Top Free Dispersed Camping near Three Rivers, CA
Planning a dispersed camping trip near Three Rivers? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your California camping adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Three Rivers, CA (48)
1. Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
5 Reviews•10 Photos•199 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Group
- Dispersed
- Toilets
2. Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
4 Reviews•6 Photos•105 SavesTips and rules on dispersed camping: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd883625
Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.
There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.
Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.
The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.
Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.
The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:
Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.
Leaving campfire unattended.
Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.
Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.
Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.
Removing forest products without a permit.
Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water
Here are some tips to appropriate dispersed camping: More information on dispersed camping here.
Protect standing trees from nails and scars from axes, knives and hatchets. Use only dead and down trees for firewood.
Bury human waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet from any waterway or trail. DO NOT bury toilet paper–PACK IT OUT
Wash at least 200 feet away from any water source using biodegradable soap.
Set up camp more than 200 feet from any waterway or trail.
Take a litterbag to carry out all refuse. Do not leave trash in fire rings. Do not bury trash.
A campfire permits is required to have a campfire, charcoal barbeque, or camp stove. Use existig fire grates or fire rings. Gather only dead and down firewood. Firewood may not be transported off of the Forest without a permit.
Avoid leveling or digging trenches around tents. Place tent on bare ground and not on vegetation.
Protect your food from the bears and other animals. Keep your food and anything with a scent stored in an airtight container in your car truck. If your vehicle has no truck, put everything on the floor, cover it well and close the windows. Always, Keep a clean campsite.
LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE BETTER THAN WHEN YOU ARRIVED!
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Forest Rd 14S29
3 Reviews•2 Photos•93 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
4. Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
7 Reviews•14 Photos•604 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
5. Pear Lake Campsites
1 Review•2 Photos•179 Saves- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
6. FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
1 Review•6 Photos•127 SavesDispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.
There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.
Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.
The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.
Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.
The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:
Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.
Leaving campfire unattended.
Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.
Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.
Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.
Removing forest products without a permit.
Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
7. Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
7 Reviews•23 Photos•494 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
8. Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site
1 Review•65 SavesDispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.
There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.
Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.
The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.
Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.
The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:
Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.
Leaving campfire unattended.
Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.
Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.
Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.
Removing forest products without a permit.
Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Road to Armenian Camp - Dispersed Spot
2 Reviews•4 Photos•54 SavesTips and rules on dispersed camping: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sequoia/maps-pubs/?cid=fseprd883625
Dispersed camping is camping outside of a designated campground. It is allowed in many areas of the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument.
There are certain areas where dispersed camping is prohibited and these areas are posted.
Dispersed camping is free but you must have a CAMPFIRE PERMIT. These can be obtained fore free at Readyforwildfire.org. Be aware of fire restrictions, typically enforced by mid-summer, banning open fires outside of designated campgrounds. More on campfire rules here.
The maximum length of time you may camp in dispersed areas is 14 DAYS at a time and 30 DAYS in a year.
Each year the number of people taking advantage of dispersed recreation opportunities has increased, making it more essential that these areas be left clean and undamaged.
The following acts are PROHIBITED on the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument and are subject to a fine:
Driving off designated roads inside the Monument.
Leaving campfire unattended.
Leaving trash buried, stashed or left in campfire ring. Abandoning or leaving personal property. PACK IT IN-PACK IT OUT.
Cutting or otherwise damaging trees for use as a lean-to or a horse corral. Do not leave anything tied to trees.
Destruction of government property such as signs, posters, gates, etc.
Removing forest products without a permit.
Discharging any firearm within 150 yards of any building, occupied area, across forest development roads, or body of water
Here are some tips to appropriate dispersed camping: More information on dispersed camping here.
Protect standing trees from nails and scars from axes, knives and hatchets. Use only dead and down trees for firewood.
Bury human waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet from any waterway or trail. DO NOT bury toilet paper–PACK IT OUT
Wash at least 200 feet away from any water source using biodegradable soap.
Set up camp more than 200 feet from any waterway or trail.
Take a litterbag to carry out all refuse. Do not leave trash in fire rings. Do not bury trash.
A campfire permits is required to have a campfire, charcoal barbeque, or camp stove. Use existig fire grates or fire rings. Gather only dead and down firewood. Firewood may not be transported off of the Forest without a permit.
