Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed is located in [Stanislaus National Forest](https://thedyrt.com/camping/california/near/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.

Dispersed camping takes a lot more effort than camping in a developed campground, but for those with an adventurous spirit, it can be a lot of fun.

Here are some important points to remember about dispersed camping:

The maximum length of stay in a forest ranger district is 21 days per year. Please practice good outdoor ethics about camping, travel and behavior while visiting. Dispersed campers are allowed to park within one vehicle length (including any tow vehicle) of a National Forest transportation route and walk into camp.
Dispersed camping is not permitted in developed campgrounds and day use areas. Other areas closed to dispersed camping include historical and archaeological sites. Also, be certain that you are within the boundaries of the National Forest before setting up camp. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.
Dispersed camping is not allowed in these areas:
within one mile of Pinecrest Basin
along 7N83, Clark Fork Road
along Hwy 108 between Clark Fork Road and  Kennedy Meadows Road
Leave No Trace Camping – Camp so no one notices you while you are there, and no one even knows you were there after you leave. Please respect nature and other visitors by keeping noise to a minimum. Always pack out whatever you pack in. No permanent structures are to be constructed to an area, such as building rock-lined fire pits, trenches around tents, or carving into trees.
Human waste should be deposited in a hole dug 6 - 10 inches deep and then covered with organic soil.
Vehicles are not permitted off of roads, but if you can safely park your vehicle adjacent and parallel to the road and are not blocking the roadway, you may park and camp. Most sites will have a parking spot nearby while other sites may not. Because the footprint of a vehicle can have a large impact to soils, please do not create new “parking spot” for a campsite. Please park in designated or already impacted spots.
If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest.
We want you to learn some of the many reasons to enjoy the quiet and solitude of dispersed camping, it’s up to you to LEAVE NO TRACE.

Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

Arnold is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Arnold, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Arnold

The Best Camping Near Arnold, California

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. 

Peaceful 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. 

Fun Spot

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! 

Photos of Top of Arnold - FR 5N56 Dispersed

Real photos from real campers