Tag Archives: campfires

Closed Indefinitely

UPDATE SEPT 20, 2021
California National Forests, most have re-opened.
See Sequoia Wildfires & Closures

pinetree

Twenty five years ago, when I began this outdoor web site for California, did I ever imagine ‘times like these’ – where we would be held up inside our homes during summer, as annual wildfires destroyed our vast and beautiful forests. Frightened to breathe the toxic, smokey air outside. Saddened by news of yet another town or historic structure burning to the ground. Checking the destruction daily online, in hopes of more containment, fresh photos or any good report.

Now I fear Total Escape  may become photographic documentation of how beautiful California once was.

burnt forest

wildfire closures

Most California National Forest are currently closed!

Lassen Volcanic National Park is CLOSED due to damages from the Dixie Fire.

In case you missed it: 2020 was the worst year for wildland fires in California history, but 2021 is shaping up to be just as bad. Many forests, roads, trails, campgrounds and parks listed below have been closed to the public for the 2021 season, and possibly longer.

BIG SUR COAST
Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP
Prewitt Ridge
Nacimiento Road
Lucia Restaurant
Tassajara Canyon

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS
Big Basin Redwoods SP
Butano Redwoods SP
Boulder Creek, CA

NORTHERN CALIF
Armstrong Redwoods SP
Austin Creek SRA
Mendocino National Forest
Lake Berryessa
Mad River / Ruth Lake
Forest Glen, CA
Salmon River
Six River National Forest
Snow Mountain Wilderness
Yolla Bolly Wilderness
Lassen National Forest
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Caribou Wilderness
Lake Almanor
Feather River (North Fork)
Susan River (near Caribou)
Trinity Alps Wilderness
Trinity River (W of Weaverville)

SIERRA NEVADA
Alta Sierra
Balch Park

Berry Creek, CA
Bucks Lake, CA
Butte Meadows
Caldor
Consumnes River
Dinkey Creek
Eldorado National Forest
Feather River (Middle Fork)
Huntington Lake, CA
Indian Valley
Greenville, CA
Mammoth Pool Reservoir
Mountain Home Sequoia
Plumas National Forest
Sequoia National Forest
Sierra National Forest
Shaver Lake, CA
Shirley Meadows
Silver Fork
Western Divide Highway
22N82 Forks of the Kern

aftermath
Camp Okizu

camp

Expect that campfire rules will be tighter in the future, overall. Campfires will likely be restricted to ‘only inside developed campgrounds’. Or only allowed during the wet season on the backroads or in the backcountry.

campfire

hazmat
My Front Yard (literally)

*Unfortunately, this is not a complete list of all the closures inside California parks and forests. I am adding more to this list, as more places burn. This page is a work in progress for autumn 2021

58 counties
58 Counties in Calif

Free RV Camping

Free RV Campsites / RV Campsite California

picnicThe best free camping in California for RVs & motorhomes is NOT the WalMart parking lot in some random town, but the gems that you find here on Total Escape.

The California back roads is where it’s at. Star filled skies, fresh cedar scents & tall pines, plus the awesome views. Primitive camping at it’s best, with your kitchen sink. No hook-ups, no fees, no problem.

the back roadscamptruck

So, if you are one of those that are terrified of driving your big luxury camper on dirt roads, these may not suit your taste. But if you crave the back country camps with your RV, then you might enjoy the list below.

Still many dispersed, primitive FREE camp sites to be found – but you’re not gonna find them on those big web sites, that everyone goes to.

check

no hookups, no paved stalls, no dump station

These are camping areas, that you can pull into anytime of the night or day & find a flat spot. Some places may have picnic tables or campfire rings, but not all. No OHV parks, no large developed campgrounds, just dispersed FREE camp sites on the back roads of Cali.

Camping National Forest
Somewhere out near Dinkey Creek in Sierra NF

Dispersed Camping for RVers in California:

camp

SoCal Areas & Deserts

campersatcalkin
Calkins Flat on Kern River

Southern Sierra Nevada California

Eastern Sierra California

uticasummer

Central Sierra Nevada California

RV

Rd #54 Tahoe
Rd #54 – South of Lakes Basin Recreation Area

Northern Sierra Nevada Mountains

Free North Lassen
Lassen Rd #32N12D, 1 mile past Twin Bridges

Northern California

LassenWestRd17
Lassen Forest Road 17 @ Hwy 44
vanlifenorcal
Van Life, on McCloud Creek @ Algoma

 

Eco Camping California

eco-friendly camping
eco-wise camp tips

microtrash
Microtrash is all that small stuff that seems to miss the trash bag.

 

campYou manage to drag yourself off the couch, congratulations! You’ve packed up your ride and are heading out to your favorite “secret” spot. Anticipation builds as you arrive and pull into the empty lot. Your heart sinks however when you discover that your once pristine camp spot has been transformed into the new town dump. An old lawn chair, candy wrappers and beer cans litter the area that you once loved. Impromptu fire rings are strewn about and armies of weekend warriors have trampled your favorite meadow into a dust bowl.

No Littering California
DON’T BRING THE CITY TO THE WILDERNESS. The noise, the food containers, the beer bottles, the fast food wrappers, the broken plastic crap and the balled up baby diapers. The disposable society we have created now makes us all too LAZY. Getting off your ass and outdoors means you need to take some responsibility.

You get much needed exercise, outdoors breathing fresh air, and enjoying life,  while discovering new destinations and awesome terrain. The least you can do is clean up a little, and encourage others to do the same.

thinking about that plastic water bottle you dropped on the trail?

Trash isn’t specific to just campers and target shooters. Hunters are notorious pigs, especially when gathering in groups. Day hikers ‘accidentally’ loose stuff all the time – from sunglasses to bottle caps. Picnickers often forget something at the site.

Family day in the snow sounds great. Sledders leave massive amounts of trash – from broken sleds to food trash.

Mount Pinos

unaware

Litterbugs include many types of folks: disruptive teens, toothless alcoholic contractors, local yolkels, urban mishaps, gangster wanna-bes, home boys, totally oblivious yuppies & even uneducated families…

keep the trash & tagging to the city!

EDUCATION is key on this matter & it starts with you.
Please pass along good outdoor ethics.

tread lightly wilderness trail crews

Seems you can’t go deep enough. The further into the forest you go, you still seem to see it – evidence of neglect for our land. In every outing these days, we constantly notice tons of litter and graffiti. Deliberate disrespect for the open spaces and valued wilderness lands. What is going on here?

Please report graffiti in action to the local law enforcement or nearest rangers office! Or better yet, get them on video and post it on YouTube.com

Garbage while Camping
What’s the worst that can happen?

Small fragments of plastics are being found inside birds, wildlife and marine life, due to the vast amounts of micro-trash that is found outdoors. Ingested plastics often kill the animals.

Our secluded swimming holes and creek trails are now littered so badly, that the smaller trash is making it into major rivers and into the bellies of fish and the near-extinct California condors.

Misuse and sheer disregard is how OUR lands get closed (by OUR OWN government). Closed off forever, turned into ‘off limit’ roads and more totally closed wildernesses, that only can be explored on foot. OHVs, dirt bikes, 4x4s need to realize their overall impact on natural habitats could have a detrimental effect on these lands. There is a balance. Play wisely. This includes all the red necks with guns too.

camp

 

King of Litter?

Originally uploaded by danamight

Graffiti, Soda Cans, and Cigarette Butts are a nuisance to nature.

As more and more office drones venture from their cubicles and out onto the unbeaten path, they leave behind the remnants of their bold treks for all to see. Refuse, human waste, smoldering campfires and crushed flora from selfish tent placements and trail blazing destroy our fragile eco-system and pollute the environment for years to come.

  • Be cautious walking around to avoid destroying the fragile ecosystems, such as meadows, seedlings, wildlife & wildflowers.
  • Pick up all your trash & even some left behind by previous campers. Leaving the camp or picnic site in better condition than you found it.

dirtbikes

litterlogs

Below are some simple tips that, coupled with common sense, will enable you to stop being part of the problem and start being part of the solution!

Kern Graffiti

Yellow Post Campsites

yellowpost

 

Yellow Post Camping

Yellow Stake Camp Sites / Back Roads Camping NFS
near Cajon Pass, Big Bear & Idyllwild CA

YELLOW POST CAMPS are dispersed camping sites on the back roads in Southern California, where fire danger is greatest. Forest authorities have designated certain spots as ‘fire safe’ for remote, open camping options around Big Bear Lake, Fawnskin and the Idyllwild mountain area.

