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Multiple dispersed camping areas can be found within a 30-mile radius of Ukiah, California, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Key locations include Cow Mountain Recreation Area near Lakeport, BLM Sheldon Creek near Hopland, and Mayacmas Campground in Ukiah. Additional primitive sites are scattered throughout the region, including Lakeview Dispersed Campground and High Valley Road dispersed sites, which provide backcountry camping options with varying degrees of accessibility and limited amenities.
Access roads to most dispersed sites require careful navigation, with many areas featuring unpaved, steep terrain that becomes challenging in wet conditions. Cow Mountain and Sheldon Creek have vault toilets, while most other locations lack facilities entirely. Many reviews indicate high-clearance or 4WD vehicles are recommended, particularly for sites like Clear Lake View Point and High Valley Road. Fire regulations vary by location and season, with several sites permitting campfires in established rings when fire danger is low. BLM areas typically allow camping for up to 14 days, though specific restrictions may apply depending on the site.
These primitive camping areas provide varying experiences based on elevation and proximity to water features. BLM Sheldon Creek receives positive reviews for its peaceful setting with a creek running through the area. "It's not too bad of a road up there. Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October," noted one review. Lakeview Dispersed Campground offers views of Clear Lake, though reviews mention significant wind at night and occasional target shooting noise during the day. Some campers report challenging road conditions, with one review stating "The gravel roads here are open again and easy to drive on! We drove here from the north. All wheel drive is helpful, but we saw some people with a Prius up there."
"Love going to the tech course with our off road buggy. Crawled all over that hill."
"Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can’t turn back once on the path."
"Sheldon Creek is a BLM campsite up a winding dirt/gravel road. We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up."
"Beautiful spot with some views of the lake. No services, but had cell service (CC). I drove in from the south access to High Valley rd. The road was challenging."
"First time camping and going somewhat off road. If you’re worried about your vehicle making it up we saw a tesla and a nissan altima up there. My subaru made it up perfectly."
"Northern end is a bit narrower but still all graded, better up higher on BLM property than lower national forest road."
"There’s views of Lear Lake if you want to walk a bit. No water nearby. The road is very dusty on the way up!"
"There are numerous pull-outs and campsites along this High Ridge Road with absolutely breathtakingly stunning views of the valley to the east and the lake to the west."
"The drive up was windy and a bit steep at points but well groomed and manageable in an SUV. I’m sure most cars can do the drive with a responsible person behind the wheel."
"Pit toilets. No garbage."
"Easy access & semi-secluded. The spot was half shaded and half sunny by 3 PM. Perfect for our truck to park in & stay cool. Vaulted toilets were in decent shape & even had TP."
TravelerGreat camp with amazing views. But, you should not camp alone. I've been here often this month and have seen a herd sheep eating the grass on the hillside, heard a pack of coyotes several nights in a row, until I heard a Mt Lion doing it's bird like sounds at night, as it circled my rv. This is last night, 10/07/2026 - mt lion presence detected, not seen. Be careful.
TravelerCowboy Camp had everything I had heard it offered & more! There was plenty of space when I visited and I got to pick a spot down by the water. Easy access & semi-secluded. The spot was half shaded and half sunny by 3 PM. Perfect for our truck to park in & stay cool. Vaulted toilets were in decent shape & even had TP. Lots of awesome spots to pull off at on the way there from Winters area. Beautiful views of flowing green water & colorful trees.
ScoutThe good: Drive in was awesome. Beautiful view of the lake and sunset. Many spots to pull out into and choose from. Very quiet, minimal road noise.
The bad: pair of coyotes spotted stalking our campsite, did not respond to hazing and had to pack up dinner preparations quickly to ensure no bad encounters
*also note that cell service is okay for t mobile and barely existent for Verizon
TravelerThe coordinates for this location are located on property owned by Kevin S. Burdick and Mary Ann Jones. It is not National Forest or BLM land.
The parcel just to the South is also privately owned, by Marie Helen Pejcha.
All other adjacent properties are also privately owned. This location should be deleted from The Dyrt.
The nearest public lands where dispersed camping is actually allowed is a mile to the East along High Valley Road, in the Mendocino National Forest.
TravelerThe drive up was windy and a bit steep at points but well groomed and manageable in an SUV. I’m sure most cars can do the drive with a responsible person behind the wheel. We drove right up to the pin where there’s 2 sites, an upper (larger site) and a lower with a fire ring. It did look like there were more pull offs before we pulled up to the pin. The view is insane and it feels super safe and secluded!!
GuideRecent regrading of the southern road up made it a cake walk, it's like a runway. Got to the big circle at the top and stayed there but there are more roads branching off and then pullouts down the north side.
GuideThe road up from the south is like a runway now, wide, smooth not a single rut. A bit dusty but other than that it's the easiest fire road I've ever driven (Mazda CX-5). Northern end is a bit narrower but still all graded, better up higher on BLM property than lower national forest road.
Lots of little pullouts when you reach the top and then as you head down the north side more with beautiful views of the lake. Some private property on that end but nothing unusual.
ScoutAgree with the other poster. Road is in bad condition and cars won't make it through.
RangerThere are numerous pull-outs and campsites along this High Ridge Road with absolutely breathtakingly stunning views of the valley to the east and the lake to the west. It is primitive camping to be sure but you will find nothing more beautiful and peaceful than this. While there are a few campsites with foliage canopies, most are in the Sun and where I stayed it is entirely sunny all day with equally beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Verizon is two bars. The road coming in from the north is easy though it can be rutted and bumpy in spots as well as narrow. Overall it's an easy Road for van lifers and vehicles with reasonable clearance. Pulling a small trailer up here would also be straightforward. This is not an area for large rvs. It is about a 45 minute drive into town with full services. It's not far but a very slow drive.
