Dispersed camping sites near Potter Valley, California offer primitive camping options on public lands managed primarily by the Bureau of Land Management. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet, with summer temperatures reaching into the high 90s and winter lows occasionally dropping below freezing. Most rustic camping areas require at least 30-45 minutes of driving on unpaved roads to access.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access multiple hiking paths from Lakeview Dispersed Campground where campers find varied terrain. "The drive up was full of breathtaking views, and even though the road was quite bumpy, dusty, and steep at times, our AWD Kia made it up no problem," notes Kirra L.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at BLM Sheldon Creek provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October," reports Patricia Y.
Stargazing: Clear nights offer excellent celestial viewing due to minimal light pollution. "Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!" advises Joe M. from Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
What campers like
Natural water features: Seasonal creeks run through several camping areas, particularly in spring. "There was a nice little creek and a fire pit. Had the area to ourselves likely due to the rain," writes Iliana A. about her stay at Sheldon Creek.
Privacy between sites: Most dispersed camping locations near Potter Valley provide substantial space between campsites. "Only two other groups were set up so not crowded, plenty of spots," reports Kirra L. about High Valley Rd Dispersed.
Pre-established fire rings: Many sites contain rock fire rings from previous campers. "Where I set up there were some log chairs and a previously built fire pit," notes Joe M. from Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many sites require navigation of challenging terrain. "We took a regular AWD midsize SUV... The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff. There is no way to turn around once you start up it," warns Karmen V. about High Valley Road.
Cell service reliability: Coverage varies by location and carrier. "Good cell service too!" reports Alexander Mark C. about Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Limited facilities: Most rustic camping near Potter Valley lacks basic amenities. "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path. Otherwise 10/10 for our truck camper, had the place to ourselves for the 4th of July weekend, beautiful fresh water creek running through, great toilet & even a fire pit," shares Kenny T. about Cowboy Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Scout first: Walk potential campsites before committing with vehicles. "You have to drive up to right as you enter and then turn toward the lake to find the really nice spots. You can't see them from the main area. May need a higher clearance vehicle for that depending on the site. Recommend walking it first," suggests Todd N. from Lakeview Dispersed.
Pack extra water: No reliable water sources exist at most sites. "Not a easy campground to get to had a RV road is horrible no nearby water," mentions Eugena M. about her experience.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be significant, particularly at higher elevations. "Very cold at night and morning so be prepared! We did not got many bugs which was great," advises Joe M.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding," shares Jorg F. about Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed.
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as most sites are not graded. "The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate," notes Patricia Y. about her experience at Mayacmas Campground.
Check seasonal closures: Some sites close unexpectedly. "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell," reports Natalie T. about Cowboy Camp.