If you prefer to stay out of the developed campgrounds, you will be the minority. But you must know how to read a map well to reach these beauties.

Map Big Bear

camping

SoCal camping doesn’t have to mean crowded campgrounds. Seek your seclusion on the dirt back roads, where there are no fees, minimal noises & a private site waiting just for you. These are usually on a first come, first serve basis. A high clearance vehicle (SUV, truck or 4×4) may be needed to reach some of the premium camp spots, but there are also sites accessible by passenger cars. And, of course, a fire permit is required.

HeartBar14

In the San Bernardino National Forest there are several back woods ‘fire safe’ camping spots, that are noted with a single yellow post & some may require reservations in busy summer months. You can find out more on reserving from the Big Bear Discovery Center, 909-382-2790

campfires bannedExtra caution should be used when winds are high, camp fires are often banned due to wildfire danger. Check with local rangers for up to date conditions and always get your campfire permit.

No restrooms, no water, no facilities. Just a dirt road, a fire ring & a single picnic table. Hopefully your table will not be shot up, by the local rednecks who ‘get off’ doing stupid stuff like this. Pick up any litter & leave the place better than your found it.

Yellow Post Camps

These backroad camps are perfect for the 4×4 group, stressed out social club, church group w/ rugged van, or the city SUVer who wants to get away from the crowds. The most sought after camp spots are nearest to the lake or a site accessible by RVs and horse trailers, but there are many more excellent camp sites to be discovered. USDA Forest Service Map is highly advised to reach these remote, dirt road camp areas. Rugged, steep, one lane dirt roads that lead to some of these spots. A passenger car is sometimes not suitable for all dirt roads. Rutted and steep means turn around. Wet weather changes dirt roads. Often routes close for winter w/ locked gates.

Big Bear Back Roads Camping

download PDF maps
on Big Bear Yellow Post Sites

Campsite7

Big Lots

Cajon Pass Camping near I-15

Idyllwild Dispersed Camping

thomas camp
Topo maps, Wilderness hiking maps, Equestrian trails, OHV maps –

Campfire Restrictions in California

Campfire Bans for 2020

locking down the forests, before they burn (again)

Outside of developed campgrounds and permitted facilities, igniting, building, maintaining or using a fire on national forests in California will be prohibited.

califrepublic

campfire

List of Current Fire Restriction Orders for all USFS National Forests in California w/ links.

Fire Restrictions are now in effect for most all public lands in California. Data and news change weekly, so follow links for most up-to-date restrictions, before you make your drive.

These are the earliest and most restrictive campfire orders ever. No? Maybe the long drought years would be equivalent. Below is a brand new list broken down by federal land regions – forest and deserts, including BLM camping areas.

Looks like we are already into Stage II Restrictions for the begining of summer 2020.

dirtbikesNOTE: BBQ grills, all stoves, smoking, firecrackers, welding, chainsaws,  off roading, dirt biking, hunting and target shooting are restricted within these orders. A few of these fire restrictions are dated to extend until DEC 31, 2025

More details and specifics can be found on each forests .gov web site, so please use THESE LINKS BELOW (before they break).

The land is dry and wildfire threat is an ongoing battle in California.

FOREST-WIDE FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE

vanish views
Wildfires ravage California wild lands every year. Severity, longevity, most deadly. Let this year be different.

 

fish

Northern California

BLM (Bureau of Land Management)blm camps

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds (statewide)
(APR 29, 2020 – DEC 31, 2025)
see the current 2020 BLM Campfire Map

Six Rivers National ForestNFS

campfires only allowed @ developed recreation areas, campgrounds and certain designated fire safe sites
(MAY 29 – NOV 1, 2020)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/srnf/alerts-notices

Klamath National Forest NFS

campfires allowed only @ developed campgrounds & inside wilderness areas (MAY 29 – NOV 1, 2020)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/klamath/alerts-notices/?aid=59110

Modoc National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds (MAY 28)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/modoc/alerts-notices/?aid=5889

USDA PDF map shows only 26 places that you have have a campfire inside Modoc. The far drive could be worth it – for minimal crowds, darkest skies and maximum fishing. Best for week long road trips, super lazy summer style.

Shasta Trinity National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds (MAY 29)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/stnf/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD745550

Persons with a valid California Campfire Permit are not exempt from the prohibitions.

However, persons with a valid California Campfire Permit may use a portable campfire ring/pit, stove, or lantern ( 5+ feet from flammable materials) IF THE UNIT burns gas, kerosene, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel, and is EQUIPPED w/ a shut-off valve.

Wow, what a mouthful. Guess the propane campfire is okay?

propanecampfire
Whatever.

Lassen National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds ( MAY 29)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/lassen/alerts-notices/?aid=59049

SUSANVILLE, Calif. May 29, 2020 – Lassen National Forest is enacting campfire restrictions… effective immediately and until further notice. Outside of developed campgrounds and certain permitted facilities, igniting, building, maintaining or using a fire on national forests in California will be prohibited.

holeinthegroundsign
Lassen Camping near a creek in Northern California

BLM Eagle Lakeblm camps

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
(APR 29, 2020 – DEC 31, 2025)
see the current 2020 BLM Campfire Map

Mendocino National Forest NFS

campfires allowed only @ developed campgrounds & inside wilderness areas (MAY 29 – NOV 30, 2020)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/mendocino/alerts-notices

fout springs
Fout Springs, Stonyford, Northern California

 

mountains

Sierra Nevada California

Plumas National ForestNFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds (MAY 29)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/plumas/alerts-notices

North Sierra where the granite meets the volcanic rock of Lassen. Feather River Watershed, Lake Oroville SRA, Bucks Lake Wilderness, Bald Rock, Quincy, Lakes Basin Recreation Area

secludedcamp
Deane’s Valley Campground, way off the main road, between Quincy and Bucks Lake.

New Signs

Tahoe National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds (MAY 29)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/tahoe/alerts-notices/?aid=58962

Donner Summit and Lake Tahoe get a majority of the Sierra Nevada snowfall and traffic. Deepest snowpacks are measured way up here, with dozens of small lakes surrounded by granite. Less snow means drier forests for 2020, and more tourists means more campfires. One spark is all it takes!

southward2donner
Tahoe National Forest (snowy mountains) April 2020, taken from Oro-Quincy Hwy looking southeast to Donner.

Sierra National Forest NFS

campfires allowed only @ developed campgrounds & inside wilderness areas (JUNE 4 – NOV 30)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/sierra/alerts-notices/?aid=34784

Yosemite’s west side w/ Bass Lake, Mammoth Pool, Granite Creek, Dinkey Creek, McKinley Grove, Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, San Joaquin River, Mono Hot Springs, Edison Lake, Florence, Ward, Courtright, Wishon, Blackrock, and the Kings River. Biggest water reservoirs draws the largest crowds. Be fire safe and camp inside of a developed campground this summer.

Stanislaus National Forest NFS

no campfires outside developed campgrounds
(MAY 28 – NOV 30)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/stanislaus/alerts-notices/?aid=59004

Sonora Pass and the Gold Country have been hit hard by recent wildfires in the past decade, so now we pay the price w/ much tighter campfire restrictions. Popular mid Sierra region, easy access w/ many lakes and reservoirs; highways of CA 108 & CA 44

Eldorado National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
(MAY 29 – NOV 30)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/eldorado/alerts-notices/?aid=58902

BLM Mother Lode
(Gold Country Foothills)blm camps

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds (MAY 29)
https://www.blm.gov/press-release/blm-mother-lode-field-office-initiates-seasonal-fire-restrictions

see the current 2020 BLM Campfire Map

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
(MAY 31 – OCT 31, 2020)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/htnf/alerts-notices/?aid=58910

Eastern Sierra, south of Lake Tahoe, alpine lakes and the headwaters to the Carson River. Walker River, Twin Lakes, Bridgeport, CA

Inyo National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
(MAY 13, 2020 – DEC 31, 2022)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/inyo/alerts-notices/?aid=23491

Campfires banned throughout the Eastern Sierra region until the end of 2022, within both the USFS and BLM campgrounds. US Highway 395, Mount Whitney, Mammoth, June Lake Loop & Mono Lake

goodale
Goodale Creek, Eastern Sierra California

BLM Bishop blm camps

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
(APR 28 – NOV 1, 2020)
https://www.blm.gov/press-release/blm-bishop-field-office-issues-seasonal-fire-restrictions-0

see the current 2020 BLM Campfire Map

Sequoia National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
ABOVE 5000′ elevation
(MAY 28 – NOV 30, 2020)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/sequoia/alerts-notices/?aid=58934

Tighter than normal campfire rules for the drier Southern Sierra. Kern River Canyon, Kennedy Meadows, Chimney Peak and beyond. Drive up hill, gaining levation to Sherman’s Pass or the Western Divide Highway and find a cooler campground in the dense trees. Forget the triple digit heat, brushy river and the masses, and climb to a higher altitude for the Big Trees and Big Meadows. Breckenridge, Horse Meadow, Long Valley, Mountain Home.

