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Best Dispersed Camping near Angeles National Forest

17 Reviews

Angeles Crest Highway offers several roadside pull-offs for overnight stays with city views below. These spots are not formal campgrounds but rather parking areas where vehicle camping is tolerated. Angeles Crest Overlook provides panoramic vistas but experiences regular nighttime traffic. According to one visitor, "cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight." No amenities exist at these locations—no toilets, water, or designated fire rings.

Dispersed camping regulations vary throughout Angeles National Forest, with 7-day camping limits typically enforced. Fire restrictions are common, especially during dry seasons. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites require 4WD access, with one camper noting "the turn is not marked well" and "you climb a big steep hill to get to the turn in." East Mojave Camp and Rim of the World Byway offer more remote options. Forest Service regularly publishes updated camping restriction orders on their website, as camping outside established campgrounds is occasionally prohibited completely during high fire danger periods.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Angeles National Forest (8)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Angeles National Forest

11 Photos of 8 Angeles National Forest Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Angeles National Forest

17 Reviews of 8 Angeles National Forest Campgrounds

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Heaton flats

    Not always allowed

    Camping outside esablished campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders on https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles. Currently, camping is allowed for 7 days or less, see here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=78080 The people I saw camping here looked to have been set up somewhat permanently though. I wouldn't feel comfortable setting up a tent here, but it could be an okay rest area at the beginning/end of the hike to Bridge to Nowhere.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2023

    East Mojave Camp

    Very very remote

    Very remote absolutely nothing out there. Definitely somewhere you need to be aware of your surroundings. You can get far enough away from the highway that you don’t need to worry about people driving by. There is nothing out here. The road to it is unmarked and very unmaintained Would definitely recommend high clearance vehicle if you want to be further away then 100 feet from the highway. Lots of wash outs. Beautiful sunrise. We were the only people there.

  • Joseph R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 26, 2024

    Angeles Crest Overlook to LA

    Nope

    It’s basically car camping along the Angeles Crest highway, there’s small pull out spots and, some spots overlooking the forest but kids do tend to party up here and, drive about 100 miles a hour up and, down the road all hours of the night. It can get a bit scary, if you’re alone. Oh cell service non-existent unless you’re closer to the bottom but even then it’s spotty. It’s not a typical campground but it does do the job for a couple days. You will see cars vans along the pull outs coming up but I believe you can car camp on the overlook I have not as I’m more a quiet type person. Be careful though there’s a white van that teams up with a black truck they tried to break in my car while I was sleeping. It is very dangerous and luckily I carry at all times and have cameras.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    Quick stop, nice rocks

    We stayed here for two nights, and it was a pretty pleasant experience! There were some cars parked near the entrance, but if you go a bit further down alongside the road you can find some nice spots. Use Google Maps; Waze takes you the wrong way, cause it's just right off the freeway, not down a long, very bumpy dirt road.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    Nice stopover for me

    Arrived at 2;30 pm. Windy. I wanted a place where I could let Bella off leach, so I put it in 4 wheel drive to pull my TAB trailer. Found a good spot. I can see other bigger rigs they did not require 4x4. Interesting view. If your headed north on I15 do not take thirst access road. Almost a 4x4 road.

  • J
    May. 27, 2024

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Prepare the climb; also not for big RVs

    The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off. If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around. You climb a big steep hill to get to the turn in. On the way back down from the turnaround we almost burned out or brakes. We decided not to go to the site because it looked like a one lane road and too tight for our 35 ft bumper pull. Disappointed because pictures from others looked great and it is a beautiful area. We found a spot near the road that I’ll post for others.

  • Nathaniel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 6, 2021

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Great if you have a 4x4

    Specs if this campground are wrong, no toilets/water/etc.

    Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck it similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc)

    If both are yes, this place is amazing.

    Deep in nature, beautiful area, no cost and you can almost always find a spot, even on a Saturday in summer.

    If you go the the end of 3N06 (main off-road path) there is a good hike that you can take for several hours.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 24, 2025

    East Mojave Camp

    Off Hwy 58

    Huge ruts in dirt road, there’s room to go around them. Several Joshua Trees .

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 22, 2024

    Angeles Crest Overlook to LA

    Dark, fairly quiet, good view!

    I loved car camping here! When I stayed, there were no other people who stayed the night, but quite a few people came throughout the night just for 20 minutes at a time or so. Wasn’t too noisy at all. Unfortunately I didn’t have any service (Visible/Verizon), so that was a little scary. Other than that, no complaints at all!

Guide to Angeles National Forest

Dispersed camping near Angeles National Forest offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning views and a variety of experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Willow Springs BLM

  • Willow Springs BLM is known for its free access and allows for both tent and RV camping, making it versatile for different camping styles.
  • The lack of amenities means you'll need to be self-sufficient, but the beautiful surroundings make it worth the effort.
  • Many visitors have enjoyed extended stays here, appreciating the peaceful environment and the chance to disconnect from daily life.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Angeles National Forest, California

  • Always check for recent regulations regarding camping in areas like Heaton Flats, as rules can change frequently and may affect your plans.
  • Be prepared for limited facilities; for instance, Heaton Flats has no designated campsites and can get crowded on weekends, so arriving early is advisable.
  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife and be aware of your surroundings, especially in remote areas like East Mojave Camp, where you might encounter fewer people.

Activities while free camping near Angeles National Forest

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic trails that lead to breathtaking views, particularly near Angeles Crest Overlook to LA, which offers stunning vistas.
  • If you're into off-roading, areas like Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites provide access to rugged terrain perfect for adventure seekers.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of excitement, be cautious of the local party scene, especially at spots like Angeles Crest, where you might encounter loud gatherings during weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities or facilities are available for dispersed camping in Angeles National Forest?

Dispersed camping in Angeles National Forest typically means minimal to no amenities. At East Mojave Camp, expect a very remote location with absolutely no facilities – you'll need to pack in all water, supplies, and pack out all waste. Similarly, Rim of the World Byway offers roadside dispersed camping with no amenities. Most dispersed sites throughout the forest lack toilets, water, trash services, or picnic tables. Cell service is often limited or nonexistent. This means you'll need to be fully self-sufficient with water, food, waste disposal methods, and emergency plans. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for primitive camping conditions.

Where are the best spots for dispersed camping in Angeles National Forest?

The Angeles National Forest offers several good dispersed camping options, though conditions and availability can change based on forest orders. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 is a beautiful area deep in nature, but requires a 4x4 vehicle to access due to rough roads. For easier access with stunning views, Angeles Crest Overlook to LA offers car camping along Angeles Crest Highway. Be aware that forest regulations may change, so always check the Angeles National Forest website for current dispersed camping rules and fire restrictions before planning your trip. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for no facilities.

Is free camping available in Angeles National Forest and where can I find it?

Yes, free dispersed camping is available in Angeles National Forest, though it comes with important restrictions. Heaton Flats offers dispersed camping, but stay limits are typically 7 days or less. Always check for recently published forest orders at fs.usda.gov/angeles as restrictions change frequently due to fire danger and other factors. For those with 4x4 vehicles, Aliklik Campground in the adjacent Hungry Valley SVRA provides free camping with basic toilet facilities. When dispersed camping, you must follow all regulations: camp at least 100 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings (when fires are permitted), and pack out all trash. A free California Campfire Permit is required for stoves or fires when allowed.

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