Grouse Springs-Bear Creek (FR M3) in CA -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in California
Grouse Springs-Bear Creek (FR M3) in CA
A 47.0-mile stretch of graded dirt National Forest road in Lake County, CA.
Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 30 days.
19.8 of the 47 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Mostly graded dirt, with 20.3 miles of dirt. Climbs 6,700 ft over 47 miles -- sustained grades near 12%, with pitches to 49%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~150 ft on the downhill side. Winds through 82 switchbacks. Dead-end road -- no mapped turnaround; expect to back out or unhitch. Water crossings 18.2, 30.3, 33.1 and 33.3 miles in.
Crockett Peak stands 1,130 ft above the site, 0.7 miles south. The nearest town, Nice, is 22 mi off.
September normals 55–75°F, 0.3″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov