our first time dispersed camping. We fell in LOVE!! The 45 min dirt road was filled with amazing views early morning."
What campers like
Isolation and privacy: Many sites offer significant separation from other campers. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, one visitor reported, "There was only one other person here when I was. They got the prime spot, early bird and all. Very nice view."
Natural features: Campers value the combination of forests and water features. A visitor to Usal Beach Overlook shared, "Great views — and often less soggy than down below on the water and beach. Only drawback is proximity to the access road and a bit exposed."
Cost value: Free camping provides budget-friendly options throughout the region. One camper at Cow Mountain explained, "As long as you have a capable vehicle and are prepared to provide for your own needs, you'll be ready for Cow."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many sites require careful vehicle selection and driving skills. A camper at High Valley Rd Dispersed warned, "The road to this pin is completely impassable in any regular vehicle, this would require an ATV. We took a regular AWD midsize SUV... The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff."
Facilities limitations: Most sites lack basic amenities. At Lakeview, a visitor explained, "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."
Environmental conditions: Weather changes can impact camping comfort significantly. A camper at Lakeview noted, "Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!"
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: Families should research road conditions carefully before attempting access with children. At Usal Beach, a camper shared, "Best camping spot of our trip. The road in is a long and windy road but the site is worth the drive. We got there at night but the windy road did not deter us."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings. One camper at Mayacmas Campground observed, "The ride up was rough. The views made it all worth it. The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate."
Temperature management: Pack for significant temperature variations. A visitor to Lakeview cautioned, "First time camping and going somewhat off road... Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!"
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: RVers need substantial ground clearance for most sites. At Sheldon Creek, one RVer 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."
Site accessibility: Many reported sites are significantly more challenging than online descriptions suggest. A visitor to Usal Beach Overlook reported, "The trail in is basically an old mountain pass logging road that isn't maintained the best. It's narrow in spots and steep grade. I towed my offroad camper up without issue but its only 13ft long."
Alternative options: Consider RV-friendly sites when dispersed camping proves too challenging. One camper at Lakeview warned, "Not a easy campground to get to had a RV road is horrible no nearby water."