Kern Meadows Camping

BLM Bakersfield blm camps

no campfires allowed at all (APR 28)
https://www.blm.gov/press-release/blm-bakersfield-field-office-issues-seasonal-fire-restrictions

see the current 2020 BLM Campfire Map

hiker

Southern California
& Central Coast

Cleveland National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds (all year)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/cleveland/home/?cid=fseprd549882

San Bernardino National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
(MAY 29 – DEC 15, 2020)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/learning/safety-ethics/?cid=FSBDEV7_007776

Angeles National Forest NFS

no campfires outside of developed campgrounds
(DEC 10, 2019 – FEB 1, 2021)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=55824

Los Padres National Forest NFS

no campfires outside developed campgrounds
(MAY 12 – NOV 30, 2020)
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/lpnf/alerts-notices

reyespeakcamp
Camping out near Reyes Peak, off Hwy 33 N of Ojai, CA

 

BLM Deserts Southern Californiablm camps

no campfires allowed at all (APR 29)
see the current 2020 BLM Campfire Map

hiker

Stages of Fire Restriction in California

campfires

Stage I Restriction (ALL YEAR-ROUND):

  • The possession or use of any steel jacketed or steel core ammunition of any caliber. This would include handgun, rifle and shotgun ammunition unless a person is in possession of a valid State of California hunting license and is actively engaged in the legal take/pursuit of game and non-game species in accordance with current California hunting regulations, and
  • During the issuance of Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches, as determined by the National Weather Service (NWS), all recreational shooting and use of campfires, is temporarily suspended to reduce the potential of unintended wildland fire ignitions for the period of the event.

Stage II Restriction:

  • All the restriction in Stage I above, and
  • Setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using open fire of any kind is prohibited, except campfires within approved fire pits and grills provided for in developed recreation sites; or campfires within the Imperial County Special Recreation Management Areas with a valid California Campfire Permit. Controlled flame devices such as portable stoves and lanterns with shut-off valves,using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed and require a valid California Campfire Permit, and
  • Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or camp trailer or while stopped or standing in a three-foot diameter area barren or cleared of all flammable materials and away from federal facility doors, windows and air ducts.

Stage III Restriction:

  • All the restrictions in Stage I above, and
  • Setting, building, maintaining, attending, or using open fire of any kind is prohibited. Controlled flame devices such as portable stoves and lanterns with shut-off valves,using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit, and
  • Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or camp trailer unless prohibited by State or local laws.

Free Campgrounds Sierra

Granite Creek

Free Campgrounds in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, California

no charge camp, no fee camping, free campgrounds

No fee camping: Bare bones. California Sierra Campgrounds without the fee.

NFSlogoDeveloped BLM or NFS campgrounds, where you can still have a campfire. Vault toilets, panic tables and fire rings. Use bear boxes when provided for proper food storage.

secluded campgrounds

Below is a good long list of some favorite free developed campgrounds in the Sierras. Many will require dirt road driving, as most are located well of the highway. Perhaps the 12 mile rough road will thin out the crowds. Free overnight stay!

2020 update: this list is shrinking, as more California National Forests start charging for the smallest of campgrounds. 

campfirePack in your drinking water and pack out your trash. Campfire permits are not required at developed campgrounds; but a bringing a water bucket and shovel is necessary for tending your campfire. Piped water is not always available, or perhaps, not in working order at these primitive style camps. Be prepared to rough it a little.

Sierra National Forest – Central Sierra

Mammoth Pool Areacamptruck

Granite Creek Camp
Granite Creek Campground

Redinger Lake lakeboatramp
open all year long; no campfires

Redinger Campground

Courtright Reservoirlake
no-fee OHV

Voyager Rock 4×4 Camping

4x4

Huntington Lakelake
no-fee OHV

West Kaiser Camp 4×4

Kaiser Pass Roadlake
no-fee camping

Dinkey Creek Roadlake

Sawmill Flat Campground

Kings River Campgroundfish
free river camping

mosquito_lake
Mosquito Lakes @ Ebbetts Pass Hwy 4

Stanislaus National Forest – Central Sierra

Highway 4 – Ebbetts Passhiker

mosquitoTH

Highway 108 – Sonora Pass

Hwy 120 – West of Yosemite NPcamp
Tuolumne Wild & Scenic River

Eldorado National Forest – Central Sierra

Tahoe National Forest – Northern Sierra

creekcanyon
Canyon Creek, Tahoe NF

Highway 89 – Truckeehiker

Interstate 80 – Donner Pass

French Meadows Reservoircanoe

campsite snag lake
Snag Lake (free) Camping on Gold Lake Highway

Plumas National Forest –  Northern Sierra

Brady’s Campcamptruck
NFS Campground
West of Quincy, CA
Highway 70

breckensign

Sequoia National Forest – Southern Sierra

Breckenridge Campground
Forest Rd# 28S06
South of Kern Rivertree_stainglass

Giant Sequoia Area

Kings River Area

Mill Flat Kings River
Mill Flat @ Kings River
campground mill creek
Kings River Camping

see alsoWalk-In Campsites


Primitive Camping California

Sierra Creek Camping

Primitive Camps in California

Free camping outside of a developed campground, for a self-contained camper who wants seclusion and privacy. Real relaxation in total peace and quiet. More nature, less people and minimal vehicles.

Campfire NIghts

Free Campsites • Dispersed Camps  Open Camping Boondocking

primitive camp sites the bare minimum. a clearing for a tent, maybe a fire ring. no toilet, no fees; dirt road access.

campfire

campfire permits required. And it is up to you to know the current fire restrictions in the area you seek to camp overnight.

Campfire Restrictions in California

  • shovel

  • water

  • topo maps

  • trash bags

  • tow strap

  • camping gear

Back Roads to Secluded Camps –

The further out you are willing to drive, the more remote you can be. Good topo maps of the region help you to find these ultimate, secret camping spots. National Forests & BLM Lands require a free camp fire permit to have a campfire.

4x4

Fire safety is always a big concern in wildfire prone areas like California. Additional Permits & Passes may be needed in some forests or parks; each location is different. Check with the local ranger station for up to date restrictions.

Many dirt roads lead avid campers to the best out-of-the-way camp sites. Camps may have picnic tables or just a fire ring, but usually NO toilets. Have the “No Bathroom Blues”? Don’t sweat it. check out the page on Camp Potty

Some camp sites are as bare as a small clearing, a rock fire ring if you’re lucky. A detailed backcountry map is always advised. If you count on your digital mobile device and online access for mapping, you could find yourself very lost. GoogleMaps is known for mislabeling the smallest of back roads – and they do not feature dirt roads either.

free desert washes
Turtle Mountain Road, SoCal

camptruckA high clearance vehicle may be needed to reach certain camp spots, but many can be accessed with a standard passenger car. Low riders will likely bottom out and motorcycle riders will get dusty.

Know your vehicles limitations for any off-road use and don’t get stuck in a bad situation. Soft sand is quite common in deserts and 4×4 might be needed. There aren’t any tow trucks out in the boonies and if you do find one, it’ll cost you something fierce. Watch for large rocks, deep ruts or tree limbs in the road (at any time) and watch low overhanging branches when driving a motorhome in to such spots. Some dedicated, hard-core RV campers prefer to camp in remote locations.

Kern RV spot

yellow-post camp sites

Southern California has something called yellow post camps, but we’ve really ONLY seen them inside San Bernardino National Forest areas, which includes Idyllwild and Mount San Jacinto, plus all the Big Bear Lake Mountains.

YELLOW STICK? These are fire safe spots w/ picnic table; secluded in the forest, some accessible by passenger cars, while other camps require a 4×4 to reach. Yellow post sites campfires are often off limits during fire restrictions, when only fires are allowed inside the larger developed campgrounds.

dirt road and trailheads

Backpackers trailheads often have a few camp sites near the parking lot, but these may be busy during summer months. Dirt roads leading to trailheads can have primitive camp sites along them as well. Long, big creeks in the forests are notorious for having awesome camp sites. Big river camp sites are sometimes free, if you know where to look. Sometimes the smallest of California campgrounds have no charge, first come, first serve (BLM, National Forest, or State run).

freespice

No charge campgrounds in the Sierra Mts 

find free camp spots

Before it got labeled BOONDOCKING: Primitive Camping in remote spots was what we lived for. Camp outside of developed campgrounds, for free. Campfires will usually be banned on these back roads during the driest part of the year. Check with local ranger stations for current fire restrictions.

