Top Free Dispersed Camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, look no further. Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA (32)

    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from San Gorgonio Summit Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from San Gorgonio Summit Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from San Gorgonio Summit Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from San Gorgonio Summit Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from San Gorgonio Summit Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from San Gorgonio Summit Camp

    3. San Gorgonio Summit Camp

    5 Reviews
    55 Photos
    170 Saves

    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://sgwa.org/contact/ 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
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Junction
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Junction
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

    6. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

    2 Reviews
    11 Photos
    28 Saves

    Group 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://sgwa.org/contact/ 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
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Vivian Creek Camp

    7. Vivian Creek Camp

    1 Review
    9 Photos
    40 Saves

    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://sgwa.org/contact/ 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
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Hills Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Hills Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Hills Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Hills Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Hills Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Hills Wilderness

    8. Mecca Hills Wilderness

    8 Reviews
    17 Photos
    270 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree

    9. North Joshua Tree

    6 Reviews
    14 Photos
    94 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
Showing results 1-10 of 32 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Idyllwild-Pine Cove

111 Reviews of 32 Idyllwild-Pine Cove Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Ridge Yellow Post Sites
    Sep. 27, 2024

    South Ridge Yellow Post Sites

    Awesome dispersed site with amazing views

    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)

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Aug. 25, 2024

    BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree

    Definition of Dispersed Camping

    Everything about this site is not only free, but literally free to park and camp anywhere. There are private properties around, so just double check, but for the most part its wife open land to camp. Also currently in a fire ban, but that should be getting lifted in October. So campfires would be a great idea out here as well.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Flats
    Aug. 1, 2024

    East Flats

    Great secluded location

    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. Arrived around 5:30pm on a Wednesday. Drove past a few campers. A few with big RV’s. Closest camper is about 30 yards away. Could barely hear their generator running. Planned on staying a few nights but after the first night I was told there was a big archery event and that the whole campground was reserved so I had to pack up and leave.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 23, 2024

    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.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from East Flats
    Jun. 28, 2024

    East Flats

    Quiet & Fresh Air

    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…

  • Dickie Simmons  S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
    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.

  • Francisco F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
    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.

  • joel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Park Road Camp
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Gold Park Road Camp

    South of 29 Palms

    Takes a bit of time to find just the right spot, as some areas are a little trashy. Quiet, beautiful evening sunset enjoyed. Cools down nicely at night.

  • Alexis O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from East Flats
    Jun. 7, 2024

    East Flats

    great spacious area

    loved this spot. easy to find & very lowkey, with ample spaces to choose from. no amenities & great cell service.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    May. 12, 2024

    Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    GOOD ENOUGH

    The area was easy to navigate; even when we pulled in late at night. There were a lot of people coming in and out as well. I wouldn’t recommend if you’re looking for privacy. Aside from that, I would camp if you’re looking for something easy, safe, and accessible.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Box Canyon Dispersed
    Apr. 18, 2024

    Box Canyon Dispersed

    Sweet spot

    Pretty sandy - would recommend 4wd but i suspect you could get in without. got my jeep deep into the canyon between coachella weekends and was the only person there.

  • Rainer R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Apr. 14, 2024

    North Joshua Tree

    Nice stay, plenty of space

    We arrived early in the afternoon around 4:30 pm and found a vast, open place witziges only few, dispersed campers. Access was easy, Solid ground . Only the partly littered areas prevent us from giving 5 stars.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yaqui Wash
    Apr. 14, 2024

    Yaqui Wash

    If you just want to get outdoors...

    There are a bunch of campsites along a service road that is parallel to a main road, several hundred feet away. This whole area is essentially within one valley, so you have mountains on both sides. It is well vegetated and allows for fairly easy hikes up the soft slopes.

    The parking spots are right alongside the road, so for van camping is not so great, but tents can be put away from the road and therefore it's much more suitable for tenting.

    The stretch of dirt road closest to the main road is Sandy, but manageable bull in a two wheel drive. This is where most of the campsites are. Further along the road, there are fewer camp sites, so they are more dispersed, however the road becomes more rocky and jutted, but for those wanting a bit more privacy, this is the spot to be.

    I would like to come back in camp in this location. So i'm going to mark it to return another time.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yaqui Pass Camp
    Apr. 14, 2024

    Yaqui Pass Camp

    Easy stop if you need, otherwise keep driving

    Drove in..., drove out. As another review noted, it's a big parking lot. Fine if you just need a place to pull over, nothing of value there..., maybe proximity to a hiking trail.

  • Emmi O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    Ok for one night stay

    We arrived late in the evening and spent one night there. There was couple of other campers too, so we felt safe. No trash but smelled like urine. Cell service was okay.

