Best Dispersed Camping near Colton, CA
The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Colton. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Colton. Discover great camping spots near Colton, reviewed by campers like you.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Colton, California (25)
1. East Flats
10 ReviewsSan Bernardino National Forest, CA28 milesWebsite"Camping at East Flats was great in mid-June. There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes."
"As a matter of fact, we got engaged at nearby Jenks Lake and celebrated here after. No facilities, but if you have your supplies, it’s great. There are a couple loops and lots of spots. Enjoy."
2. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
5 ReviewsFawnskin, CA24 milesWebsite+1 (909) 382-2790"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. "
"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."
3. Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
2 ReviewsLytle Creek, CA20 milesWebsite+1 (909) 382-2851"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."
"Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly ;)"
4. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
4 ReviewsWrightwood, CA23 milesWebsite+1 (909) 382-2851"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"
"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."
5. San Gorgonio Summit Camp
5 ReviewsForest Falls, CA29 milesWebsite+1 (909) 382-2882".......................
**** Product Review
As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test products."
"There were steep inclines and narrow trails. but beautiful views. Avoid the area should there be rain due to dangerous flash floods."
6. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
7 ReviewsBig Bear Lake, CA30 milesWebsite"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."
"Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited."
7. Vivian Creek Camp
1 ReviewForest Falls, CA25 milesWebsite+1 (909) 382-2882"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."
8. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
2 ReviewsForest Falls, CA27 milesWebsite+1 (909) 382-2882"There is one really good site mostly dirt, no rocks, defined well, but it is right off the trail. So I'm sure you can guess there is no privacy nor silence."
9. Bear Lake
1 ReviewBig Bear Lake, CA27 milesWebsite+1 (909) 382-2790"Nice clean off grid best place so far Rick water slides"
10. Coon Creek Yellow Post
1 ReviewBig Bear City, CA32 miles"Multiple free camping spots from the Y up to Fish Creek all the way to Coon Creek Cabin. 1st spots on the left are big rig friendly, you do have about a mile of dirt road before you get to them."
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Colton, CA
45 Photos of 25 Colton Campgrounds
Joe R.
Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
Nathaniel C.
Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
Connor M.
Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Brittany N.
High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
Chandra B.
East Flats
Leslie R.
Heaton flats
Brittany N.
San Gorgonio Summit Camp
Leslie R.
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Mike M.
Yellow Post #54
Alana H.
Strawberry Junction — Mount San Jacinto State Park
carina M.
Chinouapin Zone San Bernardino National Forest
Kique S.
South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
Dispersed Camping Reviews near Colton, CA
45 Reviews of 25 Colton Campgrounds
Dickie Simmons S.
GuideMill 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.
Leslie R.
LegendHeaton 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.
Laura M.LegendOrd Mountain Dispersed
Actual location 34.684300, -116.960600
I did the best I could with finding the exact location on the map using The Dyrt's current capabilities to add a new location. This site is located at 34.684300,-116.960600, across the 247 road from Sawtooth Canyon Campground / New Jack City rock climbing area. Hopefully someone can go in at some point and fix the location to be more precise.
We checked this place out but didn’t stay. We liked the beautiful wide open surroundings, the good cell reception, and the easy access from the main road, but it seemed like this is a place better suited for bigger groups, especially those who will be riding ATVs or dirt bikes around. So, if you’re looking for a big open space to hang out with a big group where you can be loud and not disturb anyone, this would be a good place for it. We also heard gun shots nearby so further down the road is probably a good shooting area.
Obviously no amenities so please pack in/ pack out. It was surprisingly not too trashed so that was nice. We made it down the dirt road fine in our 26 ft class c. Proceed at your own comfort level, but it seems like a road that would be ok for any rig (maybe not a class A?) if you go slow and watch for dips and bumps.
- 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
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.
- AAlexander B.
ScoutRim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
Quick stop, nice rocks
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. Use Google Maps; Waze takes you the wrong way, cause it's just right off the freeway, not down a long, very bumpy dirt road.
Cyndy & Selena R.GuideEast Flats
East Flats-very nice
Camping at East Flats was great in mid-June. There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes.
- 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 V.Guide
East Flats
Terrific Dispersed Spot
My wife and our friends love this spot. As a matter of fact, we got engaged at nearby Jenks Lake and celebrated here after. No facilities, but if you have your supplies, it’s great. There are a couple loops and lots of spots. Enjoy.
Guide to Colton
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Colton, California, where nature meets adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while soaking in the stunning landscapes of the San Bernardino National Forest.
Top Activities While Free Camping Near Colton
- Experience the thrill of off-roading at Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, where the rugged terrain is perfect for 4x4 enthusiasts looking to explore the backcountry.
- Enjoy hiking and biking trails near Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8, which offers access to scenic routes and beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Take advantage of the peaceful environment at East Flats, where wildlife sightings, including deer, are common, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
- Nestled in a quiet forest, Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp is perfect for those seeking solitude and a chance to connect with nature.
- The area is rich in history, as it was once the site of gold discoveries in the 1800s, offering a unique backdrop for your camping experience.
- With ample space for various camping setups, this spot is well-reviewed for its accessibility and scenic beauty, making it a favorite among dispersed campers.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Colton, California
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Vivian Creek Camp, which can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
- Be prepared for a lack of amenities at places like High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness, where you'll need to bring your own water and supplies.
- Always check for any trail closures or restrictions before heading out, as conditions can change, particularly in areas like Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south), which may have seasonal access issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Colton, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Colton, CA is East Flats with a 4.7-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Colton, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 25 dispersed camping locations near Colton, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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