Best Dispersed Camping near Claremont, CA
Want to go dispersed camping near Claremont? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Claremont, California (12)
1. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
4 Reviews•6 Photos•273 SavesWrightwood, CaliforniaThese remote camping sites offer isolated scenic locations ideal for tent and car camping or a relaxing picnic far from the crowds. Other than a pit for campfires, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no picnic tables, no restrooms nearby, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out! All sites are first-come, first-served. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ's, or stoves. Campfires may not be allowed certain times of the year. See Current Conditions below or call the Lytle Creek Ranger Station (909-382-2851). These Yellow Post Sites are reached via Forest Road 3N06. Please refer to the Yellow-post site map available by clicking on this link or for free at the Lytle Creek Ranger Station. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching all sites. Four-wheel drive vehicles may also be required depending on current road conditions.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
6 Reviews•1 Photo•84 SavesLa Cañada Flintridge, California- Pets
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
1 Review•14 Photos•53 SavesLytle Creek, CaliforniaPlease remember to LNT at dispersed campgrounds
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
5. East Flats
8 Reviews•32 Photos•270 SavesSan Bernardino National Forest, California- Pets
- Dispersed
- WiFi
- Alcohol
6. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
5 Reviews•4 Photos•345 SavesFawnskin, CaliforniaDispersed, or undeveloped, camping provides more solitude and an opportunity to “rough it.” There are many camping opportunities in general forest areas as well as in wilderness areas. Know before you go: Before traveling visit or call the nearest Ranger Station for current fire restrictions and area closures. No wood or charcoal campfires (check current fire restrictions before you go). Vehicles must remain on roads and associated pullouts. Do not clear vegetation. Portable gas-powered stoves, lanterns and fire rings with a fuel-shutoff valve allowed with a California Campfire Permit and five feet clearance from vegetation. Camp at least 200 feet from springs, water, meadows, trails and roads. Camp at least a quarter-mile from designated campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads. Camp at least a quarter-mile from private property and state highways. Pack out all trash. Leave no trace!
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
7. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
6 Reviews•36 Photos•441 SavesBig Bear Lake, California- Pets
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Bear Lake
1 Review•59 SavesBig Bear Lake, CaliforniaThe number of visitors admitted to the wilderness is limited. On summer weekends some wilderness areas may fill to capacity well in advance. Wilderness campsites are accessible by foot and/or horseback only and require a free wilderness permit, which may be reserved up to three months in advance. Use of certain trailheads that have facilities like restrooms require an Adventure Pass or an Interagency Pass, which must be displayed on the parked vehicle. When camping in the wilderness, lightweight stoves are recommended. Campfires are not allowed in Wilderness areas on the San Bernardino National Forest. No wood or charcoal campfires (Read the current fire restrictions) Vehicles must remain on roads and associated pullouts Do not clear vegetation Portable gas-powered stoves, lanterns and fire rings with a fuel-shutoff valve allowed with a California Campfire Permit and five feet clearance from vegetation. Camp at least 200 feet from springs, water, meadows, trails and roads Camp at least a quarter-mile from designated campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads Camp at least a quarter-mile from private property and state highways Pack out all trash Leave no trace For more information, please read the Forest Order on use of dispersed areas: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5155166.pdf
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
2 Reviews•11 Photos•30 SavesForest Falls, CaliforniaGroup size limited to 12 people and 8 pack/riding animals per group. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit.
Limited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.
Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us
The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- RVs
- Dispersed
- Drinking Water
10. Vivian Creek Camp
1 Review•9 Photos•42 SavesForest Falls, CaliforniaLimited, but free wilderness permits for day hiking and overnight camping are required for the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the Cucamonga Wilderness Permits – they are issued by the San Gorgonio Wilderness Association, a Forest Service partner. Parts of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, including the San Bernardino Peak Trail, are still closed due to the El Dorado fire.
Upon completion of your reservation request. you will receive a download. Please retain this download as your permit reservation. You may keep a copy on your phone and show it to a ranger as verification of your permit or you can print it out. If you do not receive a permit use the contact link here: https://www.sgwa.org/contact-us
The Vivian Creek Trail is the shortest and the steepest route to the summit of Mt. San Gorgonio, located in the San Gorgonio Wilderness on the Sand to Snow National Monument. One and two-tenths miles from the trailhead is Vivian Creek Camp (7,100'). Campsites are located upslope to the right of the trail after reaching the stream: one is halfway up the slope, and the other is at the top of the slope (no camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek). One and three-tenths miles from Vivian Creek Camp is Halfway Camp (8,100'). Water is obtained from the creek 200 yards before camp. Two and three-tenths miles further is High Creek Camp (water available - 9,200'). The summit of San Gorgonio (11,499') is 3 miles beyond High Creek. The upper end of this trail offers outstanding views of Yucaipa Ridge and Galena Peak, as well as sweeping panoramic views from the top of Mt. San Gorgonio. General info: No water available. No campfires allowed. Portable gas stoves are allowed with a valid California Campfire Permit. No camping within 200 feet of the trail or creek Wilderness Permit Required - this is a very popular trail, especially on summer weekends. It is suggested you request your permit in advance. Wilderness Permit applications are accepted up to 90 days in advance of your trip. Permits can be obtained from sgwa.org. Fee: Adventure Pass Required $5/day or $30/year. Interagency Passes also accepted.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Claremont, California
37 Reviews of 12 Claremont Campgrounds
Leslie R.
Legend
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
unlimited backcountry camping
Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited. We like coming here if we want to be guaranteed a spot, no early arrivals or reservations needed. Dogs are allowed, and the trails in the area are dog-friendly.
Dickie Simmons S.
Traveler
Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Convenient free camping just outside of town
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. Smaller rigs, medium clearance and lite off-road capabilities recommended. Good cellular reception in my particular location.
Eileen S.
GuideMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Dispersed Camping Near Big Bear
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.
Nathaniel C.
Scout
Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
Great if you have a 4x4
Specs if this campground are wrong, no toilets/water/etc.
Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck it similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc)
If both are yes, this place is amazing.
Deep in nature, beautiful area, no cost and you can almost always find a spot, even on a Saturday in summer.
If you go the the end of 3N06 (main off-road path) there is a good hike that you can take for several hours.
- Leslie R.Legend
Heaton flats
Not always allowed
Camping outside esablished campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders on https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles. Currently, camping is allowed for 7 days or less, see here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=78080 The people I saw camping here looked to have been set up somewhat permanently though. I wouldn't feel comfortable setting up a tent here, but it could be an okay rest area at the beginning/end of the hike to Bridge to Nowhere.
Francisco F.TravelerMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Beautiful Spot For 4x4, But NOT For RVs
My husband and I were looking for good boondocking spots yesterday and we decided to check out this spot, after finding it on The Dyrt and a few other sites. It's definitely a beautiful place, and 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. But the biggest issue for RVs is an area of the road that is very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn that we didn't even want to try in our 4x4, since the road is very thin and our SUV (a 2009 Nissan Pathfinder) is kind of thick. I'm sure it's probably nothing for people who are used to using their 4x4 for more than regular driving in the snow, etc., but it was too dodgy for us. There is no way that even a Class C rig would be able to take that steep incline and immediately do that sharp turn. And since there's nowhere to turn around in that spot, you'd have to back your rig down the incline and then quite a ways down the pitted, gravel road to get out of it.
It's full of trees and seems fairly remote, but we had 5 cars pass us as we were backing away from the incline, so it's obviously a busy spot - you wouldn't be there alone, and this was on a Thursday.
- eedward W.Guide
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Site of gold discovery in the 1800s.
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. Once you leave the pavement the going gets slower along the trails. You definitely need a high clearance vehicle. There are campgrounds in the area and also yellow post campsites. There wasn’t many other vehicles around the times I’ve been out there. Nice scenery and peaceful.
- Leslie R.Legend
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Dispersed camping for rock climbers
It is a free campground, first come first serve. There are no developed facilities (i.e., no firepits, outhouses, etc.) but it is beautiful and there are plenty of flat places to set up a tent. 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.
- VValerieScout
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Parking Lot w/ Incredible View
This is just a few parking lots that overlook the valley and gives a view of the city skyline in the distance. Several others were also sleeping in their vehicles along the road and in the parking lots, so you won’t be alone. There were two others in our lot that stayed the night too. The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise!
That being said, it did seem like maybe a teen hangout or something - cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight, so that wasn’t great but not awful either. I’d use it again if I needed it as it’s hard to find free places to sleep with a great view like that when traveling through cities.
Panda V.TravelerStockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
Great spot for dispersed camping
First time headed out here and it was 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. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot.
- RRomi E.Scout
Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
Trail Closed
The trail was closed as of May 7, 2023, No idea when it will be open.
- JJoe R.Guide
Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
Prepare the climb; also not for big RVs
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. On the way back down from the turnaround we almost burned out or brakes. 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. Disappointed because pictures from others looked great and it is a beautiful area. We found a spot near the road that I’ll post for others.
- JJoe R.Guide
Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
Easy in and out by mormon rocks
By Rim of the world scenic byway and mormon rocks. Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly ;)
- Joseph R.Scout
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Nope
It’s basically car camping along the Angeles Crest highway, there’s small pull out spots and, some spots overlooking the forest but kids do tend to party up here and, drive about 100 miles a hour up and, down the road all hours of the night. It can get a bit scary, if you’re alone. Oh cell service non-existent unless you’re closer to the bottom but even then it’s spotty. It’s not a typical campground but it does do the job for a couple days. You will see cars vans along the pull outs coming up but I believe you can car camp on the overlook I have not as I’m more a quiet type person. Be careful though there’s a white van that teams up with a black truck they tried to break in my car while I was sleeping. It is very dangerous and luckily I carry at all times and have cameras.