Campfire Restrictions in California

check

inyohighroad
Inyo High Country Roads
39N06dusk
McCloud #39N06 – Grizzly Peak Lookout Rd

pros and cons

possible dirt road access, seclusion, privacy, darker skies, no fees, no crowds, real peace & quiet

no toilet, no picnic tables, no pavement, no hospital, a long hike out, no cell phone service?

hiker

always be prepared to hike out (if need be). a giant tree can come down and block your exit road. landslides often happen on dirt back roads. the vehicle could break down or become disabled. get a topographic map and know how to read the terrain, without your device/phone.

elevation

PAY extra close attention when driving in (visually with terrain and your eyes and your map). You never know when you may need to back track – or turn around to find a PLAN B campsite.

Avid camper people are indeed known to GPS waypoint their favorite pick campsites (way on the back roads), so they can arrive after work, in the dark, on a Thursday night. Now that’s planning ahead!

rockfirering

Camp Hole

northlassen

Primitive Campsites


Go Solo

Traveling Alone
Camping Solo

Sierra Hiking Path

it’s the way to go… slow & solo

enjoying quality time alone is not weird, wrong, or unnatural, no matter how many strange looks you get from friends & envious co-workers

Solo Outdoor Trips

Stop waiting for someone to do things with. Quit thinking that your best friend or partner will one day magically suggest an outdoorsy road trip, or day hike, or mountain bike ride. YOU are the one who craves the wildness of the earth, the unexplored, the secluded. The time is now for you to start living the life you want, outdoors, in California – today!

maybe it’s time to leave the city, for good

If you’ve just about had it with the pressures of everyday stresses, the wifi city life and the busy pace of civilized society is starting to get to you. Get a clue fast – before you loose your marbles. It’s time for much needed rest and relaxation. Nature is the best place to relax and reconnect with yourself and mother nature.

Looking to relocate to a more RURAL CALIFORNIA?

hiker

A change in scenery. A fresh perspective. A real break from the norm. No shopping, no errands, no phones, no television, no computers, nobody around. No one, except you.

and they might call you anti-social…

Travel Solo

alone, by yourself

away, distant, solely, detached, free, independent, unique, individually

 

The Call of the Wild

Unplug yourself from the hectic rat race and go exploring. Give yourself time to fully unwind: time to think, time to enjoy the outdoors and really find that special place of peace that comes only from earth. Yes, all by yourself.

VISION QUEST

Call it an annual primal ritual, or a first time experiment, traveling solo can be a blessing in disguise. Learning to be alone outdoors, become more aware of the physical world and enjoying yourself is an important key to a balanced life. Whether you seek a quick refresher course for the weekend or a full blown month long road trip, seeking a new comfortable destination and the art of basic relaxing is the main focus for this trip.

Camping Alone

slow going

When you travel alone, it’s easy to take your own sweet time. Going slow is something we don’t usually do in our busy city lives. Time is so precious, so you may as well stretch that vacation out as long as possible. Savor the moments.

Take as long as you like for – photography, picnicking, hiking, stretching, yoga, cooking and stargazing. Firewood collection becomes the biggest chore of the day, and it could take hours. Walking from camp, every direction will lead to a new adventure. Driving back roads at 20 mph is luxurious. No one to be your back seat driver. Sleep in every day if you want. No pressures, no schedules, no big worries. Sunlight, food, heat, weather, cooking and cleaning. Sit back and learn to really relax. Enjoy a secluded camp site for a full week, and get to know the wildlife on a first name basis.

Boy Camping

Follow the back roads to seclusion, or reserve several days at a unique campground. Imagine night after night of peaceful rest, with the sounds of nature surrounding you & the stars of the heavens dancing across the darkest skies.

Explore new terrain every day & move to a new camp every night. Or make it a “stay put” week-long meditation, in one spot. Whatever fits your needs. Either way, you’ll enjoy the solitude & the healing powers of nature. Answering to no one but yourself, you may feel guilty or kinda selfish the first few days, but this will fade as you learn to embrace the solo journey.

And it doesn’t hafta be all about roughin it either. While backpacking into the almighty wilds of the true wilderness has its good points – along with life threatening dangers possible every day, a simple quick weekend trip to a nearby small inn, fishing lodge,  or a bed & breakfast could work for the pampered types. Choose something different and unique, yet know your own limitations (on comfort & on a physical level). Make sure your destination choice is surrounded by some nature and preferably wilderness.

You won’t miss the television one bit!

 

Spend One Full Day a Week Outside in Nature

Good California Maps are a must have! Don’t rely on digital cell service or count on online maps being readily available. The hard-copy versions are always the best back up plan. Old paper maps are the very best, cuz they can often show more hidden waterfalls, trails and old mines than the newer maps.

National Forest maps are best for getting and staying away from the tourist crowds. Visit Destinations to decide what kinda place you wanna explore this season.

AtoZsmalltowns

California has it all – A to Z

which is why the golden state population always seems to be increasing, right? Helping you get away from your normal routine and the masses is what we do best here at Total Escape. Discover thousands of pages, photos and links on this site to create your very own unique retreat.

The mountains, deserts, coastal, rolling oak countryside & even urban escape inside city villages, are perfect starting points for planning your little escape. Desert Retreats California

Desert camping in autumn, winter and springtime months is perfect timing for any kinda soul searching, catching up on a good book, or just gazing out at the vast vistas. Meteor showers fall within the latter part of the year, so stargazing and camping is excellent with the new moon. Temps start to drop come September, so be warned. Mountain cabins drop to their off season rates after summer, but be prepared for chilly temps and get proper outdoor gear.

camping destinations
lakes in calif
California State Parks
hiking trails
BLM camping
back roads
usda nfs
mountains of California
California National Parks
stargazer
desert in cali

Desert Sunsets in Winter

SAFETY TIPS: Give your schedule to someone. Any bit of info is helpful. A map or written itinerary given to a neighbor or close friend will help ensure your safety and timely return. Bring your cell phone, plenty maps, bear mace, a firearm and emergency supplies for additional security.

Campfires in California

Campfires on the Back Roads
Campfires on the Back Roads: permit, shovel & water bucket required

campfireWhen & Where – Campfires in California

Campfire Restrictions in California

California has many different National Forest districts and each region has their own fire restrictions. State Parks & BLM also manages recreation areas & camping in the Golden State. Each agency & region has different rules, so blanket answers cannot apply to general questions on campfires.

CAMPFIRE PERMITS
Campfire permits are required for fires outside of designated recreation sites. During fire restrictions, campfires could be banned. Campfire Permit are available from Forest Service, CalFire or BLM offices or online,
http://www.preventwildfireca.org/

ranger

Manter Fire, Dome Land Wilderness
Manter Fire [2000], Dome Land Wilderness, Southern Sierra Nevada

the new abnormal

California suffers more from wildfires now than ever before. Native tribes let lightning strike wild fires burn and they did not suppress wildfire. Residential development creeping ever higher and denser into the foothills, an abundance of roadways, with the overgrown forest make fire danger ever more real.

Closed off wilderness areas, impassable dirt roads, landslides, fallen trees everywhere. Utility services (power lines), plus high winds and overgrown forest also play a huge part in the current wildfire catastrophes. Drought conditions or record winter rains, the huge population on the west coast -along with many other factors – means more fire danger. Educate yourself and others on fire safety, forests and weather patterns. Heed the wind, while in the wild. Wind spreads fire easily!tent camping

Current Fire Restrictions:

By mid summer we have usually have several wild land fires burning, which means campfire restrictions are usually in place before JULY 4th weekend. When this happens – No open campfires are allowed in the backcountry or on the back roads.

Often in the driest of years, no campfires are allowed (even inside the campgrounds).

camp

If you love to primitive camp outside of developed campgrounds, you need to plan more road trips for spring time & autumn. Or head further north, well above Redding – where the forest are moist and snow graces Mount Shasta year round. Or perhaps, go desert camping during winter months. Checking the National Forest web sites can be confusing and their online information could be outdated.

