Best Dispersed Camping near Barstow, CA
Looking for the best Barstow dispersed camping? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Barstow, CA (17)
1. BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area
Joshua Tree National Park, California4 Reviews•10 Photos•96 SavesCamping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. Ord Mountain Dispersed
Daggett, California1 Review•10 Photos•7 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Group
- Dispersed
5. BLM Desert Site
California City, California1 Review•6 Photos•6 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
6. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Fawnskin, California5 Reviews•4 Photos•333 SavesDispersed, 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!
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Arrowhead Trail Dispersed
Joshua Tree National Park, California1 Review•1 Photo•3 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
9. Razor Road Dispersed Camping
Baker, California4 Reviews•9 Photos•50 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Group
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Barstow
26 Reviews of 17 Barstow Campgrounds
Savannah A.
Traveler
Arrowhead Trail Dispersed
Decent for overnight
We were driving to Vegas from California and needed a place to stop and sleep for the night. This spot works well for big rigs, I am about 52 ft tip to tail and could turn around and park my easily and get to a relatively flat spot in the dark. Highway noise is an issue, but we were so exhausted it didn't matter. There's also a lot of people that stop to stretch, pee, sleep here.
Rose G.Traveler
BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area
Quiet location
We stayed here for one night and it was a great spot, really quite. The road was a little rough to get to where we stayed but no issue in our van aside from being a bit bumpy. We stopped about 2 miles from the main road. We arrived in the dark and it was a little tricky to see where we could and couldn't stay. We turned right off the road and found a flat open space with a fire ring. There was nobody else there. In the morning we could see some RVs further along the path and assume this is the proper site but we had no issues staying where we did .
- JJohn M.
Scout
Razor Road Dispersed Camping
Peaceful and quiet with lots of space
Verizon had excellent reception, enough room between campers to run a generator without bothering anyone. Lots of litter everywhere. It would be nice if people would haul out more trash than what they bring in. After all it is free camping.
- EErin V.
Guide
BLM Desert Site
BLM desert site
35.08627305276245,-117.54092669125416 Great space. Easy to find. Away from highway enough. Very windy. Great sunset and sunrise.
Alexander R.Scout2N17 Pooh’s Thotful Spot
Large spot very quiet for a holiday weekend
A large spot big enough for a small group. However, limited flat terrain for tent/ vehicle. A creek runs by with some access to some good hammocking trees.
A weird little shrine to Winnie the Pooh is behind the spot. Don’t know what to make of that.
- Julia H.Traveler
Razor Road Dispersed Camping
Ehh
It was an aight spot. did the job. the spots are like behind a sketchy gas station, so i drove down a little bit so i wasn’t near it. tons of garbage. other than that, decent morning view ! stayed safe the whole night. can’t complain.
- DDee M.Traveler
Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Over a dozen sites
There are lots of sites on this road. The closer you are to the road the more dust will get in your site from the vehicles passing. The road here. I went a to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There’s a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises i can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork. There are over a dozen sites along the main road. If you can pull in, it’s a site. Some better than others and spaced out so you may not see your neighbors from your site. 2x4 accessible as long as it’s not muddy or after snow. I saw a Prius on the trail.
Connor M.GuideMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Plenty of Spots
Overall great campground, there are definitely some permanent residents but there is more than enough spots to have some privacy.
Laura M.
Legend
Ord Mountain Dispersed
Actual location 34.684300, -116.960600
I did the best I could with finding the exact location on the map using The Dyrt's current capabilities to add a new location. This site is located at 34.684300,-116.960600, across the 247 road from Sawtooth Canyon Campground / New Jack City rock climbing area. Hopefully someone can go in at some point and fix the location to be more precise.
We checked this place out but didn’t stay. We liked the beautiful wide open surroundings, the good cell reception, and the easy access from the main road, but it seemed like this is a place better suited for bigger groups, especially those who will be riding ATVs or dirt bikes around. So, if you’re looking for a big open space to hang out with a big group where you can be loud and not disturb anyone, this would be a good place for it. We also heard gun shots nearby so further down the road is probably a good shooting area.
Obviously no amenities so please pack in/ pack out. It was surprisingly not too trashed so that was nice. We made it down the dirt road fine in our 26 ft class c. Proceed at your own comfort level, but it seems like a road that would be ok for any rig (maybe not a class A?) if you go slow and watch for dips and bumps.
Dickie Simmons S.TravelerMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Convenient free camping just outside of town
Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others. Smaller rigs, medium clearance and lite off-road capabilities recommended. Good cellular reception in my particular location.
Francisco F.TravelerMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Beautiful Spot For 4x4, But NOT For RVs
My husband and I were looking for good boondocking spots yesterday and we decided to check out this spot, after finding it on The Dyrt and a few other sites. It's definitely a beautiful place, and most of the road to the site is paved, but the road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV. But the biggest issue for RVs is an area of the road that is very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn that we didn't even want to try in our 4x4, since the road is very thin and our SUV (a 2009 Nissan Pathfinder) is kind of thick. I'm sure it's probably nothing for people who are used to using their 4x4 for more than regular driving in the snow, etc., but it was too dodgy for us. There is no way that even a Class C rig would be able to take that steep incline and immediately do that sharp turn. And since there's nowhere to turn around in that spot, you'd have to back your rig down the incline and then quite a ways down the pitted, gravel road to get out of it.
It's full of trees and seems fairly remote, but we had 5 cars pass us as we were backing away from the incline, so it's obviously a busy spot - you wouldn't be there alone, and this was on a Thursday.