Dispersed camping near Ukiah, California offers primitive sites on public lands managed primarily by the Bureau of Land Management. Elevations range from 1,200 to 2,400 feet in most camping areas, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F at lower elevations, while winter nights can drop below freezing at higher sites.
Off-road adventures: At Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed, visitors bring specialized vehicles for technical terrain challenges. "Love taking our Rock crawler up to cow. Lots of obstacles. Camping is awesome. Few sites and vault restrooms. Still a good time," notes camper Jeanette C.
Horseback riding trails: The region has designated equestrian areas, particularly at Cowboy Camp, which serves as a staging area for riders. "It's a hot spot for horses which of course have no stream problems, so the only negative is fly's sometimes," explains Jorg F., who visits regularly in a 23-foot Winnebago.
Creek exploration: Several sites offer access to seasonal creeks and streams for cooling off during hot weather. When camping at High Valley Ridge, visitors can walk to nearby water features that typically flow strongest in spring and early summer before diminishing by late August.
Solitude and space: Many dispersed camping areas near Ukiah provide separation between campsites. "Only 2 other groups were set up so not crowded, plenty of spots," reports Kirra L. about her stay at Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting attracts various animal species that campers frequently observe. Patricia Y. described her experience at BLM Sheldon Creek: "Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October."
Open landscapes: Some sites offer unobstructed views across valleys and ridges. "There are 3 sites. Used the trees to help set up a tarp to keep us and our stuff from the rain. Camped in our car. A little muddy but not too bad for our 4Runner. There was a nice little creek and a fire pit," reports iliana A. about Sheldon Creek.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access routes to most dispersed sites require careful assessment. "The road to this pin is completely impassable in any regular vehicle, this would require an ATV," warns Karmen V. about High Valley Rd Dispersed. "The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff."
Facilities are minimal: Most areas offer few or no amenities. Summer A. notes about Sheldon Creek: "Signs will direct you in the right direction, and lead you to a campground with spots to pitch tents or park/hangout. There are even picnic tables, fire pits, and bathrooms."
Fire restrictions change seasonally: During dry periods, fire bans are common regardless of established fire rings. Always check current regulations with BLM Ukiah Field Office before your trip, as conditions change frequently during fire season.
Choose sites with toilet access: For families with young children, prioritize locations with vault toilets. At Mayacmas Campground, basic toilet facilities are available, though Patricia Y. cautions, "The ride up was rough. The views made it all worth it. The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate."
Prepare for temperature swings: Pack extra layers as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. "Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!" advises Joe M. about Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Check water sources in advance: Seasonal creeks might be dry during summer months. Carl L. observed at Sheldon Creek: "There was some water in the creek, but it wasn't super easy to access."
Assess access roads carefully: Most dispersed sites near Ukiah have limitations for larger vehicles. "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path," warns kenny T. about Grizzly Flat Dispersed Campground.
Leveling equipment essential: Bring adequate leveling blocks and stabilizers for uneven terrain. "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding," shares Jorg F. about the conditions at Cowboy Camp.
Watch for dust impacts: During dry months, fine dust can infiltrate RV components. "Very dusty on the way up!" reports Chris C. about the road conditions leading to High Valley Rd Dispersed camping areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find free dispersed camping around Ukiah?
Several free dispersed camping options exist around Ukiah. BLM Sheldon Creek offers a few secluded spots accessible via a winding dirt/gravel road with signs directing you to designated camping areas. Most cars can handle the journey, though high clearance is recommended. Another option is High Valley Rd Dispersed, which features multiple pull-over spots with views of Clear Lake. The road is quite dusty, so prepare accordingly. Both locations provide true boondocking experiences on public land with no fees. Additional dispersed camping can be found throughout the Mendocino National Forest and BLM lands surrounding Ukiah, but always check for posted restrictions as some areas may have seasonal closures or fire restrictions.
Is there year-round access to dispersed camping in the Ukiah area?
Year-round access to dispersed camping around Ukiah varies significantly by location and seasonal conditions. Clear Lake View Point Dispersed and other higher elevation sites may become difficult or impossible to access during winter months due to mud, snow, or storm damage on unmaintained roads. Road conditions to Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed can deteriorate significantly after rain. During fire season (typically summer through fall), many dispersed areas implement fire restrictions or complete closures for public safety. Always check current conditions before departing, as weather events can make dirt access roads impassable even for high-clearance vehicles. The most reliable year-round options are those at lower elevations with established access roads, but winter camping requires additional preparation for potentially cold and wet conditions.
What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Ukiah?
Dispersed camping sites near Ukiah offer minimal amenities, typical of boondocking locations. Lakeview Dispersed Campground provides scenic views of Clear Lake but no services, though cell service is available with certain carriers. Cowboy Camp features pit toilets but no garbage facilities, making it slightly more developed than true primitive sites. Most dispersed areas have natural fire rings or established fire pits, but you'll need to bring your own firewood or collect it responsibly. Pack in all supplies including water, as potable water sources are rarely available. Some sites may have picnic tables, but this varies widely. Following leave-no-trace principles is essential—pack out all trash and come prepared with everything you need for a self-sufficient stay.
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