Dispersed camping near Blue Jay, California offers several backcountry options within San Bernardino National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000-7,000 feet. These primitive sites experience significant temperature drops after sunset, often 20-30 degrees cooler than daytime highs. Seasonal closures affect accessibility during winter months when snow accumulation can make forest roads impassable.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: Bear Lake provides excellent wildlife viewing with one camper noting it's a "nice clean off grid" area with interesting "rock water slides" in the vicinity.
Gold panning excursions: Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp has historical significance as a "site of gold discovery in the 1800s" where you "just might find some along Holcomb Creek," though a reviewer cautions "there are active claims in the area so be respectful."
High-elevation hiking: San Gorgonio Summit Camp provides access to the tallest peak in Southern California, though the approach is "not an easy hike" with a "very steep, narrow incline." One camper described it as "probably one of the most epic camping experiences ever" where on clear days "you can see Mt. Whitney" from the 11,501-foot summit.
What campers like
Natural sound features: High Creek Camp receives praise for "the sound of the water" which campers consider "the best part of this campground." The creek provides both ambiance and a water source, though it "needs to be filtered."
Diverse terrain options: East Flats appeals to different outdoor preferences with "lots to do with San Gorgonio Mt right here, Jenks Lake, Santa Ana river (and River Trail for MTB)." Campers report seeing "multiple deer walking by our site" during their stays.
Scenic overlooks: Yellow Post #54 earned a five-star rating for its ridge location providing "lots of solitude and views," though campers warn "you will earn this spot as the drive from Hwy 38 is long and rocky."
What you should know
Road condition variations: Road quality varies dramatically between dispersed sites. Rim of the World Byway sites are accessible to most vehicles, but be cautious with navigation as "Waze takes you the wrong way" and you should use Google Maps instead since "it's just right off the freeway, not down a long, very bumpy dirt road."
Preparation requirements: Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites require advance planning as "the turn is not marked well" and "the coordinates are a little bit off." If you miss the turn, "you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around."
Weather considerations: Overnight temperatures at dispersed sites can drop significantly. At Vivian Creek Camp, campers reported staying "in negative degree weather." Higher elevation sites experience substantial wind, making it "insanely difficult to set up camp in that blowing wind and cold air."
Tips for camping with families
Exploration zones: Holcomb Valley provides ample exploration opportunities where "kids are allowed, and the trails in the area are dog-friendly." One family mentioned their "kids loved being able to explore, but they were covered in sand/dirt by the end of the trip."
Site selection strategy: For families seeking more seclusion, consider spots further from main access roads. One camper at Mill Creek noted there are "some spots more secluded than others" and recommended going "a little further in the woods where you're no longer in the campground base."
Safety awareness: Be alert for wildlife encounters in dispersed camping areas. One camper at Vivian Creek warned "I have seen a rattlesnake not too far from the camp," particularly during warmer months when snake activity increases.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: Many dispersed sites have specific size constraints. At East Flats, "larger rigs will do just fine within the first 1/4 mile" despite "roads a bit rough with rock and drainage ditches," with one camper successfully navigating the area with a "40' trailer" without issues.
Internet connectivity options: Several dispersed camping areas offer surprising connectivity. At East Flats, campers report "Starlink internet here was great" allowing them to "stay 2 days to work here." Another noted "I even have internet (Telekom)!" which proves helpful for those needing to stay connected.
Leveling considerations: Look for the flatter areas when selecting sites for RVs. One camper at East Flats mentioned "the campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome."
