Dispersed camping near Witter Springs, California offers free to low-cost options within Bureau of Land Management lands across Lake County. Located at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,000 feet, this region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild, wet winters. Cell service varies significantly by location, with higher elevations generally providing better connectivity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Smittle Creek, visitors can enjoy prime fishing spots where the creek meets Lake Berryessa. "This sweet little spot is a paddle boarding and fishing dream. Primitive site where Smittle Creek flows into Lake Berryessa," notes Stuart S.
Hiking trails: The region offers several hiking options, particularly around Cow Mountain Recreation Area which features both challenging and moderate trails. "Love taking our Rock crawler up to cow. Lots of obstacles. Camping is awesome. Few sites and vault restrooms," shares Jeanette C.
Stargazing: Clear nights at higher elevation sites provide excellent stargazing conditions, especially during summer months when skies remain clear. The lack of light pollution makes sites like High Valley Ridge ideal for night sky viewing.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us," describes Patricia Y. about her stay at BLM Sheldon Creek.
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many campers appreciate the distance between sites at Lakeview Dispersed Campground. "Only two other groups were set up so not crowded, plenty of spots," mentions Kirra L. Another camper, Stacy L., noted, "Super easy to find coming up from the lake. A lot of spots to choose from."
Natural features: The creek access at BLM Sheldon Creek draws positive reviews. "Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October. Looking forward to a springtime visit," shares Patricia Y. Another camper, Summer A., described it as "a beautiful spot where we felt safe."
Fire pits: Several sites have established fire rings, which campers find convenient when fire restrictions allow. "There were about 4/5 sites, only 2 with actual fire pits," notes Kenny T. about BLM Sheldon Creek. At Lakeview Dispersed Campground, Joe M. mentioned, "Where I set up there were some log chairs and a previously built fire pit."
Cost-free camping: The free price point appeals to many visitors. "FREE BLM campground," emphasized Kenny T. At Cowboy Camp, Jorg F. called it a "Great free campground! We've stayed here many times."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads can be extremely challenging, especially after rain. "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 was challenging. It was steep with loose dirt in spots," adds Robert H. about Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Seasonal closures: Some sites close unexpectedly. At Cowboy Camp, Natalie T. reported, "Visit was for 11/19/2024 found the gates locked, no entry. Seasonal? No signage to tell." Another visitor, Derek D., confirmed, "The camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website."
Weather exposure: Many sites lack tree cover for shade or wind protection. "It was windy in the evening, but that died down during the night," reports Mo H. about Lakeview Dispersed Campground. Carl L. noted BLM Sheldon Creek is "probably very hot during the day since you're up on a ridge."
Trash issues: Unfortunately, some visitors report trash problems. "So much trash left behind here! We tried to pick up what we could but there's quite the mess left behind from others," reports Emma T. about BLM Sheldon Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly site: High Valley Rd Dispersed offers more level terrain suitable for multiple tents. "Very nice spot with multiple places to pull over and camp. There's views of Clear Lake if you want to walk a bit," notes Chris C.
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic at certain sites, particularly during warm months. At Cowboy Camp, Jorg F. warned, "The only negative is fly's sometimes. But just keep your screen door closed and fly swatter handy."
Temperature planning: Prepare for significant temperature swings between day and night, especially at higher elevations. "Very beautiful and quiet, can be extremely cold at night and morning so be prepared!" advises Joe M. about Lakeview Dispersed Campground.
Toilet access: Vault toilets are available at limited sites, but condition varies widely. At BLM Sheldon Creek, Iliana A. cautions, "You might want to be prepared to dig your own toilet though as the toilet set up was completely infested with spiders."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites near Witter Springs cannot accommodate larger RVs. At BLM Sheldon Creek, Kenny T. warns, "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path."
Leveling challenges: Bringing leveling blocks is essential as most sites feature uneven terrain. Jorg F. mentions at Cowboy Camp, "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View."
Vehicle clearance: High-clearance vehicles fare best on these roads. "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. I would however recommend AWD or a little higher clearance," advises Joe M. about Lakeview Dispersed.
Camp location scouting: Walking the area before committing to a spot prevents getting stuck. Todd N. suggests, "You have to drive up to right as you enter and then turn toward the lake to find the really nice spots. You can't see them from the main area. May need a higher clearance vehicle for that depending on the site. Recommend walking it first."
