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Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp provides free dispersed camping in the San Bernardino National Forest where pets are welcome throughout the forested setting. Located near Big Bear, this primitive campground has no developed facilities but offers unlimited backcountry camping spots suitable for tent campers with dogs. The dirt road leading to the campsite requires high clearance vehicles or 4x4s to navigate the rocky terrain. Giant Rock Dispersed camping area offers another pet-friendly option near Johnson Valley, featuring open desert terrain with plenty of space for individual or group camping with animals. Dogs can roam more freely in these dispersed camping areas compared to established campgrounds, but owners should maintain control of their pets at all times.
Surrounding trails throughout Holcomb Valley provide dog-friendly hiking opportunities within a beautiful forest setting that includes pine trees and scenic views. Visitors report the area being particularly enjoyable for pets due to the secluded nature and space to explore, though dogs quickly become covered in sand and dirt from the desert environment. During summer months, campers should be cautious about high temperatures affecting pets, bringing ample water as no drinking water is available at dispersed sites. Winter camping is possible but snow may be present as late as April at higher elevations. Cell service varies throughout the region, with some areas near Giant Rock offering 5G connectivity while more remote yellow post sites have limited or no service—an important consideration for pet owners needing emergency veterinary information.
"Big Bear Lake near by, lake level appears to be receding. Bears and coyotes in the area, recommended not to let small dogs or cats roam unattended."
"We camped just a few steps away from the lake, there were other campers there but the campgrounds are far enough away from each other."
from $44 - $91 / night
Check Availability"You're not allowed to use ANY surrounding vegetation for campfires (even kindling) so be prepared to cart in your own wood and kindling."
"Originally booked this site because it is a good endpoint for the California Riding & Hiking trail though the national park, so if you’re looking to run or complete the traverse, it is a good spot"
from $35 / night
Check Availability"The first thing to mention is the location. The back of the campground faces west where the rolling mountains seem to part in a way that showcases the beautiful California sunset."
"second reason; there are many many sites to choose from. this camp ground has several loops that each contain roughly 20 campsites, sometimes more. on any given day you should be able to drive up, though"
from $29 - $58 / night
Check Availability"We were tucked up into the hill side with neighbors far enough sway to make it very private. There were no showers so we brought our travel one and hung it from a branch."
"We arrived at Hanna Flat campground around 11 am on Friday, August 21. First thing about the campground is that the road to get to it is pretty rough."
from $33 - $67 / night
Check Availability"Pet friendly, our three dogs loved it! Staff was incredibly helpful and hard working. Also it was well located as it was a semi-quick drive to a few fun locations."
"Pineknot is perfectly situated in Big Bear where you're in the woods but only a short walk to Snow Summit. "
from $34 - $36 / night
Check Availability"San Gorgonio, aptly named for the famed crown peak near by, is a nice mix of family friendly and weekend escape."
"If you live in Southern California and haven't climbed the highest peak, you need to get out there and experience nature."
from $34 - $69 / night
Check Availability"There is a tiny "lake" with reeds and visiting birds who congregate around the water. Fishing offered, but no swimming. I spent a very serene time with just myself and my cat."
"A great spot away from the main Joshua Tree strip. We visited for one night during the waning height of COVID and staff was taking all the necessary precautions."
from $15 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Came here for a weekend, good spot for tent camping, I went on an off trail hike, cool, fun area. Some views. Drove over to the lake but couldn’t find parking. Very quiet and clean as well."
"mountain just a short hike away from our site, #23. "
from $36 - $73 / night
Check Availability"Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited."
"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."
"There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes."
"What more can you ask for a few hours away from LA proper…"
ScoutIt was just us, so five stars. Good views, and flat parking area. Windy AF and trains all night. Most folks would give it two stars. But we love the desert and waking up to seeing Amboy Crater was very cool and it was free!
ScoutI discovered this campground in Joshua Tree when the campground I had grown used to staying at (Ryan) went reserved only. Belle is on a first come, first serve basis, so there's no reservations involved. Roughly east of the campground is a trail that leads to the next one down, White Tank, which is popular because of the natural arch that can be found a short distance from the campsites. Belle itself has 18 campsites which are mostly empty during the week. Weekends are busy though as campers are usually jockeying for a site starting on Thursday nights. All in all, a beautiful place that offers splendid views and clear, crisp nights. Campers beware as it can get very windy at times. Vault toilets and campfire rings, but no accessible water.
RangerReviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are looking for a true alpine backcountry adventure right in Southern California, backpacking into Round Valley Primitive Campsites inside the Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness is an incredible experience. By pairing the world-famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway with a weekend wilderness trek, you can leave the scorching low desert and step into sub-alpine granite peaks within minutes. Our crew recently packed our gear, caught the tram, and set up basecamp at the Gooseberry site for a Friday-to-Saturday summit push of Mount San Jacinto.
The scenery and wilderness delivered on every level—but the trip also served as a stark reminder that high-altitude nature commands respect.
The Route & Camp Setup (Gooseberry Site)
Taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway bypasses thousands of vertical feet of grueling desert switchbacks, depositing you at Mountain Station:
The October Shoulder Season: Nature Changes in Minutes
We chose to hike late in the season during October, and anyone heading up during shoulder months needs to understand high-elevation weather:
A Serious Backcountry Advisory: 50 Years on the Trail Speaks
As someone with over 50 years of hiking and backpacking experience spanning every corner of the American West, what we witnessed on the trail between Round Valley and the peak was alarming.
