Dispersed camping near Penryn, California offers primitive overnight options within Eldorado and Tahoe National Forests at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet. Most sites experience significant seasonal variations with summer highs reaching 90°F while winter conditions frequently make access challenging or impossible. Several primitive camping areas require substantial driving time, with most locations 45-75 minutes from Penryn depending on road conditions.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: At Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping, visitors can enjoy water activities during summer months. "The lake is really warm in the summer," notes camper Kristen M., making it ideal for swimming during peak season. Water levels fluctuate seasonally.
Waterfall hiking: Near Independence Hill, visitors can access hiking trails with seasonal water features. "Hike nearby with waterfall is beautiful," reports Emily C., though reaching these trails requires navigating challenging roads.
Rock climbing: The Silver Fork area offers climbing opportunities on nearby rock faces. One visitor at USFS Silver Fork Dispersed noted they "spotted a rock climber on the nearby rock face" when arriving at camp, indicating accessible climbing routes within walking distance of camping areas.
What campers like
Elevated viewpoints: Some areas offer expansive vistas for those willing to venture deeper into dispersed areas. At Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off, one camper shared, "Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise!"
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief from valley heat. At Grouse Ridge Campground, a camper noted, "It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground."
Natural solitude: Many dispersed areas offer isolation from crowds. "We were there last weekend in June and there was still snow on the ground. Woot! It was awesome," reports a Grouse Ridge visitor, highlighting the unique seasonal experiences available at higher elevations.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Policies vary by location and season, with many areas prohibiting fires entirely. At Silver Fork, one visitor noted, "This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt."
Road challenges: Access to many sites requires careful driving. "The last five miles to get to this campground was narrow and rocky," explains a Lake Valley Rd Pullout visitor, while another warns, "Don't Go In Winter. Got stuck for over a day trying to get to the site. Tow truck also got stuck."
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits for overnight stays. A Silver Fork camper advised, "You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov."
Tips for camping with families
Look for lake access: For family-friendly swimming options, choose lakeside sites during summer. At Loch Leven Lakes, a visitor shared, "We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks," though they caution about mosquitos: "Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites."
Consider timing: Early arrivals secure better sites. "I'd start early in the day to make sure you get good parking as this is a very popular trail, and so that you can get a good campsite," advises a Loch Leven Lakes visitor.
Pack for variable weather: Temperature swings can be significant, especially at higher elevations. A Silver Fork camper noted their December experience: "The weather was favorable on this December weekend (high 56, low 39)," demonstrating how conditions can be mild even in winter months.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Many primitive sites require adjustment for comfortable parking. At Mormon Emigrant Trail Pull Off, a camper noted, "A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around," indicating that flat areas exist but require searching.
Bring portable facilities: No amenities means planning ahead. "We brought a privacy shelter and portable camp toilet, and our own water. Those are really the only things you need that would normally be provided by a paid campsite," explains a Silver Fork visitor.
Vehicle clearance matters: Standard vehicles may struggle on primitive roads. At Grouse Ridge, a camper shared their experience: "The road was much more technical than a standard forest 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."
