Top Free Dispersed Camping near Tahoe Vista, CA

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Tahoe Vista, CA (29)

    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    1. Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    21 Photos
    518 Saves
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
    Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley

    2. Dog Valley

    4 Reviews
    16 Photos
    93 Saves

    There is no "campground here" Please be aware most of the Dog / Sardine Valley is private property and a working ranch. The places near the valley floor with picnic tables - those are sheep camps. The places with firepits, also sheep camps. Please respect private property and make sure you are camping in the BLM / USDA lands that rim the valley. Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Dog Valley provides excellent viewing of both wildflowers and flowering shrubs. Forest, meadows, and streams make up Dog Valley’s landscape, creating a cool and refreshing retreat for this popular recreation area. Dog Valley is also home to two rare plant species, Dog Valley ivesia and Webber’s ivesia. Dog Valley ivesia can only be found in Dog Valley. Other attractions include wildlife viewing and the Crystal Peak Mine, a popular spot for crystal-hounds. Dog Valley offers a variety of opportunities to view wildflowers in the Jeffery pine forests and meadows. As you enter Dog Valley from Verdi, you will see the recovery from the 1994 Crystal Fire with displays of mahala mat, silvery lupine, and chokecherry. Explore the openings in the forest with extensive displays of mule’s ear, balsamroot, buckwheats, paintbrushes, yampah, bitterbrush, bare-stem desert parsley, and manzanita. Walking around, it is easy to enjoy the smaller, less visible flowers, including collomia, prairie star flower, and blue-eyed Mary. Wetter areas have displays of shooting stars, delphinium, and Rydberg’s penstemon. Best Viewing Times: The best time to visit is June and July. Safety First: Creeks and streams can cross the road. Be careful when crossing water and watch for washed-out portions of the road. The road can be very muddy. California OHV registration is required for all vehicles. Campfire permits are also required in California and can be obtained from the Carson District Office or the campground host.

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed
    • No image available

      3. BLM FLATTOP

      3 Reviews
      26 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      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

      4. Loch Leven Lakes

      2 Reviews
      7 Photos
      107 Saves

      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.

      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Toilets
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

      6. USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

      6 Reviews
      27 Photos
      217 Saves
      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Grouse Ridge Campground

      9. Grouse Ridge Campground

      2 Reviews
      4 Photos
      68 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • No image available

        10. Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp

        1 Review
        2 Saves
        • Pets
        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Dispersed
      Showing results 1-10 of 29 campgrounds

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Tahoe Vista

      82 Reviews of 29 Tahoe Vista Campgrounds


      • Tyler C.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Baldwine East Dispersed Camping
        Nov. 2, 2024

        Baldwine East Dispersed Camping

        NO CAMPING

        there was one other review that said the same, but this spot is just off the road so I thought I’d double check. it’s not only on a gas pipeline, but you’re also verging on private property.

      • Ciara W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Echo Summit Dispersed
        Oct. 25, 2024

        Echo Summit Dispersed

        Not dispersed camping

        This spot is national forest, and overnight camping is not allowed. We had a knock from someone with the forest service the next morning who was very kind and let us know that overnight is not allowed.

        Look up lakes and forest in this area on google — not many places allow dispersed camping

      • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed
        Oct. 12, 2024

        BLM - Water Tank Road Dispersed

        Not easily accessible

        The two closest roads coming in from the West are blocked off and labeled no unauthorized vehicles. This is due to the construction of the new neighborhoods and they probably annexed the area. You could probably access it from the East but I have no idea how many miles it would be in from where you would come in.

      • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Peavine Road Dispersed Camping
        Oct. 12, 2024

        Peavine Road Dispersed Camping

        Complete trash dump

        It's sad where we have this public land to camp on and people just dump tons and tons of trash and abandoned cars and demolished cars on the property would not recommend going. There's some more BLM land about 15 to 20 minutes north on Red Rock road.

