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Best Dispersed Camping near Lancaster, CA

29 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Lancaster, California primarily occurs on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands in the surrounding desert and mountain areas. Several free primitive sites exist within driving distance, including East Mojave Camp, BLM Desert Site, and Jawbone Canyon OHV Area. These locations provide no-reservation camping on public land with varying levels of remoteness. The Angeles National Forest areas like Angeles Crest Overlook and Rim of the World Byway also permit limited roadside camping at designated pull-offs, though these are not formal campgrounds and have specific restrictions.

Access to most dispersed sites requires navigating unmaintained dirt roads with significant washouts and ruts. High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended for reaching more remote locations, particularly at Jawbone Canyon and East Mojave Camp. Many visitors note that standard passenger cars can access some areas but may struggle during adverse weather conditions. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during dry periods. No amenities exist at these sites—campers must pack in all water and supplies and pack out all waste. Camping duration is typically limited to 14 days within a 28-day period on BLM land.

The desert landscape offers expansive views and solitude, particularly on weekdays when OHV activity decreases. "Very remote with absolutely nothing out there. Beautiful sunrise," noted one camper about East Mojave Camp. Wind presents a common challenge, with several reviews mentioning strong gusts, especially in open desert areas. Cell service varies significantly by location—BLM Desert Site maintains some Verizon coverage, while Angeles Crest areas have spotty to no service. Visitors to roadside areas like Angeles Crest Overlook report occasional late-night traffic and noise from other visitors. Jawbone Canyon provides more extensive space to spread out but can become busy with off-road enthusiasts on weekends. The area's stark beauty and accessibility make it popular for those seeking free camping options near major Southern California population centers.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lancaster, California (12)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lancaster, CA

18 Photos of 12 Lancaster Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lancaster, CA

29 Reviews of 12 Lancaster Campgrounds

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2023

    East Mojave Camp

    Very very remote

    Very remote absolutely nothing out there. Definitely somewhere you need to be aware of your surroundings. You can get far enough away from the highway that you don’t need to worry about people driving by. There is nothing out here. The road to it is unmarked and very unmaintained Would definitely recommend high clearance vehicle if you want to be further away then 100 feet from the highway. Lots of wash outs. Beautiful sunrise. We were the only people there.

  • 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.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 10, 2025

    BLM Desert Site

    Great spot

    I wasn’t sure when driving out here at night in a minivan, but the dirt road didn’t give me any trouble and I still had some service with Verizon. It’s a great little secluded spot about 4 miles off the highway in the desert. I missed the sunset but caught a beautiful sunrise.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 28, 2025

    Jawbone Canyon OHV Area — Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch State Vehicular Recreation Area

    Jawbone Canyon OHV

    This is BLM land camping in an OHV area that we used for an overnight. For this purpose it was great. A paved road leads to endless dispersed camping options in a beautifully rugged canyon. There were a few OHVs but we arrived late on a weekday and OHV traffic stopped altogether in the evening. Wind was a problem and made sleeping hard. We camped in a 24’ travel trailer with a high clearance truck. While not necessary, the larger truck was nice to have on the dirt portions. There are sites that would be accessible by car as well just be more discerning. Verizon was at 1 bar the whole time.

  • Joseph R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 26, 2024

    Angeles Crest Overlook to LA

    Nope

    It’s basically car camping along the Angeles Crest highway, there’s small pull out spots and, some spots overlooking the forest but kids do tend to party up here and, drive about 100 miles a hour up and, down the road all hours of the night. It can get a bit scary, if you’re alone. Oh cell service non-existent unless you’re closer to the bottom but even then it’s spotty. It’s not a typical campground but it does do the job for a couple days. You will see cars vans along the pull outs coming up but I believe you can car camp on the overlook I have not as I’m more a quiet type person. Be careful though there’s a white van that teams up with a black truck they tried to break in my car while I was sleeping. It is very dangerous and luckily I carry at all times and have cameras.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • J
    May. 27, 2024

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Prepare the climb; also not for big RVs

    The turn is not marked well, in fact the coordinates are a little bit off. If you miss the turn like we did you have to go 5 miles or more to get a turnabout big enough to turn around. You climb a big steep hill to get to the turn in. On the way back down from the turnaround we almost burned out or brakes. We decided not to go to the site because it looked like a one lane road and too tight for our 35 ft bumper pull. Disappointed because pictures from others looked great and it is a beautiful area. We found a spot near the road that I’ll post for others.

  • Nathaniel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 6, 2021

    Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8

    Great if you have a 4x4

    Specs if this campground are wrong, no toilets/water/etc.

    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.

    Deep in nature, beautiful area, no cost and you can almost always find a spot, even on a Saturday in summer.

    If you go the the end of 3N06 (main off-road path) there is a good hike that you can take for several hours.

Guide to Lancaster

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lancaster, California, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of options for those seeking adventure and solitude.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lancaster, California

  • Always be prepared for remote locations, as many spots like East Mojave Camp lack basic amenities such as drinking water and toilets.
  • A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing more secluded areas, especially if you plan to venture further from the main roads, as noted by visitors to Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful spaces pristine for future visitors.

Jawbone Canyon for dispersed campers

  • The Jawbone Canyon OHV Area offers vast open spaces perfect for those looking to enjoy off-road adventures while camping.
  • Visitors have praised the stunning sunrises and sunsets, making it a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation.
  • While it’s a great place for privacy, be aware that it can get windy, so securing your campsite is essential.

Outdoor activities while free camping near Lancaster

  • Many dispersed camping areas, such as BLM Desert Site, provide ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscapes.
  • For those interested in off-roading, the BLM Jawbone Canyon Dispersed Site is a popular choice, with numerous trails suitable for various skill levels.
  • Fishing and wildlife watching are also popular activities in these areas, especially near natural water sources, enhancing your outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lancaster, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lancaster, CA is East Mojave Camp with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lancaster, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Lancaster, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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