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Best Dispersed Camping near Sea Ranch, CA

30 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Sea Ranch, California requires driving inland, as the closest free sites are located 1-2 hours away in the Clear Lake region. BLM Sheldon Creek offers primitive camping with basic amenities including vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. The access road is challenging, with visitors noting "the ride up was rough" and "trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path." The site features approximately 3-5 spots near a seasonal creek.

Cow Mountain Recreation Area and Lakeview Dispersed Campground provide additional options with varying terrain and facilities. Lakeview sits on high ground with Clear Lake views but faces access challenges, with one camper reporting "the gravel roads here are open again and easy to drive on! All wheel drive is helpful." Most dispersed sites in the region are accessible by standard vehicles with adequate clearance, though road conditions deteriorate significantly after rain. Pack out all trash, as recent visitors have reported "so much trash left behind" at several locations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Sea Ranch, California (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Sea Ranch, CA

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Sea Ranch, CA

30 Reviews of 7 Sea Ranch 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!

  • 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..

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Clear Lake View Point Dispersed

    Absolutely not! Nowhere to camp and a terrible road

    As soon as I started going up an extremely steep hill and saw a sign that said not a through street, I should have turned around but it was impossible with my 30-foot car and trailer. I am Bart Upon A frightening , rutted, unmaintained road that is only suitable for off-road vehicles for sick four wheel drives . Barely made it out of there with everything working as it should on car and trailer and actually got stuck at one point and had to use logs to get myself traction. Do not try this and there is nowhere to stop and set up a ten , at all!

Guide to Sea Ranch

Dispersed camping near Sea Ranch, California, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Dispersed campers should check out BLM Sheldon Creek

  • Located in Hopland, BLM Sheldon Creek features a serene environment with a lovely creek and fire pits, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway.
  • This area allows for a variety of activities, including campfires and picnicking, although be prepared to bring your own firewood.
  • The access road is suitable for most vehicles, but it's best to have a capable car, especially if you plan to camp during rainy weather.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Sea Ranch, California

  • Always check the road conditions before heading to Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed, as some paths can be rough and may require a capable vehicle.
  • Bring all necessary supplies, including water and food, since amenities are limited; for instance, Mayacmas Campground does not offer drinking water or trash services.
  • Respect the environment by cleaning up after yourself and following Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful areas pristine.

Enjoy wildlife while free camping near Sea Ranch

  • At BLM Sheldon Creek, campers often encounter deer, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing the natural experience.
  • The peaceful surroundings of Lakeview Dispersed Campground provide a great backdrop for stargazing and enjoying the sounds of nature.
  • Be mindful of the wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially in areas like Clear Lake View Point Dispersed, where animals may be more active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best spots for dispersed camping near Sea Ranch?

Several dispersed camping areas are available within driving distance of Sea Ranch. Lakeview Dispersed Campground offers beautiful spots with views of the lake, though access requires navigating steep dirt roads. High Valley Rd Dispersed provides multiple pull-over camping spots with potential views of Clear Lake. For both locations, higher clearance vehicles are recommended as access roads can be challenging, dusty, and steep in places.

What are the rules and regulations for camping at Sea Ranch?

While Sea Ranch itself doesn't permit camping, nearby dispersed camping areas have specific regulations. At Clear Lake View Point Dispersed, access is extremely limited with steep, rutted roads only suitable for high-clearance or off-road vehicles. Most dispersed sites in the region follow standard BLM rules: camp in established sites only, practice Leave No Trace principles, and be aware of seasonal fire restrictions. Some areas have vault toilets and fire pits, but expect minimal facilities and come prepared with your own water and supplies.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Sea Ranch?

Dispersed camping is not allowed at Sea Ranch itself, as it's a private community with no public camping facilities. However, there are dispersed camping options nearby. BLM Sheldon Creek offers dispersed camping opportunities with some basic amenities like vault toilets and fire pits. It's important to note that Sea Ranch is primarily a residential area, and camping is restricted to designated sites in the surrounding region.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping at Sea Ranch?

No specific permits are required for dispersed camping at BLM sites near Sea Ranch, but always check current regulations before your trip. Mayacmas Campground and other BLM-managed dispersed sites in the region typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis without reservation requirements. During fire season (typically summer through fall), you may need a campfire permit if fires are allowed. These can be obtained from the local BLM office or California campfire permit website. Always respect private property boundaries and camp only in designated areas.

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