Top Free Dispersed Camping near Wawona, CA

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Wawona, look no further. Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Wawona, including photos, reviews, and tips. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your California excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Wawona, CA (41)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp

    2. Kamook Staging Camp

    3 Reviews
    5 Photos
    29 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

    3. Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park

    1 Review
    11 Photos
    46 Saves

    A wilderness permit is required year-round for backpacking, overnight climbing, or any other overnight stay in the Yosemite Wilderness. A wilderness permit is not required for day hikes (unless hiking to Half Dome) or for staying in lodging facilities and frontcountry campgrounds.

    Wilderness permits are only issued to a limited number people for each trailhead in order to provide outstanding opportunities for solitude, as required by the Wilderness Act. Since many trails are very popular, reservations are recommended. Of each daily quota for a trailhead, 60 percent can be reserved ahead of time. Normally, 40 percent of wilderness permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis at park wilderness centers.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed

    $5 - $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    4. Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    18 Photos
    549 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping

    5. Inyo National Forest Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    34 Photos
    754 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services, such as trash removal, tables, or toilets. There are extra responsibilites and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers. Most of the land in Inyo and Mono counties is publicly owned. Dispersed camping (camping outside of designated campgrounds) is allowed throughout much of the area. If you plan to backpack into a wilderness area to camp, you will need a wilderness permit, issued at Inyo National Forest visitor centers. If you wish to camp outside of developed campgrounds/sites, there are a few things you need to know: Land Ownership: The three major land-owning agencies in the Eastern Sierra are the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the City of Los Angeles. Dispersed camping is allowed on most Forest Service and BLM land. However, camping is prohibited on land owned by the City of Los Angeles. Maps: Anyone planning a dispersed camping trip should invest in a copy of the Inyo National Forest map, which depicts land ownership as well as roads, streams, trails and other features. The map also shows “restricted use areas” where dispersed camping is not allowed. Restricted Use Areas: Certain high-use recreation zones, including those along paved roads leading into the mountains, are not open to dispersed camping (see Inyo National Forest map). Dispersed camping is not allowed in the following areas: Horseshoe Meadow, Onion Valley, Big Pine Creek, Bishop Creek, Rock Creek, McGee Creek, Convict Lake, Mammoth Lakes, Reds Meadow Valley, June Lakes Loop, Lee Vining Canyon, Lundy Canyon, Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, and any research area. Owens River: All land along the Owens River is owned by the City of Los Angeles, and is closed to camping. Length of Stay: On Inyo National Forest land, you may camp up to 28 days per six months on any one ranger district (there are 4 ranger districts on the Inyo –Mt. Whitney, White Mountain, Mammoth, and Mono Lake). Always check with your local ranger station. Locating a Dispersed Campsite: Look for an area at the end of a spur road or a pullout that is clear of vegetation and has a hard, compacted surface. These sites might have a primitive fire ring. Stay on established roadways; do not drive off-road to camp. Try to select a campsite at least 100 feet from lakes and streams. Campfires and Fire Permits: If you plan to build a campfire or use a barbeque or camp stove, you must obtain a campfire permit from a Forest Service, BLM, or CalFire office. You must have a shovel and a container of water (for drowning the fire). Clear an area least 5 feet wide all the way around your fire ring down to mineral soil. During times of high fire danger, camp fires are prohibited; always check with the local fire office or ranger station for fire restrictions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • No image available

      6. Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

      1 Review
      77 Saves
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • Tent Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
      Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
      Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
      Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
      Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
      Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside

      7. Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside

      6 Reviews
      22 Photos
      220 Saves

      Mammoth Lakes Ranger District is located in the northern half of Inyo National Forest, and is centered around the town of Mammoth Lakes, CA. While known for winter sports, it is also a mecca for mountain biking and fishing enthusiasts when the snow melts. Hiking and equestrian trails go into wilderness areas of Sierra Nevada.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      Camper-submitted photo from Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site

      8. Mono Basin Dispersed Camp Site

      6 Reviews
      19 Photos
      210 Saves

      Dispersed camping is allowed on public land in the Mono Basin—the Jeffrey pine forest off of Highway 120 east is a recommended dispersed camping area. If you plan on having a campfire, propane stove, lantern, or any open flame, you must obtain a permit. Camping is allowed on the exposed lakebed surrounding Mono Lake by permit only. Camping on the islands in Mono Lake is allowed by permit only, except during April through August when the islands are closed to all boaters. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed recreation areas such as South Tufa, Navy Beach, Old Marina, and County Park. Permits are available free-of-charge at the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area Visitor Center

      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Tent Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill cut off
      Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill cut off
      Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill cut off
      Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill cut off

      9. Sawmill cut off

      4 Reviews
      4 Photos
      132 Saves
      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs
      • Dispersed
      • No image available

        10. Obsidian Meadows Dispersed

        2 Reviews
        12 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • Dispersed
      Showing results 1-10 of 41 campgrounds

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Wawona

      136 Reviews of 41 Wawona Campgrounds


      • c
        Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
        Oct. 18, 2024

        Kamook Staging Camp

        Hidden space close to Yosemite NP

        I was expecting bad conditions because of the previous comments but it was actually a good surprise. It's very close to the entrance of Yosemite, in our case it was very quiet and well isolated. There is no view or wow effect but it's great location and isolated.