Avoid leveling or digging trenches around tents. Place tent on bare ground and not on vegetation.
Protect your food from the bears and other animals. Keep your food and anything with a scent stored in an airtight container in your car truck. If your vehicle has no truck, put everything on the floor, cover it well and close the windows. Always, Keep a clean campsite.
LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE BETTER THAN WHEN YOU ARRIVED!
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
10. Brush Creek Recreation Site
7 Reviews•15 Photos•264 SavesBrush Creek is a dispersed camping or day use site open year round. There are vault toilets available and seasonal trash bins. This is where the Brush Creek meets the Upper Kern River and is a good spot for fishing. Campfire permits are required for campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves. Permits are available at your local Ranger Station or online at preventwildfireca.org
- Pets
- Fires
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Toilets
Showing results 1-10 of 48 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Three Rivers
166 Reviews of 48 Three Rivers Campgrounds
Ryan B.
Traveler
Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
Inaccurate Coordinates
Arrived at the coordinates and had no place to turn off the road. Also, the area was hit by wildfires (maybe 2 years ago) so it's all pretty barren. Camped at Holey Meadows campground a few miles away.
- AAndy B.
Scout
Camping area No. 3 (dispersed)
Perfect.
This campsite was fantastic. Access was easy with a 4x4, but may be a little tough for a 2WD car. Plenty of space for a small trailer to maneuver.
Highly recommend. Perfect for an off-road trailer or overland setup.
- GGarrett B.
Guide
Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
NOT Big Rig friendly
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. Usually when a dispersed site is marked Big Rig Friendly, we'll find that there is a large paved or gravel area for us to pull into and setup before you get to dirt road or off-road sites. There is a large paved area at this location, but we received a warning citation the next day, stating that we weren't allowed to camp there. It's confusing because this is the exact same setup as any other "snow play" or "sno-park" areas that have allowed camping in the gravel or paved areas area.
The paved area does have a couple of small stakes that say "no camping", but in our past dispersed camping experiences, those were used to mark areas where tents and vehicles couldn't pull off-road to camp. Apparently those stakes refer to the paved area in this case? There wasn't any reasoning provided on our citation, other than "find another area to camp."
- Andrew P.Guide
Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
Quiet, remote, beautiful
I pulled in here looking for a campsite on my way up to mammoth. I was able to find a pretty dope spot surrounded by rocks, and nowhere near any other campers. I was legit, alone.
Great place to pull off and sit on a rock to watch the sun set over the mountains. Shade was minimal, but if you hide between the rocks like they do in that scene on the fire planet in Riddick you’ll be alright til it cools off.
Cameron L.GuideCamping area No. 3 (dispersed)
Great Spot tucked off the road
We stopped here on our way through Sequoia Nat’l Forest and loved it. The water is super clear and nice! We were the only ones staying here, so it was very quiet and calming. A handful of camping spots around this area, well worth the stay!
- RRalph S.Traveler
Forest Rd 14S29
Good for a night
Quiet place on dirt, not really levelled but fine for a night and easily accessible with any car.
Erik R.ScoutAlabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
Dennis H. Jackson
Exploring Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road is like stepping onto a film set straight out of a Western movie. This iconic location in California has been the backdrop for countless films, thanks to its stunning rock formations and dramatic landscapes. If you're planning a visit, make sure to check out Castle app for an interactive and personalized travel guide that enhances your experience with custom itineraries and insights tailored to your interests. Whether you're a film buff or an outdoor enthusiast, the combination of real-world exploration and digital tools can make your adventure in the Alabama Hills truly unforgettable.
Steve M.
RangerUpper Peppermint Dispersed Area
Fantastic but very, very remote spot
Not for big rigs! A very primitive but beautiful area. Tons of winding roads with lots of S curves Leading up to 9000 feet. Many great camping spots including close to Peppermint Creek. Completely dry area so no campfires until November. No services and no reception so pack it in and pack it out!
renee P.Traveler
Sequoia Forest Hunting Area - FS 13597
Tucked away from the world
While the road to get up there is a bit nerve wracking (hoping no one comes around those corners the other direction!) It's worth taking it slow and steady. We were the only ones there and enjoyed a very peaceful night bathed in moonlight and the sounds of nature. Great place!
