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Dispersed Camping

East Flats

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

East Flats, near San Bernardino National Forest, is a laid-back spot perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle. This area is all about the great outdoors, offering a chance to camp without the frills—no amenities here, just you and nature.

Visitors have raved about the peaceful atmosphere, with one camper noting, “It is so peaceful and the air is so fresh!” You’ll find plenty of space to set up your camp, and the lack of crowds means you can enjoy some solitude. Wildlife is a common sight, with deer often wandering by, adding to the natural charm of the place.

If you’re up for some adventure, the trails around East Flats can be a bit rough, but they’re manageable with the right vehicle. Campers have shared their experiences of navigating the terrain, so don’t worry if you’re new to car camping. Just be prepared for a little dust—it's part of the experience!

For those who need to stay connected, some campers have reported solid internet reception, making it easier to work remotely while enjoying the outdoors. Just remember, this isn’t a place for those looking for traditional camping comforts. It’s all about embracing the wild and enjoying the fresh air.

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Location

East Flats is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

34.16518877 N
116.84693718 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 7/13/24
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 7/13/24
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • WiFi
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if East Flats needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

11 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 23, 2025

Nice Peaceful Area

Wasn’t hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn’t find too much to do but if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to relax it’s a nice spot.

SiteEast Flats Rd
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of East Flats by Andres V., August 23, 2025
  • Review photo of East Flats by Andres V., August 23, 2025
  • Review photo of East Flats by Andres V., August 23, 2025
Reviewed Jun. 18, 2025

Free, really clean, lots of space

Great spot right off of Jenks Lake Road East that allows dispersed camping. There are a lot of spaces and larger rigs will do just fine within the first 1/4 mile, roads are a bit rough with rock and drainage ditches but our 40' trailer had zero issues. Lots to do with San Gorgonio Mt right here, Jenks Lake, Santa Ana river (and River Trail for MTB).

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of East Flats by Mike M., June 18, 2025
  • Review photo of East Flats by Mike M., June 18, 2025
  • Review photo of East Flats by Mike M., June 18, 2025
  • (4) View All
Reviewed May. 26, 2025

34 ft Class A Approved!

The campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome. I am far enough away where I don’t hear everyone talking.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of East Flats by Jesse W., May 26, 2025
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2024

Wildlife but super dusty!

Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site.

Easy to drag in dust and very annoying. We easily found a spot for our van.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of East Flats by Ciara W., August 7, 2024
  • Review photo of East Flats by Ciara W., August 7, 2024
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  • (4) View All
Reviewed Aug. 1, 2024

Great secluded location

First time car camping. Solo trip with my fur babies. Trails a little rough but good thing I have X-Mode on my Subaru. Lol. Arrived around 5:30pm on a Wednesday. Drove past a few campers. A few with big RV’s. Closest camper is about 30 yards away. Could barely hear their generator running. Planned on staying a few nights but after the first night I was told there was a big archery event and that the whole campground was reserved so I had to pack up and leave.

SiteDispersed Camping
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of East Flats by Samay C., August 1, 2024
  • Review photo of East Flats by Samay C., August 1, 2024
  • Review photo of East Flats by Samay C., August 1, 2024
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jun. 28, 2024

Quiet & Fresh Air

We are here RN! It is so peaceful and the air is so fresh! Pines, and clear blue skies! What more can you ask for a few hours away from LA proper…

SiteDispersed camping no sites
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of East Flats by Chandra B., June 28, 2024
  • Review photo of East Flats by Chandra B., June 28, 2024
  • Review photo of East Flats by Chandra B., June 28, 2024
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jun. 7, 2024

great spacious area

loved this spot. easy to find & very lowkey, with ample spaces to choose from. no amenities & great cell service.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of East Flats by Alexis O., June 7, 2024
  • Review photo of East Flats by Alexis O., June 7, 2024
  • Review photo of East Flats by Alexis O., June 7, 2024
Reviewed Jun. 19, 2023

East Flats-very nice

Camping at East Flats was great in mid-June. There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes.

Sitenot numbered
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jun. 9, 2021

Terrific Dispersed Spot

My wife and our friends love this spot. As a matter of fact, we got engaged at nearby Jenks Lake and celebrated here after. No facilities, but if you have your supplies, it’s great. There are a couple loops and lots of spots. Enjoy.

SiteN/A
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of East Flats by Joe V., June 9, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is East Flats Campground located and how do I get there?

East Flats Campground is located off Jenks Lake Road East in the San Bernardino National Forest, near San Gorgonio Mountain. The campground is accessible from the main road, with relatively easy access for most vehicles including sedans, though some sections of the entry roads can be a bit rough with rocks and drainage ditches. Visitors have noted that the location is just a few hours from Los Angeles, making it a convenient getaway from the city. The site is easily findable, with clear access points from the main road.

What are the best spots and amenities available at East Flats Campground?

East Flats Campground offers spacious, level sites with no formal amenities - it's a true dispersed camping experience. The best spots are scattered throughout the area with multiple loops to choose from, providing good distance between campers for privacy. Many sites can accommodate larger vehicles, including 34-foot motorhomes and 40-foot trailers within the first quarter mile of the entrance. The campground features excellent cell service, with visitors reporting good internet connectivity from providers like T-Mobile and even Starlink. While there are no facilities, the peaceful atmosphere, fresh air, and pine surroundings make it an appealing destination.

What type of camping is available at East Flats - dispersed, yellow post, or developed sites?

East Flats offers dispersed camping right off Jenks Lake Road East. There are no developed facilities or amenities, making this a true primitive camping experience where you need to bring all your own supplies. The area features numerous informal sites spread across multiple loops, giving campers plenty of options to find the perfect spot. The dispersed nature means you can choose sites with good separation from other campers - visitors report being able to camp 30+ yards from others, providing good privacy. The sites are not designated or numbered, so you can select any available area that suits your vehicle and camping style.

Is East Flats Campground near Big Bear Lake and what activities are nearby?

East Flats Campground is in the Big Bear region, with Jenks Lake being the closest notable water feature. While specific activities aren't extensively detailed, the area offers outdoor recreation typical of the San Bernardino Mountains. San Gorgonio Mountain is right nearby, providing hiking opportunities. Visitors have spotted wildlife including deer walking through the campground. The peaceful mountain environment with pine trees and clear skies makes it ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature. For those seeking more activities, exploring the broader Big Bear area would provide additional recreation options.