Dispersed camping near Stateline, Nevada offers primitive sites at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 8,300 feet in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Winter closures affect road access from November through May at higher elevations, with spring snowmelt creating muddy conditions. Most free camping areas require visitors to pack out all trash and bring their own water supplies.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several sites near Silver Fork River provide direct water access with small beach areas for anglers. "There are a total of 3 established sites... All the sites are on the river and have paths down to the water with a little beach," notes a camper at Silver Fork River Camping.
Hiking trail access: Multiple dispersed sites connect to local trail systems with varying difficulty levels. At Iron MT. Dispersed, "The Mormon Emigrant Trail can be accessed from there (East side, going West to Sly Park)," according to one camper who found the location convenient for day hikes.
Off-road adventures: Areas near Blue Lakes Road feature extensive 4x4 trails for vehicle enthusiasts. A visitor to Dispersed USFS mentioned, "Several areas along Blue Lakes Rd offer dispersed camping. We had a wildflower-filled meadow to ourselves in early August with plenty of near-by trails for dirt bikes, Jeeping, horses, mountain biking or hiking."
What campers like
Elevation advantages: Higher campsites offer cooler summer temperatures and exceptional views. At Iron MT. Dispersed, campers appreciate that "The view from this area is spectacular. Beautiful sunsets too. It is a pretty open area with lots of room to camp. It is now an abandoned ski resort."
Cell service options: Some sites provide unexpected connectivity for remote work needs. A camper at Iron MT. Dispersed noted, "We had 3 bars of AT&T connection there," making it suitable for digital nomads needing occasional service.
Natural privacy: Most dispersed sites provide substantial distance between camping spots. At USFS Silver Fork Dispersed, visitors appreciate the seclusion, with one noting their spot was "right next to the stream, already had some stones for a fire ring. Easy road to get out there."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads deteriorate significantly after wet weather. At Bear Lake Rd. Dispersed, a visitor warns, "The road in is paved until you reach the real spot where you can actually set up camp. It is VERY rocky and looks like it's pretty beaten up by Off Road Vehicles."
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits during specific seasons. A camper at Iron MT. Dispersed reported, "You aren't allowed in without a Sno-park permit from November 1st to May 31st."
Wildlife encounters: Cattle grazing occurs in several dispersed camping areas. A visitor to Scotts Lake Rd Dispersed Camping observed, "There are herds of cows that will make their way through the area, please be respectful of them!"
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility factors: Choose sites based on your vehicle's clearance and family needs. At Dispersed USFS, a camper advises, "There are prolonged climbs to get here (up to about 8% grade) but my bus did fine. Slow and steady and you'll be fine. Also WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit."
Water supply planning: No drinking water exists at any primitive sites. A camper at Dispersed USFS shares, "Jugs of water can be filled at the campgrounds about 5 miles in each direction," suggesting families should map water sources before arriving.
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions change rapidly regardless of season. One Echo Summit Dispersed camper reported unexpectedly finding that "this location was the site of a fire several years ago, this means that many of the trees have been cleared making it a good site for starlink users like me."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Several access roads have tight turns that limit RV size. At Echo Summit, one camper warns, "The road towards the cabins has a very tight turn that will not allow anyone over 25 feet - though I'd recommend smaller."
Level site hunting: Many dispersed areas feature uneven terrain requiring careful spot selection. At Packsaddle Pass - El Dorado National Forest Dispersed, a visitor noted, "Standard dispersed camping on national forest land. Paved main road with dirt roads and areas for camping branching off. Plenty of room."
Parking surface quality: Ground conditions vary significantly across sites and seasons. A camper at Packsaddle Pass observed, "Not sure it would be a good location if it's been raining. May hear the occasional road noise," highlighting how weather impacts accessibility for larger vehicles.
