USFS Silver Fork Dispersed, near Pollock Pines, California, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape into nature without the frills of a developed campground. This area offers a variety of camping options, with plenty of flat spots to pitch your tent or park your RV, all while being just a short drive from the main road.

Visitors have praised the spaciousness and accessibility of the area, making it easy to find a site that suits your needs. One camper noted, “We found a great spot about 4 miles before Silver Fork campground, nice and flat, right next to the stream.” The serene surroundings include beautiful views and the soothing sounds of nearby creeks, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Keep in mind that this location is a true back-to-nature experience, so amenities are limited. There’s no drinking water, restrooms, or trash service, so be prepared to pack in what you need and pack out your waste. As one reviewer wisely advised, “Leave it cleaner than you found it.” 

For those who enjoy exploring, the area is surrounded by primitive roads leading to various camping spots, offering endless opportunities for hiking and discovering new views. Just remember to grab a permit for your stay, as it’s required for any overnight use in the Eldorado National Forest. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, USFS Silver Fork Dispersed is a great choice for a peaceful getaway in the heart of nature.

USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

Kyburz is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Kyburz, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Kyburz, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Kyburz

The Best Camping Near Kyburz, California

Plenty of dispersed camping spots. My flat spot that I found not too far from a Creek and I even had 2 bars on my cell phone and watch the movie.

Dispersed camping

Showed up to pinned spot around 3pm and saw zero people. It was basically just a road to what I think was a state park? There were multiple spots off to the side where ppl had previously parked/camped w/ fire pits. But I did not feel comfortable pulling off…No service, it was rainy, and not sure how my vehicle would hold up. If planning to visit I would look to see if you need forest permit. 

Location possibly pinned incorrectly 

The coordinates listed on the app are simply for the entrance to the dispersed camping. There are infinite amounts of primitive roads to drive down and find camp. I stayed at N38.768811• W 120.238630° — on top of a peak that offered 360° views with sunrise and sunset right from my tent. At this specific sight, there are no overhead trees. Despite being primitive, the roads are well kept, even if you have a small SUV. It could get slightly tricky with a car. I stayed here for 7 days (10/31-11/6) and only saw one other person on the primivite roads. The above coordinates are about a 6 mile drive in from US50. You will see a campground on your right about 5 miles down when driving in, about a mile further down the road you will come up on the dirt road leading you up the mountain.

A couple of notes:
1. You are required to have a permit for any day/overnight use in Eldorado, including this area. They can be easily acquired at recreation.gov
2. Cell phone reception is very spotty, in and out of a couple of bars throughout the drive in. — AT&amp;T coverage. At the above coordinates, there were 2 bars of low grade coverage allowing basic texts to send. Not enough service for web browsing or sending photos via text.
3. This area has been widely burnt by fires last year. There are still large areas unburnt. You will find yourself going in and out of them while driving.
4. KEEP IT CLEAN — this area is immaculate and besides dug out fire pits, human trace is non-existent. Leave it cleaner than you found it, pick up your trash (and other’s if you see any), respect the area and it will respect you.
5. NO CAMP SERVICES — There is no trash service or even dumpsters at the signed entrance; pack it in pack it out. There are no restrooms in the area either.

Endless Possibilities 

My 9 yr old son wanted to try camping in or near the snow, and the weather was favorable on this December weekend (high 56, low 39). We are pretty new to camping and not hardcore, but this was very easy and comfortable. We camped right at the entrance because nobody was there and there was plenty of flat area. Easily accessible on paved roads. Spotted a rock climber on the nearby rock face when we arrived, who later came by to pick up his car he had parked there.

  

Caldor Fire damage was evident everywhere, but this made it easy for my son to chop down a small dead tree that we used for firewood. It was breezy, which made it chillier than the temps indicated, but we were fine and very toasty once in our tent cots.

  

We found a few beer bottles around (which we took home to recycle), and small amounts of building waste such as concrete. But overall the setting was peaceful and beautiful. Amazing to have a resource like this that's free. We brought a privacy shelter and portable camp toilet, and our own water. Those are really the only things you need that would normally be provided by a paid campsite.

Beautiful free camping is a real thing!

Not sure if my wife and I found the right spot or went far enough, but we found a great spot about 4 miles before silver fork camp ground. Nice and flat, right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring.  Easy road to get out there. 

Great spot


We recently spent a night at this campsite and found it to be perfect for a quick overnight getaway. The area is spacious and conveniently located not too far off the main road, making it easy to access without feeling too isolated. 

There are plenty of sites to choose from, catering to different preferences. However, we recommend taking some time to survey the land before setting up camp, as some spots are slightly sloped. 

A huge plus is the gas station just about 5 minutes down the road. It’s well-stocked with all the convenient store items you might have forgotten at home, making it easy to grab any last-minute necessities.

Overall, it was a delightful stay. Just remember, always practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in!

Photos of USFS Silver Fork Dispersed

Real photos from real campers