Best Dispersed Camping near Stanislaus National Forest

Join the fun near Stanislaus National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Stanislaus National Forest, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Stanislaus National Forest (34)

    1. Bear Valley Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Sierraville, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 994-3401

    "Bear valley is my favorite place to go camping, the most you get close to the top of the mountain, the most curvy the road is, so be prepare."

    "Lots of trails to ride your bike and walk."

    2. Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Stanislaus National Forest, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 459-9238

    3. Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Arnold, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (209) 532-3671

    "The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up."

    "Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded but still a good spot."

    4. Leavitt Lake

    3 Reviews
    Bridgeport, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 932-7070

    "I have a truck. i got about a half mile in before the snow washed out the road. you can still hike in. high clearance and 4wd a must"

    "We visited Lake Levitte, back in June 2021. I would recommend a high clearance vehicle, ad there are some technical sections. If you watch your line, you can make it."

    5. Hardin Flat Road

    15 Reviews
    Eastman Lake, CA
    31 miles

    "I stayed to car camp and had an overall nice time. There was a good amount of ice but with 4x4 not problem. The ice was melting so if you go anytime after the snow should be a lot less."

    "Great spot a little farther up Hardin Flat Rd. I am parked across from a private drive so I can turn around with my RV if needed."

    6. Iron MT. Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Eldorado National Forest, CA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (916) 324-4442

    "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."

    "The Mormon Emigrant Trail can be accessed from there (East side, going West to Sly Park.) You can hear the Highway a little, but nonetheless very peaceful area."

    7. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Echo Lake, CA
    36 miles

    "Easy access and reasonably good road quality make it very RV friendly - I would say that it was at least 75% RVs/Trailers. Beautiful views of the valley and hills to the east."

    "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott’s lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley."

    8. Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed

    22 Reviews
    Bridgeport, CA
    43 miles

    "The address on google maps however DOES NOT lead to the camping destination but we ended up running into a couple of ATV’ers that led us in the right direction."

    "Just pull onto one of the dirt roads on the left and find a spot! Any car or smaller RV could easily drive the road."

    9. Dispersed USFS

    2 Reviews
    Markleeville, CA
    28 miles

    "Several areas along Blue Lakes Rd offer dispersed camping."

    10. Obsidian Creek on Little Walker Road

    2 Reviews
    Bridgeport, CA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 932-7070

    $18 / night

    "Close to fishing streams, high mountain lakes, hiking trails, off roading and don't forget that trip into Bridgeport and Bodie."

    "Easy access two miles off US 395 by gravel road.   It is know as an infrequently utilized destination.

    The trailhead for Molybdenite Creek is just past site 14. "

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Stanislaus National Forest

110 Reviews of 34 Stanislaus National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Stanislaus National Forest

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Stanislaus National Forest, California, where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots for camping enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the wilderness.

Scenic Trails for Hiking and Biking while free camping near Stanislaus National Forest

  • Explore the numerous trails available for hiking and biking, with options like those found at Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed, where dirt roads lead to exciting paths for outdoor adventures.
  • The Bear Valley Dispersed Camping area features trails perfect for both biking and walking, allowing campers to enjoy the serene surroundings.
  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, Forest Route 4N39 Dispersed offers access to trails that wind through beautiful landscapes, ideal for exploration.

Fishing and Relaxation for dispersed campers

  • Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing at Obsidian Creek on Little Walker Road, where the tranquil waters provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation.
  • The scenic views at Leavitt Lake make it an excellent spot for casting a line while soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
  • Campers at Eagle Meadow Horse Camp can enjoy nearby fishing streams, making it a great choice for those who love to fish and camp simultaneously.

Unique Wildlife Encounters for dispersed campers

  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife while camping at Iron MT. Dispersed, where the open areas and stunning views create an ideal environment for spotting various animals.
  • The diverse ecosystems around Carson Pass Dispersed Site provide opportunities for wildlife observation, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
  • Campers at Hardin Flat Road can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, with the chance to see deer and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Stanislaus National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Stanislaus National Forest is Bear Valley Dispersed Camping with a 3.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Stanislaus National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 34 dispersed camping locations near Stanislaus National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.