San Bernardino National Forest offers numerous free camping near Cedar Glen, California at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet. The region features pine and oak forests with seasonal temperature variations of 30-80°F in summer and 20-50°F in winter. Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible from May through October, though seasonal forest closures can occur during extreme fire danger periods.
What to do
Hiking near summit camps: For advanced backpackers, San Gorgonio Summit Camp provides challenging terrain with significant elevation gain. "The hike to the peak was nuts - we stayed at halfway camp in negative degree weather - and then summited on day 2," reports one camper who reached the 11,501-foot summit.
Gold panning opportunities: Historical mining areas remain accessible in Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp where one reviewer notes, "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."
Rock climbing access: Popular with climbers, Holcomb Valley provides numerous bouldering and climbing routes. According to reviews, "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."
Off-road exploring: Many forest roads offer 4x4 adventures. "All the trail roads are mostly for 4x4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day. A lot of fun to witness that," notes a visitor about the forest roads leading to remote camps.
What campers like
Proximity to alpine lakes: East Flats provides access to nearby water features. A reviewer mentions, "Great spot right off of Jenks Lake Road East that allows dispersed camping... Lots to do with San Gorgonio Mt right here, Jenks Lake, Santa Ana river (and River Trail for MTB)."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple areas offer opportunities to observe local fauna. "We stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site," reports a camper at East Flats, highlighting the regular wildlife presence.
Cellular connectivity: Unlike many remote camping locations, most dispersed areas maintain reasonable service. At East Flats, campers note, "Starlink internet here was great" and "very quiet and I even have internet (Telekom)!" This makes the area suitable for remote workers needing connectivity.
Scenic viewpoints: Rim of the World Byway Dispersed offers unique perspectives. "By Rim of the world scenic byway and mormon rocks. Easy in and out but next to train tracks," notes one reviewer about this easily accessible location.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Yellow Post #54 requires significant off-road driving. "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."
Overnight temperatures fluctuate seasonally: Higher elevation camps can experience freezing conditions even in summer. Summit campers report, "It was pretty cold and dark by then. There are plenty of rock barrier campsites to protect us from the wind."
Permit requirements vary by location: Some areas require wilderness permits while others don't. For San Gorgonio Summit Camp, one reviewer notes it's "permit required" and advises, "You have to get your permit early in the summer season because of that!"
Site availability patterns: Weekdays offer better chances for solitude. "Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend. There are a lot of flat spots to choose from," reports a camper about dispersed areas near Big Bear.
Tips for camping with families
Suitable for varied ages: Mill Creek Dispersed Camping provides options for families. "Overall great campground, there are definitely some permanent residents but there is more than enough spots to have some privacy," mentions one reviewer.
Plan for dusty conditions: Prepare children for the natural elements. One family notes, "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."
Pack extra water: No potable water exists at any dispersed sites. Families should bring 1-2 gallons per person per day, especially during hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 80°F.
Consider spacing between sites: Some areas offer better separation. "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," advises a Mill Creek camper, suggesting camping further from main roads for family privacy.
Tips from RVers
Maximum length restrictions: Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites presents challenges for larger vehicles. "We decided not to go to the site because it looked like a one lane road and too tight for our 35 ft bumper pull," shares one RVer who had difficulty with access.
East Flats accommodates larger rigs: Several RVers confirm accessibility for big rigs. "The campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome," reports one camper, while another notes, "There are a lot of spaces and larger rigs will do just fine within the first 1/4 mile."
Turn-around limitations: Many forest roads lack adequate turning space. "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," warns an RVer about Stockton Flats access.
Brake management on steep grades: Mountain driving requires proper technique. "On the way back down from the turnaround we almost burned out our brakes," cautions an RVer about the steep descents common throughout the San Bernardino Mountains.
