Dispersed camping near Sloughhouse, California extends beyond the foothills into nearby national forests where primitive sites accommodate self-sufficient campers. The area sits at elevations ranging from 300 feet in the valley to over 6,000 feet in the high country of El Dorado National Forest. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F in lower elevations while higher sites offer cooler conditions, with significant seasonal road closures during winter months.
What to do
Swimming access: Union Valley Reservoir provides opportunities for water recreation during warmer months. "Pretty easy to get to and lots of spaces for dispersed sites," notes Blair K., though visitors should be prepared for varying conditions as "there was trash EVERYWHERE" at certain times.
Off-season exploration: Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping becomes less crowded during spring and fall. One camper reports, "Not too many people in between seasons. Summer time is not bad," making shoulder seasons ideal for visitors seeking solitude.
Winter camping: Some determined campers visit during colder months. Nick M. shares his experience: "Pulled off Union valley road and set up camp with our Rooftop tent. Little cold up here in November but made for some great pre-snowfall camping!"
What campers like
Cell service availability: Several rustic camping areas near Sloughhouse provide connectivity despite remote locations. At Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed, Michael S. notes, "2 bars LTE of Verizon," allowing campers to stay connected while enjoying natural surroundings.
Weekday solitude: Mid-week camping offers more privacy at popular sites. "I was there on weekdays so was pretty much alone the whole time," reports Onyx E. about their experience at Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off.
Extended stays: Multiple sites accommodate longer visits without fees. One camper stayed "for 4 days with amazing views of the sunset and sunrise" at a large pull-off area, appreciating the freedom to remain at a single location.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes to primitive sites often present challenges. The route to Independence Hill Dispersed is particularly difficult as Emily C. warns: "The road up to Iowa Hill is terrifying- especially in the dark," requiring careful driving and preferably daylight arrivals.
Site conditions vary: Some areas show signs of heavy use including target shooting debris. Emily C. found "so much glass and shell casings everywhere from what seems to be a local shooting area" at Independence Hill.
Fee inconsistency: While most dispersed sites remain free, some locations have implemented fees. A camper at Union Valley notes: "It's a paid site now... $10 day fee? Naw. Been coming here for years FOR FREE."
Tips for camping with families
Cleanliness considerations: When primitive camping with children near Sloughhouse, inspect sites carefully before settling in. Some areas have reported litter issues, so bringing trash bags helps maintain a clean camp.
Pet-friendly options: Dogs enjoy the open spaces at Mormon Emigrant Trail Dispersed Pull Off where multiple level sites accommodate families. The area features "lots of room to hike around" according to visitors, providing space for children and pets.
Noise factors: Consider potential disruptions when selecting family camping locations. Damien M. notes that at Top of Arnold, "There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded," which may affect light sleepers or young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should scout locations before committing to a spot. One camper reports that at Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping, "The access to the dispersed camping, in the hill overlooking the water, is gated and locked," highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Surface challenges: Most dispersed camping areas feature unpaved, sometimes dusty terrain. One visitor describes the ground at Top of Arnold as "basically dust dirt," noting "My dogs love it, my bedding doesn't!"
Alternative networks: When main sites fill up, look for connecting roads with additional options. At Mormon Emigrant Trail, "even if the main spot is occupied there's a couple of dirt roads that lead to more areas to camp," providing backup options during busy periods.
