Best Dispersed Camping near Reedley, CA
The foothills east of Reedley, California serve as a gateway to numerous dispersed camping opportunities in Sequoia National Forest. Most sites are primitive with no facilities, located along forest service roads like FS 13597 (Sequoia Forest Hunting Area), Road to Armenian Camp, and Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area. These free camping areas provide alternatives when national park campgrounds are full, with many situated between Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Campers will find both roadside pull-offs suitable for smaller vehicles and occasional clearings large enough for RVs, though vehicle size limitations apply at most locations.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring careful navigation on narrow, sometimes rutted forest roads. As one camper noted about Sequoia Forest Hunting Area, "The road in is narrow in parts and around 1 mile before you get to the campground." Most dispersed sites are accessible with standard vehicles during dry weather, but high-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote locations. Fire permits are required for all campfires and even propane stoves in many areas. Cell service is spotty but available at select sites, with one reviewer mentioning, "This spot is flat, large (fits 2 big rigs at least) and has T-mobile and Verizon reception."
Mountain views and forest settings characterize most camping areas, with visitors frequently mentioning the peaceful surroundings. Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area receives consistent praise as an overflow option when park campgrounds fill up, with one camper reporting, "A park ranger directed me here when all the campgrounds in the national parks were full." The Chicago Stump, a historic landmark, is accessible from several nearby camping areas. Weather conditions remain comfortable at higher elevations even during summer, though nights can be chilly year-round. Most sites feature existing fire rings, and some include rudimentary amenities like picnic tables. Campers should arrive prepared with all necessary supplies as no drinking water, trash service, or toilets are available at most locations.
