Dispersed camping near Wellington, Nevada offers access to high-elevation sites along the eastern Sierra Nevada range. Most free campsites sit between 6,500-8,300 feet elevation, providing cooler summer temperatures compared to nearby valley areas. Winter access becomes limited above 7,000 feet with many roads closed by snow from November through May.
What to do
Mountain hiking trails: Near Obsidian Creek on Little Walker Road, campers can access multiple wilderness trails. "The trailhead for Molybdenite Creek is just past site 14. One day we took this trail about 2-1/2 miles up a canyon that leads into the Hoover Wilderness on the North East boundary of Yosemite National Park," reported one camper who also hiked "the 1 mile hike to Emma Lake, also in the Hoover Wilderness."
Natural hot springs soaking: Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs Dispersed camping areas provide direct access to thermal pools. "The hot springs were super cool and there were multiple pools scattered around the area. We swam in the small spring pools as the sun was setting and got to watch the stars come out," notes one reviewer who adds "some of the pools are super hot and others not much, also they are very muddy."
Four-wheel drive exploration: Unmaintained forest roads offer challenging terrain for off-roading enthusiasts. A camper at Dispersed USFS mentioned "loads of amazing 4x4 trails" and that the area provides "plenty of near-by trails for dirt bikes, Jeeping, horses, mountain biking or hiking."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution makes for exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Bridgeport Travertine Hot Springs noted "Stargazing from the hot springs was awesome!" while another mentioned enjoying the stars coming out while soaking in the thermal pools.
High elevation cooling: Summer campers appreciate the temperature difference at higher elevations. A visitor to Obsidian Creek on Little Walker Road explained "The elevation in this part of the Sierra's is a great way to beat the August heat" while camping with friends at this less-frequented destination.
Lakeside camping: Twenty Mile Beach Dispersed Camping provides direct water access. "This BLM site is 1 of 3 along the west side of Walker Lake. The views are spectacular as you are surrounded by mountains on all sides with Walker Lake in the middle of it all!" A visitor noted the area offers "amazing" sunrise and sunset views across the water.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Unmaintained forest roads can deteriorate rapidly. A camper at Dispersed USFS warned "WATCH THE WEATHER! Rain can cause spots of the road in to get washed out a bit and deep puddles can appear. There are loads of rocks and fallen trees around to fill in holes if needed."
Restroom facilities are minimal or absent: Most dispersed sites have no facilities. At Twenty Mile Beach, a camper reported "Toilets were locked so come prepared to pack in and pack out," while another noted the vault toilet at Travertine Hot Springs was "not great" and recommended being prepared for all waste needs.
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies widely by location and carrier. At Iron Mountain Dispersed, a reviewer reported "We had 3 bars of AT&T connection there" while another camper noted "I had no service with Verizon or t-mobile." A Scotts Lake Road camper mentioned "No AT&T service whatsoever."
Tips for camping with families
Bring sufficient water supplies: No potable water exists at most dispersed sites. A Twenty Mile Beach camper recommended families "come prepared to pack in and pack out" all supplies including water, as facilities are minimal.
Consider campground alternatives during peak times: Holiday weekends see heavy use at free sites. "We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded. We had our choice of several places to set up," noted a visitor to Scotts Lake Road who specifically timed their arrival to avoid crowds.
Insect preparation: Evening bugs can be problematic in some locations. A Twenty Mile Beach camper warned that "bugs were bad but totally worth it with that sunrise and sunset," while another reported "Big gnarly spiders infest the area and make webs on everything, including your tent. Tons of bugs will cover your tent screens."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all dispersed areas accommodate big RVs. At Iron MT. Dispersed, a reviewer noted "The ground is very flat and many areas are paved with gravel," making it suitable for larger vehicles. This former ski resort area provides more open, level spaces than most forest sites.
Access limitations for trailers: Many roads become challenging for towed RVs. A camper at Travertine Hot Springs advised "We were able to camp with our 19 foot trailer but I don't think I would recommend anything larger," citing the rough access road conditions.
Weekday arrivals recommended: Easier site selection occurs outside weekends. A Scotts Lake Road camper with a large setup reported "We are new to dispersed camping and have a 40 ft 5th wheel as well as a GMC Denali 350 dually. We need a large space to fit into. We arrived on a Monday at noon and found that the large area about 1/4 mile in was not at all crowded."
