Free Camping Near Yosemite National Park, John Muir Trail access points
No dispersed camping inside Yosemite outside wilderness permits. Free dispersed camping is available on the eastern side in Inyo NF and BLM land near Mono Lake; a free CA campfire permit is required for any open flame or stove.
- Land manager
- Inyo National Forest / BLM (Mono Lake area)
- State
- California
- Free campsites listed
- 3
Campsites
-
Mono Mills Dispersed Area
No permit required National Forest
Sites north and south of Hwy 120, views of Mono Lake and the Sierra.
Stay limit: 14 days · Amenities: None
-
Owens River Road Dispersed
No permit required National Forest
Just off US-395; convenient staging area before Tioga Pass into Yosemite.
Stay limit: 14 days · Amenities: None
-
Rattlesnake Canyon Dispersed (Lee Vining)
No permit required National Forest / BLM
Near Tioga Pass entrance, north of Mono Lake Vista Point.
Stay limit: 14 days · Amenities: None
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to camp near Yosemite National Park, John Muir Trail access points?
No permit is required for any of the free campsites listed in this region.
Is camping near Yosemite National Park, John Muir Trail access points free?
Yes — all 3 campsites listed here are free dispersed camping near Yosemite National Park, John Muir Trail access points, with no reservation or fee.
What's the stay limit near Yosemite National Park, John Muir Trail access points?
The stay limit is 14 days at all campsites listed in this region.