Dispersed camping near Three Rivers, California offers remote sites scattered throughout the Sierra Nevada foothills and into higher elevations of Sequoia National Forest. Most primitive camping areas sit between 4,000-7,000 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures than the valley below. The mountainous terrain creates varied camping conditions, from exposed granite outcroppings to dense forest settings.
What to do
Explore OHV trails: Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area serves as a convenient base for off-road enthusiasts. "Great sites, with the first being big enough for a small RV. Also a quick walk to the Chicago Stump which is a must see," notes Kristian W., highlighting the area's proximity to unique forest features.
Horseback riding access: Big Meadows Horse Camp provides designated facilities for equestrians. "The corrals are clean and perfect... There is a creek nearby to draw water for the horses but the horses can't go into the creek," explains Lori L., who appreciated the well-maintained camp.
Hunting opportunities: Sequoia Forest Hunting Area offers a remote base for hunters during season. "In a 2 week period I did have some hunters come by and start shooting very close to the RV but other than that everyone just passes by on the road towards Millwood OHV," reports one camper about activity in the area.
Backpacking preparation: The primitive camping spots near Three Rivers work well for staging overnight backpacking trips. Pear Lake Campsites require a "nice 6.5ish hike out to a beautiful subalpine lake. Campsite are scattered around the edge of pear lake with granite mountains surrounding the area," according to Wutang P.
What campers like
Astronomical viewing: Buck Rock Campground's higher elevation creates ideal stargazing conditions. "Weather at this place is perfect during hot seasons, due to the higher elevations. Usually chilly at night, specially around the 3-4am times," reports Kuo G., highlighting the comfortable temperatures for night sky observation.
Solitude and privacy: FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp offers isolation despite being close to major attractions. "Easy to find, quiet, peaceful spot! Only one other camper but still so much room to spare," explains Mayra R., who visited in August.
Wildlife encounters: The remote forests provide opportunities for animal sightings beyond the national park boundaries. "We had to pick up a bit of litter. There were also some signs of bear activity (bags clawed through) but we didn't see any," reports Helen F. at Sequoia Boondock, confirming the presence of wildlife.
Fall and spring seasons: Many campers report October through November and April through June as optimal times for undeveloped camping near Three Rivers. "We stayed here in October 2023 for two nights. There are many spaces alongside this forest road, there are lots of trees, so you feel private though there were quite many people camping alongside the road," notes Pavla L.
What you should know
Fire restriction regulations: California fire regulations apply strictly to all dispersed camping areas. "You need to get one prior to arriving the camp host can help you," advises Lori L. regarding fire permits, which remain required year-round regardless of whether you're using a campfire or camp stove.
Road conditions: Forest Road 14S11 North Camp access varies significantly throughout the year. "The main road was closed past the picnic area, severely limiting the number of spots. We were lucky to get one, but every single other one was full upon arrival," reports Alexander Mark C., who visited in mid-April.
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed sites close unexpectedly due to weather conditions. "We were stoked to try and camp here, but ended up realizing it was closed due to ice for the winter upon arrival. No way to check until you get there, I guess!" shares Alexander Mark C. about Forest Rte 14S29.
Campsite availability patterns: Peak season fills quickly, especially on weekends. "You have to turn onto the road 13s03 direction Chicago stump," advises Ondra M., highlighting the sometimes confusing access to Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Forest Rd 14S29 requires special attention with children due to uneven terrain. "Simple campground, but suitable for one night. Still some snow around in may," notes Mo H., indicating that families should be prepared for varied conditions even in late spring.
Space considerations: Families need larger camping areas that accommodate multiple tents. "We found a spot with good sun for my solar panels," mentions Bradley B. about Forest Road 14S11 North Camp, where the varied site sizes can accommodate different group configurations.
Natural features exploration: Kids can explore unique geological formations throughout the area. "This is a really nice area for camping on the side of the road here," states Garrett B., though he cautions about site regulations for larger vehicles.
Bathroom access planning: Most primitive sites lack facilities entirely. "There is one restroom with vault toilet (B.Y.O.Toilet Paper) in the entire area near the trash bins," advises Kuo G. about Buck Rock Campground's limited facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area provides options for smaller RVs but presents challenges for larger rigs. "Super convenient free camping between Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. A park ranger directed me here when all the campgrounds in the park were full," explains Kristian W.
Level camping considerations: Finding flat spots remains crucial for comfortable RV camping. "We used to chocks to level up as it's pretty uneven in parts. But a great nights sleep, we had the place to ourselves," shares Kevin T. about Forest Rte 14S29's terrain challenges.
Big rig limitations: Many forest roads cannot accommodate larger RVs. "This is a really nice area for camping on the side of the road here, but we only could've squeezed our 39ft Class A into maybe 2 of these spots," cautions Garrett B. about Forest Road 14S11 North Camp.
Solar considerations: Some primitive sites provide better solar access than others. "I found a spot with good sun for my solar panels," mentions Bradley B. about his experience at Forest Road 14S11 North Camp.
