Dispersed camping near Woodlake, California offers rugged alternatives to developed campgrounds in nearby Sequoia National Forest. Located at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, these primitive sites experience temperature drops of 30°F between day and night. Most roads accessing dispersed camping remain open from late spring through fall, with winter closures common above 6,500 feet.
What to do
Hike to Buck Rock Fire Tower: The area surrounding Buck Rock Campground provides access to hiking trails leading to historic fire towers. "The entire buck rock area is very foresty and thick. Great variety of campsites with views of the mountains and some sites well surrounded by trees," notes Kuo G.
Visit Chicago Stump historic site: Several free camping areas near Woodlake provide easy access to this unique attraction. "Took a right off the main road (Rd 180) where you see signs for the Chicago stump. Took the road a little bit further than the pinpoint where there was a split and took a left," explains Frank N. at Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area.
Explore OHV trails: The network of forest roads offers recreational opportunities for off-highway vehicles. "Stayed here in my 22ft RV after leaving kings canyon and sequoia checking out general Sherman and some other trees. Had my dual sport with me so after parking for first night I unloaded and the next day I road all over the trails," shares Ray S. about his experience at Sequoia Forest Hunting Area.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many dispersed sites around Woodlake provide secluded camping experiences. "I took a left turn on a forest road and parked on a boulder. It's a solid, peaceful place," reports Jeremy P. about FS Road 13s09 Dispersed Camp.
Availability during peak seasons: When national park campgrounds fill up, dispersed camping offers alternatives. "Super convenient free camping between Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. A park ranger directed me here when all the campgrounds in the park were full," writes Kristian W. about Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting provides chances to observe local fauna. "There were also some signs of bear activity (bags clawed through) but we didn't see any (unfortunately)... room for about 4 sites but we went mid Aug and were the only ones there!!" reports Helen F. at Sequoia Boondock.
What you should know
Winter closures affect accessibility: Several dispersed camping areas become inaccessible during winter months. "We were stoked to try and camp here, but ended up realizing it was closed due to ice for the winter upon arrival. No way to check until you get there, I guess!" warns Alexander Mark C. about Forest Rd 14S29.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to dispersed sites range from paved to challenging. "The road was a little windy getting up here, but it was completely paved and we were able to get up here without any problem in our 11,000 pound class B plus Winnebago," reports Tarryn T. about Road to Armenian Camp.
Limited campsite size and capacity: Most dispersed sites accommodate only a few vehicles. "We arrived just before dark, it's quite a small site. Room for 4 vans max, ideal for 3. We used to chocks to level up as it's pretty uneven in parts," notes Kevin T. about Forest Rd 14S29.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water supplies: No drinking water exists at dispersed sites near Woodlake. "We found this last minute after digging through many campspots on the north side of Sequoia National Park, but most were closed for the season. Everything else was a little bit of a drive away," advises Kristi D. about Sequoia Forest Hunting Area.
Check for established fire rings: Most dispersed sites have basic fire rings if fires are permitted. "Secluded with very little traffic. Especially good if you're traveling with dogs to let them roam around. There's a stream and waterfall downhill that makes for great hikes," shares hamza P. about Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site.
Arrive early during peak seasons: Competition for limited spots increases during popular camping periods. "Came here with some buddies in mid-April of 2025. The main road was closed past the picnic area, severely limiting the number of spots. We were lucky to get one, but every single other one was full upon arrival," cautions Alexander Mark C. about Forest Road 14S11.
Tips from RVers
Check road width before attempting access: Many forest roads become narrow and challenging for larger vehicles. "Curvy, narrow road. No great pull outs for larger vehicles," warns Shainna M. about Road to Armenian Camp.
Leveling equipment essential: Uneven terrain at dispersed sites requires preparation. "This is a really nice area for camping on the side of the road here, but we only could've squeezed our 39ft Class A into maybe 2 of these spots," notes Garrett B. from his experience at Forest Road 14S11 North Camp.
Cell service considerations for remote work: Coverage varies significantly between sites. "This spot is flat, large (fits 2 big rigs at least) and has T-mobile and Verizon reception. In a 2 week period I did have some hunters come by and start shooting very close to the RV but other than that everyone just passes by on the road," explains therealquaid D. about connectivity at Sequoia Forest Hunting Area.
