Best Dispersed Camping near Oakhurst, CA

Dispersed camping around Oakhurst gives you several free options in the Sierra National Forest, just 20 miles from Yosemite's south entrance. Fish Camp sits at a higher elevation and tends to be cooler during summer months when valley temperatures climb. The Sierra National Forest roads between Oakhurst and Bass Lake have multiple pull-offs where you can camp without designated facilities. These spots require complete self-sufficiency—bring all your water and be prepared to pack out everything including human waste. Forest Service rules require camping at least 100 feet from any water source or road. You can stay up to 14 days before needing to move. Many access roads become rough after leaving pavement, and some areas need high clearance vehicles, especially after rain. The closest supplies are in Oakhurst, where you'll find grocery stores, gas stations, and outdoor gear shops. Fire restrictions change frequently based on conditions—during summer and fall, complete bans are common. Spring (April-June) typically offers the best conditions with wildflowers and flowing streams, while October brings beautiful fall colors but colder nights. Cell service is spotty throughout the area, so download offline maps before heading out.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Oakhurst, California (39)

    1. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

    36 Reviews
    Fish Camp, CA
    11 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"

    2. Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Fish Camp, CA
    11 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"

    3. Momyer Creek Trail 1E06

    2 Reviews
    Friant, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2882

    5. Hardin Flat Road

    13 Reviews
    Eastman Lake, CA
    36 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."

    6. Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

    1 Review
    Yosemite Valley, CA
    26 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 !"

    8. Bald Mountain Lookout

    1 Review
    Shaver Lake, CA
    29 miles

    "If you enter from the Tamarack trail head and go down Rock Creek Rd its easy to get to the overlook tower."

    9. JO Pass

    1 Review
    Lakeshore, CA
    30 miles
    Website

    "The landscape is rocky so you will need to be careful when setting up your tents and also be aware of any fire dangers or restrictions in the area."

    10. Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Mammoth Lakes, CA
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 924-5500

    "Got here on Sunday - plenty of spots to park the camper van both Sunday and Monday. Multiple turn offs on the Scenic Loop road to camp at. No bathrooms, water, electricity, or fire rings."

    "As you drive along this road, every 10 seconds you will pass a dirt road. Each dirt road has multiple campsites!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 39 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Oakhurst, CA

119 Reviews of 39 Oakhurst Campgrounds



Guide to Oakhurst

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Oakhurst, California, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles, from tent camping to RV setups.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Oakhurst, California

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site, which can fill up quickly on weekends.
  • Be prepared for mosquitoes, particularly in the summer months; many campers have noted that the bugs can be relentless at certain sites, such as Yosemite “Boondock National” Dispersed Camping.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out what you pack in, ensuring these beautiful areas remain pristine for future visitors.

Scenic views and natural attractions for dispersed campers

  • For breathtaking views, consider camping at Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park, where you can enjoy stunning vistas of El Capitan and the valley.
  • The Kamook Staging Camp offers a quiet, isolated experience close to Yosemite, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds while still being near the park's entrance.
  • If you're seeking a more rugged experience, JO Pass provides a challenging hike with beautiful views and complete seclusion, ideal for adventurous campers.

Activities while free camping near Oakhurst

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of Momyer Creek Trail 1E06, which offers access to scenic trails and the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness.
  • For those interested in off-roading, Hardin Flat Road is a great spot that accommodates ATVs and provides access to numerous trails.
  • Fishing and relaxing by the water can be enjoyed at Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping, where you can find a few scattered spots along the road, perfect for a peaceful day by the stream.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Oakhurst, CA is Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site with a 4.5-star rating from 36 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 39 dispersed camping locations near Oakhurst, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.