Dispersed camping near Pine Grove, California spans across parts of El Dorado National Forest at elevations between 3,000 and 7,500 feet. The area features mixed conifer forests with significant variations in terrain from riverside flats to mountain ridges. Weather patterns can shift dramatically with nighttime temperatures dropping 30-40 degrees below daytime highs, even during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Silver Fork River Camping offers river access with small beaches perfect for fishing. "We were at another location up the road that was listed on Dyrt and the Forest Service Fire Team came up and they suggested this site and its awesome. You cross the bridge over the river and the trail is to the right," notes a camper at Silver Fork River.
Mountain biking: Bear Valley Dispersed Camping provides access to nearby trails. "Location was near trails to rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking," reports a camper who visited for an outdoor adventure event.
Stargazing sessions: The higher elevation sites have minimal light pollution. A visitor to Bear Valley noted, "Perfect spot for star gazing!! We arrived when it was dark and had no problem finding a spot! It was open with plenty of spots & we were the only ones!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: USFS Silver Fork Dispersed offers secluded spots away from crowds. A camper shared, "Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring."
Cell service for remote work: Top of Arnold has decent connectivity for those needing to stay connected. "It's suitable enough of a campground, Verizon works. There is sun for solar panels and enough shade to be fine mostly," explains one camper.
Mountain views: Packsaddle Pass offers panoramic vistas. "Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!" reports a visitor who rated the site 4 stars.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Winter access requires special permits in some areas. A visitor to Iron Mountain Dispersed noted, "The site was covered in snow, and there was a sign saying no camping in snow clearing conditions. Additionally you aren't allowed in without a Sno-park permit from November 1st to may 31st."
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require careful driving. "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up," shared a camper about Top of Arnold. Another camper at Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off reported, "Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise!"
Wildfire impacts: Recent fires have altered the landscape at many sites. "Unfortunately there was a massive fire here and there is nothing to look at but burned out trees," notes a review from Mormon Emigrant Trail Pull Off.
Tips for camping with families
Look for riverside spots: Areas with water access keep children entertained. A camper at Silver Fork River Camping reported, "All the sites are on the river and have paths down to the water with a little beach. When we were there in early June the water was still very cold."
Pick sites with natural boundaries: Some areas provide natural containment for kids. A visitor to USFS Silver Fork Dispersed shared, "We camped right at the entrance because nobody was there and there was plenty of flat area. Easily accessible on paved roads."
Bring portable toilet solutions: With no facilities at most sites, preparation is key. "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," advised a family camping at USFS Silver Fork.
Tips from RVers
Check vehicle specs against road conditions: Some roads require higher clearance vehicles. At Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping, an RVer shared, "We are new to dispersed camping and have a 40 ft 5th wheel as well as a GMC Denali 350 dually. We need a large space to fit into. We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded."
Arrive early for best spots: Prime locations fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Lots of people! come early for a spot," warns a camper at Scotts Lake Rd.
Plan for supplies: No hookups or facilities means bringing everything needed. A camper noted about Mormon Emigrant Trail, "Completely free and peaceful but 0 amenities so come prepared."
