Dispersed camping near Green Valley Lake offers rugged terrain between 6,800-7,200 feet elevation in the San Bernardino Mountains. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, while summer nights remain cool at 40-50°F. Road conditions vary dramatically with precipitation, particularly on Forest Service roads leading to yellow post sites.
What to do
Mountain biking near Mill Creek: Access nearby Santa Ana River Trail for challenging single-track routes. "There's a lot to do with San Gorgonio Mt right here, Jenks Lake, Santa Ana river (and River Trail for MTB)," notes Mike M. about the East Flats area.
Rock climbing access: Holcomb Valley provides routes for various skill levels. "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," explains Les R. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Gold panning: Try your luck along Holcomb Creek in areas without active claims. "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," advises edward W.
What campers like
Cell service reliability: Unlike many dispersed sites, East Flats offers consistent connectivity. "Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site," reports Ciara W. about East Flats.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk bring deer sightings at multiple sites. "We saw multiple deer walking by our site," notes Ciara W., while another camper mentioned that the area around High Creek offers "the sound of water is the best part of this campground."
Solitude on weekdays: Mid-week campers report minimal crowding at most sites. "Wasn't hard to find a little rough but fairly easy to reach with our Sedan. Couldn't find too much to do but if you're looking for a weekend getaway to relax it's a nice spot," says Andres V.
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles with 4WD capabilities. At Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, Francisco F. warns: "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."
Dust management: Prepare for extremely dusty conditions, especially during summer months. "Easy to drag in dust and very annoying. We easily found a spot for our van," notes Ciara W. about East Flats.
Seasonal access limitations: Many primitive sites become unreachable during winter storms. "You definitely need a 4x4 or all wheel drive vehicle on some of the roads. Was a great experience," reports Seychelle R. about camping in the forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration areas: Choose sites with natural features for supervised play. "Our kids loved being able to explore, but they were covered in sand/dirt by the end of the trip," shares Allie N. about Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp.
Plan for temperature swings: Mountain elevations mean drastic day-to-night changes. "We are here RN! It is so peaceful and the air is so fresh! Pines, and clear blue skies!" reports Chandra B. about East Flats, though temperatures drop significantly after sunset.
Pet considerations: Most dispersed sites welcome pets but require leashing. "Solo trip with my fur babies. Trails a little rough but good thing I have X-Mode on my Subaru," notes Samay C., adding that the closest camper was "about 30 yards away" providing space for pets.
Tips from RVers
RV-accessible spots: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles despite rough access roads. "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," explains Jesse W. about Yellow Post #54.
Road navigation challenges: Research routes thoroughly before attempting with larger rigs. "The final road to the spot is a single lane and others wanting to camp there will not know if it is occupied so you may get to meet so new friends," warns Mike M.
Dust prevention strategies: Position RVs away from main roads to minimize dust infiltration. "The closer you are to the road the more dust will get in your site from the vehicles passing," advises Dee M. about Coon Creek Yellow Post sites.