Bobby J.Ranger
Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
Directions didn’t lead me there
Directions didn’t lead me to any dispersed camping but I did find just an ok spot along the road. Don’t know if where I camped was allowed but I did anyway
- LLinda L.Guide
Hogback Creekside Camp
Nice spot by a swift running creek.
This place was pretty easy to find, right off Hogback road. There are a couple of sites here, we picked the first one. After an hour or so two vans showed up and parked on the other side of the creek. This site is so close to the road, we could see them make the turn off Hogback road. No trees, just bushes. It's okay. Pretty basic. Great views of the backside of Mount Whitney.
- oolivia C.Scout
Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area
Perfect camping spot
Easy to find if you turn on that road leading to Chicago stump. Keep driving down and you’ll see dispersed camping spots. Beautiful views, quiet, peaceful & there are some fire rings already built.
Bradley B.GuideForest Road 14S11 North Camp
Cool spot .
Nice spot off the road . Most have fire pits . I found a spot with good sun for my solar panels.
- FFelix S.Guide
Alabama Hills on Movie Flat Road
Crowded but Spectacular
Despite mid week in May most “select” sites were taken. Many areas where you used to be able to camp have been signed “no camping.” VERY restrictive. That said, this place is special. Views are world class. Please be respectful and leave no trace so we can keep this gem open. We’ve been here several times and it never disappoints.
- ttiffany K.Traveler
Independence Creek Dispersed BLM Site
Not camping site
This road leads to a sewer treatment plant and road is gated. Unpassable gravel road.
- RRoger H.Traveler
Sequoia National Park Dispersed campground
Definitely beautiful
Does take about 45 mins to wind up there and i got there at 1:15am. Didn't find the campgrounds but had large side areas with forest machinery. Next to stream. Then if you continue on you will hit a 4 mile off road (my Corolla/any sedan OK) and see great views and waterfall! Nice!
- OOwen C.Scout
Forest Road 14S11 North Camp
Super Nice
Very good spot to camp, there were plenty of spots and most had rings. There was also a bathroom so that was nice. Right off of the main road that goes throughout the whole park
- MMo H.Traveler
Forest Rd 14S29
One night stay
Simple campground, but suitable for one night
Still some snow around in may
- JJeremiahScout
Independence BLM Dispersed
Completely Inaccessible - May 2024
There are rocks blocking the turn off. If you still proceed the trail is completely washed out. No way to proceed with a trailer and you will ahem have to back down the road which is approximately zero fun.
hamza P.ScoutForest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site
Great little spot
Secluded with very little traffic. Especially good if you're traveling with dogs to let them roam around. There's a stream and waterfall downhill that makes for great hikes.
- MMike G.Guide
Alabama Hills Recreation Area
Nice spot with great views.
Depending on the time of year, it may be hard to find a spot. You can't park anywhere, but there are designated spots to camp in. I went at the end of April and it was packed.
You might be able to park overnight and leave early in the morning in some areas, not sure how much they patrol the area.
No cell coverage for T-Mobile, but I used my WeeBoost and got two bars, enough to make calls and texts.
Use caution when traversing though the area to find a site if you have a normal sedan or normal vehicle height. The road is bumpy and there can areas that are steep.
My Van got stuck through a slot canyon as I was trying to find a site. I didn't have my recovery tracks, since it was a last minute stop on the way back from Mammoth.
With the help of a nice nearby camper who had a wench, we were able to free my van in three hours. It was around midnight, so I ended up just driving out and parking in Lone Pine to sleep for a few hours.
- LLeenTraveler
FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp - Ten Mile Road
Rally nice spot on the Sequoia National forest
Nice big camp spot in the Sequoia National Forest, the road was really calm mid-April, we had no car during the night. The spot has firepits, a camping table and loads of bushes. The view is nice on the forest or a mountain top. We were alone but the spot is big enough for 3 or 4 véhicules, the access is just before the U turn.
- SStephanie R.Scout
Alabama Hills Dispersed Site
Nice spot
Easy to find at night, even had a fire ring. Road is sandy but with clearance is fine.
