Dispersed camping areas around El Dorado National Forest near Placerville, California sit at elevations between 2,000 and 7,500 feet, creating varied camping experiences across different seasons. Several free camping locations within 30 miles of Placerville require dirt road navigation with varying difficulty levels. Fire restrictions typically apply from May through November, with complete bans during high fire danger periods.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Silver Fork River Camping, visitors find established sites with river access. A camper noted, "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. It's a popular fishing spot with the locals."
Hiking near camp: The Loch Leven Lakes trail offers backpacking options with swim-friendly alpine lakes. A backpacker shared, "We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks. I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites." The trail requires attention as it can be confusing without following orange markings or stacked rocks.
Stargazing: Clear mountain nights provide stellar viewing at many dispersed sites. At Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, one visitor mentioned it was a "Perfect spot for star gazing!" The area's elevation and minimal light pollution create optimal conditions for night sky observation from spring through fall.
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: Many USFS Silver Fork Dispersed sites offer substantial separation between campers. One visitor explained, "There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp. I stayed at a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent."
Accessible wilderness: Free camping near Placerville provides quick wilderness access without lengthy drives. At Packsaddle Pass, campers find "Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!" The location offers a balance of accessibility and natural setting.
Off-season solitude: Visiting during shoulder seasons often means having entire areas to yourself. At Iron MT. Dispersed, one visitor reported, "Stopped by Iron Mountain this morning on my way down 88. Not a sole in sight at this old abandoned ski resort. A few rock fire rings but I think camp fires may be banned."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Many dispersed areas require navigating unpaved roads that change with weather and seasons. At Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off, a camper advised, "Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! There are a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically by location and carrier. At Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted "No service for at&t," while another mentioned, "Very quiet at night, maybe i just got lucky lol."
Seasonal timing matters: Winter access becomes restricted in many areas. At Iron MT. Dispersed, one camper warned, "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."
Pack out all waste: The clean condition of many sites depends on visitor responsibility. A camper at Silver Fork Dispersed emphasized, "KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly spots: Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping offers accessible options for families. One visitor shared, "First come first serve sites although plenty, fill up fast. Luckily there is a lot of Dispersed camping all the way around the lake! So beautiful, and the lake is really warm in the summer."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many dispersed sites offer animal sighting chances, especially early morning and evening. A camper at Packsaddle Pass noted seeing deer and smaller wildlife throughout their stay.
Site selection timing: Arriving weekdays or early weekends improves family site options. A visitor at Union Valley Reservoir suggested, "I always have a great experience camping here. Not too many people in between seasons. Summer time is not bad."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant even in summer. A camper at Union Valley reported, "Pulled off Union valley road and set up camp with our Rooftop tent. Little cold up here in November but made for some great pre-snowfall camping!"
Tips from RVers
Flat parking areas: Several dispersed sites accommodate larger rigs with advance planning. At Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping, one 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."
Road navigation challenges: Some free camping areas near Placerville have obstacles for larger vehicles. At Silver Fork Dispersed, a camper noted, "Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car."
Weekday arrivals recommended: Weekend crowding affects site availability for larger vehicles. A visitor at Scotts Lake Rd reported, "Lots of people! Come early for a spot." Arriving Sunday through Thursday typically offers better large-vehicle placement options.
