Best Dispersed Camping near North San Juan, CA

Join the fun near North San Juan. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. North San Juan is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near North San Juan, CA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near North San Juan, California (10)

    1. Grouse Ridge Campground

    3 Reviews
    4 Photos
    86 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    2. Bowman Lake Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    13 Photos
    57 Saves
    Sierra City, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    3. Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    56 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California

    Most of Tahoe National Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Dispersed camping is prohibited in certain areas, generally within a ¼ mile of major highway corridors, in the Lakes Basin Area (Sierra Buttes), near Prosser, Boca, Stampede, French Meadows, and Sugar Pine reservoirs, and other locations. Please see the full list of areas where dispersed camping is not allowed below.

    Maps and staff are available at most Tahoe Forest Service offices to assist visitors in finding a suitable spot.

    Not being in a developed campground means that there will not be certain conveniences:

    Water Quality: Be prepared to bring your own drinking water or have a water filter. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated. Human Waste:Proper disposal of human waste is crucial. Human waste can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a dispersed camping area for future users. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200' away from water sources and dispersed campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly. No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out Maximum stay limit for camping is 14 days per District. Please remove all your equipment and garbage when you leave. The beauty of the natural vegetation around your campsite is probably why you chose it. Keep it healthy and growing by not cutting anything down, not putting nails into trees, and treading carefully along meadows, streamsides, and other sensitive areas. Keep your vehicle at least twelve feet from designated roads and trails to prevent resource damage and to adhere to Travel Management Regulations.

    When you pick your spot, make sure that it is at least 200 feet away (about seventy paces) from streams and lakes, to help protect streamside vegetation, and prevent water degradation and sedimentation. Dispersed campsites must be outside the boundary markings of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping closure areas.

    There are many fine camping spots you can reach on Tahoe National Forest motorized routes and trails, but some routes may be rough, steep, or narrow and not suited for low-clearance or for large recreation vehicles.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

    4. Loch Leven Lakes

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    124 Saves
    Norden, California

    The Loch Leven begins at Placer County Road Pla-9140-2 and ends at High Loch Leven Lake. At the south end of lower Loch Leven, a trail junction continues left to middle and high Lochs, or right to Salmon Lake. Fishing is generally good, and camping is dispersed throughout the basin. Campfire permits are required for campfires, backpacking stoves, BBQs, and lanterns.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

    6. Independence Hill Dispersed

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    9 Saves
    Gold Run, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    7. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    229 Saves
    Kyburz, California

    If you like to camp away from it all, but you prefer to drive there in your car, the National Forests have just what you are looking for. Most of the land in the National Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Visitors can camp just about anywhere in the national forest, unless specifically prohibited*. Maps and staff are available at most Forest Service offices to assist visitors in finding a suitable spot.

    Not being in a developed campground means that there will not be certain conveniences: Maximum stay limit for camping outside of a developed campground is 10 days per district/per calendar year. Please remove all your equipment and garbage when you leave.

    Water Quality: It is best to bring your own water. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated.

    Human Waste: Proper disposal of human waste is important. Leaving human waste in dispersed camping areas can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a camping area. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200' away from water sources and campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly.

    No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    8. Stag Point

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    19 Saves
    La Porte, California

    1 dispersed site at trail head with fire pit and table only. At Stag Point 5 dispersed units. First come first serve. Pit toilet, fire rings, no water, no garbage services Pack in/Out.

    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
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Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near North San Juan, CA

14 Reviews of 10 North San Juan Campgrounds



Guide to North San Juan

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near North San Juan, California, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of locations perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near North San Juan, California

  • Many spots, like Brooks Creek, do not require a permit, making it easy for spontaneous trips into nature.
  • Be prepared for rough access roads; for instance, reaching Grouse Ridge Campground involves navigating narrow and rocky paths.
  • Always check the weather conditions before heading out, as some areas may be inaccessible during winter months, as noted by visitors to Lake Valley Rd Pullout.

Scenic lakeside spots for dispersed campers

  • If you’re seeking a lakeside experience, Bowman Lake Dispersed offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for fishing and relaxation.
  • The remote access to Loch Leven Lakes provides a tranquil setting for those willing to hike in, rewarding visitors with breathtaking scenery.
  • Campers at Snag Lake Campground can enjoy the serenity of the water while being surrounded by nature, making it an ideal spot for solitude.

Dispersed campers should check out Grouse Ridge Campground

  • Known for its beautiful surroundings, Grouse Ridge Campground is a favorite among those looking for a well-reviewed spot with ample hiking opportunities.
  • The campground features picnic tables and fire rings, allowing for a comfortable camping experience while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Visitors have noted the cooler temperatures at Grouse Ridge Campground compared to nearby cities, making it a refreshing escape during hot summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near North San Juan, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near North San Juan, CA is Grouse Ridge Campground with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near North San Juan, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near North San Juan, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.