Dispersed camping near Westwood, California is concentrated primarily within Lassen National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 7,000 feet. This high-country forest zone transitions between the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges, creating a distinctive ecosystem dominated by ponderosa pine, white fir, and incense cedar. Most free camping areas become accessible between May and October, with forest roads typically closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall.
What to do
Fishing access points: Butte Creek offers productive trout fishing within walking distance of dispersed sites. "We caught a bunch of trout in the creek and had an absolute blast. Quiet and safe and lots of shade," reports one visitor at Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
Hiking options: The Cinder Cone Trail in Lassen National Park sits approximately 20 minutes from Butte Creek camping areas. "20 minute drive to the cinder cone trail head in Lassen National Park," mentions a camper who stayed at Butte Creek.
Foraging opportunities: Several creekside areas offer seasonal wild edibles. "Found some black raspberries along the creek," notes a camper who visited Big Pine in mid-summer.
What campers like
Creek-adjacent sites: The sound of running water enhances many camping experiences. "Our parking spot is big enough for our travel trailer, right next to the creek. Clean, quiet, safe. No traffic," reports a visitor to Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
Night sky visibility: Open areas provide excellent stargazing opportunities when weather permits. "The site has a fairly clear view to the North and our Starlink works excellently here," notes a camper at Butte Creek.
Wildlife viewing: Many dispersed areas offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "We found a spot along Butte Creek itself, just off Pole Spring Road. This site is beautiful - just off the main road, fairly flat, immediately adjacent to the creek, and very quiet," describes one visitor.
Space between sites: Christie Hill Basecamp provides ample room between camping areas. "There are sites with fire rings and relatively flat ground. Great location for dispersed camping just minutes from the southern Lassen entrance," notes a camper.
What you should know
Insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be problematic during early summer. "Mosquitoes EVERYWHERE! We pulled in to the area around 6 PM on a Tuesday evening, not a single person around," warns a visitor to Bogard USFS Dispersed.
Road challenges: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "If you have a low clearance vehicles, pick your pins carefully," advises a Christie Hill visitor.
Seasonal conditions: Spring conditions can create significant challenges. "The ground here is loose volcanic sand. I wouldn't recommend a heavy trailer rig or RV without 4x4 do anything but back back straight into this site. We bogged down a bit while turning around and needed to use our 4wd," shares a Butte Creek camper.
Construction activity: Some areas experience periodic logging or road work. "Not sure what happened here but its under reconstruction. Some of the spots are gone. The spots open now are just spots the bulldozer made to push material off the road," reports a Christie Hill visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Creek activities: Water access provides natural entertainment for children. "Right next to the creek and big spots! Our motorhome drove down here just fine. Caught a bunch of trout in the creek and had an absolute blast," shares a family who visited Big Pine.
Established campsites: Look for spots with existing fire rings when traveling with children. "The campsite was well kept. We had a picnic table, campfire & plenty of trees for our hammocks," notes a visitor to Bogard USFS Dispersed.
Wildlife safety: Small animals may approach camp. "I left my dog's food out one afternoon & a chipmunk got to it but other than that, we had no issues with wildlife!" mentions a Bogard camper.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Evaluate each site carefully before committing. "We found a could spots that our 38ft fifth wheel could fit, and many spots for smaller rigs," notes an RV owner who stayed at Big Pine Dispersed Camping.
Access road navigation: Road narrowness can create challenges for larger vehicles. "Only saw about 4 other people while I was here on Monday-Tuesday. Plenty of room for travel trailers (although the road is a little narrow if you come in from Twin Pines road)," shares a Big Pine visitor.
Service facilities: Limited facilities exist for waste disposal. "Water, dump, and trash are available at Old Station Visitor Information Center just north (RV sewer dump closes mid October)," advises a Big Pine visitor with a fifth wheel.
Connectivity concerns: Cell service ranges from limited to non-existent. "No service, not great for starlink but you won't need it because of the peace and beauty," reports a camper at Antelope Mountain Dispersed Camp.
