US Forest Service
Learn about camping and boondocking in national forests and grasslands.
South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
South Ridge Yellow Post Sites, Idyllwild, CA These three Yellow Post sites are suitable only for cars, vans, pickup trucks, not motorhomes. 4WD is advised because of steep inclines and soft dirt in places. You can tow a trailer up here, but only small trailers (no larger than 20ft), as long as you have 4WD. Site #1 – Small site. The easiest site to get into because it’s the closest to the Tahquitz Rd, however, the forest road up the ridge is still steep, still dirt, and still bumpy. Site #2 – Another small site further up the road. Site #3 – A ... Read more
Schnebly Hill Road
Schnebly Hill Road, Coconino National Forest Coconino National Forest remains high on every boondocker’s list of favorite forests, mostly due to the cooler weather in summer, the shade of tall mountain pines, and the dozens of hiking trails offering grand views of red rock canyons. Schnebly Hill Road happens to be one of the more popular boondocking roads in the Coconino because it offers so many opportunities for camping, yet still remains within a 20 minute drive into Flagstaff for just about anything you need. If you want to get there early in the year, Forest crews generally open Schnebly ... Read more
Santa Rosa Yellow Post Sites
Santa Rosa Yellow Post Sites, San Bernardino NF These fifteen (15) yellow post sites are all located along Santa Rosa Truck Trail, close to Santa Rosa Peak. The truck trail requires a 4WD vehicle. Small trailers are okay, but any trailer longer than 20 feet is just not going to make it due to hairpin turns and steep inclines. All sites are small, suited only for cars, vans, and pickup trucks. Water is available only at Santa Rosa Spring Yellow Post Site 3 & 4, the only restroom is located near Yellow Post Sites 10 – 14. Trash containers are not ... Read more
Rockview Designated Camping Area
Rockview Designated Camping Area, Sedona, AZ The sloped terrain of Rockview can present some challenges in leveling your rig, while the low availability of spaces can cause you to look elsewhere. Some campers have mentioned challenges with mud during rainy periods, emphasizing the need for caution. Despite the potential road difficulties, the dispersed camping spots are described as abundant, providing open and beautiful views, particularly of Sedona and Mingus Peak. Crowd levels at Rockview Designated Camping Area seem to fluctuate. While one review noted a crowded atmosphere with long-term occupants, another highlighted a less crowded experience with only a few ... Read more
Pumphouse Wash Campground
Pumphouse Wash Campground, Sedona, AZ When Does it Open: The campground is seasonal, generally opening up around May after the roads dry out, and closing after the first snow fall. Crowdedness: During the warmer part of the year, the campground will fill up quickly. It’s best to arrive during the week, sometime before 5:00pm to find an open site. Road Conditions: The campground is accessed by Forest Road 237, which is hard-packed dirt & gravel, but suitable for any vehicle. The road can get bumpy in places. The loop roads are more bumpy, but still doable by any vehicle. Trash: ... Read more
Pisgah Point Camping Area
Pisgah Point Camping Area, Land Between the Lakes NRA Pisgah Point Camping Area, nestled within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in Kentucky, offers a rustic camping experience with no additional fees other than the purchase of a backcountry permit. Situated in the heart of nature, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for camping enthusiasts. One of the standout features of Pisgah Point is its breathtaking fall camping experience. The vibrant foliage paints a vivid canvas against the serene backdrop of the lake, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for reconnecting with nature. What truly sets Pisgah ... Read more
Owens River Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA
Owens River Road, Inyo National Forest, California Owens River Road starts from US-395 at a tiny hamlet called “Crestview”, about 20 minutes north of Mammoth Lakes, CA. Crestview is so small, it’s not anything at all. All that’s there is a CalTrans Maintenance station and a house for the crews. Otherwise, the road is more known for leading folks out to Big Springs Campground. But don’t drive out to the campground. You’ll find dozens and dozens of free boondocking sites located along smaller forest roads branching off of Owens River Road. Most of these sites take you deep into the ... Read more
Nolan Designated Camping Area, Sedona, AZ
Nolan Designated Camping Area, Sedona, AZ Crowdedness: Opinions on crowd levels differ. Some campers find Nolan less congested, with a dozen or so campers allowing them to find decent sites with views. However, others express concerns about increased crowding, describing it as crowded and lacking privacy, particularly for larger RVs. Noise Levels: The general consensus is that Nolan maintains a surprisingly quiet atmosphere. While some describe the area as quiet for the most part, others express concerns about the potential for noise disturbances due to the lack of enforceable rules. A camper mentions the option to run a generator close to others ... Read more
Moose Creek Trailhead Campground, Victor, ID
Moose Creek Trailhead Campground, Victor, ID The campground at Moose Creek Trailhead is accessed from State Highway 33, and turning right along Old Jackson Highway. Make a quick right again on E 10800 S, which changes names to Forest Road 276 once you enter Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Only a few hundred feet ahead, you’ll see the signs warning of bears, along with the much smaller sign announcing your entry into Wyoming. The first campsite is located on the other side of the bridge crossing over Moose Creek. It’s on your left, and if you look close enough you’ll spot the bear-proof food ... Read more
Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites
Keller Peak Yellow Post Sites, San Bernardino NF Note: These sites are normally closed due to heavy snow from late Fall to late Spring. All sites are small in size, better suited for cars, vans, and pickup trucks. Small trailers under 20ft in length are probably okay. Keller Peak Rd is paved all the way through. How Crowded: These sites are almost always occupied during the warmer months, and often by homeless people. How Noisy or Peaceful: Sites #7, 8, and 9 offer the most peace and quiet due to being solitary. The other sites are paired together and can be more ... Read more
