What We Found Boondocking Along Route 395 Will Surprise You!

Join us as we explore the incredible boondocking spots along California’s legendary Route 395! From snow-capped peaks to desert valleys, this scenic highway is packed with history, hidden gems, and endless adventure. We find some amazing free campsites, discover quiet places to disconnect, and even make a detour to the historic town of Virginia City, once a bustling mining town filled with Wild West charm.

U.S. Route 395 is one of the most scenic highways in the western United States, stretching roughly 1,300 miles from the Mojave Desert in Southern California all the way to the Canadian border in Washington. Often called the “Backbone of the Eastern Sierra,” this legendary route winds through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the West — from towering granite peaks and alpine lakes to hot springs, ghost towns, and high desert plains.

Dispersed camping along Route 395 is one of the best ways to truly experience the wild beauty of the Eastern Sierra and beyond. Unlike traditional campgrounds, dispersed camping allows you to set up camp for free on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the U.S. Forest Service. The freedom it offers is unmatched — you can park your camper van or RV among towering pines, beside a bubbling creek, or on a desert plain with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.