PORTAL DISPERSED CAMP

About

Portal Dispersed Camp is a primitive dispersed camping area situated in the Sierra National Forest near Portal Forebay Lake, accessed via Kaiser Pass Road above Huntington Lake. The area sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in a scenic high Sierra setting with pine and cedar forest. As dispersed camping, the site offers no developed amenities: no toilets, no potable water, no picnic tables, and no designated fire rings. Campers visiting this area must be completely self-sufficient. All trash must be packed out, human waste should be buried in a cat hole at least 6 inches deep and 100+ feet from water sources, and toilet paper must be carried out. A free California campfire permit is required year-round for any campfires, charcoal grills, gas stoves, or lanterns outside developed areas. These permits are available online or at Forest Service offices. Kaiser Pass Road is a challenging route, particularly the final 18 miles which consist of narrow single-lane pavement with steep drop-offs and two-way traffic. Large RVs and motorhomes are not recommended. High clearance vehicles may be advisable depending on the specific dispersed site accessed.

Directions

From Clovis, take Highway 168 east through Shaver Lake to Huntington Lake. At the east end of Huntington Lake, turn right onto Kaiser Pass Road at Eastwood Visitor Center. Travel approximately 13-14 miles northeast on Kaiser Pass Road. The area is near Portal Forebay Lake. Note: Kaiser Pass Road is narrow, winding, and not suitable for large RVs.