Dispersed camping near Springville, California places campers within the Sequoia National Forest at elevations between 5,000-9,000 feet. The terrain features mountain meadows interspersed with creeks and sequoia groves, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Several free primitive sites require high-clearance vehicles to access the rugged forest roads that wind through the mountains.
What to do
Creek swimming and fishing: At Brush Creek Recreation Site, visitors can enjoy cooling off in the clear waters. "Such a beautiful place! We camped right next to the river. It was such a peaceful place and the sounds of the river right next to our camp was just heaven on earth," reports Conrad G. The creek also offers fishing opportunities, though catches may be limited.
Hiking to waterfalls: Multiple trails lead to scenic water features throughout the area. At Camping area No. 3, campers can "walk across you will come across a beautiful waterfall. You can use a donut floaty and slide right down," according to Jessica P. For more adventurous hikers, "This campground is the closest to the trailhead for 7 teacups hiking or canyoneering," notes Les R.
Stargazing: The remote location with minimal light pollution creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. "The stars were unreal!" reports Taylor from the dispersed camp near Sequoia National Park. Higher elevation sites provide particularly clear viewing conditions, with many campers noting the impressive astronomical sights.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park offers remarkable isolation. "I was surprised how vacant this location was. It was absolutely gorgeous and the stars were unreal! There seemed to be a lot of campsites very far from each other. We only saw one other person," writes Taylor. Another camper, Vanessa C., confirms: "Stunning. If you want privacy this is it. You are definitely alone."
Creek sounds: Camping near water features provides natural white noise. "This place has lots of trees great to hang a hammock like I did. What I like is that all you hear is the birds singing and the creek running, it is so relaxing," shares Jessica P. about the Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse animal species. Morning visitors are common, as Joseph M. describes: "Woke up to cattle walking through the meadow we parked next to." More wild encounters happen too: "We saw two bears every night so take precaution. They were Cubs, they're not scared of you but also won't mess with you if you lock up all your food," notes Steven R.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many sites requires careful driving. At Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area, Steve M. cautions: "Tons of winding roads with lots of S curves leading up to 9000 feet." For Dome Rock, Ash M. advises: "Recommend a truck if going in but have seen cars drive in. Can also hike in."
Supply preparation: No services exist at most sites. "BRING water and fill up on gas before you go. There are 0 resources for you," warns Vanessa C. Some campers note the nearest resupply point: "There is a market in johnsondale about 10-15 minutes Incase you forgot something but it is very pricey."
Fire regulations: Seasonal restrictions affect cooking plans. While many sites technically allow fires with permits, Brandon C. reports: "Sheriff told us fires aren't really allowed. There were also signs posted. That's what we planned to cook on so we took our chances." During summer months, the area is considered a "completely dry area so no campfires until November."
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek access: Water features provide natural entertainment for children. "If you walk across you will come across a beautiful waterfall. You can use a donut floaty and slide right down. So much fun times here," suggests Jessica P. about Camp 2 Dispersed Camping.
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Bears frequent many camping areas near Springville. "You will come across some wildlife, this is the path of a bear and a mountain lion so be careful. You will see many tracks of them and also deer. But they never bothered us," notes one camper at Dispersed Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Higher elevation sites experience significant cooling at night. "You will be at 7000ft elevation so dress warm," advises Joseph M. Even summer camping requires adequate warm clothing for nighttime when temperatures can drop below 50°F.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large vehicles struggle on most forest roads in the area. Andy B. notes about his site: "Access was easy with a 4x4, but may be a little tough for a 2WD car. Plenty of space for a small trailer to maneuver. Highly recommend. Perfect for an off-road trailer or overland setup."
Arrival timing: Weekday camping provides a better experience. Adam C. advises: "We showed up on Thursday and it was nice and mellow. But then the weekend crowd showed up Friday. It got very crowded and finding a spot can get desperate. Show up early and if u can do a weekday trip, do it."
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites near Springville feature uneven terrain. Campers with trailers report needing blocks and additional equipment to properly level their rigs on the forest sites, which lack developed pads or designated parking areas.
