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Best Dispersed Camping near Willow Creek, CA

31 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Willow Creek, California offers several free primitive sites on public lands. Lacks Creek BLM provides established dispersed sites with fire rings and picnic tables along Pine Ridge Road. Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp features three sites with picnic tables and fire rings, accessible via forest service roads from either Willow Creek or Hawkins Bar. BLM Dispersed Camping at Lacks Creek includes basic amenities at a trailhead area. Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp requires hiking in with a permit for creek-side camping.

No potable water is available at any of these sites. Campers must bring all necessary water supplies. According to reviews, Groves Prairie has "a tiny creek running nearby if needed," but this should not be considered reliable. Fire restrictions vary seasonally; all sites permit fires when conditions allow, but visitors should check current regulations before arrival. Several campers noted tick presence, particularly at Lacks Creek during warmer months.

Road conditions require careful planning. The access roads to Lacks Creek BLM involve "a long bumpy dirt road" but remain passable for most passenger vehicles. One reviewer mentioned successfully reaching the site in a Honda Civic despite challenging sections. Groves Prairie is accessible via two routes described as "fair" forest service roads. Large RVs and trailers are not recommended for these areas. A camper attempting to bring a 20-foot travel trailer to Lacks Creek reported turning back due to "narrow and steep roads with low hanging trees."

Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier. AT&T users report reasonable coverage at Lacks Creek BLM, while Verizon service is described as nonexistent in some areas. Pack out all trash, as no disposal services exist at these primitive sites. Vault toilets are available at some locations but not all.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Willow Creek, California (8)

    1. Lacks Creek BLM

    19 Reviews
    Hoopa, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 825-2300

    "Note the gps coordinates take you to the right of the sign at the top of the hill after you turn off the main road. I would recommend going straight. Just follow it to the end."

    "The whole BLM management area is well developed and has signs to guide you. There are spots all along pine ridge road. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings."

    2. Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp

    2 Reviews
    Willow Creek, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 629-2118

    "There are two ways to this camp, the longer from Willow Creek, or the shorter from Hawkins Bar.  Both ways are via forest service roads that are "fair". "

    "There is a beautiful little creek right next to the campsite."

    3. BLM Dispersed Camping - Lacks Creek

    3 Reviews
    Hoopa, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 825-2300

    4. Aikens Creek Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Orleans, CA
    20 miles

    "But it still has camp sites and a little further in there is dispersed very close to the river. It was secluded and great."

    5. Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp

    4 Reviews
    Orick, CA
    30 miles
    Website

    "Dispersed camping along the river banks after walking through the Tall Trees hike. Easy overnighter."

    "but be prepared, you will be camping next to a creek on top of rocks. if you have a sleeping pad, this is no problem. if not, be aware. Next, you WILL cross a creek! the rocks are PAINFUL!"

    6. 44 Backcountry Camp — Redwood National Park

    1 Review
    Orick, CA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 464-6101

    "It is located up the hill from the sign announcing it along the trail, look carefully if like me you've night hiked to get here."

    7. North Trinity Lake

    4 Reviews
    Trinity Center, CA
    49 miles

    "This is disbursed lakeside camping with no facilities."

    "- dispersed camping

    • no amenities
    • a beautiful open field with the woods in the back and Trinity lake in the front
    • you could camp in the open field or in the woods"

    8. Presidio Bar

    Be the first to review!
    Somes Bar, CA
    43 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Willow Creek, CA

22 Photos of 8 Willow Creek Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Willow Creek, CA

31 Reviews of 8 Willow Creek Campgrounds

  • Greg B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp

    Secluded & beautiful Meadow

    This secluded camp is well worth the effort to find.  I've been 3 times and finally decided to add it to The Dyrt.  Upon this return, I tried to find it online (Six Rivers's official site) but found no info.  There are two ways to this camp, the longer from Willow Creek, or the shorter from Hawkins Bar.  Both ways are via forest service roads that are "fair".  There are 3 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring.  There is one vault toilet that was stocked with 'the papers'.  There is NO trash service or cans and NO POTABLE WATER.  There is a tiny creek running nearby if needed.  There is MAYBE one (1) bar of Verizon service, but it is extremely unreliable.  I came here to see the Perseids Meteor Shower, on a Sunday night/Monday, and did not see a soul.

  • matt R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2023

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Awesome spot.

    Great spot. The site is very secluded and well maintained. Note the gps coordinates take you to the right of the sign at the top of the hill after you turn off the main road. I would recommend going straight. Just follow it to the end. There is three fire pits and a bathroom. That is okay. But it will do. Note there is no trash can on site and the closest gas station is probably an hour from the camp site. After you drive down the dirt roads. They are a little road but any vehicle could make it.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2025

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Great Spot

    Not much more to say that others haven’t. Clean, with a beautiful view. The whole BLM management area is well developed and has signs to guide you. There are spots all along pine ridge road. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings.

  • rThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Lacks creek blm

    Clean great view the gps was wrong it took me past the turn off and sent me to private property with a locked gate so at the top of the hill look for a clearly marked sign on the left turn up the hill when you get to the intersection take the road to the right and go up the hill I went past the first site and got on top there are three sites in a row and a bathroom at the end

  • Kalah H.
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Amazing place to stay for free with hikes close by

    I loved staying at lacks creek! I had good cell service with att and it was beautiful, quiet and serene. Hikes right by the campsites. Fire pit. No water at all though. Bring your own water. And no bathroom unless you drive like 3 miles down the other way and some of the roads weren't open due to landslides. I drove my honda civic all the way up there. There was a few points I thought I wouldn't make it but sure enough my good ol honda pushed through. Lol Anyways! Highly recommend! Just bring water! Lol

  • Toni K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 14, 2021

    BLM Dispersed Camping - Lacks Creek

    Free BLM land

    Pretty far drive off a dirt road. The camp spot does have fire rings. There’s a nice running/bike path right in the camp ground. However, there are a lot of ticks. Be careful if you have any animals. 

    Also saw wild horses driving up!

    Drive east on Highway 299 for 17.8 miles from Highway 101. Turn left at the Redwood Valley turn off(Bair Road) and travel 3.9 miles. Make a right turn at the sign that reads"Hoopa- 22 miles", and travel 5.9 miles up this windy gravel road. The entrance is a left turn.

  • Ryan Z.
    Jul. 9, 2021

    North Trinity Lake

    Not accessible

    The coordinates and GPS lead to a random part of the highway surrounded by hills. Not real or inaccessible in vehicle, lake may be dried up.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 7, 2020

    North Trinity Lake

    Gorgeous Lakeside Camping

    This is disbursed lakeside camping with no facilities.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 26, 2025

    Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp

    Unable to access

    Access road is gated after a couple of miles, so unable to even get close.

Guide to Willow Creek

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Willow Creek, California, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers a range of options for those looking to escape into the wilderness without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Lacks Creek BLM

  • Nestled in a picturesque setting, Lacks Creek BLM provides a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and exploration.
  • The site features picnic tables and fire pits, making it an ideal spot for evening gatherings under the stars.
  • With no permit required and free camping available, it's a fantastic choice for budget-conscious adventurers.

Hiking and outdoor activities while free camping near Willow Creek

  • The area surrounding Lacks Creek is rich with hiking trails that cater to various skill levels, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Campers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance while taking advantage of the nearby hiking paths, which are easily accessible from the camping spots.
  • Be prepared to bring your own water, as this location does not provide drinking water, ensuring a true back-to-nature experience.

Scenic views and wildlife for dispersed campers

  • Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp offers breathtaking views and a secluded atmosphere, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • This site is known for its clean and spacious camping areas, allowing visitors to set up their tents among the trees and enjoy the serene surroundings.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to spot various animals in their natural habitat, enhancing the overall camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Willow Creek dispersed camping area?

Willow Creek dispersed camping areas typically offer minimal amenities, focusing on primitive camping experiences. At Lacks Creek BLM, you'll find basic facilities including fire rings, picnic tables, and a restroom facility. The area features hiking and biking trails right from the campground. There's no potable water available, so campers must bring all their own water supplies. Cell service with AT&T has been reported as good in this area. Be aware that ticks can be prevalent in the warmer months, so take appropriate precautions, especially if bringing pets.

Where is Willow Creek dispersed camping located?

Willow Creek dispersed camping areas can be accessed via multiple routes in Northern California. Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp can be reached via two approaches - a longer route from Willow Creek or a shorter alternative route. For North Trinity Lake dispersed camping, the area is located along Trinity Lake with multiple dirt access roads leading down to the shoreline from the main road. Note that GPS coordinates for these areas can sometimes be inaccurate, so watching for clearly marked signs and following established dirt roads is recommended.

Are permits required for dispersed camping at Willow Creek?

For most dispersed camping areas near Willow Creek, permits are not typically required for short stays. Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp and other BLM-managed lands in the area generally follow standard dispersed camping regulations - camping is allowed for up to 14 days in a 28-day period. However, some areas may have seasonal fire restrictions requiring campfire permits during dry months. It's always advisable to check with the local ranger district or BLM office before your trip, as regulations can change seasonally. Some access roads may be gated during certain times of year, limiting availability.

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