The high elevation Tahoe National Forest region combines volcanic terrain with alpine environments at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 9,000 feet. Seasonal temperature extremes create a wide range of camping conditions throughout the year, with frost possible even during summer months. Many dispersed camping locations feature proximity to geothermal hot springs with temperatures requiring regulation to prevent scalding.
What to do
Fishing access: Brown's Owens River Campground provides direct fishing opportunities. "Whether you're into fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the river, there's something for everyone. The attention to detail and the friendly atmosphere made our stay truly memorable," notes a recent camper at Brown's Owens River Campground.
Star viewing sessions: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional astronomy opportunities. One camper at Volcanic Tableland BLM Dispersed Camping described the night sky as "Pure stillness. Good sun for solar charging. Can't wait to come back here." The dispersed nature of sites allows for unobstructed celestial observation.
Ancient tree exploration: The nearby Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest contains some of the oldest trees on Earth. A visitor to Grandview Campground mentioned, "We spent a few nights and days here while getting acclimated to decreased oxygen content at higher altitudes. The scenery is beautiful and the campground was very quiet."
What campers like
Thermal soaking options: The region contains multiple developed and natural hot springs of varying temperatures. At The Inn at Benton Hot Springs, visitors appreciate the private thermal experiences: "This campground is a hidden gem. It is in the historic town of Benton hot springs and is adjacent to the Inn. There is a hot spring creek that runs through the campground and each of the 15 campsites have a personal hot tub filled with circulating water from the hot spring."
Alpine lake proximity: The area features multiple high-altitude lakes for recreation. "Hiking spots all around the lake. Fishing spots all around the lake. Will def be back again soon," reported one visitor to Convict Lake Campground.
Desert isolation: Many sites provide significant separation between camping areas. A camper at Mono Lake South Dispersed enjoyed "Very private. There were quite a few people out but it was also labor day weekend, I still had no issue finding a spot and there were more sites available. Amazing stars and great hot spring."
What you should know
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours and limit generator usage. At Brown's Owens River Campground, "Most campers have a generator for power but it has to be turned off at 10pm."
Road condition challenges: Access to dispersed sites often requires navigating unpaved surfaces. At Crab Cooker Hotsprings - Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted "4x4 or high clearance coming in. Long dirt road with dips and rocks. Water only flowing in winter months. Lots of tent camping spots along with 8 back in spots. Really amazing views 360 degrees."
Altitude acclimation: The high elevation requires physical adjustment. "Remember, you will be at approximately 8000 feet above sea level and the air is thinner up here. Plan your activities accordingly," advised one camper at Grandview Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Free-range cattle frequently move through camping areas. "We had a problem with free ranging cattle. First night they were on the opposite bank, lots of mooing in the early AM. But the next night, a calf got separated from the herd across the river and they were noisy and agitated and in our campsite," explained a visitor at Brown's Owens River Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Temperature preparation: Pack for significant day-night temperature swings. A camper at Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs advises: "This place is beautiful and yes a hidden gem! Very quiet and peaceful! Must bring everything you need, there are no stores or food about an hour away! Be prepared for quick changes in weather and mosquitoes as this is near water!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer direct wildlife observation. "A lot of animals near the water (frogs, ducks, birds, cows, fishes)," noted a camper at Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs.
Shade limitations: Many sites lack natural coverage from sun. At Crab Cooker Hotsprings, campers reported "No shade. Lots of flies and red ants. Found this spot just driving side roads off of Benton Crossing Rd which is off the 395. Amazing sunsets and sunrises."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Finding flat parking requires preparation at some dispersed sites. "We are full-timers and have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow. We stayed for two nights here in mid May to enjoy the spring," explained an RV camper at Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs.
Water management: Most dispersed sites require full water tank preparation. "We brought two additional tanks of water, allowing for refreshing showers in this arid desert environment," shared an RV camper at Mono Lake South Dispersed.
Site selection timing: Arriving early provides better options at popular areas. "We tent camped but with family who had an RV but we didn't really stay in the area during the day, which is why this campground gets the stars for location," noted a camper at Brown's Owens River Campground who secured a good site by arriving early.
