Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Arrowhead, CA

Numerous dispersed camping sites exist near Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino National Forest, with free primitive sites available on forest service roads. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, East Flats, Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, and Bear Lake provide no-fee camping opportunities on public land. Most sites require self-sufficiency as they offer no developed facilities, though a few locations like Holcomb Valley feature picnic tables. Several areas require wilderness permits, particularly in the San Gorgonio Wilderness where backcountry camping is regulated.

Access roads to most dispersed sites range from paved to rough dirt paths with varying levels of difficulty. Mill Creek has a mix of paved and gravel roads with potholes and washboard sections that become challenging for larger vehicles at steep inclines. East Flats has multiple level sites accessible even to larger RVs, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended for many areas. Most locations prohibit campfires during dry seasons and fire danger periods, with regulations strictly enforced. Camping is typically limited to 14 days in a 30-day period on national forest land.

These primitive camping areas attract visitors seeking seclusion and natural surroundings. According to one visitor, "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." Wildlife sightings are common, with deer frequently observed at East Flats. Holcomb Valley offers historical interest as "the site of gold discovery in the 1800s" where visitors might still find gold along Holcomb Creek, though active claims require respect. Cell service varies by location, with some areas like East Flats offering decent reception. Weekdays typically provide quieter experiences with fewer campers, while holiday weekends see increased activity across all dispersed sites.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lake Arrowhead, California (27)

    1. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Fawnskin, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "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. "

    "First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend."

    2. East Flats

    11 Reviews
    San Bernardino National Forest, CA
    21 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."

    3. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp

    7 Reviews
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    18 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "Because the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited."

    4. Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Lytle Creek, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2851

    "There were some cars parked near the entrance, but if you go a bit further down alongside the road you can find some nice spots."

    "Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly ;)"

    5. Bear Lake

    1 Review
    Big Bear Lake, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2790

    "Nice clean off grid best place so far Rick water slides"

    6. San Gorgonio Summit Camp

    5 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    24 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. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    4 Reviews
    Wrightwood, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (909) 382-2851

    "Great for campers that meet 2 criteria 1) You have a Jeep, Truck it similar vehicle that can go off-road. 2) You enjoy dispersed camping (no water/restrooms etc)

    If both are yes, this place is amazing"

    "Trail was fun (definitely needed 4x4) and the sites around has good shade and good size open spots. Best to get there early as possible to secure a spot."

    8. Vivian Creek Camp

    1 Review
    Forest Falls, CA
    21 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."

    9. High Creek Camp - San Gorgonio Wilderness

    2 Reviews
    Forest Falls, CA
    23 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. Yellow Post #54

    1 Review
    Big Bear City, CA
    25 miles
    Website

    "You will earn this spot as the drive from Hwy 38 is long and rocky."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lake Arrowhead, CA

50 Reviews of 27 Lake Arrowhead 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.

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Heaton flats

    Not always allowed

    Camping outside esablished campgrounds within the Angeles National Forest is sometimes prohibited, you have to be on top of reading recently published orders on https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles. Currently, camping is allowed for 7 days or less, see here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/angeles/alerts-notices/?aid=78080 The people I saw camping here looked to have been set up somewhat permanently though. I wouldn't feel comfortable setting up a tent here, but it could be an okay rest area at the beginning/end of the hike to Bridge to Nowhere.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Ord Mountain Dispersed

    Actual location 34.684300, -116.960600

    I did the best I could with finding the exact location on the map using The Dyrt's current capabilities to add a new location.  This site is located at 34.684300,-116.960600, across the 247 road from Sawtooth Canyon Campground / New Jack City rock climbing area. Hopefully someone can go in at some point and fix the location to be more precise.

    We checked this place out but didn’t stay. We liked the beautiful wide open surroundings, the good cell reception, and the easy access from the main road, but it seemed like this is a place better suited for bigger groups, especially those who will be riding ATVs or dirt bikes around. So, if you’re looking for a big open space to hang out with a big group where you can be loud and not disturb anyone, this would be a good place for it. We also heard gun shots nearby so further down the road is probably a good shooting area. 

    Obviously no amenities so please pack in/ pack out. It was surprisingly not too trashed so that was nice. We made it down the dirt road fine in our 26 ft class c. Proceed at your own comfort level, but it seems like a road that would be ok for any rig (maybe not a class A?) if you go slow and watch for dips and bumps.

  • 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.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    Quick stop, nice rocks

    We stayed here for two nights, and it was a pretty pleasant experience! There were some cars parked near the entrance, but if you go a bit further down alongside the road you can find some nice spots. Use Google Maps; Waze takes you the wrong way, cause it's just right off the freeway, not down a long, very bumpy dirt road.

  • 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.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed

    Nice stopover for me

    Arrived at 2;30 pm. Windy. I wanted a place where I could let Bella off leach, so I put it in 4 wheel drive to pull my TAB trailer. Found a good spot. I can see other bigger rigs they did not require 4x4. Interesting view. If your headed north on I15 do not take thirst access road. Almost a 4x4 road.


Guide to Lake Arrowhead

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake Arrowhead, California, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the great outdoors.

Wildlife Encounters for Dispersed Campers

  • At East Flats, visitors have reported sightings of deer wandering through their campsites, making for a memorable experience in nature.
  • The serene environment at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp allows for peaceful wildlife observation, with minimal human interference.
  • Campers at Vivian Creek Camp can enjoy the sounds of nature, including the gentle flow of nearby creeks, enhancing the overall camping experience.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Lake Arrowhead, California

Hiking Adventures While Free Camping Near Lake Arrowhead

  • The trails around Vivian Creek Primitive Camp lead to stunning views and challenging hikes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore.
  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, Bear Lake offers access to off-road trails that are ideal for 4x4 vehicles and adventurous hikers.
  • The scenic routes near Rim of the World Byway provide breathtaking views and opportunities for day hikes, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping locations around Lake Arrowhead?

The San Bernardino National Forest surrounding Lake Arrowhead offers several dispersed camping options. Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp provides unlimited dispersed sites as long as you're off roads and trails, perfect for spontaneous trips with no reservations needed. Yellow Post Sites are another excellent option, offering designated free dispersed camping spots throughout the forest. Look for the numbered yellow posts marking official sites. These typically include a fire ring and picnic table. Most sites require high-clearance vehicles to access. For all dispersed camping, come prepared with your own water and pack out all trash, as no services are provided.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping at Lake Arrowhead?

When dispersed camping near Lake Arrowhead, you must follow strict regulations. Always check the Angeles National Forest website for current restrictions as camping outside established campgrounds is sometimes prohibited. Heaton Flats and surrounding areas typically allow camping for 7 days or less. At Coon Creek Yellow Post and similar sites, camping is limited to designated areas with existing fire rings. You must have a valid California Campfire Permit for any fire or stove use. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. Park vehicles only in designated pullouts, staying within one vehicle length of roadways. No camping within 100 feet of water sources is allowed.

Is free dispersed camping available year-round at Lake Arrowhead?

Free dispersed camping is generally available year-round around Lake Arrowhead, but seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility. During winter months (December-March), many forest roads become impassable due to snow, especially at higher elevations. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping remains accessible in milder conditions and serves as a good alternative when established campgrounds are full. Rim of the World Byway offers dispersed sites with reasonable year-round access. Fire restrictions may be implemented during dry summer and fall months, temporarily prohibiting campfires even with permits. Always check current forest orders and road conditions before heading out, regardless of season.