Top Free Dispersed Camping near Idyllwild, CA

Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp near Idyllwild? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Idyllwild. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your California camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Idyllwild, CA (33)

    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 Strawberry Junction
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Junction
    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

    4. 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 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 33 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Idyllwild

111 Reviews of 33 Idyllwild 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

Camping near Idyllwild, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer from Jumbo Rocks Campground saying, "So much exploring to be had right from your campsite. The high desert is fascinating."
  • Rock Climbing: If you're into climbing, Hidden Valley is a hotspot. A visitor noted, "The rocks are great to boulder, scramble, or climb on. Bring your climbing gear if you’re interested!"
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Indian Cove Campground shared, "Talk about waking up with the sound of coyotes in your camp; it was so peaceful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the breathtaking landscapes. A review for South Carlsbad State Beach Campground highlights, "Couldn’t have better views. We watched dolphins and seals playing in the waves."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One visitor at William Heise County Park said, "The park was clean and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and helpful."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families. A reviewer at Lake Hemet Campground noted, "Great place for family and kids. Affordable."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hidden Valley Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "The campground offers the most basic accommodations as toilets; no water or showers."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A visitor at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground warned, "The site is very popular, so finding an open site to book can be difficult."
  • Weather Variability: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. One camper at Black Rock Campground shared, "It was very cold and windy. We even got rain while we were there."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites that offer amenities for kids. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground said, "There are mature trees between every campsite that provide privacy between sites."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Lake Hemet Campground suggested, "The swim zone isn't too far from this campsite, a 5-10 min walk."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone fueled up. A visitor at San Elijo State Beach Campground mentioned, "You can get a fishing license there if needed."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at William Heise County Park noted, "It be hard to get a 20 ft plus trailer into this particular site."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Lake Hemet Campground shared, "There's not a lot of campground etiquette either. Just uncaring people stomping through your site."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Know where the dump stations are located. A reviewer at San Mateo Campground mentioned, "The dump site was closed this weekend, but with our day pass, we were able to use the dump site at San Clemente State Beach."

Camping near Idyllwild, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're with family or exploring solo. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Idyllwild, 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, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 33 dispersed camping locations near Idyllwild, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.