Best Dispersed Camping near Strawberry Valley, CA

Searching for a dispersed campsite near Strawberry Valley? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Strawberry Valley, including photos, reviews, and tips. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Strawberry Valley, CA (11)

    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground

    2. Grouse Ridge Campground

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    74 Saves
    Emigrant Gap, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Rogers Cow Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Rogers Cow Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    4. Lake Valley Rd Pullout

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    52 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
    Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes

    5. Loch Leven Lakes

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    109 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
    • No image available

      6. Stag Point

      Be the first to review!
      19 Saves
      La Porte, California

      1 dispersed site at trail head with fire pit and table only. At Stag Point 5 dispersed units. First come first serve. Pit toilet, fire rings, no water, no garbage services Pack in/Out.

      • Fires
      • Dispersed
      • Picnic Table
      • No image available
        • No image available
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            Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

            Recent Dispersed Reviews in Strawberry Valley

            8 Reviews of 11 Strawberry Valley Campgrounds


            • SThe Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
              Sep. 6, 2024

              Bowman Lake Dispersed

              Lake side Campsites

              If you are looking to be near the water and no service, this is perfect. The rough road in I believe must keep some folks out but the lake is amazing.

            • Chris N.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Lake Dispersed
              Jul. 21, 2024

              Bowman Lake Dispersed

              Great Late Spring Escape

              This place was a slice of heaven, but only accessible by way of 4 x 4 with decent clearance. The trail will take you off road for quite some time , but it's well with the adventure. Traction boards and a winch could help you through unexpected obstacles and are recommended to have on hand, but you most likely won't need them. No running water, but there are restroom buildings, fire rings and bear boxes to use. Mosquitoes are abundant here. Don't forget your repellent. The lake is gorgeous, a great fishery, and there are plenty of inspirational views and solitude to be had.

            • LThe Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
              Jun. 30, 2024

              Grouse Ridge Campground

              Amazing spot for a campground.

              The last five miles to get to this campground was narrow and rocky. Once we got to the campground, I realized narrow and rocky are okay. We were there last weekend in June and there was still snow on the ground. Woot! It was awesome. Quite a few sites there with fire rings, beat up, bear boxes that didn't open and picnic benches that were in bad shape. They had two pot toilets. This was a very busy campground. Lots of traffic on and out, I'm sure to beat the heat. It was 25 degrees cooler up there than in Sacramento. We loved this campground. I can't wait to go back.

            • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
              May. 11, 2023

              Lake Valley Rd Pullout

              Everything covered in snow right now

              We were looking for an overnight spot in this area and checked out this listing but there's just still too much snow at this time. The weather isn't cold, but the snow plows have pushed all the snow off the road so that it's impossible to get to any pullouts or open dispersed camping areas.

              Roads are clear though, if you want to drive through and check it out.

              We actually had cell reception with Verizon and Att here, which surprised us.

              It's a beautiful area to come back to when the snow clears!

            • William J.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Lake Valley Rd Pullout
              Feb. 15, 2023

              Lake Valley Rd Pullout

              Don't Go In Winter.

              Got stuck for over a day trying to get to the site. Tow truck also got stuck. Would not recommend coming until spring.

            • Azizah T.The Dyrt PRO User
              Camper-submitted photo from Loch Leven Lakes
              Sep. 21, 2021

              Loch Leven Lakes

              Quiet dispersed camping

              We backpacked up to the high loch levens lake where we found many available campsites. But also a lot of the nice view spots were occupied since we didn’t start our hike up early, we started at 5:30pm. The middle lake is very large and had many beautiful spots to camp. But we headed to the upper lake since a lot of day hikers go to the middle lake and don’t always pack out what they pack in. All the sites are very dispersed and you have so much privacy. We saw some people even camping on the boulders! It was very serene and quiet with very respectful campers. The trail up is a bit confusing if you don’t pay absolute attention to where you are going. You can find some orange markings or stacked rocks that help you stay on the path. Reaching our destination was amazing. We swam in the lake and napped in our hammocks. I will say that there was a lot of mosquitos. Even with bug spray I left with 7 bites. But, it’s the outdoors what do you expect? Overall very beautiful area to camp!



            Guide to Strawberry Valley

            Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Strawberry Valley, California, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of options, you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

            Top Activities While Free Camping Near Strawberry Valley

            • Enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic trails around Grouse Ridge Campground, where you can find numerous lakes and breathtaking views.
            • Experience fishing and swimming at the stunning Bowman Lake Dispersed, known for its picturesque lakeside campsites and abundant wildlife.
            • Take advantage of the cooler temperatures at Loch Leven Lakes, perfect for a refreshing swim after a day of hiking.

            Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Strawberry Valley, California

            • Always check road conditions before heading to Snag Lake Campground, as access can be challenging, especially in winter months.
            • Bring plenty of supplies, as many areas, like Brooks Creek, lack amenities such as water and trash disposal.
            • Be prepared for wildlife encounters; using bear boxes at places like Bowman Lake Dispersed is essential for keeping your food safe.

            Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

            • Visit the stunning views from Humbug Summit Dispersed, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas and a peaceful atmosphere.
            • Explore the unique landscape and diverse wildlife at Three Cornered Meadow, a hidden gem for those seeking solitude.
            • Discover the charm of Stag Point, where you can enjoy a campfire under the stars and the sounds of nature all around you.

            Frequently Asked Questions

            • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Strawberry Valley, CA?

              According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Strawberry Valley, CA is Bowman Lake Dispersed with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

            • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Strawberry Valley, CA?

              TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Strawberry Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.