Dispersed camping options around Nevada City, California provide primitive sites within the Tahoe National Forest. Most sites sit between 5,000-7,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Unlike developed campgrounds, these locations rarely have cellular service, requiring campers to plan for complete disconnection.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: The Loch Leven Lakes trail offers increasingly beautiful views with each of the three lakes. "First time backpacking out here and it was such an awesome experience... the view of the lakes at the top makes it all worth it," notes Sammy B. about Loch Leven Lakes, who recommends starting early to secure both parking and campsites.
Explore historic sites: Near Kyburz Flats, visit an interpretive historic sheep camp. "Road is rough, especially after first mile to interpretive site. Looks like a few spots there you could camp," reports Greg C. about Kyburz Flats, noting the increasing road roughness past this point.
Wildlife observation: The dispersed areas harbor significant wildlife. At Independence Hill, Kevin C. encountered black bears: "I scared two black bears as I was walking... And yes, that's his footprint on my van door - he was checking out the bag of garbage I had stored on my roof."
What campers like
Secluded lake access: Campers prize the water proximity at certain sites. "If you are looking to be near the water and no service, this is perfect. The rough road in I believe must keep some folks out but the lake is amazing," shares Shawn M. about Bowman Lake Dispersed.
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from valley heat. "It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground. I can't wait to go back," writes Linda L. about Grouse Ridge Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer significant separation between campers. "All the sites are very dispersed and you have so much privacy. We saw some people even camping on the boulders! It was very serene and quiet with very respectful campers," reports Azizah T. at Loch Leven Lakes.
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Nearly every dispersed area requires navigating rough roads. "The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying- especially in the dark... worked for one night! No amenities, but a bathroom and paid campsite down the rugged road," cautions Emily C. about Independence Hill.
Weather unpredictability: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "It rained when we got here… which over night at some point turned into the first snow!!! How insanely beautiful!" experienced Jakey and Alex L. at Granite Chief Wilderness.
Environmental concerns: Some areas suffer from misuse. At Union Valley Reservoir, Blair K. reports: "Pretty easy to get to and lots of spaces for dispersed sites. There was trash EVERYWHERE. Broken glass, toilet trash, bottles and cans, we were really disappointed."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Mosquitos are prevalent at higher elevations. "I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites. But, it's the outdoors what do you expect?" notes Azizah T. about Loch Leven Lakes.
Safety considerations: For areas with bears, proper food storage is essential. At Independence Hill, Kevin noted a bear was "checking out the bag of garbage I had stored on my roof," emphasizing the importance of proper food and waste storage.
Trail difficulty assessment: With children, evaluate trail difficulty before backpacking in. "The hike up was a bit difficult with a heavy backpack due to all the rocks you have to climb over on the trail," explains Sammy B. about Loch Leven Lakes, suggesting this might challenge younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some dispersed areas can accommodate RVs despite rough access. "There are at least 6 good sites, including a large flat area that can take any size RV," notes Kevin C. about Independence Hill.
Pull-offs for overnight stays: For those needing simple overnight stops, some areas offer basic parking. "Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around," shares Onyx E. about Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off.
Vehicle requirements: Many sites require specific vehicle capabilities. "The road was much more technical than a standard forrest service road, but doable in most stock crossover vehicles or better. We had a borrowed AWD Transit van and did it with some patience and strategic line choice," explains Har Rai K. about Grouse Ridge Campground.
