Dispersed camping areas near Topaz, California offer primitive camping at elevations between 6,000-8,300 feet throughout the Eastern Sierra region. Most rustic camping sites become accessible from late spring through fall, with many high-elevation locations closing after the first significant snowfall. The region features numerous free boondocking opportunities on Forest Service land with varying road conditions depending on recent weather and seasonal impacts.
What to do
Hiking mountain lakes: At Leavitt Lake, trails provide access to alpine scenery with significant elevation changes. "We visited Lake Levitte, back in June 2021. I would recommend a high clearance vehicle, as there are some technical sections. If you watch your line, you can make it," notes one camper who enjoyed the high-altitude experience.
Hot springs soaking: The natural thermal pools at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed provide relaxation after hiking. "We swam in the small spring pools as the sun was setting and got to watch the stars come out. Some of the pools are super hot and others not much, also they are very muddy," explains a visitor who enjoyed the varied pool temperatures.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies make rustic camping near Topaz ideal for astronomy. "Stargazing from the hot springs was awesome!" reports a visitor to Travertine Hot Springs, while Iron MT. Dispersed camping receives praise for "Beautiful sunsets too. It is a pretty open area with lots of room to camp. It is now an abandoned ski resort."
What campers like
Mountain solitude: The dispersed sites at Iron MT. Dispersed provide isolation at higher elevations. "The ground is very flat and many areas are paved with gravel. At 7500 feet above sea level, the view is wide and the scenery is beautiful, especially the sunset view," shares one visitor who appreciated the elevated perspective.
Established fire rings: Many primitive sites come with basic stone fire pits. "Easy to see right off the road with plenty of campsites down either side of a nice dirt road. Rocky and steep road access to Scott's lake, but easy camping on the edge of the valley," explains a camper at Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting supports diverse animal sightings. "Dispersed camping not far from Lake Tahoe. Easy to drive into just be careful of potholes and large puddles from rain, even in summer. No amenities, but it's a very beautiful area. There are herds of cows that will make their way through the area, please be respectful of them!" advises a visitor to Scotts Lake Road.
What you should know
Road challenges: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation on unpaved roads. At Dispersed USFS locations, visitors warn about accessing higher sites: "This is full wilderness camping off the main road between hope valley and the blue lakes. I had no problem getting in with my 30ft bus towing a jeep but the road is steep and winding for about 7 miles to the pull off."
Water sources: Most sites lack potable water. "Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction," notes a camper at Dispersed USFS areas, highlighting the need to plan for water transportation.
Weather variability: Mountain conditions change rapidly throughout the day. "It also got super windy during the night but our tent held up fine," reports a Travertine visitor, while another notes, "Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established areas with better access for younger campers. "Upon reaching the lake, you will discover approximately twelve camping spots. These sites are fairly basic, each equipped with uncomplicated stone fire pits, though only around half of them seem to feature picnic tables based on my observation," explains a Leavitt Lake visitor.
Altitude awareness: High elevation affects children differently than adults. "Elevation is 8300ft so definitely a bit high. The trees help with the air however. Not nearly as tough as the high desert of Utah (Zion or Brice) but just take it easy if you're not used to high altitude," advises a visitor to Dispersed USFS areas.
Group camping options: Some areas accommodate multiple families. At Obsidian Creek on Little Walker Road, "Five couples took over the far end of Obsidian Campground to celebrate my wife's birthday for a couple nights. The elevation in this part of the Sierra's is a great way to beat the August heat."
Tips from RVers
Site capacity: Check road conditions and turning radius needs before committing to remote locations. At Bear Valley Dispersed Camping, "There is a point where the paved road disappears and is only dirt road, you can keep driving as far as you want, it is easy to find a good spot to park and set your camp."
Leveling requirements: Many rustic sites require significant leveling for larger rigs. "We were able to camp with our 19 foot trailer but I don't think I would recommend anything larger," warns a visitor to Travertine Hot Springs about the access road limitations.
Extended stay preparations: Longer visits require more planning. "There were definitely a few long term campers here. But the place was very clean. No cell service fyi. Easy to get to, road is dirt but has very few bumps," notes a camper at Scotts Lake Road Dispersed Camping who appreciated the access despite the lack of connectivity.
