Dispersed camping near Apple Valley, California takes place primarily on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and San Bernardino National Forest. The high desert elevations range from 2,000 to 4,000 feet with temperature fluctuations between daytime and nighttime often exceeding 30°F. Most primitive camping sites lack designated boundaries, requiring visitors to select their own spots on established pull-offs where previous camping has occurred.
What to do
Climbing adventures: At Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, rock climbing opportunities abound. "This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed. As long as you follow the guidelines for the area, you can set up your tent anywhere you see a spot," explains camper Les R.
Jeep and off-road trails: The challenging terrain near Cougar Buttes in Johnson Valley offers technical driving courses. "Beautiful rocky terrain with tons of single track for bikes and really challenging roads for jeeps, tons of history also in the area," notes Mike M. who frequents the area.
Stargazing sessions: The minimal light pollution at most Apple Valley dispersed sites creates ideal stargazing conditions. A Mill Creek Dispersed camper mentioned, "I saw a shooting star when I laid down in my tent. I really could not have asked for a better nights rest."
What campers like
Solitude and spacing: The East Flats area offers well-spaced camping spots. "We are far enough away where I don't hear everyone talking," reports Jesse W. Another camper noted, "Closest camper is about 30 yards away. Could barely hear their generator running."
Wildlife encounters: Multiple campers report deer sightings and other desert wildlife. "Saw multiple deer walking by our site," shares Ciara W. about her East Flats experience. Desert areas are home to diverse wildlife including jackrabbits, roadrunners, and coyotes.
Accessibility: Many sites are available without reservation requirements. "Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road," reports Dickie Simmons S. about Mill Creek Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary: Road conditions can change seasonally and after storms. "The road to the camp area is a bit rough. We were in a Sprinter and definitely nervous for parts," shares Allie N. about Holcomb Valley. For some areas, four-wheel drive becomes necessary.
Water management: No water sources exist at most sites, requiring complete self-sufficiency. Pack 1-2 gallons per person per day minimum, with additional water for cleaning and cooking.
Fluctuating crowds: Weekday visits generally offer more solitude than weekends. "It was not crowded mid-week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend," reports Eileen S. about Mill Creek.
Train noise considerations: Some sites experience railroad noise. At Rim of the World Byway dispersed area, camper Joe R. notes it's "easy in and out but next to train tracks."
Tips for camping with families
Exploration spaces: Many sites provide open areas for children to roam safely. "It's secluded and has enough trees for a hammock. Our kids loved being able to explore, but they were covered in sand/dirt by the end of the trip," shares Allie N. about her family's experience at Holcomb Valley.
Dust considerations: Desert camping inherently involves dust management. "Easy to drag in dust and very annoying," notes Ciara W. about Stoddard Valley OHV. Pack baby wipes, bandanas, and extra water for cleaning.
Site selection timing: For family camping, arriving mid-week helps secure preferred sites. "There are a lot of spaces and larger rigs will do just fine within the first 1/4 mile," mentions Mike M. about East Flats.
Natural entertainment: The changing light on surrounding mountains provides natural entertainment. "It's a great little secluded spot about 4 miles off the highway in the desert," shares one visitor about nearby BLM sites.
Tips from RVers
Level site options: Bell Mountain Road offers multiple level parking areas. "We didn't follow the directions all the way to the pin, there was plenty of parking on the way," notes Howard S. The relatively flat terrain makes finding level spots easier than in mountain locations.
Road clearance requirements: While many areas accommodate RVs, advance research prevents access issues. "Some potholes are inevitable and I would imagine high clearance is needed," cautions one visitor about nearby dispersed sites.
Space for larger vehicles: East Flats can accommodate sizeable RVs. "There are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome," shares Jesse W. about the East Flats dispersed area.
Cell service considerations: Many desert dispersed sites maintain workable connectivity. "Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here," shares Ciara W. about East Flats, while another camper confirms, "I even have internet."
