Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area
05 reviews32588 Highway 190, Springville, CA 93265
Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for this campground; sites are first-come, first-served with no reservation system.
About this campground
Escape to the pristine wilderness of Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area, where true solitude awaits at 7,100 feet within the magnificent Giant Sequoia National Monument. This undeveloped camping sanctuary offers adventurous souls the chance to disconnect completely—no facilities, no services, just you and the untamed forest. Cast a line into the crystal-clear waters of Peppermint Creek, where native trout await beneath the surface (be sure to check current fishing regulations with the Department of Fish and Wildlife before wetting your line).
The Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area exclusively supports dispersed and primitive camping. It is tailored towards campers seeking an off-grid experience.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings golden days perfect for hiking and creek-side relaxation, with warm sunshine filtering through the canopy and virtually no rain to dampen your adventure. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant hues, crisp air signals the approaching winter, with possible snowfall arriving late in the season. Winter transforms this high-elevation retreat into a snow-covered wonderland—beautiful to behold but unsuitable for camping due to freezing temperatures and heavy snow. Spring awakens the forest gradually, with mid-season bringing ideal camping conditions as wildflowers begin to dot the landscape.
ElevationPerched at 7,100 feet above sea level, this high-country haven offers refreshingly cool mountain air and stunning vistas. The elevation brings delightfully crisp nights perfect for stargazing, though campers should pack warm layers even in summer. As autumn progresses, this lofty setting becomes one of the first areas to welcome winter's snowy embrace.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own private corner of paradise among towering conifers and dense understory that create natural privacy screens between camping spots. The surrounding forest of the Giant Sequoia National Monument envelops you in tranquil green, while the melodic babble of nearby Peppermint Creek provides nature's soundtrack. This pristine waterway not only offers excellent fishing opportunities but also serves as a refreshing oasis for wildlife watching and peaceful contemplation.
Geological RegionNestled within the renowned Giant Sequoia National Monument at 7,100 feet elevation, this dispersed camping area showcases the raw beauty of California's Sierra Nevada. The landscape tells an ancient story through its rugged terrain, where scattered boulders and gentle slopes create perfect natural campsites among the trees. Here, the absence of development allows visitors to experience the monument's wilderness as nature intended—quiet, secluded, and breathtakingly authentic.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessibility features are mentioned in the official source or user reviews.
Sites SizeNo specific site sizes are described, but users note the presence of 'a few areas that could be used to set up tents.'
Sites PrivacyUsers report adequate privacy due to trees and bushes creating 'the illusion of privacy,' even though 'neighbors are within vision.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers might prefer areas closer to trees for shade and privacy. User Audre Cek noted that trees and bushes create 'the illusion of privacy' despite neighbors being within sight.
Best CampsitesNo specific sites are identified as best; dispersed camping allows campers to choose their spots.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Anytime
Check-out
Anytime
Stay Limit
No specific limit for stay duration is provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific restrictions mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDispersed camping area with no formal site layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually from June 1 to November 15.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable, as no reservations are required.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up, first-come, first-served as no reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyNo fees or reservations are required, thus no cancellation policies apply.
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers limited but serene recreational opportunities. Fishing is available in nearby Peppermint Creek, and visitors are encouraged to check regulations with the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Hiking opportunities are noted but not detailed. Users describe it as a great area for enjoying quiet and solitude.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rules are not explicitly stated but are likely subject to standard dispersed camping regulations within a National Monument.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsAccording to one reviewer, 'the road to the creek and trail was blocked due to dangerous trees.' Downed timber is prevalent in the area, requiring caution.
Active alertsA user reported in July 2020 that the 'Upper Peppermint Falls Campground was closed due to dangerous trees.' This may not apply to the dispersed camping area but signals potential safety concerns.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Dense drizzle
Precipitation: 1.2%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 18.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (1.20% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Dense drizzle
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Western Divide Ranger District Office, 32588 Highway 190, Springville, CA 93265. Contact Phone: 559-539-2607.
Good to know
Peak season datesLikely aligned with the open season (June 1 - November 15).
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available on-site, as the campground is undeveloped.
Proximity to water featuresNear Peppermint Creek, which offers fishing opportunities with regulation compliance.
Common complaintsLimited complaints include rough and sandy roads potentially unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles. Additionally, the lack of facilities requires campers to be self-sufficient.
Campground Map
32588 Highway 190, Springville, CA 93265
Driving directionsFrom Springville, go 31 miles east on CA 190, north on Western Divide Highway and east on Forest Road 21S07.
The road is described by user reviews as being sandy with rough spots, potentially posing challenges for low-clearance vehicles like sedans. One reviewer noted, 'The road is a bit sandy and has some pretty rough spots, so you may get stuck with a low sedan.' It is not paved, and additional caution is advised.Nearby places
Springville (~31 miles, ~45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies likely available in Springville, approximately 31 miles away. No stores or services are available directly at the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Upper Peppermint Dispersed Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the area's tranquility, cleanliness, and suitability for dispersed camping. Campers appreciate the isolation, spaciousness, and natural beauty.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive themes include the quiet ambiance, clean environment, and availability of space even during busy weekends. Users frequently remarked on the privacy provided by the natural foliage.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints are minimal but focus on the lack of facilities, such as restrooms and drinking water. The sandy and rough access road was mentioned as a potential challenge for low-clearance vehicles.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all needed supplies, as no services are provided. Be cautious of the sandy and rough road conditions, especially if using a low-clearance vehicle.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from June 1 to November 15. Reviews do not mention specific seasonal differences but highlight consistent tranquility and spaciousness during holidays and weekends.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Fantastic! Quiet and still open, even during these times.' 2. 'I LOVE this area. It is always so quiet and clean. I have camped here on big 3-day weekends and there is always a lot of space.' 3....
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews are provided, but users note the presence of a few areas suitable for tents and adequate natural privacy.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews are available.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews or details about pet policies are available.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025