Best Dispersed Camping near Rocklin, CA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Rocklin? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Rocklin's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Rocklin, California (4)

    Nick M.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping near Kyburz, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping near Kyburz, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping near Kyburz, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping near Kyburz, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping near Kyburz, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping near Kyburz, CA

    1. Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    227 Saves
    Kyburz, California

    If you like to camp away from it all, but you prefer to drive there in your car, the National Forests have just what you are looking for. Most of the land in the National Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Visitors can camp just about anywhere in the national forest, unless specifically prohibited*. Maps and staff are available at most Forest Service offices to assist visitors in finding a suitable spot.

    Not being in a developed campground means that there will not be certain conveniences: Maximum stay limit for camping outside of a developed campground is 10 days per district/per calendar year. Please remove all your equipment and garbage when you leave.

    Water Quality: It is best to bring your own water. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated.

    Human Waste: Proper disposal of human waste is important. Leaving human waste in dispersed camping areas can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a camping area. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200' away from water sources and campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly.

    No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off near Grizzly Flats, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off near Grizzly Flats, CA

    2. Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    8 Saves
    Grizzly Flats, California
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Valley Rd Pullout near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Valley Rd Pullout near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Valley Rd Pullout near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Valley Rd Pullout near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Valley Rd Pullout near Emigrant Gap, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Valley Rd Pullout near Emigrant Gap, CA

    3. Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    55 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California

    Most of Tahoe National Forest is open to camping free of charge which is referred to as “dispersed” camping. Dispersed camping is prohibited in certain areas, generally within a ¼ mile of major highway corridors, in the Lakes Basin Area (Sierra Buttes), near Prosser, Boca, Stampede, French Meadows, and Sugar Pine reservoirs, and other locations. Please see the full list of areas where dispersed camping is not allowed below.

    Maps and staff are available at most Tahoe Forest Service offices to assist visitors in finding a suitable spot.

    Not being in a developed campground means that there will not be certain conveniences:

    Water Quality: Be prepared to bring your own drinking water or have a water filter. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated. Human Waste:Proper disposal of human waste is crucial. Human waste can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a dispersed camping area for future users. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200' away from water sources and dispersed campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly. No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out Maximum stay limit for camping is 14 days per District. Please remove all your equipment and garbage when you leave. The beauty of the natural vegetation around your campsite is probably why you chose it. Keep it healthy and growing by not cutting anything down, not putting nails into trees, and treading carefully along meadows, streamsides, and other sensitive areas. Keep your vehicle at least twelve feet from designated roads and trails to prevent resource damage and to adhere to Travel Management Regulations.

    When you pick your spot, make sure that it is at least 200 feet away (about seventy paces) from streams and lakes, to help protect streamside vegetation, and prevent water degradation and sedimentation. Dispersed campsites must be outside the boundary markings of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping closure areas.

    There are many fine camping spots you can reach on Tahoe National Forest motorized routes and trails, but some routes may be rough, steep, or narrow and not suited for low-clearance or for large recreation vehicles.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Independence Hill Dispersed near Gold Run, CA

    4. Independence Hill Dispersed

    Be the first to review!
    7 Saves
    Gold Run, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
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Showing results 1-4 of 4 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Rocklin, California

8 Reviews of 4 Rocklin Campgrounds


  • OThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off
    Sep. 6, 2024

    Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off

    Large dirt pull off

    Large pull off area I found and stayed at for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise! 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. A couple of level spots and lots of room to hike around. Completely free and peaceful but 0 amenities so come prepared. Currently there is an abandoned red semi truck cab so it’s easy to find not sure if that will ever be moved in the future though!

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    It was okay

    Pretty easy to get to and lots of spaces for dispersed sites. There was trash EVERYWHERE. Broken glass, toilet trash, bottles and cans, we were really disappointed. We found a spot pretty hidden which was rad but someone was shooting litteraly all night long which was frustrating. We probably won’t come back.

  • A S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    It's a paid site now.

    Can't even park and enjoy the view without getting harassed by the overweight goon they call a "camp host". $10 day fee? Naw. Been coming here for years FOR FREE. Not paying now.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    May. 11, 2023

    Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    Everything covered in snow right now

    We were looking for an overnight spot in this area and checked out this listing but there's just still too much snow at this time. The weather isn't cold, but the snow plows have pushed all the snow off the road so that it's impossible to get to any pullouts or open dispersed camping areas.

    Roads are clear though, if you want to drive through and check it out.

    We actually had cell reception with Verizon and Att here, which surprised us.

    It's a beautiful area to come back to when the snow clears!

  • William J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Feb. 15, 2023

    Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    Don't Go In Winter.

    Got stuck for over a day trying to get to the site. Tow truck also got stuck. Would not recommend coming until spring.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 16, 2022

    Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    There’s nothing here

    It’s just the boat launch. Perhaps u can get away with hanging out, not sure. The access to the dispersed camping, in the hill overlooking the water, is gated and locked.

    There seem to be plenty of spots to use enroute to the water, just not at the location.


Guide to Rocklin

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Rocklin, California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

Enjoy stunning views while free camping near Rocklin

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Rocklin, California

  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities at places like Lake Valley Rd Pullout, where you can enjoy a peaceful experience but should come equipped with all necessary supplies.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Rocklin, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Rocklin, 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 Rocklin, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Rocklin, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.