Dispersed camping near Murrieta, California concentrates mostly in San Bernardino National Forest at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet, offering cooler temperatures than the valley floor. Most rustic camping areas sit on sandy or rocky terrain under pine and oak canopies, with sites spaced 50-300 yards apart depending on the area. Road conditions typically deteriorate after rain or snow, requiring patience and appropriate vehicles when accessing backcountry locations.
What to do
Mountain biking opportunities: Near Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, trails connect with the larger Big Bear trail system. "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," notes camper Dickie Simmons.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and dusk provide the best chances for spotting deer, birds, and small mammals. At East Flats, campers regularly see deer wandering through camp. "Saw multiple deer walking by our site. Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here," reports Ciara W.
Remote work camping: Cell service coverage exists at many rustic sites, enabling digital nomad setups. "Very lowkey, with ample spaces to choose from. No amenities & great cell service," says Alexis O. about East Flats. Similarly, at Thomas Mountain Road, "5g Verizon works great" according to roam F.
What campers like
Tree cover and shade: Pine forests provide natural cooling from summer heat at dispersed sites. At South Ridge Yellow Post Sites, Tony B. noted "very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable (mid 80's)."
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer good separation between campsites. "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... Some better than others and spaced out so you may not see your neighbors from your site," explains Dee M. about Mill Creek.
Fresh air and night skies: Higher elevations provide clearer air and darker skies than urban areas. "We are here RN! It is so peaceful and the air is so fresh! Pines, and clear blue skies! What more can you ask for a few hours away from LA proper," says Chandra B. about her experience at East Flats.
What you should know
Fire permit requirements: A campfire permit from the Forest Service is required for any stoves, lanterns, or fires when allowed. Fire restrictions frequently change based on conditions, especially during summer and fall.
Peak usage patterns: Weekends fill quickly at popular sites like Thomas Mountain Road, known locally as Apple Canyon. "Easy travel dirt roads. There are only 3 actual sites with fire rings, but there is plenty of room to camp without rings," notes roam F.
Weather variations: Temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer. Be prepared for 30+ degree temperature swings between day and night, particularly at sites above 7,000 feet elevation.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are common near water sources and at dusk. Kique S. recommends, "I recommend you bring extra mosquito repellent. Have fun!" when staying at South Ridge Yellow Post Sites.
Tips for camping with families
Easier access sites: For families with young children, focus on yellow post sites that require less technical driving. "2x4 accessible as long as it's not muddy or after snow. I saw a Prius on the trail," confirms Dee M. about Mill Creek Dispersed Camping.
Creek exploration: When water is flowing (typically winter through early summer), creeks provide natural play areas for children. At Vivian Creek Camp, "There is a lovely creek that lead to a waterfall that some repel down... If you hike down to the creek and head South, that is where you will find the end of the waterfall," advises Brittany N.
First-time location scouting: Before bringing the whole family, scout locations midweek to find suitable sites. "First time car camping. Solo trip with my fur babies. Trails a little rough but good thing I have X-Mode on my Subaru. Lol. Arrived around 5:30pm on a Wednesday. Drove past a few campers," explains Samay C. about finding a spot at East Flats.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate sites: RVers should research site dimensions before attempting access. At High Creek Camp, spaces vary considerably in size and flatness. East Flats can accommodate larger rigs as Mike M. confirms: "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."
Road condition assessment: RV access requires careful planning, as Francisco F. cautions about Mill Creek: "The road up to the actual spot is gravel, with lots of potholes and washboard areas, which would make it difficult for an RV. But the biggest issue for RVs is an area of the road that is very steep and immediately turns into a hairpin turn."
Leveling conditions: Many rustic sites near Murrieta have uneven terrain. Look for sites that previous RVers have successfully used. Jesse W. confirms East Flats has "multiple spots for a class a 34 foot motorhome. I am far enough away where I don't hear everyone talking."