  • Maura G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping
    Mar. 13, 2024

    Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping

    Stolen Tent

    Not a bad spot in close proximity to Joshua Tree, but our tent disappeared from our site on 3/12. We left in the morning to hike and returned to our site to find that every piece of our tent and sleeping gear was gone.

  • Michaela H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Mar. 8, 2024

    North Joshua Tree

    Good camping with dump station nearby

    Stayed here for two weeks in February and found it very enjoyable. Nobody too rowdy, people left respectful distances between rigs, GREAT location for travel caravans.

    1. The most paved way in is to take Sunfair to Broadway. Sites are technically in and next to the Coyote Lake bed, but so long as it’s not too crowded the residents next to the solar farm don’t seem to mind parking closer to them, which is a lifesaver during rain because you do NOT want to get trapped in lake mud trying to leave. There’s a large compacted area to the left and right once you pass the solar farm. NOTE: if you park closer to the solar farm, just be aware that there are farm animals so it smells appropriately like manure.
    2. BE CAREFUL!! Don’t drive into areas with any kind of grasses growing or even dead, this is a good indicator you’ve gotten to the sandier soil which is NOT your friend and WILL sink you with only 2WD.
    3. Further up Sunfair is a family run campground, wonderful people, standard site pricing ($30 dry, $55 full hookup). Convenient to have nearby because they’ll let you use the dump station for $20, fill your water for $5, and shower for $10.
    4. When I was here we had rangers driving through semi regularly, but I never saw them stop or approach a rig at any point. Definitely nice to just be left alone!
  • Jess L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree
    Mar. 7, 2024

    BLM Dispersed Camping at Joshua Tree

    Awesome

    Loved camping here, my fiancé and I went to a show at Pappy and Harriet’s and afterwards set up camp here. Easy to find and you have SO much space! There were a bunch of camper vans parked but there’s so much space so you don’t feel crammed and still have plenty of privacy! Loved the night sky views as well. We will for sure be returning here in the future.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Feb. 7, 2024

    North Joshua Tree

    Early February Visit

    It’s everything you need, flat, free and spacious! There was loads of place for space between campers. The weather had been good so the track was not rough. Would love to come back here again the views are amazing.

    Small bits of noise from music, fireworks and ATVs during our stay but that’s part of the experience.

  • Garrett L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Joshua Tree
    Jan. 28, 2024

    North Joshua Tree

    FLAT & FREE

    Plenty of sand (but hey it’s the desert). Stayed here for a week and couldn’t have asked for a better spot. The occasional firing squad will come through (even had someone testing grenades) but it’s few and far between. Close enough to JTNP and Walmart. I came right after a rainstorm and it got a little hairy. Not impossible at all but just be sure to check the weather and be prepared.



Guide to Idyllwild-Pine Cove

Camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California, offers a mix of stunning nature and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer from Idyllwild Campground — Mount San Jacinto State Park saying, "Hiked saw mill flats and loved the views of the pines and large boulder formations."
  • Fishing: If you love fishing, check out Lake Hemet Campground. A visitor mentioned, "The campground is clean and the fishing is good, most of the time."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at San Gorgonio Campground noted, "Deer, blue jays, lizards, squirrels, reported bear sightings but we did not see any bears."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Hurkey Creek Park said, "The restrooms are clean enough; I've seen much worse state park restrooms."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One visitor at Ryan Campground — Joshua Tree National Park mentioned, "The camp sites are private feeling, and spaced far enough apart."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A guest at Catalina Spa and RV Resort shared, "Staff were very friendly and accommodating."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many areas. A camper at Lake Skinner Recreation Area noted, "Verizon signal was non-existent."
  • Weather Variability: The weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. One visitor at San Gorgonio Campground mentioned, "Cold mornings but perfect temperature during the day."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A reviewer at Black Rock Campground — Joshua Tree National Park advised, "Get there as early as you can for checking in."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water activities. A family at Lake Hemet Campground enjoyed, "The swim zone isn't too far from this campsite."
  • Group Campsites: Consider reserving a group site for more space. A camper at Yucaipa Regional Park mentioned, "Tent camping is only allowed in group sites."
  • Plan for Noise: Be ready for some noise, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Perris State Recreational Area Campground said, "It was awful... large group of people blasting their music until 2/3 AM."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Catalina Spa and RV Resort noted, "Sites really vary in size and quality."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A visitor at Lake Skinner Recreation Area mentioned, "Full hookups with easy access."
  • Be Mindful of Dust: Some areas can be dusty, especially in the older sections of RV parks. A camper at Catalina Spa and RV Resort pointed out, "The dog park was ok, but on the small side and would be better with a gravel base instead of the dirt."

Camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA is Joshua Tree Lake Dispersed Camping with a 3.5-star rating from 33 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 32 dispersed camping locations near Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.