San Bernardino National Forest offers rustic camping near Big Bear City, California with numerous dispersed options between 6,500-8,500 feet elevation. Forest roads throughout this mountainous region range from easily accessible to rough 4WD-only routes, with many areas completely inaccessible during winter months. Dispersed camping sites include both designated Yellow Post sites with fire rings and unmarked forest camping areas where self-sufficient visitors can experience nature with minimal facilities.
What to do
Mountaineering at San Gorgonio: Camp at High Creek Camp as a base for summit attempts. "The sound of the water is the best part of this campground in my eyes. As well as it is a great place to stay as a overnight to break up a summit trip," notes Brittany N., who also mentions the campground is popular and requires early permit reservations in summer.
Rock climbing access: Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp offers primitive camping near climbing routes. "It is a free campground, first come first serve. There are no developed facilities 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," shares Les R.
Gold panning history: Explore the area's mining past at Holcomb Valley. Edward W. explains, "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... Nice scenery and peaceful."
Mountain biking trails: Remote camping spots provide access to dedicated trails. Mike M. mentions that East Flats offers "Lots to do with San Gorgonio Mt right here, Jenks Lake, Santa Ana river (and River Trail for MTB)."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Free camping areas like East Flats provide well-separated spots. According to Samay C., "Closest camper is about 30 yards away. Could barely hear their generator running." This allows for a more secluded backcountry experience even at accessible sites.
Wildlife sightings: Forest animals frequently visit camps. Ciara W. reports, "Saw multiple deer walking by our site" at East Flats, while Mill Creek visitors frequently report squirrels, birds, and occasional larger wildlife.
Reliable cell reception: Unlike many backcountry locations, Mill Creek Dispersed Camping offers connectivity for those needing to stay in touch. Dickie Simmons S. confirms, "Good cellular reception in my particular location," while another East Flats camper, Patrizia H., notes, "Very quiet and I even have internet (Telekom)!"
Cooler temperatures: Summer camping at these elevations provides relief from valley heat. At East Flats, Chandra B. appreciates "Pines, and clear blue skies! What more can you ask for a few hours away from LA proper…" The area's cooler mountain air creates comfortable conditions even during hot months.
What you should know
Road conditions vary widely: Approaches range from paved to extremely rough. At Yellow Post #54, Mike M. warns, "You will earn this spot as the drive from Hwy 38 is long and rocky. The final road to the spot is a single lane and others wanting to camp there will not know if it is occupied."
Summer fire restrictions: Campfires may be prohibited during dry months. Mike M. advises at Coon Creek Yellow Post, "You will need a campfire permit to have a fire when permitted, you can get them online from San Berdoo Forest."
Dust management: Many sites have sandy or dusty soil. Ciara W. notes at East Flats, "Easy to drag in dust and very annoying," suggesting campers bring appropriate gear to manage dust in tents and vehicles.
Weekend crowds: Popular areas fill quickly during peak times. As one camper observes about Coon Creek Yellow Post, "Many spots that fill on the weekend quickly, road gets rougher the more you continue up to the cabin."
Wilderness permits: For backcountry camping in designated wilderness areas, advance permits are required. Brittany N. advises about Vivian Creek Camp, "You are a good distance from the trail so it doesn't seem to be a bother as far as noise."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration: Primitive sites allow children space to explore nature. Allie N. shares about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, "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."
Extra water supplies: No reliable water sources exist at most sites. Pack multiple gallons per person per day for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene since all dispersed camping areas lack potable water.
Wildlife safety briefings: Teach children about local wildlife encounters. As Brittany N. cautions about Vivian Creek Camp, "Becaful here though for I have seen a rattle snake not to far from the camp!"
Level spots for tents: Some areas offer naturally flat ground for easier setup. Andres V. notes about East Flats, "Wasn't hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility for larger vehicles: East Flats accommodates some larger rigs. Jesse W. confirms, "The campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome."
Road clearance requirements: Mill Creek requires more rugged vehicles according to Francisco F., "The road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV...There is no way that even a Class C rig would be able to take that steep incline."
Early arrival recommended: Secure limited level spots by arriving mid-week. Mike M. advises about South Soggy Dry Lake, "There are many camping spots all along the shoreline that will accommodate any size rig...can get busy but not nearly like Cougar Buttes, Anderson, or Means Lakebed."
Power planning: No hookups mean relying on batteries or generators. Mike M. notes at East Flats that spots are far enough apart where "I am far enough away where I don't hear everyone talking," suggesting generator noise isn't typically an issue between properly spaced rigs.
