Best Dispersed Camping near Azusa, CA

Are you in need of a campground near Azusa, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Azusa and user-submitted reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Azusa, California (6)

    1. Angeles Crest Overlook to LA

    8 Reviews
    La Cañada Flintridge, CA
    17 miles

    "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."

    "Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van. I felt uncomfortable with that."

    2. Heaton flats

    1 Review
    Mount Baldy, CA
    11 miles
    Website

    3. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    4 Reviews
    Wrightwood, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2851

    "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"

    "Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot."

    4. Hare School Park

    1 Review
    Westminster, CA
    24 miles

    "There’s a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them.There’s no public bathrooms, but there are trash cans so clean up after yourself please."

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

    3 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2851

    "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."

    "Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly ;)"

Show More
Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Azusa, CA

15 Reviews of 6 Azusa 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 26, 2024

    Angeles Crest Overlook to LA

    Great view

    Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van. I felt uncomfortable with that. Next night we moved to the other look out and someone still did donuts behind us- it’s a smaller lookout. Loud music and people talking next to us until about 1 am there is a pull off before this that was very quiet near a trail and nobody bothered us. During the week it’s more quiet. Close to town so that is a plus. Would recommend to smaller vans or car sleepers. I did not feel unsafe except for the donuts that happened near us. If you have dogs I would recommend the trail pull off my dogs really enjoyed the hike

  • Panda V.
    Sep. 7, 2022

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Great spot for dispersed camping

    First time headed out here and it was a great spot for a disconnected weekend. Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot.


Guide to Azusa

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Azusa, California, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of locations for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Angeles Crest Overlook to LA

  • This location is primarily a roadside pull-off, making it a convenient spot for a quick overnight stay. However, it's not ideal for traditional camping setups.
  • Visitors have reported disturbances from loud parties and fast-driving vehicles, so it's best suited for those who are prepared for a lively atmosphere.
  • If you're looking for a place to park and rest your vehicle, Angeles Crest Overlook to LA can serve as a temporary stop, but be cautious of your surroundings.

Scenic views and tranquility at Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites

  • Nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 offers a more secluded experience for those who enjoy dispersed camping.
  • The area is known for its beautiful landscapes and ample shade, making it a great choice for a weekend getaway.
  • Keep in mind that access may require a vehicle capable of off-road driving, so plan accordingly if you want to explore this hidden gem.

Adventure awaits at Heaton Flats

  • Located near the trailhead to the Bridge to Nowhere, Heaton Flats is perfect for those looking to combine camping with hiking.
  • While the area can get busy, especially on weekends, it provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Be prepared for a short walk from the parking area, and ensure you have an adventure pass to park at the lot for a hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the dispersed camping spots in Azusa, CA?

Dispersed camping spots near Azusa can be found in several locations throughout Angeles National Forest. Heaton Flats offers dispersed camping opportunities within the forest. Another option is Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8, which provides designated dispersed camping sites, though you'll need a 4x4 vehicle to access them. These sites are not well-marked, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot and be prepared for potentially challenging access roads.

What permits do I need for dispersed camping in Azusa Canyon?

For dispersed camping in Azusa Canyon and Angeles National Forest, you need an Adventure Pass for parking your vehicle. Additionally, a California Campfire Permit is required if you plan to have a campfire, use a stove, or BBQ. At Angeles Crest Overlook to LA, standard forest service rules apply. Check the Angeles National Forest website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/angeles) for current regulations and fire restrictions, as these can change frequently based on seasonal conditions and fire danger levels.

Is dispersed camping in Azusa open year-round?

Dispersed camping in Azusa and Angeles National Forest is generally available year-round, but with important limitations. At Rim of the World Byway, camping is possible throughout the year, weather permitting. However, forest orders and fire restrictions frequently change. The Angeles National Forest often implements camping prohibitions during high fire danger periods, especially in summer and fall. Stay current with forest orders by checking the official Angeles National Forest website before your trip. Generally, dispersed camping is limited to 7 days or less when permitted.