Can You Disperse Camp in Inyo National Forest?

The Inyo National Forest is a vast area of natural beauty located in California. With 1.9 million acres, it is the second largest national forest in the state and provides a variety of recreational activities for visitors. Camping is one of the most popular activities in Inyo National Forest, and visitors can choose to stay in one of the many developed campgrounds or opt for dispersed camping. But what exactly is dispersed camping, and can you do it in Inyo National Forest?

Dispersed camping is a type of primitive camping that doesn’t involve staying at an established campground. Instead, campers find their own spot to set up their tent or RV away from any designated campground. This type of camping allows people to explore more remote areas of the forest and experience a more rustic outdoor experience.

The Inyo National Forest does allow dispersed camping throughout most of its boundaries. However, there are some restrictions on where and how it can be done. For example, campers must be at least one mile away from any established campground or developed recreation site such as picnic areas or group campsites.

In addition, there are limits on how long you can stay in one spot when dispersed camping in Inyo National Forest. Campers are limited to 14 days within any 30-day period and must move at least five miles away from their previous location after the 14-day period has expired.

When dispersed camping in Inyo National Forest, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles so as not to leave any trace behind that would harm the environment or disturb other users of the forest. All trash should be packed out with you and no alteration should be made to existing vegetation or wildlife habitat.

Conclusion:

Yes, you can disperse camp in Inyo National Forest with some restrictions. You must stay at least one mile away from any established campground or developed recreation site such as picnic areas or group campsites, have a maximum stay limit of 14 days within any 30-day period, and must move at least five miles away from their previous location after the 14-day period has expired. It is also important to follow Leave No Trace principles when dispersed camping so as not to leave any trace behind that would harm the environment or disturb other users of the forest.

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Jennifer Watson