Best Dispersed Camping near Placerville, CA

Several primitive camping areas surround Placerville where you'll need to bring everything in and take everything out. Placerville City Park Campground has some undeveloped areas beyond the main campground that work for dispersed camping. The state park lands near Placerville also include remote spots with zero facilities—just you and nature. Most dispersed sites require following Leave No Trace practices and staying at least 100 feet from water sources and 200 feet from roads. You can stay up to 14 days in most areas before needing to move on. Many roads leading to good dispersed spots are rough and rutted, so vehicles with higher clearance do much better, especially after rain. When camping, you'll need all your own water, food, and waste disposal plan since there are no services. Fire bans are common in summer and fall—always check with the El Dorado National Forest office before planning to have a campfire. The back roads around the Placerville Recreation Area have spots where you can camp self-contained. Weather makes a big difference here—winter snow blocks many access roads, while spring and fall bring better conditions. Summer gets hot in the lower elevations, so bring plenty of water if camping then.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Placerville, California (20)

    1. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 644-2324

    "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!"

    2. Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    1 Review
    Grizzly Flats, CA
    20 miles

    "I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time but even if the main spot is occupied there’s a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp."

    3. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Kyburz, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 622-5061

    "The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp."

    "The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated."

    4. Iron MT. Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Eldorado National Forest, CA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 324-4442

    "The Mormon Emigrant Trail can be accessed from there (East side, going West to Sly Park.) You can hear the Highway a little, but nonetheless very peaceful area."

    "Stayed at this location when there was about a foot of snow on the ground, so I didn't feel comfortable driving into the actual camping area, instead I stayed over night on the paved round about."

    5. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Echo Lake, CA
    46 miles

    "Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east."

    "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."

    7. Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Twin Bridges, CA
    35 miles
    Website

    "Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room. Some areas have beautiful views of strawberry valley!"

    "Great location. Not sure it would be a good location if it's been raining. May hear the occasional road noise"

    8. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Bear Valley, CA
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 994-3401

    "Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare."

    "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."

    9. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 532-3671

    "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up."

    "Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded but still a good spot."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Placerville, CA

59 Reviews of 20 Placerville Campgrounds



Guide to Placerville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Placerville, California, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of locations to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy stunning views and a sense of freedom while camping in the great outdoors.

Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Placerville

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Iron MT. Dispersed

  • The Iron MT. Dispersed site is known for its stunning views and accessibility, making it a great choice for both tent and RV campers.
  • With no permit required and fires allowed, this location provides a relaxed atmosphere for those looking to enjoy a night under the stars.
  • Campers can bring their pets along to the Iron MT. Dispersed, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the adventure.

Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Loch Leven Lakes area features hiking trails that lead to beautiful lakes, perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.
  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, the Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed offers challenging trails and stunning scenery, ideal for adventurous hikers.
  • The Carson Pass Dispersed Site provides access to various hiking routes, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Eldorado National Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Placerville, CA is Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping with a 3-star rating from 5 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 20 dispersed camping locations near Placerville, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.