Dispersed camping areas near Williams, California extend from Clear Lake's shoreline to the surrounding high elevation public lands. Most primitive sites sit on BLM-managed terrain between 1,500-2,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between lakeside and ridge locations. Seasonal road conditions determine accessibility, with many sites becoming impassable after rainfall, particularly along High Valley Road and in Cow Mountain Recreation Area during winter months.
What to do
Horseback riding access: Cowboy Camp provides designated trails and parking for horse trailers, making it popular with equestrians. "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes," notes camper Jorg F. about Cowboy Camp.
Creek exploration: Several primitive sites along Sheldon Creek offer water access during spring and early summer. "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," reports Patricia Y. about BLM Sheldon Creek.
Off-road recreation: Technical driving routes throughout Cow Mountain Recreation Area attract four-wheel enthusiasts. "Always fun. Love going to the tech course with our off road buggy. Crawled all over that hill," says Jeanette C. about the varied terrain available for vehicles with high clearance.
What campers like
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Spring and fall months bring diverse animal sightings to many sites. "Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us," shares a camper about their experience at Sheldon Creek, noting the mid-October timing offered comfortable temperatures.
Lake panoramas: Several elevated sites provide views across Clear Lake from different vantage points. "We were able to find a secluded spot that overlooks the lake. Very peaceful but some traffic sounds at night from the lake towns," reports Stacy L. about their stay at Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Open-space camping: Free camping near Williams often features grassy, level areas without tree cover. "It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills," explains a visitor about Cowboy Camp, contrasting with more wooded options elsewhere in the region.
What you should know
Road difficulty varies significantly: Access routes range from moderately difficult to extremely challenging depending on recent conditions. "The road to this pin is completely impassable in any regular vehicle, this would require an ATV. We took a regular AWD midsize SUV... The road is EXTREMELY narrow and windy on the edge of a cliff," warns Karmen V. about High Valley Rd Dispersed.
Limited facilities: Most free camping areas near Williams provide minimal or no amenities. "No services, but had cell service (CC)," notes Robert H. about Lakeview Dispersed Campground, which is typical for the region's primitive sites.
Seasonal closures occur: Some areas close without notice during winter months or due to fire concerns. "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell," reports Natalie T. about Cowboy Camp, highlighting the lack of closure notifications.
Tips for camping with families
Check creek water levels: Water sources fluctuate dramatically by season, affecting swimming possibilities. "There was some water in the creek, but it wasn't super easy to access," shares Carl L. about Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed, indicating late summer water limitations.
Consider insect activity: Certain locations experience significant seasonal bug populations. "No trees just dry open land inhabited by an unusual amount of flies. It was crazy how thick they were," warns Patricia Y. about Cowboy Camp during summer months.
Multiple vehicle spacing: Groups with several cars should coordinate arrival times due to limited turning areas. "There is no way to turn around once you start up it," cautions a visitor about High Valley Road, representing a common challenge on narrow access roads.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most free camping areas near Williams cannot accommodate large RVs or trailers beyond 20-25 feet. "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path. Otherwise 10/10 for our truck camper," advises Kenny T. about Smittle Creek.
Prepare for uneven parking: Leveling equipment is essential as most sites lack graded surfaces. "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding," shares a camper about their experience at Cowboy Camp.
Weekend congestion: Holiday periods bring significant increases in site occupation, particularly in easily accessible areas. "We had it to ourselves on a weeknight," notes Carl L. about BLM Sheldon Creek, suggesting weekday visits offer more solitude than weekends.
