Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping sits in Alpine County at around 7,500 feet elevation, offering rustic camping near South Lake Tahoe, California. The area experiences significant seasonal changes with summer highs in the 70s-80s and winter lows below freezing. The surrounding Hope Valley region transforms dramatically through seasons, with wildflowers in spring, golden aspens in fall, and deep snow in winter that often restricts access.
What to do
Explore nearby water features: The Blue Lakes are accessible from the area for swimming, boating and kayaking. One visitor noted, "The Blue Lakes are just down the road for swimming, boating, kayaking etc and lots of amazing 4x4 trails. Rivers for fishing and endless hiking and biking."
Hike local trails: The Granite Chief Wilderness - Dispersed area offers hiking opportunities with seasonal beauty. A camper shared, "It rained when we got here… which over night at some point turned into the first snow!!! How insanely beautiful!"
Stargazing: The elevation provides excellent night sky viewing. At Iron MT. Dispersed, a camper observed, "The view from this area is spectacular. Beautiful sunsets too. It is a pretty open area with lots of room to camp."
What campers like
Solitude during weekdays: Many campers appreciate the quiet weekday experience. One visitor at Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed mentioned, "I stayed here for 7 days and only saw one other person on the primivite roads."
Riverside spots: Some camping areas offer prime water access. At Silver Fork River Camping, a camper reported, "All the sites are on the river and have paths down to the water with a little beach. When we were there in early June the water was still very cold."
Flat terrain options: Many sites feature level ground suitable for comfortable camping. A visitor noted, "The ground is very flat and many areas are paved with gravel. At 7500 feet above sea level, the view is wide and the scenery is beautiful, especially the sunset view."
What you should know
Winter access restrictions: Snow significantly limits winter camping options. One camper at Echo Summit Dispersed warned, "Most likely impassable after snowfall."
Fire regulations vary seasonally: Fire restrictions change based on conditions and season. A visitor cautioned, "This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt. You will find yourself going in and out of them while driving."
Cell coverage is limited: Network reception is spotty throughout the region. A camper shared, "Cell phone reception is very spotty, in and out of a couple of bars throughout the drive in. At the above coordinates, there were 2 bars of low grade coverage allowing basic texts to send."
Tips for camping with families
Bring portable toilets: No facilities exist in most dispersed areas. A camper advised, "We brought a privacy shelter and portable camp toilet, and our own water. Those are really the only things you need that would normally be provided by a paid campsite."
Watch for livestock: Some areas have free-ranging animals. A visitor noted, "There are herds of cows that will make their way through the area, please be respectful of them!"
Plan for weather changes: Mountain weather can change rapidly even in summer. One camper reported, "Forecast said no rain… it rained. Woke up this morning to 4inches of snow! It was majestic."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions before committing: Many forest roads deteriorate seasonally. A camper at USFS Silver Fork Dispersed cautioned, "Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring. Easy road to get out there."
Consider elevation impacts: Higher elevations affect vehicle performance. An RVer shared, "There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you'll be fine."
Arrive early for prime spots: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends. One camper observed, "When I was here it was jammed packed RV, vans and tents all set up along the road. To me it was good for an overnight stay. No AT&T service what so ever. Little highway noise."
