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Best Dispersed Camping near Palmdale, CA

22 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist in the desert and mountain areas surrounding Palmdale, California. Angeles Crest Highway features roadside pull-outs that function as overnight spots with views of the Los Angeles basin. These areas are not formal campsites but parking areas where visitors can sleep in vehicles. BLM land east of Palmdale offers more remote desert camping opportunities with minimal restrictions and no facilities.

Access to most sites requires appropriate vehicles. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites demand 4x4 capability to navigate rough dirt roads. Bell Mountain Road provides quieter desert camping with sufficient space for dispersed camping. The BLM Desert Site, located about 4 miles off the highway, offers seclusion while remaining accessible to standard vehicles. Fire restrictions vary by location—Angeles Crest generally prohibits fires while some BLM areas permit them with proper containment. Most sites maintain a 14-day camping duration limit per federal regulations. As one camper noted, "Very remote absolutely nothing out there. Definitely somewhere you need to be aware of your surroundings."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Palmdale, California (9)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Palmdale, CA

15 Photos of 9 Palmdale Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Palmdale, CA

22 Reviews of 9 Palmdale 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.

  • 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.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 24, 2025

    East Mojave Camp

    Off Hwy 58

    Huge ruts in dirt road, there’s room to go around them. Several Joshua Trees .

Guide to Palmdale

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Palmdale, California, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of choosing your own spot while exploring stunning landscapes.

Scenic Views and Relaxation while Free Camping near Palmdale

  • Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets at BLM Desert Site, where the open space allows for unobstructed views of the horizon.
  • For a peaceful retreat, consider Willow Springs BLM, known for its serene environment and the chance to unwind away from the hustle and bustle.
  • The Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) offers picturesque overlooks, perfect for those who appreciate scenic drives and stunning vistas.

Adventure Awaits for Dispersed Campers

  • If you're looking for a remote experience, East Mojave Camp provides a secluded atmosphere, ideal for hiking and exploring the rugged terrain.
  • For thrill-seekers, Angeles Crest Overlook to LA is a popular spot for car camping, where you can enjoy the excitement of nearby racing and nightlife.
  • The Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 are perfect for off-road enthusiasts, offering access to trails that lead to unforgettable adventures.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping near Palmdale, California

  • Always check for recent regulations before heading to Heaton Flats, as camping outside established areas can sometimes be restricted.
  • Bring a high-clearance vehicle if you plan to visit East Mojave Camp, as the roads can be unmarked and poorly maintained.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at locations like Angeles Crest Overlook to LA, where you’ll need to bring your own supplies and be self-sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is boondocking and where can I do it near Palmdale?

Boondocking is camping without hookups or amenities, typically in undeveloped areas. Near Palmdale, you can find excellent boondocking at BLM Desert Site, located about 4 miles off the highway on accessible dirt roads. This secluded spot offers beautiful desert sunrises and decent Verizon cell service. Another option is Rim of the World Byway, which features multiple spots alongside the road with interesting views. Some spots are accessible without 4WD, though having 4x4 capabilities gives you more options for finding secluded areas away from the main access points.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Palmdale?

Dispersed camping options near Palmdale can be found in the surrounding desert and mountain areas. East Mojave Camp offers a remote experience with ample space to distance yourself from the highway, though the access road is unmarked and unmaintained with large ruts. Another option is Angeles Crest Overlook to LA, which provides car camping along Angeles Crest Highway with scenic overlooks of the forest. Be aware that camping regulations in Angeles National Forest can change, so check the Forest Service website for current restrictions before heading out.

Are there any free dry camping sites around Palmdale?

Yes, several free dry camping options exist around Palmdale. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 offers a beautiful natural setting ideal for those with off-road capable vehicles who enjoy primitive camping without facilities. The turnoff can be difficult to spot, and the access road requires careful navigation. For a developed but still free option, consider Aliklik Campground in Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area, which offers basic amenities like toilets and is big-rig friendly. Always pack out all trash and bring sufficient water and supplies for your stay at these locations.

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