Dispersed camping opportunities near Lake Sherwood, California extend beyond the immediate vicinity to several wilderness areas across Ventura and Los Angeles counties. Many sites lie at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet, with seasonal access limitations during winter months when roads become impassable. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F at lower elevations while mountain sites often experience significant temperature drops after sunset.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Big Cone Camp requires a moderate hike that rewards visitors with natural swimming areas. "This is a fairly easy hike through what would not be considered a typical hike. It starts off going through Thomas Aquinas College, winding through horse property and oil fields, before finally opening up into Santa Paula Canyon," notes one visitor to Big Cone Camp - Santa Paula Canyon.
Cross-island trekking: Santa Cruz Island offers challenging hiking opportunities with significant elevation gain. "Hiked from Scorpion Harbor cross-island to Del Norte Camp, great way to see the island," reports a camper at Santa Cruz Island - Del Norte Backcountry.
Wildlife observation: Island foxes are commonly spotted at backcountry sites on Santa Cruz Island. "Saw lots of island foxes - so cute! Note that there are gear restrictions for the cruise (check the website). Also you have to PACK YOUR OWN WATER. And use the food storage boxes to protect your food from the foxes."
What campers like
Solitude in remote locations: Backcountry sites offer separation from crowds. "Shared the campground with one other group. Only 4 campsites total. Great place to camp for solitude," mentions a visitor to Del Norte Backcountry.
Unobstructed views: Some dispersed sites provide panoramic vistas despite exposure to elements. "Camped at Oak Camp about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail. After your long hike if you want to rest go up the mountain site across and it's an awesome place to camp out with awesome sunrise and sunsets," shares a camper at Los Padres NF - Dispersed Camp.
City light panoramas: Angeles Crest locations offer unique urban perspectives. "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise! I'd use it again if I needed it as it's hard to find free places to sleep with a great view like that when traveling through cities," notes a visitor to Angeles Crest Overlook to LA.
What you should know
Strict dispersed camping regulations: Not all forest areas permit camping. "There is a nice hike-in campsite about 1.5 miles up the Chorro Grande trail called Oak Camp. Disperse camping is NOT allowed on Hwy 33, the Rose Valley Recreation Area or the Pine Mountain Recreation Area or Matilija Canyon Rd. These are Restricted Use Zones."
Limited protection from elements: Many sites lack natural wind breaks. "Situated high on a bluff it gets lots of wind, and with very little shelter around to break it, if you camp here you will get the brunt of it," warns a visitor to Chorma Camp in Matilija Wilderness.
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. "I loved car camping here! When I stayed, there were no other people who stayed the night, but quite a few people came throughout the night just for 20 minutes at a time or so. Unfortunately I didn't have any service (Visible/Verizon), so that was a little scary."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Some locations serve as introductory overnight hikes. "My friends and I took the cruise to Santa Cruz Island for a simple 1-night backpacking trip. It's only 4-miles from harbor to campsite, but it's mostly uphill. My friends were beginner backpackers so it was a bit tiring, but it was over quick and I still think it's a great trip for beginners."
Pack sufficient water: No potable water exists at most sites. "Take advantage and hike as far as you can- it's unreal! But bring a ton of water because you'll want it! The crows are unruly so watch your belongings, and the fox are cute but sneaky."
Consider roadside noise levels: Some accessible sites experience traffic disturbances. "Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van. I felt uncomfortable with that. During the week it's more quiet. Close to town so that is a plus. Would recommend to smaller vans or car sleepers," advises a visitor to Angeles Crest Overlook.
Tips from RVers
Roadside pullout limitations: Vehicle-based camping areas offer minimal amenities. "This is literally just a roadside pull-off. Only really useful in a pinch. No space for a tent. Sleep in your vehicle," explains a visitor to Angeles Crest Overlook.
Morning condensation considerations: Coastal sites experience significant fog and humidity. "We arrived at the campsite and pitched two 2-person tents on the sand pit. When we woke up everything was damp from the seaside fog. But the fog made the views quite lovely."
Prepare for nighttime vehicle traffic: Some accessible dispersed sites attract various users throughout evening hours. "It did seem like maybe a teen hangout or something - cars did flow in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight, so that wasn't great but not awful either."
