Dispersed camping near Burbank, California provides access to wilderness areas within 30-45 minutes of the city. The Angeles National Forest and surrounding public lands sit at elevations between 2,000-5,000 feet, creating temperature differences often 10-15 degrees cooler than the San Fernando Valley below. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer brings heightened fire restrictions throughout most primitive camping areas.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access numerous trailheads from dispersed camping areas in Angeles National Forest. At Big Cone Camp - Santa Paula Canyon, "the trail has changed many times over the years because of the nature of flooding through the canyon, but follow the signs through the middle of the canyon and the main trail will head up the mountain to the right," according to robherr, who adds this campsite is "nestled among the trees" on a saddle.
Dog exercise: Find pet-friendly options at several dispersed sites. At Hare School Park, one camper notes "There's a dog park kind of area with a big field they can run around and just clean up after them." This urban camping option allows pets more space than typical forest sites.
Photography: Early morning city views make Angeles Crest sites popular for photographers. Valerie at Angeles Crest Overlook to LA reports "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise!" This roadside location offers panoramic opportunities without requiring hiking equipment.
What campers like
Quick escape proximity: Most dispersed camping areas can be reached within an hour from Burbank. At Rim of the World Byway, Alexander B. explains "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." He advises "Use Google Maps; Waze takes you the wrong way."
Off-road adventures: Some sites require specialized vehicles but reward with increased privacy. Panda V. describes Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites as 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." Arriving early is recommended as weekend spots fill quickly.
Water features: Seasonal pools and waterfalls enhance some primitive camping locations. At Big Cone Camp, one reviewer notes "From Big Cone Camp you can easily reach the waterfalls and pools that make this area known as the 'punch bowls'. Depending on weather and water conditions there are some nice water rock slides, and a few pools you can jump from the cliffs into."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Burbank have significant limitations on fires. At Heaton Flats, Les R. warns "camping outside established campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders" and directs campers to check the Forest Service website for current status.
Vehicle requirements: Many sites demand appropriate transportation. Joe R. cautions about Stockton Flats: "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."
Safety considerations: Urban-adjacent camping presents unique challenges. At Angeles Crest Overlook, Jaydon C. shares "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."
Tips for camping with families
Location selection: Choose dispersed sites with appropriate terrain for children. Nicole D. recommends certain Angeles Crest pullouts: "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."
Noise considerations: Many roadside camping areas experience traffic throughout the night. Joey B. describes Angeles Crest Overlook as a "Perfect last minute late night hold over stop" but acknowledges it's "A place to rest up not to camp" due to regular disturbances.
Trash management: Pack extra bags for waste removal. At Rim of the World Byway, Gregg P. notes there are "no toilets" and "no trash" services, requiring complete self-sufficiency for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many dispersed camping areas restrict larger vehicles. ROCKSTAR C. at Hare School Park explains "I'm in a 25 foot Fleetwood RV" but cautions "It's not tent friendly. I don't believe."
Parking logistics: Find level pullouts that accommodate your specific vehicle. At Rim of the World Byway, Joe R. describes it as "Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly." The site provides convenient access without difficult terrain.
Road conditions: Monitor seasonal changes that affect accessibility. Nathaniel C. advises Stockton Flats visitors that "specs of this campground are wrong" and clarifies it's "Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck or similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc)."