      • Jacob T.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Obsidian Meadows Dispersed
        Oct. 12, 2024

        Obsidian Meadows Dispersed

        Decent camp site

        Pulled in here since the sun was setting and we wouldn’t make it to lone pine. Nice off road trail with some scattered sites.

      • Miles L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping
        Sep. 25, 2024

        Evergreen Rd Dispersed camping

        A few spots scattered along the road

        Nothing fancy or too expansive, but a handful of spots on either side of the road. Certainly easier to settle in before it’s dark.

      • Mouni The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Kamook Staging Camp
        Sep. 23, 2024

        Kamook Staging Camp

        Not ideal

        This is more of an ATV spot, I arrived on a Sunday evening and the ATV people were set up and essentially taking up most of the spots meant for camping. They were using the many many trails meant for ATVs before I arrived and, when I parked a decent distance away from where they were set up, they opted to ride circles around my RV throwing dust everywhere and revving their engines (likely an attempt to run me off). The open space at the top of the hill where the restrooms are is meant for camping, I would NOT ADVISE taking any of the other roads as they are steep, uneven, and you will struggle to turn around.

        There’s one spot at the entrance good for camping (away from most of the ATV action) but it is taken up by a permanent boondocker.

      • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
        Aug. 11, 2024

        Hardin Flat Road

        Pine and Cedar forest

        All wheel drive, okay. Large grounds, many motorbike and trails, permit required (bikes). Camped upper level. Please pack in, pack out, don't make others clean up after you.

      • DJ M.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Sage Hen Dispersed
        Aug. 1, 2024

        Sage Hen Dispersed

        Quiet, pines

        Sagehen gives you beautiful roads throughout, no 4-wheeler required. Pines tree forest, big lots and 1bar phone reception just up the hill. I take my chair and take care of business.

      • Adrian J.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Obsidian Meadows Dispersed
        Jul. 29, 2024

        Obsidian Meadows Dispersed

        Lots of rocks

        The road is maintained but requires high clearance.

        There are many sites on the way in and then 5 or 6 once at obsidian meadows trail head.

        A few rock fire rings, but cannot be used when we were there.

        Good AT&T and T-Mobile coverage

      • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
        Jul. 18, 2024

        Hardin Flat Road

        Really Nice Stay close to Yosemite

        This was a really nice stay close to Yosemite with really spread out spots. Couldn’t even see your neighbor and the vicinity to the park made it perfect. It’s 4 stars because you could hear the traffic from the main road from my spot

      • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
        Jul. 16, 2024

        Hardin Flat Road

        Great spot

        Awesome spot close to Yosemite, road isn’t too bad and it’s absolutely beautiful. I wasn’t bothered . I recommend arriving a little early, we didn’t have a little trouble finding the right road.

      • Nathan W.
        Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
        Jul. 3, 2024

        Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

        Close, free, and beautiful

        We got there at 5pm on a Sunday. Went all the way to the back and In my opinion got the best spot. We had plenty of trees around us for privacy and shade. Highly recommend if you’re trying to camp close to Yosemite without a reservation. Only downside were the mosquitoes were on another level. They turned off once it got dark though.

      • Robert H.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside
        Jun. 27, 2024

        Scenic Loop Dispersed Camping - Eastside

        Great Access to Sierra Nevadas.

        Nice flat spots along the Scenic Bypass road (not just where the map says). More secluded spots up the hill. The dirt hill road is fairly decent, but no medium+ to large rigs.

        5 minutes into Mammoth town. 30 mins to Route 120 west turn, that takes you into Yosemite (tioga pass). I enjoyed a week's stay here. Negatives? Poor and spotty cell. A lot of airborne dirt when dirtbikes, and ATV's are active on weekends.

        I would return to this enjoyable spot.

      • joel G.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Mono Lake South Dispersed
        Jun. 15, 2024

        Mono Lake South Dispersed

        Over night stay

        Stop here after coming over the mountain through Yosemite needed a place to camp on the east side before we headed home. Very different place the ground is very soft with pea gravel like granite pine trees and pine cones had to use four low with the Jeep to pull our teardrop back in to camp spot. The camp spot that's marked on the app was taken so we turned right and left the hill and found one back further in the trees

      • Vinny D.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
        Jun. 13, 2024

        Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

        Great spot, only down fall is the mosquitos!

        This spot is great, right outside the YNP, but the mosquitos will suck ever last drop of blood out of you! This was the very back spot but also a quiet spot.