      • Paxton B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp
        Sep. 30, 2024

        Merrill Valley Dispersed Camp

        The road is terrible

        Not really sure if we camped in the right spot. It isn’t great, but it got the job done to just crash for a night. Felt like we were in a construction zone

      • Anna B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Moon Rocks Camp
        Sep. 8, 2024

        Moon Rocks Camp

        Camping on Mars

        (September 28th, 2023) Got here after dark and found an empty clearing to park in for the night. The moon and the stars were so bright, it felt like we were on another planet. Got to explore the area in the morning, such a cool spot! Very quiet when we were there.

      • 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.

      • Stephen B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
        Aug. 30, 2024

        Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

        Beautiful, popular, treacherous

        I’m motorcycle camping and the ground level was about half full, mostly RVs, so I attempted to head up Scott Lake Road.

        The dirt was manageable but there are sections of large rocks difficult to pass on two wheels. I crossed several but I dropped my bike before the second circle. Defeated and exhausted from a long day’s ride, I headed back down to set up my camp among the RV set.

        No shade to the lifestyle but this is an awfully long drive to watch TV at top volume.

      • Julia H.
        Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
        Aug. 8, 2024

        Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

        Great

        Lots of people ! come early for a spot. nice views around. lots and lots of bugs. i sleep in my car and crack the windows a little bit and i woke up to a shit ton of bugs that got in my car. even more surrounding the cars. very quiet at night, maybe i just got lucky lol.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Echo Summit Dispersed
        Jul. 23, 2024

        Echo Summit Dispersed

        Echo peak free camping

        this location was the site of a fire several years ago, this means that many of the trees have been cleared making it a good site for starlink users like me. There are some power lines and it might be prettier if it had some unburned trees, but it’s great in a pinch and private. Take echo summit road from El dorado and you will see several places to chose from. The road towards the cabins has a very tight turn that will not allow anyone over 25 feet- though i’d recommend smaller.

        most likely impassable after snowfall.

      • 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.

      • Raymond B.
        Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
        Jul. 15, 2024

        USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

        Overnight stay

        We recently spent a night at this campsite and found it to be perfect for a quick overnight getaway. The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated.

        There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped.

        A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It’s well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home, making it easy to grab any last-minute necessities.

        Overall, it was a delightful stay. Just remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in!

      • A
        Camper-submitted photo from BLM FLATTOP
        Jul. 6, 2024

        BLM FLATTOP

        Access Sucks

        The road kinda sucks but VC is a good time. It was nice other than the road. Please remember to pack everything out, there was a lot of trash I had to pick up that was left behind by others.

      • 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.

      • B
        Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 21, 2024

        Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

        Burnside lake

        We went just up the road into the wildlife reserve and drove all the way up to burnside lake. Beautiful. Definitely need 4x4 and the road is super bumpy. We had a great spot that looked over the mountains. Would definitely come back. Lots of places to choose from along the way to the lake.

      • B
        Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 21, 2024

        Luther Pass Dispersed Camping

        Good in a pinch

        This place is beautiful but it’s a designated free camp ground and has minimal spots on one side. The other side was so jammed full. We ended up squeezing in a parking space and asked the ranger for permission to use our pop up there (she was super nice about it). Trash, fire pits, bathrooms are all available there. Single lane road getting in to it was a little harry with other cars. Decent place if you need a safe space to rest.

      • B
        Camper-submitted photo from Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 21, 2024

        Union Valley Reservoir Dispersed Camping

        It was okay

        Pretty easy to get to and lots of spaces for dispersed sites. There was trash EVERYWHERE. Broken glass, toilet trash, bottles and cans, we were really disappointed. We found a spot pretty hidden which was rad but someone was shooting litteraly all night long which was frustrating. We probably won’t come back.

      • B
        Camper-submitted photo from USFS Silver Fork Dispersed
        Jun. 21, 2024

        USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

        Great spot

        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.

