BLM Chimney Peak Dispersed Area
Backcountry camping at 7,800 feet elevation in scattered clearings among granite boulders and Jeffrey pines. Sites tucked into natural windbreaks with commanding views west toward the Central Valley and east into the Golden Trout Wilderness. Popular with backpackers heading into the high country and hunters in season. Sites can accommodate rigs up to about 25 feet but navigation between boulders requires careful spotting.
Access via Chimney Peak Road (Forest Road 22S05) from Nine Mile Canyon Road. Rough, rocky track requiring 4WD and high clearance. Road deteriorates significantly after summer monsoons. Snow-free roughly May through October. No facilities, but natural springs nearby provide water (treat before drinking). Limited cell service from high ridges only.
High-granite camping near Golden Trout Wilderness
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Kernville, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 35.2 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD |
| Access road surface | Rocky |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |