Dispersed camping near Chino, California offers options in San Bernardino National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 11,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night, while winter brings occasional snow at higher elevations. Most dispersed camping sites require Adventure Passes ($5 daily or $30 annual) for vehicle parking in designated areas.
What to do
Hiking to summit camps: For experienced backpackers, the San Gorgonio Summit Camp provides primitive camping at 11,501 feet. "It was a long hike mostly due to the altitude. The last few miles seem like they take forever. We ended up getting to the peak camp around 10pm. It was pretty cold and dark by then. There are plenty of rock barrier campsites to protect us from the wind," notes one camper at San Gorgonio Summit Camp.
Waterfall exploration: Vivian Creek Camp serves as a base camp with creek access. "If you hike down to the creek and head South, that is where you will find the end of the waterfall. Becaful here though for I have seen a rattle snake not to far from the camp!" warns a visitor to Vivian Creek Camp.
Mountain biking: Free camping spots near mountain bike trails can be found along Mill Creek. "Great free camping when campgrounds are booked. Easy to navigate with GPS. Many large and small sites along the road. Some spots more secluded than others," reports one camper about the area.
What campers like
Cell service availability: Many dispersed sites near Chino maintain cell coverage, unlike more remote camping areas. At East Flats, campers report good connectivity. "Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site," mentions one camper who needed to stay connected.
Wildlife viewing: Various sites offer opportunities to see local fauna. "Many even spots even for bigger vehicles. Very quiet and I even have internet (Telekom)!" notes another East Flats visitor who enjoyed the peaceful setting.
Quick escapes from LA: Several free camping options near Chino provide accessible getaways. "We are here RN! It is so peaceful and the air is so fresh! Pines, and clear blue skies! What more can you ask for a few hours away from LA proper…" writes a camper about their experience at East Flats.
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Some dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, one camper warns, "Most of the road to the site is paved, but the road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV."
Fire restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas enforce strict fire rules year-round. "First time car camping. Solo trip with my fur babies. Trails a little rough but good thing I have X-Mode on my Subaru. Lol," mentions a Mill Creek camper about accessing sites.
Weekend crowds: Free camping sites near Chino fill quickly Thursday through Sunday. "First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend. There are a lot of flat spots to choose from," notes one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Roadside safety considerations: Some dispersed sites like Angeles Crest Overlook to LA aren't suitable for children. "It is not a real campground, just a the parking area of a view point. So the view was great. I parked at one end of the area but in the evening lots of couples and teenagers came and the parking area was well used," cautions a camper.
Beginner-friendly options: East Flats offers larger, more established sites for families new to dispersed camping. "Great spot right off of Jenks Lake Road East that allows dispersed camping. There are a lot of spaces and larger rigs will do just fine within the first 1/4 mile," recommends an experienced camper.
Pet-friendly areas: Many free camping areas welcome dogs but require leashing. "I wanted a place where I could let Bella off leach, so I put it in 4 wheel drive to pull my TAB trailer. Found a good spot. I can see other bigger rigs they did not require 4x4," explains one camper about their pet-friendly experience.
Tips from RVers
Class A motorhome access: Some dispersed sites accommodate larger rigs despite rough roads. At Rim of the World Byway Dispersed, one RVer shares, "We stayed here for two nights, and 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."
Overnight parking options: Several areas permit overnight RV parking when formal campgrounds are full. "You can overnight park here with your RV without problems," reports a camper about Hare School Park, offering a simple option for those seeking free camping near Chino, California.
Level site hunting: Finding flat spots for larger rigs requires advance planning. "The campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome. I am far enough away where I don't hear everyone talking," notes a camper at East Flats about finding suitable terrain.
