Best Dispersed Camping near Big Bear City, CA
San Bernardino National Forest surrounds Big Bear City, California, offering numerous dispersed camping opportunities within a mountainous alpine setting. The region features a mix of free Yellow Post sites, primitive backcountry camps, and designated dispersed areas like East Flats and Mill Creek. Yellow Post sites, marked by yellow markers on posts, provide basic amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables scattered throughout the forest. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, located north of Big Bear Lake, serves as a popular base for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. Most dispersed sites sit at elevations between 6,500-8,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures during summer months when lower elevation areas experience intense heat.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring high-clearance vehicles and sometimes 4WD capability. According to one camper at Yellow Post #54, "You will earn this spot as the drive from Hwy 38 is long and rocky." Winter access becomes limited or impossible from November through April due to snow accumulation, particularly at higher elevations. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer and fall, with permits required for any campfires when allowed. Cell service remains spotty throughout the forest, with better reception near town and on ridgelines. Many sites lack signage, making offline maps essential for navigation. Campers at East Flats note that "remote locations are easily found" but warn about wildlife encounters including rattlesnakes.
Wildlife viewing ranks high among visitor experiences, with deer, squirrels, and various bird species commonly spotted. Nighttime temperatures drop significantly even in summer, requiring appropriate gear year-round. Weekends see higher visitation rates, particularly at easily accessible sites near forest roads. Campers consistently mention the solitude and expansive views as highlights, with one visitor to Coon Creek Yellow Post noting that "spots fill on the weekend quickly, road gets rougher the more you continue up to the cabin." The lack of facilities means self-sufficiency is essential, with no water sources, toilets, or trash service available at most locations. Visitors appreciate the stargazing opportunities and proximity to hiking trails, though some report challenges with unmarked boundaries between public and private lands.