Each forest and area is individually managed. No concise, easy-to-read list or online map exist on which forests are allowing backcountry campfires – and which ones are not. Conditions seem to change so often and they aren’t great about updating those .gov web sites.  Best to call a local ranger station and ask about any current fire restrictions. You know, actually “talk on a phone” to a USFS, BLM or CalFire official.  If you can speak to a field ranger, they can tell you more on dispersed camping. Or you can navigate the USDA web site to find current ALERTS & RESTRICTIONS. Cryptic lingo may be encountered, and many clicks maybe needed; possibly forcing you to download a PDF of current fire rules.NFSlogo

Here is a page with all the California National Forests listed w/ phone numbers
https://totalescape.com/active/campstuff/NF/NFS.html

Narrow down a specific region by checking out where fires are active today and selecting a region well away from big fires.
http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/

see more on this topic –

Fire Safety
Camping Without a Campfire
Firewood Dealers

rock fire ring

Camp Fires Correctly

walkincampsite
Eagle Lake Tent Campground

 

NO Campfires?
No Campfires in California?

hiker

Fire Light Cove
Cove Camping in Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Camp Fires Correctly

desert bonfires
Deserts & beaches are the only places for bonfires.

kill your television

Camp Fires
The heat source, the light source, the cook source, the sock drier, the night supplier, the outdoor LIVING ROOM. The campfire is the center stage for all entertainment, dining, drinking, music, true tales and ghost stories alike.

Since the beginning of time humans have gathered around the campfire at dark. This nightly ritual is built into us on the deepest level. We miss this today. We miss the real conversations, the community, the bonding, the stories, the soul searching. We miss the connection with nature, the fresh air and the great outdoors. The night sky filled with stars and maybe a meteor shower, a hot drink and the glow of the campfire coals. Enjoying the wilderness requires certain skills. FIRE is only ONE skill – for survival, for cooking, for warmth, for safety.

Total Escape is dedicated to those who yearn to camp, often.

In Certain Circles
photo – Charlie Sweeney 2010

Some folks cannot imagine camping without a campfire, but we better get used to it here on the West Coast. Weather patterns swing from years of super-dry drought to deluge and drenching – as we’ve seen of recent in California. Dry conditions means high wildfire dangers, tight camp stove and strict campfire restrictions.

Each California region, National Forests and State Parks have their own fire restrictions, so call ahead to rangers for current fire conditions on the place you wish to visit. Certain mountain locations will ban fires in the back country, fires on the back roads and sometimes in extreme conditions, no fires allowed even inside a developed campground.

Campfire Basics
Sagebrush could be cleared back another few feet, at least.

Campfire Restrictions

fire

California is well known for its unforgiving drought conditions and its seasonal wildfire danger. Always know the fire conditions in the area you plan to camp. Most Southern California regions have banned ‘open campfires’ in forested areas, due to wildfire threat and population density. Call ahead to get an update on road closures and current campfire restrictions. Find California BLM offices & NFS ranger stations

rockfirering

Campfire Permits

If you plan on camping outside of a developed campground, you will need to get a free “camp fire permit”, which can be obtained at the local rangers office.

Find more on FREE camp fire permits

DSCN3700

California Camp Fires

  • RULE # 1 – Never leave a campfire unattended
  • Build campfires in designated rings. Always try to use an existing ring when possible. If you must build a new rock fire ring, follow the guide on FireSafe
  • You will need water source & bucket, plus a decent shovel for building, maintaining and controlling a campfire. BRING enough water & tools with you to control a fire.
  • A ten foot clearance – all around, down to the bare dirt is the best practice. No brush close to the ring, no bushes, no leaves or pine needles. No dry over-hanging tree branches.
  • You might need to clean trash out of the fire pit, so bring heavy duty trash bags, or a spare old box. Shovel comes in handy here.
  • Kindling is key to getting a good fire going fast, so gather more of the small stuff. Wood gathering away from camp is usually better pickens.
  • Use environmentally friendly fire starters (with damp wood, if you must); not the BBQ lighter fluid or gasoline
  • Building fires up against a big boulder scars them w/ black soot, and although it can reflect heat back to you, it is seldom worth the unsightly damage
  • Bring chainsaws or hand saws for cutting your own campfire wood in the forest
  • Gathering wood for fuel — use only dead and down wood
  • A ranger issued “wood cutting permit” is required if you plan on cutting a full cord
  • Firewood page – buying locally, in California
  • Never burn plastics, batteries or other toxic materials in campfires
  • Tossing beer bottle caps into a campfire only litters site for future campers
  • While glass bottle smelting is a real treat among boys at night, which one is actually gonna get their hands dirty & clean up broken glass out of the campfire the following morning?
  • Do not leave any hot coals during the day (if you are away from camp). Winds could pick up.
  • Always douse campfire with water completely when breaking camp. Stir it, feel for heat, and drown it more if you hear sizzling or see bubbling.
  • Read more wild fire / campfire info on our FireSafe page

Drown Fires

Last Final Step
The Final Step of Breaking Camp

Campfire Pits & Fire Containers
Campfire Pits & Fire Containers

Stormproof LIghters
Stormproof Lighters

duskatblue

Developed Campgrounds offer sturdy, permanent, metal campfire pits. Many have adjustable grills built in.nlassenPrimitive Camping is allowed in National Forests throughout California. Campfire permits are required. This style of camping is more peaceful and secluded, without neighbors, without fees and without amenities (no table, no fire ring, no toilet)

leftovers

Cast Iron and a Campfire (no fuel cost, no stove needed)

Camp Clueless

Camping Tips

California Camping Tips

New to California? Never camped before? Haven’t been out in years? No idea of where to start? Total Escape is here to help with all your camping questions, local destinations and share tips; Introducing you to the big adventure in inexpensive vacationing, primarily outdoors. Find rural, remote locations, ranches, small towns, rivers, lakes, creeks, well away from the crowds. Get outta town more often for less money.

WhiteFir Camp

Camp at Echo Lake

click here for all kindsa cool
california camping destinations

National Parks National Forests State Parks California BLM OHV routes California Wilderness
Beach Camping
California Forests
Wineries
Desert Parks
California Back Roads California Lakes

boon-docking basicscheck

  • be a self sufficient camper
  • get a campfire permit
  • have a shovel, bucket and water
  • bring topographic maps
  • get off the paved roads
  • arrive before dark, or bring GPS
  • expect to find best camp spots already taken, have a plan B & C
  • prepare for bears @ camp, if camping in the forest
  • minimal, if any, cell phone signal

free RV camping

RV

free Campgrounds Sierra

camp

Creekside Camp
California Creekside Camps
roundtentcamp
Mammoth Fishing & Camping
bigdoortent
Flat, level, private, free. >>>> Find the perfect tent spot!

All Lake Campgrounds

davisatsunset

California Lakes A-Z

alphabetically listed; cross reference by lake or campground name. reservations may be accepted for certain locations; follow links.

Developed Lake Campgrounds
inside California

lake campgrounds

lakes mountains foothills camp  boating fishing hiking State Parks NFS

Most of the lake campgrounds listed below are traditional style campgrounds with easy access: paved driveways, toilets, tables, maybe piped water. Various agencies manage these park campsites and additional links are provided.

Some of the campgrounds may be more primitive than others, with long dirt road access, gravel driveways, and minimal facilities. This list includes a wide range of lakes, from reservable group camps, to private RV resorts to back road beauties. Even a few campgrounds without fees!

Higher elevation locations close-up for the seasonal winter snow, which can last from NOV-MAY (or later, depending on snowmelt).

  • no motor boats?
  • no RVs?
  • wilderness lake fishing?
  • trailhead access?

Each lake camp is different, so know what is available at the location before you get out there. Many spots do not have a boat ramp. Some lakes do not allow swimming. Some might be 4×4 access only, w/ hairy granite rock road, 12 miles long. If you require a general store within walking distance, then get the maps out, follow links and make sure.