Andrew S.GuideAngeles Crest Overlook to LA
Not a campsite
This is literally just a roadside pull-off. Only really useful in a pinch. No space for a tent. Sleep in your vehicle.
- JJaydon C.Scout
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Dark, fairly quiet, good view!
I loved car camping here! 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. Other than that, no complaints at all!
- NNicole D.Scout
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Great view
Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van. I felt uncomfortable with that. Next night we moved to the other look out and someone still did donuts behind us- it’s a smaller lookout. Loud music and people talking next to us until about 1 am 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. Would recommend to smaller vans or car sleepers. I did not feel unsafe except for the donuts that happened near us. If you have dogs I would recommend the trail pull off my dogs really enjoyed the hike
Iris A.GuideAngeles Crest Overlook to LA
dispersed camping next to the road
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. Some people stood silently admiring the view, while others played loud music. There were also tire tracks on the ground that suggested to me, some young people come here to test their driving skills. I spent the night and no-one took really notice of me.
There are no toilets, campfire sites or shade but good cell service.
Connor M.GuideMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Plenty of Spots
Overall great campground, there are definitely some permanent residents but there is more than enough spots to have some privacy.
- DDee M.Traveler
Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Over a dozen sites
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. The road here. I went a to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There’s a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises i can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork. There are over a dozen sites along the main road. If you can pull in, it’s a site. Some better than others and spaced out so you may not see your neighbors from your site. 2x4 accessible as long as it’s not muddy or after snow. I saw a Prius on the trail.
Alexander R.Scout2N17 Pooh’s Thotful Spot
Large spot very quiet for a holiday weekend
A large spot big enough for a small group. However, limited flat terrain for tent/ vehicle. A creek runs by with some access to some good hammocking trees.
A weird little shrine to Winnie the Pooh is behind the spot. Don’t know what to make of that.
- MMichi S.Traveler
Bell Mountain Road
quite ok near highway
many Trucks at night. don't drive to the campground just search a space after road ends
Alyssia S.GuideBear Lake
Favorite place
Nice clean off grid best place so far Rick water slides
Brittany N.Legend
Vivian Creek Camp
The most beautiful campground!
This campground is located just around the corner from the permit required sign. There is a lovely creek that lead to a waterfall that some repel down. The campground is up the right of the trail. Nice dirt flat spots within the trees, looking down at the trail. This is a good base camp for the summit. You are a good distance from the trail so it doesn't seem to be a bother as far as noise. 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!
Mister LinhTravelerHolcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Quite a few spots
Quite a crowd with the limited spots here. Some were quite close to one another.
- SSeychelle R.Traveler
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Quiet forest
Forest setting, no one around when we went. Definitely need a 4x4 or all wheel drive vehicle on some of the roads. Was a great experience.
- sseth B.Guide
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
OFF THE GRID
Arriving at the campground, the deposit place, obviously on weekends we were not thrilled by everyone around us, as well as the loud noise until past the curfew. So we decided the next day to go a little further in the woods where you’re no longer in the campground base. So this is called wild camping. And that was amazing not a single sound far from everybody, off the grid.
We went in April, and still had a little bit of snow. All the trail roads are mostly for 4 x 4 vehicles that really enjoy just going at it throughout the day. A lot of fun to witness that. The wild hikes surrounding the campground are really fun. Just remember where you camped. It seems like fires aren’t allowed during certain periods. Just be aware, we brought our own off the ground stove. And it was perfectly fine.
Guide to Claremont
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Claremont, California, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure.
Dispersed campers should check out Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites
- Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 provides a great opportunity for those looking to escape into nature without the hassle of reservations.
- This area allows for campfires, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars, although visitors should bring their own firewood.
- Access is available via both drive-in and hike-in routes, catering to different preferences for adventure.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Claremont, California
- When visiting Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, be prepared for a variety of site options, as there are numerous spots along the road, some more secluded than others.
- It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot, as this area can get busy with fellow campers.
- Keep in mind that while the sites are free, they may not have amenities like restrooms or trash disposal, so plan accordingly.
Top activities while free camping near Claremont
- For those interested in hiking, Heaton Flats serves as a trailhead to the popular Bridge to Nowhere, offering a scenic route for outdoor enthusiasts.
- If you're into off-roading, the trails leading to Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp are perfect for 4x4 vehicles, providing access to stunning forest settings.
- Don't miss the chance to pan for gold along Holcomb Creek, as this area is rich in history and offers a unique experience for those willing to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Claremont, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Claremont, CA is Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 with a 3-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Claremont, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Claremont, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring