Looking for the best San Bernardino National Forest dispersed camping? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your California camping adventure.
Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.
Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us
The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.
Welcome to Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping, a no-frills spot perfect for those who just want to pull up, set up, and enjoy the great outdoors without any hassle. This area is all about simplicity and convenience. It's free, easy to access, and close to the north end of Joshua Tree National Park, making it a great base camp for exploring the park.
Now, don't expect any amenities here—there are no toilets, showers, or even trash bins. So, you'll need to come prepared and pack out what you pack in. The roads can be a bit bumpy, but nothing a careful driver can't handle. Even small cars can make it if you take it slow. Cell service is generally reliable, with some folks even managing to work remotely from here.
One of the standout features is the sheer amount of space. You won't have trouble finding a spot, and there's plenty of room to spread out. However, privacy can be a bit lacking since it's a popular spot, especially on weekends. The area is a giant dry lake bed, so don't expect much in the way of shade or greenery. But the night sky is absolutely stunning, offering a clear view of the stars.
Pets are welcome, and you can bring your big rig if you have one. Just remember, no fires are allowed, so plan your meals accordingly. It's a great spot if you're looking for something easy, safe, and accessible, but keep an eye out for areas that have become private land.
In summary, Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping is a straightforward, no-hassle place to camp near Joshua Tree National Park. It's perfect for those who don't need amenities and just want a convenient spot to crash while exploring the park.
Group size limited to 12 people and 8 pack/riding animals per group. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit.
Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.
Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us
The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.
Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.
Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us
The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.
Dispersed, or undeveloped, camping provides more solitude and an opportunity to “rough it.” There are many camping opportunities in general forest areas as well as in wilderness areas.
Know before you go: Before traveling visit or call the nearest Ranger Station for current fire restrictions and area closures.
No wood or charcoal campfires (check current fire restrictions before you go). Vehicles must remain on roads and associated pullouts. Do not clear vegetation. Portable gas-powered stoves, lanterns and fire rings with a fuel-shutoff valve allowed with a California Campfire Permit and five feet clearance from vegetation. Camp at least 200 feet from springs, water, meadows, trails and roads. Camp at least a quarter-mile from designated campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads. Camp at least a quarter-mile from private property and state highways. Pack out all trash. Leave no trace!
The number of visitors admitted to the wilderness is limited. On summer weekends some wilderness areas may fill to capacity well in advance. Wilderness campsites are accessible by foot and/or horseback only and require a free wilderness permit, which may be reserved up to three months in advance. Use of certain trailheads that have facilities like restrooms require an Adventure Pass or an Interagency Pass, which must be displayed on the parked vehicle.
When camping in the wilderness, lightweight stoves are recommended. Campfires are not allowed in Wilderness areas on the San Bernardino National Forest.
No wood or charcoal campfires (Read the current fire restrictions) Vehicles must remain on roads and associated pullouts Do not clear vegetation
Portable gas-powered stoves, lanterns and fire rings with a fuel-shutoff valve allowed with a California Campfire Permit and five feet clearance from vegetation. Camp at least 200 feet from springs, water, meadows, trails and roads Camp at least a quarter-mile from designated campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads Camp at least a quarter-mile from private property and state highways Pack out all trash Leave no trace For more information, please read the Forest Order on use of dispersed areas: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5155166.pdf
Joshua Tree North BLM is a dispersed camping area in California, offering a rugged and spacious spot for those looking to get away from the crowds. This place is all about the basics—no frills, no amenities, just you and the open desert. It's free to camp here, which is a big plus if you're on a budget.
The area is pretty big, so you won't feel cramped even if there are other campers around. However, don't expect any facilities like toilets, showers, or even trash bins. You'll need to pack out everything you bring in. Fires are allowed, so you can still enjoy a campfire under the stars, but you'll need to bring your own firewood.
Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just keep an eye on them, especially with the occasional off-road vehicles zipping by. Speaking of which, this place can get noisy with ATVs and dirt bikes, especially on weekends. If you're looking for peace and quiet, you might want to plan your visit during the week.
The landscape is classic desert—think wide-open spaces, dirt roads, and not much shade. It's a good idea to check the weather if you're tent camping, as it can get pretty windy. The lack of shade means you'll be in direct sunlight most of the time, so pack accordingly.
Some campers have mentioned that the area can be a bit dirty, with trash scattered around. It's a good idea to scout out a clean spot before setting up camp. Despite these drawbacks, many find it a convenient and accessible option, especially when the nearby Joshua Tree National Park is full.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near San Bernardino National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near San Bernardino National Forest is San Gorgonio Summit Camp with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near San Bernardino National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 27 dispersed camping locations near San Bernardino National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
