Dispersed camping areas near Lytle Creek, California range from 2,500 to 8,000 feet in elevation across the San Bernardino National Forest. Temperature fluctuations can be extreme, with summer highs reaching 90°F during the day while dropping to 40°F at night. Winter camping requires preparation for snow at higher elevations, particularly from November through March.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: East Flats camping area provides quick access to the Santa Ana River Trail, a popular mountain biking route. As one camper noted, "There's a lot to do with San Gorgonio Mt right here, Jenks Lake, Santa Ana river (and River Trail for MTB)" at East Flats.
Rock climbing: Holcomb Valley offers numerous climbing routes for all skill levels. A visitor mentioned that "This area is used almost exclusively by rock climbers, but anyone is welcomed" at Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp, where you can set up camp near popular climbing spots.
Gold panning opportunities: Try your luck at gold panning along Holcomb Creek. As one camper shared, "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."
Hiking to peaks: For experienced hikers, San Gorgonio Summit offers challenging trails and spectacular views. One hiker described it: "It is a long hike mostly due to the altitude. The last few miles seem like they take forever."
What campers like
Stargazing and connectivity: Despite being remote, many sites offer surprising connectivity. One East Flats visitor reported, "Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site."
Spacious campsites: Free camping near Lytle Creek provides ample room between sites at most locations. A camper at East Flats noted, "Great spot right off of Jenks Lake Road East that allows dispersed camping. There are a lot of spaces and larger rigs will do just fine within the first 1/4 mile."
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. One visitor mentioned, "Saw multiple deer walking by our site," while another appreciated "the air is so fresh! Pines, and clear blue skies!"
Scenic overlooks: Roadside pullouts along Angeles Crest Highway provide quick overnight options with dramatic views. A camper shared, "The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise!" at Angeles Crest Overlook, though noting it has "cars flowing in and out occasionally through the night until around midnight."
What you should know
Road condition alerts: Many access roads deteriorate seasonally. At Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, a camper warned the road has "lots of potholes and washboard areas" and "a very steep incline and immediately turns into a hairpin turn that we didn't even want to try in our 4x4."
Seasonal closures: Check for current status before traveling. One visitor to Stockton Flats reported, "The trail was closed as of May 7, 2023. No idea when it will be open."
Permits for fires: Fire permits are required when fire restrictions aren't in effect. Some areas have complete bans during dry periods, while others maintain designated fire rings.
Cell service variability: Reception varies dramatically by location. At East Flats, campers report "great cell service" while other nearby areas have no connectivity.
Weekend crowding: Midweek camping offers more solitude. A Mill Creek camper noted it "was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For first-time dispersed camping with kids, look for sites near forest roads. At Rim of the World Byway, a visitor shared, "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."
Terrain considerations: Some areas have challenging terrain for children. One family camping at Bear Lake recommended "nice clean off grid" sites but mentioned "rock water slides" that require supervision.
Emergency planning: Limited services mean families should have contingency plans. Most sites have no facilities and are at least 20 minutes from the nearest town.
Noise factors: Some areas experience unexpected noise. A camper at Angeles Crest noted, "kids do tend to party up here and drive about 100 miles an hour up and down the road all hours of the night."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many forest roads have tight turns limiting RV access. A camper at Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites explained, "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."
Clearance requirements: High-clearance vehicles are necessary for most dispersed camping near Lytle Creek. One Mill Creek camper advised "smaller rigs, medium clearance and lite off-road capabilities recommended."
Level site locations: East Flats offers some of the most level sites for larger rigs. A camper with a 34-foot Class A confirmed, "The campsite was easy to find there are plenty of spots and they are level multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome."
Turnaround planning: Many forest roads lack adequate turnaround spaces for longer vehicles. One camper warned, "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."