ACORN CAMPGROUND
New Hogan Lake, Valley Springs, Stockton CA

ALMANOR CAMPGROUND
Lake Almanor, Westwood, Chester, California

ANTELOPE LAKE – Plumas NF, Indian Valley, Greenville, CA

Anthony Chabot Park
Lake Chabot Campground

East Bay San Francisco, Oakland, Alameda, CA

ANTLERS RV CAMPGROUND
Lake Shasta, Lakehead, O’Brien CA, Interstate 5

ASPEN GROUP CAMP
Jackson Meadow Reservoir, Tahoe NF, Truckee, California

ASPEN GROVE CAMPGROUND NFS
Eagle Lake, Lassen NF, Susanville, California

ASPEN HOLLOW GROUP CAMP NFS
Sequoia, Kings Canyon National Park, Hume Lake

AUBURN SRA BOAT-IN CAMPING State Park
Auburn State Recreation Area, Gold Country
Folsom Lake, American Arm, Auburn, CA

lakes

BAILEY COVE CAMPGROUND
Lake Shasta, California

BASS LAKE – Sierra National Forest, South of Yosemite NP NFS

BEAR RIVER GROUP CAMP
Lower Bear Reservoir, Eldorado National Forest

BENBOW LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA State Park
Mendocino Benbow Lake, NorCal Redwoods US 101

BERGER CAMPGROUND NFS
Packer Lake @ Lakes Basin Recreation Area, Yuba River, North Gold Country California; Sierra City, Downieville CA

BIG COVE CAMPGROUND
Frenchman Lake, Feather River, Plumas NF, Portola CA

BIG SILVER GROUP CAMP
Union Valley Reservoir, US Hwy 50, Placerville, Gold Country

BLACK BUTTE LAKE – North Sac Valley, NorCal

BLACK OAK CAMPGROUNDNFS
Stumpy Meadows Reservoir, Eldorado NF
East of Georgetown, CA

BLACKROCK RESERVOIR
North fork of Kings River, Sierra NF
Western Sierra Nevada

BLUE LAKES, South of Lake Tahoe
PGE Campgrounds @ Carson Pass, Hwy 88

  • Blue Lake Dam
  • Lower Blue Lake Campground
  • Middle Creek Campground
  • Upper Blue Lake Campground

BLUE LAKE DISPERSED CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass, Truckee, CA
PGE Campground, first come
4×4 roads and hike-in access only jeep30 hike

BOCA RESERVOIR – Tahoe NF, Truckee, California NFS

BOULDER GULCH CAMPGROUND NFS
Kern Canyon, Lake Isabella, California

BOWMAN LAKE (5665′ elev)
Tahoe National Forest, N of Donner Pass

  • BOWMAN LAKE CAMPGROUND

BRANNAN ISLAND STATE RECREATION AREA State Park
Sacramento River @ California Delta, Lodi CA

Indian Rock Beach, Bucks Lake California

BUCKS LAKE – North Sierra, Plumas National Forest

BURNEY FALLS STATE PARK CAMPGROUND State Park
Lake Britton SRA, Burney, California

BUSHAY CAMPGROUND
Lake Mendocino, California

coolsprings

BUTT VALLEY Reservoir – PG&E Campgrounds
West of Lake Almanor

BUTTE LAKE – Lassen Volcanic National Park NPS

  • BUTTE LAKE CAMPGROUND
  • BUTTE LAKE GROUP CAMP
  • BUTTE LAKE STOCK CORRALhorses

lakes

CARR LAKE CAMPGROUND
North of Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
hike-in camp sites

Castaic Lake RV Park
North Los Angeles County, Castiac, CA Interstate 5

CHEKAKA CAMPGROUND
Lake Mendocino, Wine Country California, US Hwy 101

CHERRY LAKE (wildfire 2013)
West of Yosemite NP

  • CHERRY VALLEY CAMPGROUND

CHILCOOT CAMPGROUND
South of Frenchman Lake, East Plumas NF, Feather River, Portola CA

Chowchilla Recreation Area
Eastman Lake, Central Valley, Fresno CA

CHRISTIE CAMPGROUND
Eagle Lake, south shore; Plumas NF, Susanville, California

CLEAR LAKE SP – Wine Country, California State Park

CODORNIZ RECREATION AREA
Eastman Lake, San Joaquin Valley, Central Valley

COLLEGE CAMPGROUND NFS
Huntington Lake, Western Sierra Nevada

CONVICT LAKE CAMPGROUND NFS
Eastern Sierra, US Hwy 395, Mammoth Lakes

COTTONWOOD SPRINGS CAMPGROUND
Frenchman Lake, Feather River, North Sierra Nevada

COURTRIGHT RESERVOIR hikesNFS
Le Conte Divide, John Muir Wilderness
Sierra NF, Western Sierra Nevada

CROWLEY LAKE
Eastern Sierra, South of Mammoth Lakes

CRYSTAL LAKE
Angeles National Forest, Azusa, CA

lakes

DE VALLE LAKE SRA
Central Valley Reservoir

D.L. BLISS SP State Park
DL BLISS CAMPGROUND
DL Bliss State Park, Lake Tahoe, California

DINKEY CREEK
Dinkey Creek CA; near Dinkey Lakes Wilderness Area
Sierra NF, south of Shaver Lake CA

DONNER STATE PARK State Park
Donner Lake, Sierra Nevada, Donner Pass
, Tahoe NF, Truckee, CA

  • Donner Memorial State Park Campground

lakes

EAGLE LAKE – Lassen NF, Susanville, California

EASTMAN LAKE – California Central Valley, Fresno CA

CAMP EDISON @ SHAVER
EDISON CAMPGROUND
California Edison Campground
@ Shaver Lake, CA, Western Sierra

ELLERY CREEK
McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, California

EMERALD BAY SP State Park
South Lake Tahoe California

lakes

FALLEN LEAF CAMPGROUND 
South Lake Tahoe California

FASHODA CAMPGROUND NFS
Union Valley Reservoir, Mid-Sierra, ElDorado NF

FAUCHERIE GROUP CAMP
Faucherie Lake, Donner Pass Area, Tahoe NF,  Truckee, California

FAWN CAMPGROUND
Trinity Alps Highway 3, NorCal, Trinity Lake CA

FIR COVE CAMPGROUND NFS
Ruth Lake, Mad River CA @ Hwy 36, Six River NF

FISH LAKE CAMPGROUND
Hwy 96, Six River National Forest, Orleans CA

Florence Lake Picnic

FLORENCE LAKE
Sierra National Forest

  • JACKASS MEADOW CAMPGROUND

FOLSOM LAKE SRA State Park
Folsom State Recreation Area, Sacramento CA

FORKS CAMPGROUND
Bass Lake, Sierra NF, South Yosemite

FREMONT CAMPGROUND
near Lake CachumaSanta Barbara Camping

FRENCH MEADOWS RESERVOIR – American River

  • LEWIS CAMPGROUND

FRENCHMAN LAKE – Plumas NF, Feather River, Portola CA

FULLER LAKE
Donner Pass, Tahoe NF
No more Campground; Day Use Only
see – RUCKER LAKE for camping

lakes

GLORY HOLE RECREATION AREA
GLORY HOLE CAMPGROUND

New Melones Reservoir
Angels Camp, California Gold Country

GOLD LAKE, CALIFORNIA
Lakes Basin Recaretion Area, Northern Sierra

GREEN VALLEY CAMPGROUND NFS
Green Valley Lake, Big Bear Lake Area, San Bernardino NF

GRIZZLY CAMPGROUND
Lake Davis, Plumas National Forest, Portola CA

lakes

LAKE HAVASU
Colorado River @ California – Arizona border

HAYWARD FLAT
Trinity Lake, NorCal Highway 3, Weaverville CA

LAKE HEMET
Idyllwild, CA – RV Camping, Southern California

HETCH HETCHY RESERVOIR
NPS Campground, West of Yosemite NP

HIGHLANDS LAKES
Ebbetts Pass Hwy 4, Sierra Nevada

HORSE CREEK
Lake Kaweah, South Sequoia National Park, Three Rivers CA

HUME LAKE – Kings Canyon & Sequoia NP, Hume Lake

HUNGRY GULCH CAMPGROUND NFS
Lake Isabella, Kern River, Kernville CA

HUNTINGTON LAKE – Western Sierra Nevada NFS

HUTCHINS CAMPGROUND
Bucks Lake, CA, Plumas National Forest

Bucks Lake Campgrounds

lakes

ICE HOUSE CAMPGROUNDNFS
Ice House Reservoir, US Hwy 50, El Dorado NF

INDEPENDENCE LAKE 6949′
N of Donner Pass; N of Truckee, CA

  • INDEPENDENCE LAKE CAMPGROUND

ISLAND PARK CAMPGROUND
Pine Flat Reservoir, Kings River, Sierra NF

JACKSON FLAT GROUP CAMPNFS
Jackson Lake, Angeles NF, Wrightwood CA

jacksoncreek
Jackson Creek Campground, Bowman Lake. N Donner Pass, Interstate 80

JACKSON MEADOWS Reservoir – Tahoe NF, Truckee

  • ASPEN GROUP CAMP
  • EAST MEADOW CAMPGROUND
  • FINDLEY CAMPGROUND
  • FIR TOP CAMPGROUND
  • JACKSON POINT
  • PASS CREEK CAMP
  • WOODCAMP