      • Susan L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 17, 2024

        Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

        What a beautiful place for our 40 ft 5th wheel

        We are new to dispersed camping and have a 40 ft 5th wheel as well as a GMC Denali 350 dually. We need a large space to fit into. We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded. We had our choice of several places to set up. It is very quiet here, not hearing any road noise. A forest ranger told us there were more spaces up near the lake, but we didn’t venture up there.

      • Jr A.
        Camper-submitted photo from Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 9, 2024

        Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping

        Easy access and lots of spots

        You follow a dirt road and have camping spots along the road. When I was here it was jammed packed RV, vans and tents all set up along the road. To me it was good for a an overnight stay. No At&t service what so ever. Little highway noise.

      • V
        Camper-submitted photo from Luther Pass Dispersed Camping
        May. 31, 2024

        Luther Pass Dispersed Camping

        Good Camping Spot Near SLT

        Parked my car and walked into my campsite 50m? Not ideal if you are car camping but not terrible. Tables, bear boxes, toilets and fire ring provided. First come first serve. Adequate TMobile service.

      • EThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Dog Valley
        Apr. 23, 2024

        Dog Valley

        Our favorite !

        Dog Valley is a special place where we come to boondock. It’s quite and has a great creek. People come out here to camp, ride atvs, side by sides, dirt bikes, or off road. People target practice a lot and the ranger is very nice.



      Guide to Tahoe Vista

      Camping near Tahoe Vista, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

      What to do:

      • Hiking: Explore the many trails around the area. Campers have noted that the bike trail from Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe to Lake Tahoe is a great option. One reviewer mentioned, "Bike trail from campground to Lake Tahoe bike trail. Ten min drive to Emerald Bay and 20 min to Stateline of South Lake Tahoe."
      • Water Sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. A visitor at Eagle Point Campground — Emerald Bay State Park shared, "We took down our inflatable kayaks and paddled to the Island. It was a huge plus that added to our trip."
      • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at D.L. Bliss State Park Campground have reported bear sightings, so be prepared!

      What campers like:

      • Spacious Sites: Many campers appreciate the roomy sites. One reviewer at Tahoe Valley Campground said, "Camping spots are spaced out enough that you are not right on top of your neighbor."
      • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "Toilets were well maintained and didn’t have an awful smell like most others."
      • Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a highlight. A camper at Granite Flat noted, "The campground is in a beautiful setting, easy to get to, and right off the Highway."

      What you should know:

      • Bear Activity: Be cautious about food storage. Campers at Fallen Leaf Campground - South Lake Tahoe warned, "Well there is a lot of bear activity, but we loved it here."
      • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways. A visitor at Granite Flat said, "The highway is really loud at night."
      • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Zephyr Cove Resort mentioned, "The campground was completely full... I had planned to camp out of the back of my truck for a quick overnight stay."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One reviewer at Tahoe Valley Campground said, "This is a great spot if you have kids. Lots of stuff to do just at the resort."
      • Safety First: Always keep an eye on children, especially near water. A camper at Eagle Point Campground advised, "If you have a large cart to transport your kayak down a long trail, you might manage, but it was impractical for my fishing kayak."
      • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. A visitor at Grover Hot Springs State Park Campground noted, "Camp host was a great help for local recommendations for day trips and directions to a general store."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at RV Village Campground At Camp Richardson Resort mentioned, "Spaces are relatively close together."
      • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds may have fewer services in the off-season. A visitor at Tahoe Valley Campground said, "The store is lovely but not open often."
      • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A reviewer at Sparks Marina RV Park shared, "The security immediately came to us and the guys helped us and explained everything."

      Camping near Tahoe Vista, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Tahoe Vista, CA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Tahoe Vista, CA is Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping with a 3.9-star rating from 14 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Tahoe Vista, CA?

        TheDyrt.com has all 29 dispersed camping locations near Tahoe Vista, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.