Best Dispersed Camping near Sierra City, CA

Join the fun near Sierra City. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Sierra City campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Sierra City, California (18)

    1. Grouse Ridge Campground

    3 Reviews
    4 Photos
    86 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    2. Bowman Lake Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    13 Photos
    57 Saves
    Sierra City, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    3. Loch Leven Lakes

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    124 Saves
    Norden, California

    The Loch Leven begins at Placer County Road Pla-9140-2 and ends at High Loch Leven Lake. At the south end of lower Loch Leven, a trail junction continues left to middle and high Lochs, or right to Salmon Lake. Fishing is generally good, and camping is dispersed throughout the basin. Campfire permits are required for campfires, backpacking stoves, BBQs, and lanterns.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

    4. 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

    5. Big Dog Valley

    4 Reviews
    16 Photos
    99 Saves
    Verdi, Nevada

    There is no "campground here" Please be aware most of the Dog / Sardine Valley is private property and a working ranch. The places near the valley floor with picnic tables - those are sheep camps. The places with firepits, also sheep camps. Please respect private property and make sure you are camping in the BLM / USDA lands that rim the valley. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Dog Valley provides excellent viewing of both wildflowers and flowering shrubs. Forest, meadows, and streams make up Dog Valley’s landscape, creating a cool and refreshing retreat for this popular recreation area. Dog Valley is also home to two rare plant species, Dog Valley ivesia and Webber’s ivesia. Dog Valley ivesia can only be found in Dog Valley. Other attractions include wildlife viewing and the Crystal Peak Mine, a popular spot for crystal-hounds. Dog Valley offers a variety of opportunities to view wildflowers in the Jeffery pine forests and meadows. As you enter Dog Valley from Verdi, you will see the recovery from the 1994 Crystal Fire with displays of mahala mat, silvery lupine, and chokecherry. Explore the openings in the forest with extensive displays of mule’s ear, balsamroot, buckwheats, paintbrushes, yampah, bitterbrush, bare-stem desert parsley, and manzanita. Walking around, it is easy to enjoy the smaller, less visible flowers, including collomia, prairie star flower, and blue-eyed Mary. Wetter areas have displays of shooting stars, delphinium, and Rydberg’s penstemon. Best Viewing Times: The best time to visit is June and July. Safety First: Creeks and streams can cross the road. Be careful when crossing water and watch for washed-out portions of the road. The road can be very muddy. California OHV registration is required for all vehicles. Campfire permits are also required in California and can be obtained from the Carson District Office or the campground host.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

    6. Fort Sage Off Highway Vehicle Area

    6 Reviews
    29 Photos
    112 Saves
    Doyle, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    9. Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp

    1 Review
    2 Saves
    Verdi, Nevada
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed

    10. Peavine Road Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    3 Photos
    17 Saves
    Reno, Nevada
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
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Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Sierra City, CA

27 Reviews of 18 Sierra City Campgrounds



Guide to Sierra City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Sierra City, California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Lakes for Swimming and Relaxation

  • The stunning Loch Leven Lakes offers multiple camping spots with breathtaking views, perfect for swimming and lounging by the water.
  • At Bowman Lake Dispersed, campers can enjoy lakeside campsites that provide a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
  • For those seeking a quieter experience, Grouse Ridge Campground features numerous lakes to explore, making it an ideal location for fishing and hiking.

Hiking Trails for Outdoor Enthusiasts

  • The Salmon Lake trailhead leads to Loch Leven Lakes, where hikers can enjoy a shorter route while taking in the stunning scenery.
  • Campers at Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp can access various trails that wind through the beautiful landscape, perfect for a day of exploration.
  • The trails around Grouse Ridge Campground offer breathtaking views and a chance to spot local wildlife, making it a must-visit for avid hikers.

Unique Camping Experiences in Nature

  • Experience the tranquility of Three Cornered Meadow, where campers can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature.
  • For a more rugged adventure, Bowman Lake Dispersed requires a 4x4 vehicle to access, providing a thrilling journey to a stunning destination.
  • Big Dog Valley offers a classic camping experience with plenty of spots to explore, making it a favorite among locals looking for a quick escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sierra City, CA is Grouse Ridge Campground with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Sierra City, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 18 dispersed camping locations near Sierra City, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.