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Best Dispersed Camping near Santa Rosa, CA

32 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Santa Rosa gives campers a chance to get away from developed sites. You'll need to drive about 46 miles to reach Lakeview Dispersed Campground in Nice, CA, where you can camp with views of the lake. The road in is steep and unpaved, so high-clearance vehicles work best here. Cowboy Camp, located near Rumsey, CA, has grassy spots next to a stream for campers who prefer quiet surroundings. Both areas have minimal facilities, meaning you'll need to bring water and all supplies with you. Remember to follow Leave No Trace practices when camping at these sites. Local rules require setting up at least 200 feet from water and roads. You can stay up to 14 days at most dispersed sites in the area. Before making a campfire, check if any fire bans are active - they're common during dry periods. Store food properly since bears and other wildlife frequent these camping areas. Weather-wise, spring and fall are generally the most pleasant times to camp near Santa Rosa. Summer can get quite hot, while winter nights often drop to chilly temperatures. Pack out everything you bring in to keep these natural camping spots clean for future visitors.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Santa Rosa, California (8)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Santa Rosa, CA

16 Photos of 8 Santa Rosa Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Santa Rosa, CA

32 Reviews of 8 Santa Rosa Campgrounds

  • C
    Aug. 9, 2022

    BLM Sheldon Creek

    Pleasant BLM camping, hot in the summer.

    A decent drive off the highway, but a good one. A few nice views. Google maps will not get you there, we followed the directions on this page.

    Only 2 spots up here, maybe 3. But we had it to ourselves on a weeknight. The Bathroom (vault toilet) had toilet paper. There was some water in the creek, but it wasn’t super easy to access. 

    The site itself is nothing special, just a couple of pullouts in the woods. Probably very hot during the day since you’re up on a ridge. Can’t beat free though.

  • kThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2023

    BLM Sheldon Creek

    FREE BLM campground - travel trailers not advised

    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 with abundance of wood around.

    There are about 4/5 sites, only 2 with actual fire pits.

    Please keep it amazing by keeping it clean.

    FREE

  • Summer A.
    Jul. 17, 2022

    BLM Sheldon Creek

    Perfect Spot!

    Sheldon Creek is a BLM campsite up a winding dirt/gravel road. We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up. Signs will direct you in the right direction, and lead you to a campground with spots to pitch tents or park/hangout. There are even picnic tables, fire pits, and bathrooms. I didn’t get a chance to check out the bathrooms, but they looked decent. We only had one neighbor who seemed pretty friendly, which was a relief as you’re pretty far out in a remote area. Overall this is a beautiful spot where we felt safe. Would definitely recommend!

  • Jaye S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Lakeview Dispersed Campground

    Decent dispersed site

    Drive up to the site all incline dirt road ~6 miles - we made it up without 4 wheel drive but some areas were a little sketchy. Overall pretty dusty too. Sites themselves were decently maintained, some trash from previous campers but nothing major. This area is a popular for target practice so if the sounds of gunshots throughout the day isn’t your vibe, then this spot might not be suitable. Overall beautiful sunrises and sunsets and starry night sky

  • Chris C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 3, 2025

    High Valley Rd Dispersed

    Easy and chill!

    Very nice spot with multiple places to pull over and camp. There’s views of Lear Lake if you want to walk a bit. No water nearby. The road is very dusty on the way up!

  • Catherine L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Cowboy Camp

    Quiet

    Quiet stop, but I wouldn't call it the most beautiful stop I've ever stayed. Camping spots are to the left and the right I'd the day use. Pit toilets. No garbage.

  • Robert H.
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Lakeview Dispersed Campground

    High Above Clear Lake

    Beautiful spot with some views of the lake. No services, but had cell service (CC). I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging. It was steep with loose dirt in spots. It was an adventure. I am going to try north access into Lucerne later. (See Google for more info)

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 2, 2025

    Lakeview Dispersed Campground

    First Time Camping - Perfect

    First time camping and going somewhat off road.

    If you’re worried about your vehicle making it up we saw a tesla and a nissan altima up there. My subaru made it up perfectly. I would however recommend AWD or a little higher clearance.

    South road is somewhat rough and the north road seems to be the smoother but longer road.

    Clean area, but dusty. Can be busy 2 other campers showed up quietly while I was asleep but kept their distance. Where I set up there were some log chairs and a previously built fire pit.

    Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!

    We did not got many bugs which was great.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2025

    BLM Sheldon Creek

    Not a campsite

    I believe this is not campsite anymore. The coordinates took us to someone’s private driveway. We tried to get to the pinpoint from another way and ran into another closed gate. No idea..

Guide to Santa Rosa

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Santa Rosa, California, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Santa Rosa, California

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like BLM Sheldon Creek, offer free access, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Cowboy Camp has no drinking water or picnic tables, so bring your own supplies.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful spots pristine for future visitors, especially in areas like Lakeview Dispersed Campground.

Scenic views and wildlife encounters while free camping near Santa Rosa

Essential activities for dispersed campers near Santa Rosa

  • Fishing and swimming are popular at Lakeview Dispersed Campground, where a nearby creek provides a refreshing escape.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails around Cowboy Camp, which lead to scenic vistas and opportunities for exploration.
  • For those seeking adventure, the rugged terrain at High Valley Ridge is ideal for off-road driving and mountain biking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities should I expect at dispersed camping sites around Santa Rosa?

Dispersed camping sites around Santa Rosa typically offer minimal amenities. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, you'll find basic camping spots with beautiful lake views but no services, though cell service is generally available. Cowboy Camp provides pit toilets but no garbage disposal. Most dispersed sites have natural clearings for tents or vehicles and sometimes fire rings, but you should bring all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal bags. Don't expect running water, electricity, showers, or dump stations. Some sites may have makeshift fire pits, but always check current fire restrictions before planning to have a campfire, especially during dry seasons.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Santa Rosa?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Santa Rosa. BLM Sheldon Creek offers a few spots accessible via a winding dirt/gravel road with signs directing you to the camping area. The site features picnic tables and fire pits. Another option is High Valley Rd Dispersed, which provides multiple pull-off spots for camping with some views of Clear Lake. Both locations are on public BLM land, making them free to use. Be prepared for dirt roads that may require vehicles with decent clearance, especially after wet weather. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and check current conditions before heading out, as access can change seasonally.

Can I go boondocking with an RV near Santa Rosa?

Boondocking with an RV near Santa Rosa is possible, but vehicle size and road conditions are important considerations. Clear Lake View Point Dispersed is not recommended for larger RVs due to extremely steep, rutted roads that are better suited for off-road vehicles. Alternatively, Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed offers more accessible options for modest-sized RVs and truck campers. Generally, smaller rigs (under 25 feet) will have more success at dispersed sites in this region. Truck campers fare particularly well, as noted at several sites. Always scout ahead or research thoroughly before attempting access with any RV, and be prepared for self-contained camping with no hookups or services.

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