      • m
        Camper-submitted photo from Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking
        Jun. 9, 2024

        Virginia Lake Rd. Boondocking

        breathtaking views. bear scat too!

        such a lovely spot. have bear spray and bear canisters for peace of mind. sunset here was incredible. some snow on the peaks and ground still!

      • Aidan D.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
        Jun. 2, 2024

        Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site

        Decent spot

        This is a good location right near the south entrance of the park, but still about an hour from the valley. It was a little crowded and pretty bumpy road to get into the sites. But it worked well for staying for the night.

      • Maile H.
        Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping
        May. 29, 2024

        Scenic Loop - Dispersed Camping

        So close to resort and beautiful and popular

        GREAT SPOT. so so close to the mountain. If you want to real dispersed camping you kind of just have to drive off the road there are some obvious adjacent roads to sites and also some not so obvious clearing that people just literally drive off the road into. If you are just looking to spend the night close the resort for parking you are not alone and will probably see everyone parked along the road on the side. Everyone gets up at 5:30 and drives to mountain and goes back to sleep. Great spot so beautiful. Drive the west half of the scenic loop road and keep an eye out. Day light helps for finding road turnoffs !

      • Maile H.
        Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
        May. 29, 2024

        Hardin Flat Road

        Unlabeled road and awesome

        Kind of hard to find the road i just had to guess based on the pin point but i guessed right and immediately saw spots. i turned left and there were a few spots didn't explore to the right.

        So beautiful great place to stop in order to get into the park early if you don't have a reservation

      • BThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Hardin Flat Road
        May. 29, 2024

        Hardin Flat Road

        Beautiful & Convenient BUT

        May 28, 2024

        Convenient to park entrance & beautiful landscape BUT finding a spot late at night was very difficult.

        However, I noticed that the temperature over night here was about 10 degrees warmer that other areas nearby (we were at about 51 degrees at night but areas closer to Rush Creek Lodge and on Evergreen Road were in the 40’s.



      Guide to Wawona

      Camping near Wawona, California, offers a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Yosemite National Park. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or looking for a unique glamping experience.

      What to do:

      • Explore hiking trails: There are numerous trails nearby, perfect for all skill levels. One camper at Wawona Campground mentioned, "The campground's location provides access to various outdoor activities," highlighting the great hiking options available.
      • Visit Mariposa Grove: This area is famous for its giant sequoias. A reviewer at Wawona Campground noted, "Nearby attractions include the Mariposa Grove, where you can explore giant sequoias," making it a must-see for nature lovers.
      • Enjoy the river: Many campgrounds, like North Pines Campground, offer access to the Merced River. One visitor shared, "We had a fire pit, bear locker, picnic table and two tents! ... the river was very nice to cool down after a long hike."

      What campers like:

      • Scenic views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Upper Pines Campground states, "Great place, amazing position with astonishing views," which captures the essence of camping in this area.
      • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide ample space for tents and RVs. A camper at Camp 4 mentioned, "The site was actually really large," making it comfortable for families or groups.
      • Wildlife encounters: Campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One visitor at Wawona Campground said, "You wouldn’t really notice other people were there unless you looked around," emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere and wildlife presence.

      What you should know:

      • Booking can be tricky: Reservations fill up fast. A camper at Upper Pines Campground noted, "almost impossible to book," so plan ahead.
      • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds lack showers and hookups. A review for Hodgdon Meadow Campground mentioned, "No showers though, but the bathrooms were clear and okay," so be prepared for basic facilities.
      • Crowded during peak season: Expect busy campgrounds in summer. A visitor at North Pines Campground shared, "The campground was expectedly crowded," which is common in popular areas.

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for comfort. A family at Camp Edison enjoyed, "The entire camp site is huge, well maintained and just wonderful," making it a great choice for families.
      • Engage in family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds are close to fun activities. A camper at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort mentioned, "Great activities at the lodge," which can keep kids entertained.
      • Plan for quiet time: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Hodgdon Meadow Campground noted, "Quite busy and noisy," so consider timing your visits for quieter periods.

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at North Pines Campground shared, "We have about a 25-foot trailer... fit in the spot no problem," which is helpful for RV planning.
      • Be prepared for limited hookups: Many campgrounds don’t offer full hookups. A reviewer at Wawona Campground mentioned, "There are no electrical or water connections at individual campsites," so come prepared.
      • Utilize nearby facilities: Some campgrounds have amenities a short drive away. A visitor at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort noted, "The road going in was washed out," but still found the facilities useful.

      Camping near Wawona, California, provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're hiking, relaxing by the river, or exploring the stunning scenery, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

      Frequently Asked Questions

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

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Wawona, CA is Hardin Flat Road with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.

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

        TheDyrt.com has all 41 dispersed camping locations near Wawona, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.