We encountered dozens of hikers completely unprepared for foul weather:
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Mount San Jacinto Wilderness and Round Valley’s Gooseberry site delivered everything an outdoor enthusiast could want: pristine trails, incredible pine-scented air, and raw wilderness beauty. Just never forget that nature can bite hard if you let your guard down. Pack your layers, bring your essentials, respect the mountain, and you will have an unforgettable journey.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the Hitched4fun.com crew!
ScoutExceptional camping experience. Beautiful, secluded, but not far from town. Would recommend a vehicle you feel comfortable with off roading terrain.
LegendThis was our first trip to Joshua Tree. We thoroughly enjoyed this first come first serve campground. The awesome walks into the park and desert landscape make this a place we will definitely return to. Beautiful night sky and stars . The Granite boulders are beautiful!
RangerThe first two spots are close together. First one a bit small but better cover from Santa Anna winds. Nicely in the forest and close to the village.
ScoutNice and FREE area , easy to access
TravelerHad a nice stay here twice so far this year. Nice place. Quiet and clean.
GuideNice place, rustic, unpublicized, congenial host. It can accommodate a number of vans and RVs, but I was the only guest. There is water and nothing else that is stated in the blurb. A self-contained rig is recommended.
As I explored the premises, I imagined that a small traveling couple or group could enjoy the camp as a peaceful alternative to Joshua Tree or Desert Hot Springs. There is evidence that guests stayed there before, with ample communal space for a campfire experience possibly with libations.
The camp might not be a priority business for the host, thus a work-in-progress or attempted endeavor. It has potential to be a stellar and successful camp if kempt.
Security was my concern, being solo, so I locked down more than usual when I left during the day for a music festival. No issues. I stayed three nights. The location is four miles from Morongo Valley Covington Park and the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, a hiking attraction.
A bumpy dirt road to get to camp. Unsure if a large RV can traverse it. Call or text is the only way to book. The cellphone number is on Google Maps.
Dispersed camping sites near Johnson Valley offer a primitive outdoor experience in the high desert of the San Bernardino Mountains. Most sites sit at elevations between 6,500-7,500 feet, creating temperature variations of up to 40°F between day and night, even in summer months. The area features a mix of pine forest and desert terrain, with several yellow post sites available for free camping throughout the region.
Hiking mountain trails: Multiple trails connect directly from Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites into the surrounding wilderness. Campsite 16 offers direct access to forest trails with "plenty of trail access" where "the PCT is nearby if you want to get a few extra miles logged," according to tom P.
Stargazing after dark: Black Rock Campground provides excellent night sky visibility away from city lights. "The star cover was amazing," notes Justin L., who recommends checking temperature forecasts as "we didn't check the conditions well enough, and froze our butts the first night!"
Mountain biking at Snow Summit: Pineknot Campground sits within walking distance of Snow Summit ski resort, which transforms into a mountain biking park in summer. "The best part of this campground is it is within walking distance of Snow Summit. We walked over and took the ski lift up to the top and hiked around the loop," reports Rose B.
Privacy between sites: San Gorgonio Campground features well-spaced sites that provide separation from neighbors. "We stayed at site 40 this time and it was a little close to our neighbors on one side but we had plenty of room to the next campsite," writes Samantha N. who also notes the "bathrooms are flush toilets and really clean for a camp site."
Clean facilities: Heart Bar Campground maintains good cleanliness standards despite its rustic setting. "The camp host was very accommodating" and the campground offers "clean water, clean restrooms and showers," reports Steve R. Another visitor adds it's "the best and largest campground on the 38."
Wildlife viewing: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Johnson Valley offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Hanna Flat Campground, visitors report seeing "deer walking around the trails" and the area being "tucked up into the hill side with neighbors far enough away to make it very private," according to Stephanie M.
Weather extremes: Temperatures fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. At Black Rock Campground, "Make sure to check the low and high temps to plan accordingly. The desert has been known to test adventurers," warns Justin L.
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require vehicles with appropriate clearance. For Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, "The road up to the camp area is a bit rough. We were in a Sprinter and definitely nervous for parts," shares Allie N.
Campsite availability: Yellow post sites operate on a first-come basis and can fill quickly on weekends. At Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites, "roughly half the sites are being 'held' with chairs for the coming weekend... it makes it incredibly unfair to those who are out aside from the weekend," observes cori H.
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Sites with basic facilities make family camping easier. At Barton Flats Campground, "The camp amenities are nice; clean bathrooms and showers on site. This is also a closer drive from the IE valley," notes Jeff T.
Pack for temperature variations: The mountains can get unexpectedly cold even in summer. A visitor to Coon Creek Yellow Post Sites warns: "Very cold at night!" while enjoying that "trees provide lots of shade and some privacy despite campsites being fairly close to one another."
Bring entertainment for kids: The natural environment provides built-in activities for children. At Hanna Flat Campground, families report that "Kiddos had a great time riding their bikes around the sites. Also, great trails nearby!"
Water management: Most dispersed sites have no hookups or water sources. At Joshua Tree Lake RV Campground, "There is a small lake with lots of birds and there is a lot of funky art/sculptures around the property," notes Rich J., making it a good option with "large full hookup spaces separated by bushes, clean bathrooms and showers."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "We were in space 58" at Pineknot Campground and discovered "the nearest bathroom is a 1/4 mile walk. Not horrible but at night when it's PITCH black it can be a bit scary!" shares one reviewer who appreciated that "it's totally dog friendly!"
Fire regulations: Many pet-friendly camping locations near Johnson Valley have fire restrictions that change seasonally. Visitors should check current regulations, as some campers at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp noted "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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Johnson Valley, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Johnson Valley, CA is Serrano with a 4.6-star rating from 36 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Johnson Valley, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 212 dog-friendly camping locations near Johnson Valley, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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