- RRobert S.Guide
Sequoia National Forest Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area
Easy to find
Pretty easy to find. You can see off the main road. Any vehicle can make it. Be mindful on 3 day weekends we encountered a very large party and did not have a pleasant experience. All other times I have came, it was very quiet and relaxing.
Fabiola T.TravelerAlabama Hills Recreation Area
BUCKET LIST SPOT
THIS PLACE IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. HEAVEN ON EARTH!!! Only thing I would advise against is getting there in the dark. We got there around 9pm and it started snowing. We couldn’t see a foot ahead of us and had no idea where we were. Finding an overnight spot was almost impossible. However the view we woke up to the next morning was out of this world. We were the in April. Nights are cold (we god snow) temperature during the day is very comfortable! Cell phone service is touch and go. Garbage disposal available at entrance as wells as porta potties. The overnight spots can be hard to find and are popular. Get there before noon if you want to secure a spot. Absolutely worth the detour. Don’t hesitate. Just go!
Kent G.GuideAlabama Hills Dispersed Site
Alabama Hiils Dispersed site
This site is on Horseshoe Meadow Road about 1/2 mile north of the Tuttle Creek site. There are 3 legal spots with camping signs. First two are level. Third will need leveling blocks. First site is large and was to turn around a larger trailer or rv. The SuperDrive get to spots is getting a large rut go slow and even my Subaru Forester had no issue. The second and third have better views. But the first can offer wind protection from the north. BLM. Carry in and out.
Vanessa C.GuideDispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park
Secluded gorgeous dispersed camping
Stunning. If you want privacy this is it. You are definitely alone. We went and there was only 1 other camper there - he was kinda weird and wanted to hang out but we politely asked him for privacy (he said he is there a lot). BRING water and fill up on gas before you go. There are 0 resources for you. It’s gorgeous, we will definitely be going back
Guide to Three Rivers
Camping near Three Rivers, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature, with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the river, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.
What to do
- Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, including the Topokah Falls trail right inside the Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park. One visitor mentioned, "It’s a stunning area of the park with the Topokah falls trail right inside the campground."
- Swimming: The Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park features a lovely swimming hole. A camper noted, "This campground is sort of basic. It is very close to town as it's the first campground in the Sequoia Park. The swimming hole is unmatched."
- Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Azalea Campground — Kings Canyon National Park, offer opportunities to see deer and other wildlife. One happy camper shared, "Deer pass by your camper in the morning."
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground said, "Watching the Sun rise over the lake was unforgettable."
- Convenience: Many campgrounds have markets nearby. A visitor at Lodgepole Campground mentioned, "The market makes for great convenience and souvenirs."
- Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peacefulness of places like Upper Stony Creek Campground — Sequoia National Forest. One reviewer said, "It was sparsely crowded, very quiet."
What you should know
- Restroom Conditions: Some campgrounds have mixed reviews about restroom cleanliness. A camper at Azalea Campground noted, "The bathrooms were the most unattractive part."
- Crowded Campsites: Popular spots can get busy, especially during peak season. One visitor at Lodgepole Campground mentioned, "Some of the sites are a bit close together and it does get very crowded."
- Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Sequoia RV Ranch, have little to no cell service. A camper shared, "There is 0 cell service at this site."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A reviewer at Princess Campground said, "Great campsite good spacing between other campsites."
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of nearby activities. One family at Dorst Creek Campground enjoyed, "Great hikes from campground. Especially, Muir groves and lookouts, breathtaking views."
- Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A visitor at Potwisha Campground mentioned, "The camp host was very friendly and helpful."
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Lodgepole Campground recommended, "Spot 198 is the best for RVs in my opinion, but it only accommodates up to 22ft."
- Use Dump Stations: Take advantage of dump stations for convenience. One camper at Sequoia RV Ranch noted, "The dump station is very nice and free to use."
- Be Mindful of Noise: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone enjoys their stay. A visitor at Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA mentioned, "There were tons of very large noisy groups."
Camping near Three Rivers, 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 Three Rivers, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Three Rivers, CA is Forest Road 14S11 North Camp with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Three Rivers, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 48 dispersed camping locations near Three Rivers, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.