JUANITA LAKE GROUP CAMP
near Butte Valley Wildlife Area, Klamath NF, Weed CA

JUNE LAKE CAMPGROUND NFS
June Lake Loop, Hwy 158, June Lake, CA Eastern Sierra

JUNIPER LAKE – Lassen Volcanic NP NPS

  • JUNIPER LAKE GROUP CAMP
  • JUNIPER LAKE STOCK CORRAL
    Equestrian Camping

Lassen Lakes

KASPIAN CAMPGROUND
hiking trail to Barker Peak @ Lake Tahoe CA

LAKE KAWEAH
just outside Sequoia NP, Three Rivers, CA

KIDD LAKE GROUP CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass @ Soda Springs, CA
kayak, canoe, hike-in camp sites

KINGS BEACH SRA
State Recreation Area Lake Tahoe CA

lakes

LAKE ALMANOR – Northern Sierra Nevada

LAKE BERRYESSA – Wine Country California

  • OAK SHORES CAMPGROUND

LAKE BRITTON  Burney Falls Park State Park

LAKE CACHUMA – Santa Barbara Mountains NFS

LAKE DAVIS – Plumas National Forest, Portola, CA bike

LAKE EDISON – Sierra NF, John Muir Wilderness hikes

LAKE ISABELLA – Kern River, South Sierra Nevada NFS

LAKE MENDOCINO – North Wine Country CA, US Hwy 101

LAKE MOJAVE
Lake Mohave National Recreation Area
Colorado River 4×4 Camping, AZ, CA, NV

LAKE OROVILLE SRA State Park
Oroville Lake State Recreation Area
Loafer Creek, Equestrian Camp, Feather River Oroville CA

LAKE PERRIS SRA State Park
Inland Empire, Southern California

LAKE PILLSBURY
Mendocino NF, N of Ukiah, CA

  • Fuller Grove Campground (currently closed)
  • Oak Flat Creek Campground (currently closed)
  • Poigie Point Campground (currently closed)
  • Sunset Campground (currently closed)
  • Trout Creek Campground (currently closed)

LAKE SONOMA – Wine Country California, Geyserville

LAKE SPAULDING
PG&E Campground, Donner Pass, Interstate 80

tahoe emerald bay
The Gem of the Sierra Nevada – Lake Tahoe

LAKE TAHOE – Sierra Nevada Mountains State Park NFS

LAKE VALLEY Reservoir 
Donner Pass, Tahoe NF

  • LODGEPOLE CAMPGROUND

LAKES BASIN CAMPGROUND NFS
Lakes Basin Recreation Area, North Gold Country

LAKESHORE EAST
Shasta Lake, Northern California

LAKESIDE CAMPGROUND NFS
Prosser Reservoir, OHV Camping, Truckee, California

LEWIS CAMPGROUND
French Meadows Reservoir, American River, W of Lake Tahoe

LIBERTY GLEN CAMPGROUND
Lake Sonoma, Wine Country California

Lake Davis Trails
Lake Davis Trails – hike, bike, horseback

LIGHTNING TREE CAMPGROUND NFS
Lake Davis, Plumas National Forest, Susanville, California

LINDSEY LAKE CAMPGROUND
North of i80 Donner Pass, Tahoe NF

LODGEPOLE CAMPGROUND
Lake Valley Reservoir 
i80 Donner Pass, Tahoe NF

LOGGER FLAT CAMPGROUND
near Hume Lake, near Sequoia & Kings National Parks NPS

LONE ROCK NFS
Antelope Lake, Plumas NF, Indian Valley, Greenville, CA

LONG POINT NFS
Antelope Lake, Plumas NF, Indian Valley, Greenville, CA

LOON LAKE CAMPGROUND NFS
ElDorado NF High Country, Georgetown, CA

LOON LAKE CHALET NFS
ElDorado NF High Country, Georgetown, CA

LOS ALAMOS CAMPGROUND
Pyramid Lake, North Los Angeles, Interstate 5
(no campgrounds on the lakeshore)

LOWER TWIN LAKES NFS
Twin Lakes CA, BRIDGEPORT, Eastern Sierra

LUNDY LAKE CAMPGROUND
Eastern Sierra, East of Yosemite NP

LUPINE CAMPGROUNDNFS
Bass Lake, Sierra NF, South Yosemite

lakes

MAMMOTH POOL RESERVOIR Sierra NF, South of Yosemite NP

MANZANITA LAKE – Lassen Volcanic NP NPS

MARY SMITH CAMPGROUND
Lewiston Lake, Trinity River, Lewiston CA

MEADOW LAKE CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass, Truckee, CA
PGE Campground, high clearance vehicles only

MEEKS BAY CAMPGROUND
Lake Tahoe California, west shore

LAKE MENDOCINO
Lake Campground Mendocino, Ukiah CA, US Hwy 101

MERRILL CAMPGROUND
Eagle Lake Recreation Area, Susanville CA

MESA CAMPGROUND
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, Cajon Pass L.A.

MILLERTON LAKE SRA State Park
Millerton Lake Campground, Fresno CA

MODESTO RESERVOIR REGIONAL PARK
Western Sierra Foothills, Modesto, Merced, Central Valley

MONO LAKE, CALIFORNIA
Eastern Sierra, US Hwy 395 @ Lee Vining, CA

lakes

NELSON POINT
Shasta Lake, Northern California

NEVADA BEACH CAMPGROUND
Lake Tahoe, south shore @ Nevada state line, US Hwy 50

bullards bar California
Bullards Bar, Sierra Nevada Mountains
Dark Day Campground, Bullards Bar

NEW BULLARDS BAR RESERVOIR
Hwy 49, North Gold Country

NEW HOGAN LAKE – Valley Springs, Gold Country

NEW MELONES Reservoir – Angels Camp, Gold Country

NORTH FORK CAMPGROUND
Bass Lake, Sierra National Forest, Yosemite South

NORTH SHORE
Lake Arrowhead, San Bernardino National Forest

lakes

OAK KNOLL CAMPGROUND
New Hogan Reservoir, San Andreas, Gold Country

OAK SHORES
Lake Berryessa, RV Camping in Wine Country

OH RIDGE
June Lake, California, Eastern Sierra

June Lake Loop, Eastern Sierra
June Lake Loop, Eastern Sierra

lakes

PACKER LAKE
North Sierra Nevada, Lakes Basin Recreation Area

  • Berger Campground
  • Packsaddle Campground

PAHA CAMPGROUND
Twin Lakes, Bridgeport CA, Eastern Sierra

PARADISE COVE
Lake Isabella, Kern River California

LAKE PILLSBURY
Mendocino National Forest, N of Ukiah, CA

PINECREST LAKE
Sonora Pass, Hwy 108, Stanislaus National Forest

PINE FLAT RESERVOIR Kings River, Sierra NF

PINE POINT
Shasta Lake, Shasta National Forest

PIONEER POINT
Lake Isabella, Kern River, South Sierra

PROSSER Reservoir –  Truckee Camping w/ OHV Trails

PYRAMID LAKE – North Los Angeles, Interstate 5
(no campground on the lakeshore)

ROUND VALLEY Reservoir
North Sierra @ Indian Valley, Greenville, CA

  • ROUND VALLEY CAMPGROUND

RUCKER LAKE CAMPGROUND
i80 Donner Pass, Tahoe NF

RUTH LAKE –  Mad River, Six River NF NFS

  • FIR COVE CAMPGROUND

lakes

SAGE HILL
Lake Cachuma, Santa Barbara Mountains

SALTON SEA SRA State Park
Salton Sea State Recreation Area, Imperial Valley Desert

SAN LUIS RESERVOIR SRA State Park
Central California, Interstate 5 @ Hwy 152

SARDINE LAKE
Lakes Basin Recreation Area, North Gold Country

SHASTA LAKE – Northern California NFS

SILVER LAKE @ BUCKS
Plumas NF w/ dirt road, Bucks Lake Wilderness & PCT

SILVER LAKE @ CARSON
Carson Pass – Hwy 88, El Dorado NF, Markleeville CA

SILVER LAKE @ JUNE NFS
June Lake Loop – Hwy 158, Eastern Sierra

SILVER LAKE @ LASSEN
Lassn NF, E of Lassen Volcanic National Park

SILVERWOOD LAKE SRA State Park
Cajon Pass, San Bernardino NF, Southern California

