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Dispersed Camping

Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed is located in Stanislaus National Forest, featuring forested terrain with a mix of trees and open spaces. Temperatures in this area can range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Nearby attractions include Calaveras Big Trees State Park and the Arnold Rim Trail, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.

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Location

Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

38.265415 N
120.371812 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 6/13/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Mighty Farms

Mighty Farms

10 min away

Meadowview

Meadowview

1 hr 19 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Last on 6/13/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed needs a permit.

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General Info


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Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 5, 2025

This place is real camping

This campground was the best campground that I’ve been to in a long time take note that this is real camping so there is no bathrooms. There is no running water. There is no showers not for the week but for the real man not recommended for women in small kids, but absolutely amazing and beautiful place. Be sure to obtain a fire permit from Cal fire and check fire restrictions in the area have a bucket full of water and a shovel next to your fire at all times again this place was amazing

Sitewasn’t numbered
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Raymond M., October 5, 2025
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Raymond M., October 5, 2025
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Raymond M., October 5, 2025
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Jun. 13, 2025

Not bad at all

It's suitable enough of a campground, Verizon works. There is sun for solar panels and enough shade to be fine mostly, I have a canopy so it helps make it more than fine. Only downside is the ground is basically dust dirt. My dogs love it, my bedding doesn't!

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by goose10091203 , June 13, 2025
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by goose10091203 , June 13, 2025
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by goose10091203 , June 13, 2025
Reviewed Sep. 18, 2023

Fun Spot

Super fun spot went in September. Dirt road to get to spot is pretty rough but my Taurus wagon did just fine. There are a few people on dirt bikes ripping around trails so not fully secluded but still a good spot.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Damien M., September 18, 2023
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Damien M., September 18, 2023
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Damien M., September 18, 2023
Reviewed Sep. 12, 2022

Peaceful spot

Great spot for a tent or small trailer. The dirt road up is full of ruts and potholes, but my Toyota Yaris made it up. Some noise from chainsaws in the distance one day, and some target practice, but neither lasted long. 2 bars LTE of Verizon.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Michael S., September 12, 2022
  • Review photo of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed by Michael S., September 12, 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at campgrounds near Arnold, California?

Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed is a basic dispersed camping area with minimal amenities. There are no developed facilities like bathrooms, running water, or electrical hookups. You'll need to be self-sufficient with your water supply and waste disposal. The site does offer good cell coverage with 2 bars of Verizon LTE service, which is helpful for staying connected. There's adequate sun exposure for solar panels and sufficient shade for comfort. Be prepared for dusty ground conditions which may require additional cleaning considerations.

When is the best season for camping in Arnold, CA?

September appears to be an excellent time for camping at Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed. The weather is typically pleasant during early fall, with comfortable temperatures. Summer months are also viable but may be warmer. Given the elevation in the Arnold area, spring and fall generally offer the most moderate temperatures. Winter camping is likely challenging due to potential snow and colder temperatures in the Sierra foothills. Check weather forecasts before your trip, as mountain conditions can change rapidly throughout the year.

Where can I find camping sites in Arnold, CA?

Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed is a great camping option near Arnold, CA. It's accessible via a dirt road that has some ruts and potholes but is passable even with standard passenger vehicles like a Toyota Yaris or Ford Taurus. The site accommodates tents and small trailers, offering a mix of sun and shade areas. If you're looking for dispersed camping with a somewhat rustic experience, this location provides a good option without requiring specialized off-road vehicles.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy while camping near Arnold?

While camping at Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed, you can enjoy several outdoor activities in the area. The campground is frequented by dirt bike enthusiasts who use nearby trails, suggesting good opportunities for off-road adventures. The surrounding forest provides scenic hiking opportunities. Some campers engage in target practice in the vicinity, indicating potential for recreational shooting where permitted. The dusty ground conditions might not be ideal for some activities, but the location offers a good base for exploring the greater Arnold area and nearby Sierra Nevada attractions.