Dispersed camping near Sawyers Bar, California offers numerous free sites throughout the Klamath National Forest. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,600-4,000 feet, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Forest service roads leading to campsites typically require vehicles with decent ground clearance, though many are accessible in standard passenger cars.
What to do
Fishing in Trinity River: Access prime fishing spots from Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed, where the creek provides good opportunities. As one camper noted, "We found [a] perfect site to feet from the river. No slot of other sites."
Stargazing at elevated sites: Castle Lake Dispersed Camping offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. A visitor shared, "I'm in a level spot but nowhere to walk except road from here. Again, great view."
Swimming in nearby lakes: Visit Lake Siskiyou from nearby campsites when temperatures rise. A reviewer at Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta mentioned, "Lake Siskiyou is super close and was warm enough for a quick dip before hitting the road."
Hiking forest trails: Many sites have nearby hiking options, particularly around Mt. Shasta. Reviewers report finding "a few paths for small hikes" directly from dispersed sites.
What campers like
Secluded locations: Many campers appreciate the privacy at these dispersed sites. At Red Fir Campground, a reviewer noted, "The area was large enough that the nearest neighbor was at least 25 yards away. Good shady area."
Spacious camping areas: Sites typically offer ample room to spread out. At Red Fir Campground, campers found "flat space to park or set up a tent. No reservations or assigned spots. Quiet and comfortable."
Nearby water features: Access to creeks and lakes ranks high with visitors. At North Trinity Lake, a camper described it as "a beautiful open field with the woods in the back and Trinity lake in the front. You could camp in the open field or in the woods."
Easy accessibility from major routes: Many sites are relatively close to highways. One camper at Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta wrote, "Turn off is about a mile after coordinates listed. Can't miss the turn off. We stayed here exiting and entering CA. Exactly what we were looking for our one nighters."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS coordinates are often imprecise. At North Trinity Lake, a camper warned, "The coordinates were off though and it took us up to a private residence road so I would not follow that. There's multiple side dirt roads leading down to the lake from the main road."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads may deteriorate after rain or snow. One reviewer at Lacks Creek BLM noted, "As of Sept '25, chunks of the gravel road were under construction; some blind, narrow turns, but nothing too intense; and dips, washouts, and big exposed rocks, so drive with care."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for bugs and larger wildlife. A visitor to Cline Gulch warned, "My dog and I both got bitten by ticks - and we woke to find 8 other dead ticks in our bed."
Local shooting activity: Some areas permit target shooting. A camper mentioned hearing "gunshots in the middle of the night" at Cline Gulch, noting it's "a popular shooting area because we saw a ton of ammunition casings."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites with amenities: For easier family camping, look for sites with basic facilities. At Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp, "There are 3 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There is one vault toilet that was stocked with 'the papers'."
Watch for water safety: Creeks and lakes require supervision. A camper at Groves Prairie Camp mentioned, "There is a beautiful little creek right next to the campsite," perfect for exploration but requiring parental oversight.
Plan for communication limitations: Cell service is minimal or non-existent at most sites. At Groves Prairie Camp, a camper reported "There is MAYBE one (1) bar of Verizon service, but it is extremely unreliable."
Bring insect protection: Bugs can be problematic in warmer months. One visitor to Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta warned, "It was pretty hot at night, and a bunch of bugs so keep that in mind."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations are common: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Castle Lake Dispersed Camping, a camper with a trailer advised, "I would probably not recommend with a trailer. I made it down with my Tacoma and a 12ft travel trailer but it was a stretch. Super easy to get in, but took a long time to turn around and get back out. Anything bigger than and you're probably stuck."
Avoid areas with low clearance needs: Some roads aren't suitable for any RV. At Lacks Creek BLM, one RVer cautioned, "Tried to camp here with a 20ft travel trailer and I turned around before I even made it to the gravel road. Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees."
Look for pull-through options: Some areas offer easier access for vehicles with trailers. Near Castle Lake, "There are pull offs along the road that you could do a quick overnight."
Be cautious about turnaround space: Planning your exit is essential. One camper noted that at Cline Gulch BLM, "the circular 'driveway' was tight and had very little space."
