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Best Dispersed Camping near Hemet, CA

37 Reviews

The San Bernardino National Forest surrounding Hemet offers several free dispersed camping options with South Ridge Yellow Post Sites being particularly popular. These primitive sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables but no water, toilets or trash service. A camper noted, "Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California." Thomas Mountain Road provides additional dispersed camping opportunities with limited fire rings but sufficient space for multiple vehicles.

Most primitive sites require careful navigation on rough forest roads. East Flats, though farther from Hemet, offers spacious dispersed camping suitable for larger vehicles. According to a visitor, "The campsite was easy to find, there are plenty of spots and they are level—multiple spots for a 34-foot motorhome." For backpackers, the San Gorgonio Wilderness provides several remote camping areas along trails, including Vivian Creek Camp and High Creek Camp, though wilderness permits are required. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, and campers should be prepared for primitive conditions by bringing all necessary supplies and packing out waste.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Hemet, California (19)

    1. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    4 Reviews
    Idyllwild, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2921

    "Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA."

    "Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)"

    2. Chinouapin Zone San Bernardino National Forest

    1 Review
    Idyllwild, CA
    16 miles

    "There is plenty of space along the trail and it is just a GORGEOUS area to wake up to. Can’t believe it’s in southern California"

    3. Strawberry Junction — Mount San Jacinto State Park

    1 Review
    Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA
    17 miles
    Website

    $5 / night

    "This campsite is located at the junctionof the Deer Springs Trail and the PCT, and is breathtaking."

    4. Thomas Mountain Road

    3 Reviews
    Mountain Center, CA
    19 miles

    "Close to the road. 14 day limit cool backdrop. Road to the sites has a few bumps."

    "Nice spot, close to road with shade from the trees"

    5. East Flats

    11 Reviews
    San Bernardino National Forest, CA
    31 miles
    Website

    "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."

    6. San Gorgonio Summit Camp

    5 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +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."

    7. Pathfinder Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Anza, CA
    24 miles

    "No amenities. 14 day stay. Mostly secluded, except for some cow visitors. Road leading in is rough. Skill is needed to venture back."

    8. Pathfinder Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Anza, CA
    24 miles

    "No amenities. 14 day stays. The only important note is that the road leading up is rough, careful skill is needed."

    9. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

    2 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +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."

    10. Vivian Creek Camp

    1 Review
    Forest Falls, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Hemet, CA

40 Photos of 19 Hemet Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hemet, CA

37 Reviews of 19 Hemet Campgrounds

  • E B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Yellow post number 2

    Yellow Post #2 – San Bernardino National Forest Secluded, free, first-come-first-served tent site tucked deep in the forest near Hemet, CA. No amenities—no toilet, water, or trash—so pack in and out. Fire ring and picnic table on-site. Shaded by mature trees with a dirt/sand/rock surface. Site fits up to 8 people and 2 vehicles.

    Access road is rough and rocky but doable in dry conditions with a careful 2WD. Signage is limited—offline maps recommended. Site sits near a dry creek bed and has a short walk to a west-facing boulder with expansive views of the valley.

    Wildlife includes deer, lizards, snakes, woodpeckers, and lots of squirrels. Mosquitoes come out at dusk—repellent is a must. Fire bans usually in effect during summer. Great for quiet retreats, hiking, light climbing, and off-grid solitude.

    A rugged but rewarding forest stay for self-sufficient campers.

  • Dickie Simmons S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2024

    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.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 8, 2023

    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.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2018

    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.

  • Cyndy & Selena R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2023

    East 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.

  • J
    Jun. 9, 2021

    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.

  • Francisco F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Mill 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.

  • s
    Apr. 25, 2022

    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.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 6, 2024

    East Flats

    Nice lake!

    No amenities but still nice and the price is right!

Guide to Hemet

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hemet, California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

  • Located in a remote area, South Ridge Yellow Post Sites offers a private camping experience with stunning views, making it a favorite among weekend adventurers.
  • This site allows campfires, so you can enjoy cozy evenings under the stars, but remember to bring your own firewood as it is not provided.
  • With no reservations required, this free site is perfect for spontaneous trips, but be prepared for a lack of amenities like drinking water and toilets.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Hemet, California

  • Always check for permits before heading to places like Thomas Mountain Road, as some areas require them for camping.
  • Bring plenty of mosquito repellent when visiting spots like Strawberry Junction — Mount San Jacinto State Park, as the natural surroundings can attract these pesky insects.
  • Ensure you pack out all your trash and leave no trace, especially in popular areas like Vivian Creek Camp, where maintaining the pristine environment is crucial for future visitors.

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near Hemet

  • For those seeking stunning vistas, Bear Lake is a top choice, offering a clean, off-grid experience with natural water slides nearby.
  • If you're looking for a unique camping experience, consider High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness, where the sound of flowing water enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Campers at Little Thomas Dispersed can enjoy a peaceful retreat with ample space for tents and RVs, all while being surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Hemet dispersed camping sites?

Dispersed camping sites near Hemet typically offer minimal to no amenities, requiring self-sufficiency. Yellow Post #54 provides solitude and views from its ridge location but no facilities. The drive to reach it is long and rocky, requiring appropriate vehicles. At most yellow post sites, you'll find only basic amenities like fire rings and possibly picnic tables. Little Thomas Dispersed is similarly primitive. You'll need to pack in all essentials including water and pack out all trash. Many sites report good cellular reception, which is helpful for emergency communication. Always prepare for truly off-grid camping by bringing sufficient water, food, toilet supplies, and garbage bags for waste removal.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hemet?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Hemet. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping offers numerous large and small sites along the road, ideal when established campgrounds are booked. This area requires medium clearance vehicles and light off-road capabilities. East Flats provides remote locations with multiple loops and spots, particularly pleasant in mid-June. For those seeking more seclusion, Thomas Mountain Road has sites with fire rings accessible via easy dirt roads. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp also offers unlimited dispersed camping spots off roads and trails in the national forest.

How much does dispersed camping near Hemet cost?

Dispersed camping near Hemet is typically free. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites offers free, first-come-first-served camping sites tucked in the forest near Hemet. Similarly, Coon Creek Yellow Post provides multiple free camping spots along the road. These dispersed sites in San Bernardino National Forest operate under the standard National Forest policy where dispersed camping is permitted at no cost. No reservation fees or camping permits are required, though you should always check if fire permits are needed during your stay, especially in dry seasons. Always follow Leave No Trace principles since these free sites don't include trash service.

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