- JJoe R.Guide
Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
Easy in and out by mormon rocks
By Rim of the world scenic byway and mormon rocks. Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly ;)
- MMichi S.Traveler
Bell Mountain Road
quite ok near highway
many Trucks at night. don't drive to the campground just search a space after road ends
- CCaroline S.Traveler
Razor Road Dispersed Camping
Flat open space by freeway
Large flat open space with several fire pits. Some highway noise, but nothing terrible
- SSeychelle R.Traveler
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Quiet forest
Forest setting, no one around when we went. Definitely need a 4x4 or all wheel drive vehicle on some of the roads. Was a great experience.
5 STAR X P.GuideRazor Road Dispersed Camping
Excellent stop before Vegas
Several firepits, leveled big area. You can continue on this dirt road to get farther from the freeway to get a quieter sleep. I dropped in very late, so I didn't want to go further exploring in the dark, but I saw campers drive further out.
- eedward W.Guide
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Site of gold discovery in the 1800s.
If you’re into panning for gold you just might find some along Holcomb Creek. There are active claims in the area so be respectful. Once you leave the pavement the going gets slower along the trails. You definitely need a high clearance vehicle. There are campgrounds in the area and also yellow post campsites. There wasn’t many other vehicles around the times I’ve been out there. Nice scenery and peaceful.
Mister LinhTravelerHolcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Quite a few spots
Quite a crowd with the limited spots here. Some were quite close to one another.
Alyssia S.GuideBear Lake
Favorite place
Nice clean off grid best place so far Rick water slides
- JJack M.Traveler
BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area
Rugged area, super windy
We stayed 3 nights, we might've stayed longer but the wind was terrible. We didn't explore much at all
- sseth B.Guide
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
OFF THE GRID
Arriving at the campground, the deposit place, obviously on weekends we were not thrilled by everyone around us, as well as the loud noise until past the curfew. So we decided the next day to go a little further in the woods where you’re no longer in the campground base. So this is called wild camping. And that was amazing not a single sound far from everybody, off the grid.
We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow. All the trail roads are mostly for 4 x 4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day. A lot of fun to witness that. The wild hikes surrounding the campground are really fun. Just remember where you camped. It seems like fires aren’t allowed during certain periods. Just be aware, we brought our own off the ground stove. And it was perfectly fine.
Heather L.LegendBLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area
Especially great for off-roaders!
Dirt Biking heaven! Our friends brought their toy-haulers and we played in the desert for a few nights. The weather was pretty good for November. Plenty of space to have 2 RV’s, a van, and a few guests. Definitely head over to Slash-X cafe if you get a chance and grab a beer while listening to live music in the back patio!
Eileen S.GuideMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Dispersed Camping Near Big Bear
First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend. There are a lot of flat spots to choose from.
Mark W.TravelerBLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area
Desert Dispersed Camping
This is a popular camping site for OHV riders during the winter. There are several sites at this location that each can hold 5-7 RVs. Each of the sites has a primitive fire ring, but there is no wood in the area, so bring your own. There are no toilets or water either.
It is the desert, so it gets warm/hot during the summer, but during the fall and winter, it is comfortable and can get cold at night.
The sites are far enough away that the noises of the other sites are not usually a problem, but it can occur. In the mornings, riders can be disturbing as they ride by.
Because of the OHV on weekends and holidays, it can get BUSY. First come, first serve.
For someone passing through, it can be a great one night stop and if you live local it makes a great few days away from the grind.
Leslie R.LegendHolcomb Valley Climbers Camp
unlimited backcountry camping
Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited. We like coming here if we want to be guaranteed a spot, no early arrivals or reservations needed. Dogs are allowed, and the trails in the area are dog-friendly.
- Leslie R.Legend
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Dispersed camping for rock climbers
It is a free campground, first come first serve. There are no developed facilities (i.e., no firepits, outhouses, etc.) but it is beautiful and there are plenty of flat places to set up a tent. 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.
Guide to Barstow
Discover the rugged beauty of dispersed camping near Barstow, California, where adventure awaits in the vast desert landscapes. With a variety of options, campers can enjoy the freedom of nature while soaking in stunning views and starry nights.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Barstow, California
- Many dispersed camping areas, like BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area, allow for campfires and pets, making it a great choice for families and friends looking to enjoy the outdoors together.
- Be prepared for windy conditions, especially in open areas; some campers at BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area noted that strong winds can impact your stay.
- Always pack in and pack out your trash, as many sites, including Ord Mountain Dispersed, lack trash disposal facilities.
Dispersed campers should check out BLM Desert Site
- The BLM Desert Site offers a peaceful retreat away from highway noise, perfect for those seeking solitude and stunning sunsets.
- Campers have reported great cell reception at Ord Mountain Dispersed, making it easier to stay connected while enjoying the wilderness.
- This area is ideal for larger groups, especially those interested in off-road activities, as noted by visitors at Ord Mountain Dispersed.
Adventure awaits at Cougar Buttes in Johnson Valley for dispersed campers
- Cougar Buttes in Johnson Valley is a prime spot for off-road enthusiasts, with ample space for ATVs and dirt bikes.
- Campers can enjoy the vast open spaces and stunning rock formations, making it a great backdrop for photography and exploration.
- The area is known for its tranquility, but be mindful of nearby activities, as some visitors have reported hearing gunshots from shooting ranges in the vicinity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Barstow, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Barstow, CA is BLM Barstow - Dispersed Camp Area with a 4.3-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Barstow, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 dispersed camping locations near Barstow, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.