Dispersed camping near Porterville, California provides access to Sequoia National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 feet, with most sites sitting between 7,000-8,000 feet. Temperature swings can exceed 30°F between day and night, particularly at higher elevations. Most dirt access roads become increasingly rutted after spring snowmelt, with conditions deteriorating throughout summer.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: The Camp 2 Dispersed Camping area offers access to multiple small waterfalls. "If you walk across you will come across a beautiful waterfall. You can use a donut floaty and slide right down," notes one camper at Camping area No. 3, which features similar swimming options.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. At Chico Flat Dispersed Camping, one visitor reported, "The stargazing at night was spectacular... Just the sounds of the river, the crickets and the birds." Clear skies reveal the Milky Way when the moon isn't bright.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park, one camper mentioned, "Woke up to cattle walking through the meadow we parked next to." Bears are common throughout the area, and deer frequent many sites at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Creek access: Multiple sites feature creek or river proximity for cooling off. At Camping area No. 3, visitors appreciate that "The water is super clear and nice!" Another camper notes, "It's so nice hearing the creek at night. There is trout in the middle creek and they are a descent size."
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of these areas provides separation from other campers. At Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park, one visitor shared, "There seemed to be a lot of campsites very far from each other. We only saw one other person." This privacy remains consistent across most sites except during peak summer weekends.
Proximity to attractions: Many sites offer convenient access to notable forest features. One camper at Johnsondale Dispersed Camping mentioned the "Easy driving access to Trail of a Thousand Giants, Moro Rock, and views of the Needles." Most major attractions are within a 20-30 minute drive from camping areas.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require vehicles with higher clearance. At Dome Rock Dispersed Camping, one camper observed, "Road is bumpy, so drive very carefully, but we saw RVs to get there." Some roads deteriorate significantly after rain.
Supply planning: Most sites have no facilities whatsoever. A camper at Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park advised, "BRING water and fill up on gas before you go. There are 0 resources for you." The nearest supplies are typically found in Kernville or smaller stores in communities like Johnsondale.
Fire permit requirements: California fire permits must be obtained online before arrival. A visitor at Dispersed Land in Sequoia National Forest confirmed, "Make sure you get a permit for any fires, including propane stoves." Permits are required for any flame source, even camp stoves.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife precautions: Secure all food and scented items properly. At Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground, a camper advised, "We saw two bears every night so take precaution. They were Cubs, they're not scared of you but also won't mess with you if you lock up all your food."
Accessible swimming spots: Several locations feature kid-friendly water access. A camper at Brush Creek Recreation Site mentioned, "The water was wonderful and low for good swimming." Most creek access points are shallow enough for supervised children.
Temperature preparation: Pack for significant temperature changes. At Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park, a visitor noted, "It does get cold here because of the elevation but once the sun comes out it's nice and warm." Night temperatures can drop below 40°F even in summer.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: Many dispersed areas have limited turning space for larger vehicles. At Dome Rock Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted, "There are about five spots for disperesed camping, we stayed at an upper spot with great view and wonderful night sky." Most sites accommodate smaller RVs and trailers under 25 feet.
Generator regulations: Few sites have specific rules about generator use. At Chico Flat Dispersed Camping, one camper reported, "The generator can be used until 10 p.m." Always check current regulations as they change seasonally.
Site selection timing: Arrive early for the best spots, especially on weekends. A camper at Brush Creek Recreation Site advised, "Show up on Thursday and it was nice and mellow. But then the weekend crowd showed up Friday. It got very crowded and finding a spot can get desperate."
