About DispersedUSA

DispersedUSA is an independent, hand-researched directory that helps hikers, backpackers, and travelers find free, permit-free dispersed campsites near popular US hiking destinations.

How we source data

Every listing is compiled from a combination of: official US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) dispersed-camping regulations for the relevant district; first-hand trip reports and tips shared publicly on Reddit communities such as r/CampingandHiking and r/Ultralight; and established outdoor-recreation guides. Each campsite page links to its underlying sources so you can verify details yourself.

What “no permit required” means here

We only list sites that, per current published regulations, do not require a camping permit or advance reservation for a standard short stay by a small group. Some sites have separate requirements that are not a camping permit — for example, a free California campfire permit for using a stove or open flame, or a small self-pay parking fee at a trailhead. We call these out explicitly on each listing.

Important disclaimer

Coordinates are approximate area centers (not exact GPS pins) meant to guide you to the general dispersed-camping corridor or forest road. Conditions, road access, and fire restrictions change seasonally — always verify with the local ranger district or BLM field office before you go, and check current fire restrictions.

Regulations, road access, and fire restrictions change with the seasons and with local conditions (fire danger, washouts, closures). Always check with the local ranger district or BLM field office immediately before your trip. DispersedUSA is not affiliated with the National Park Service, US Forest Service, or BLM, and cannot guarantee real-time site availability.