SNAG LAKE
North Sierra Nevada, Lakes Basin Recreation Area

SNAKE LAKE CAMPGROUND
Plumas NF, in between Bucks Lake and Quincy, CA

SOUTH SHORE CAMPGROUND
Lower Bear River Reservoir, El Dorado National Forest

SPAULDING LAKE CAMPGROUND
i80 (freeway close) Donner Pass, Tahoe NF

STONY GORGE Reservoir – North Valley

LAKE SUCCESS
Tule River, Porterville, CA

SUGAR PINE POINT SP State Park
Lake Tahoe California, west shore

SUGAR PINE ReservoirNFS
American River, Tahoe National Forest
NE of Foresthill, CA

  • Giant Gap Campground
  • Shirttail Creek Campground
  • Forbes Group Campground

SUGARLOAF RIDGE SP State Park
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Santa Rosa, Wine Country

SUMMIT LAKE – Lassen Volcanic National Park NPS

SUNSET CAMPGROUND NFS
Union Valley Reservoir, El Dorado NF, US Hwy 50

SWEETWATER CAMPGROUND NFS
Mammoth Pool Reservoir, Sierra NF, North Fork CA

Mammoth Pool Reservoir

lakes

TAHOE SRA Campground State Park
Tahoe State Recreation Area, Lake Tahoe California

TANNERY GULCH NFS
Trinity Lake, Shasta Trinity NF

TRIMMER CAMPGROUND NFS
Pine Flat Reservoir, Kings River, Sierra National Forest

Trinity KOA Kampground
Trinity Lake, Hwy 3, Northern California

TRINITY LAKE – Shasta Trinity NF, Weaverville CA NFS

TROUT CREEK CAMPGROUND
Lake Pillsbury, Mendocino National Forest

TRUMBULL LAKE
Virginia Lakes, US Hwy 395, Eastern Sierra

TURLOCK LAKE SRA State Park
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area, Central Valley

TUTTLETOWN RECREATION AREA
New Melones Reservoir, Angels Camp, Gold Country

TWIN LAKES – Eastern Sierra, Bridgeport CA NFS

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Sunrise at Camp

Zion Sunrise Mesa

What kind of camper are you?

Determining the ideal tent location will vary on whether you are an ‘early riser’ or late night person, otherwise known as the “up-til-wee-hours ’round the campfire” kinda camper.

Night Owl
OK, all you wine-o’s and silly drunks, try to be a considerate camper and place your tent near the campfire if you plan to be up late. You and your partying cohorts will not disturb those who had planned to get ‘a good nights sleep’ and can stumble to your tent close by with ease. Make sure that you have a large bush, boulder or tree on the east side of your tent, as this is where the dreaded sunlight comes in.

Early Riser
If you are the kinda person who welcomes the sunrise, sitting on a boulder with a healthy cup of fresh brewed coffee, then you probably don’t wanna hear folks up late around the campfire discussing philosophy, right next to your pillow. Ear plugs can be good to pack if you plan to camp with more than a few folks. Setting up your tent well away (like 100 feet) from all communal areas will help you get a decent nights sleep, allowing others to do their normal thing without even bugging you.

Light Sleeper
If you wake at the slightest footsteps (or car alarm) you might wanna find a distant camp for your bedding spot. Camp outside of a developed campground for the most secluded and quiet of nature experiences. If you cannot stand anyone snoring, then kindly ask your neighbors ahead of time and position your tent accordingly.

Yosemite Lake View Camp Sites

Sunrise: Determining East & the North Star

determining your direction
If you fear the morning sunlight like a true vampire, make sure that your tent is not in the direct line of fire at 6 am, just in case you planned to sleep in until 9 am.

If you arrive at camp after dark & need to decipher where the sun comes up, just locate the North Star silly. Hmmm, sounds easy? Now where is that sucker. See the diagram below for gathering the astronomy part of the lesson.

Now, for all of you who didn’t get a decent high school education: Locating east can be easy if you always remember this small exercise. Standing up, point your face to the north, extend your right arm out sideways & this will be east . The same goes for left/west. South is right behind ya. The sun sit low in the winter months & follows more along the south horizon.

The familiar stars called the big dipper is a nice way to find the north star. Draw a line from the edge of cup — spilling out straight over to the brightest star.

north star polaris

 

Alder Camp


Dispersed Camping Sequoia

bone creek

Sequoia maps

Open Camping in Sequoia National Forest – Forest Road Camping

Seeking secluded campsites? This is one of the best areas to camp in pine forest w/ privacy, relatively close to Southern California. Plenty of primitive car camping on the dirt roads throughout this whole Sequoia & Kern River area.

nfs primitive back roads mountain biking hiking mountains

No facilities. No picnic tables, no toilet, no fees. Just a rock campfire ring & a clearing. Previously used sites have already been established usually near streams. Try to use these first, if at all possible. It takes a bit of exploring but you will find the perfect spot. Don’t even attempt to try to find these kinds of camp spots at night. They are often buried deep in the forest with no visible markers what-so-ever. But in trade, you will be lulled to sleep by your own private mini waterfall & no RV generators. Many of these back roads are closed & gated during winter months due to snow & rock slides.

No amenities are available in this neck of the woods, but plenty of seclusion & wilderness. Check official Wilderness rules for proper knowledge of the area restrictions. You must get a free camp fire permit from the ranger station in order to build a fire outside of a developed campground. A large shovel, plus bucket w/ water are a bare minimum for the privilege of camping like this. Certain dry seasons (summers into autumn) have very strict camp fire restrictions. Check with the ranger to see the latest on building campfires on the back roads. camping

A Sequoia Forest Service Map is highly advised for this area. There are so many dirt roads for dispersed primitive camping on the back roads. Due to weather & erosion, some roads may require 4×4 or high clearance, so come prepared with a plan B.

Camping Checklist to make sure you’ll have what you need. The drive up from the Los Angeles area averages 3-4 hours and is well worth the trip. Once you’ve found that perfect spot, take detailed note of it, for the next time you visit the area. Then, you will be able to get there easily in the middle of the night, if need be.

Backroad Camping Sequoia: Follow the forest road numbers with your Sequoia map to discover amazing back road camping options. Your own private stream or meadow. Secluded campsites with your own mini waterfall.

overview

see also –
Sequoia Campground Camping

monache mdw

23S64 – Sequoia NF

Sequoia Creeks

Bear Meadow: Forest Rd# 23S64 – Packsaddle Creek, Sequoia National Forest

For the more adventurous & ones seeking some seclusion, Bear Meadow is located up the dirt road a bit from Thompson Camp Spring . From Forest Road #23S16 @ Thompson Camp Spring – continue straight on the dirt road #23S64, cross over the one lane wooden bridge; within a mile, turn left into a secluded creek side camping area. Note: Bears are common here (hence the name Bear Meadow)!

Packsaddle Creek runs thru this forest. Very primitive area with rutted dirt roads & sometimes overgrown; there are several campsites back in here for the ones who seek the wild. (Yes, bears & wild animals are very common way back here). If you continue on straight on the main dirt road Packsaddle Meadow also has camping spots & small corral. The last time we were out this way (2002-ish), the dirt road does not connect with highway to the west, as indicated on the map; due to landslide.

Sequoia National Forest

Sequoia National Forest MAP

Closest small towns are:

Sierra Creeks

Primitive Camp San Diego

Fire Light Cove

Open car camping is allowed in several places inside Cleveland National Forest, although NO campfires are permitted in the backcountry (trailside or dirt roads) – due to the high fire danger. Your best for FREE, open, dispersed camping (with a campfire) is Anza Borrego Desert State Park. Lower elevations w/ summertime temperature can get very hot, so plan for higher elevation camps. The more you explore, the more you can find.

The Tom Harrison San Diego Backcountry Map can get you out there on the back roads.

Laguna Mountain (off Sunrise Hwy. S-1)
[south Cleveland National Forest]
East of San Diego; 40 miles E on Interstate 8

  • Pine Creek Road – with plenty of mountain biking trails
  • Noble Canyon – popular mountain biking trail
  • Kitchen Creek Road (warning, heavy use w/ US Border Patrol)

Palomar Mountain (off Hwy. 76)
[north Cleveland National Forest]
N of San Diego; 40 miles N on Interstate 15

Anza Borrego Desert Camping
East of San Diego CA

  • Dispersed camping nearly anywhere in Anza desert (w/ a metal fire bucket)

[higher elevations (1000-2000′) near Cleveland National Forest]

  • Oriflamme Canyon (off Road S-2)
  • Culp Valley (off Road S-22)
  • Blair Valley (off Road S-2)

[lower elevations (100′) near Hwy 78]

Cupl Valley Camp

A winter day out exploring Culp Valley back roads.

mortero trails

Maps Mountains / San Diego Maps