TerrainKit
FeaturesPricingSupportWhat's newGet the app
Camping · California

Emerson Campground

USFS · Campground · Free

Free

Fast facts

Cost
Free
Managed by
USFS
Type
Campground
Reservations
fs.usda.gov
Nearest dump station
Merrill Dump Site · 60.6 mi
Coordinates
41.2639, -120.1378
Last verified
September 18, 2026
41.2639° N · 120.1378° W
Last verifiedSeptember 18, 2026

About this place

Located on the east side of the South Warner Wilderness, this campground and picnic area also serve as the staging area for the Emerson Trail into the wilderness. This free campground is fairly secluded due to the narrow, steep, rough, dirt access road. Campsites are mostly shady and set back from the parking area in the trees. There is no water at Emerson Campground.

From the USFS.

Is Emerson Campground free?

Yes. Emerson Campground is free to use. It is managed by the USFS.

How do I get to Emerson Campground?

From Cedarville go south approximately 16 miles on County Road 1/Surprise Valley Rd. Turn right on County Road 40 and continue approximately 3 miles to the end and the Emerson Campground.

What are the rules at Emerson Campground?

Water and garbage service are not provided. Bring enough water for drinking, cooking and washing as well as extra water to drown campfires each day. Please take all trash, garbage and dog droppings with you when you leave. Dogs on leash only. Please clean

Nearby

SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.

Open it in TerrainKit.

This place, the sites around it, water and dumps on the way, all offline. The map is free. Trip planning and offline downloads are the paid part, and they start with a free trial.

Get it onGoogle Play

Android first. iOS is coming later.

TerrainKit
The offline map for free camp, water, dumps and overnight parking across the US. Built by people who live on the road. No ads, not on free, not on Pro, not ever.
Android first. iOS is coming later.
Disclaimer TerrainKit is an independent product with no affiliation with, sponsorship from or endorsement by the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service or any other public agency. Site and access information is compiled from publicly available sources and can go out of date without notice. Confirm current rules, closures, fire restrictions and stay limits with the managing ranger district or field office before you camp.
© 2026 TerrainKit · terrainkit.app
47.5053° N · 111.3008° W
Emerson Campground, Free Camping in California - TerrainKit