Best Dispersed Camping near Piñon Hills, CA
Looking for dispersed camping near Piñon Hills? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Piñon Hills, CA (17)
1. Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8
Wrightwood, California4 Reviews•6 Photos•260 SavesThese remote camping sites offer isolated scenic locations ideal for tent and car camping or a relaxing picnic far from the crowds. Other than a pit for campfires, these sites do NOT contain the amenities found at developed campgrounds. There is no water, no picnic tables, no restrooms nearby, and no trash containers. Please pack it in - pack it out! All sites are first-come, first-served. Campfire permits are required for any type of fire use - campfires, charcoal BBQ's, or stoves. Campfires may not be allowed certain times of the year. See Current Conditions below or call the Lytle Creek Ranger Station (909-382-2851). These Yellow Post Sites are reached via Forest Road 3N06. Please refer to the Yellow-post site map available by clicking on this link or for free at the Lytle Creek Ranger Station. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching all sites. Four-wheel drive vehicles may also be required depending on current road conditions.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
Lytle Creek, California1 Review•14 Photos•45 SavesPlease remember to LNT at dispersed campgrounds
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
La Cañada Flintridge, California6 Reviews•1 Photo•78 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
7. Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Fawnskin, California5 Reviews•4 Photos•321 SavesDispersed, or undeveloped, camping provides more solitude and an opportunity to “rough it.” There are many camping opportunities in general forest areas as well as in wilderness areas. Know before you go: Before traveling visit or call the nearest Ranger Station for current fire restrictions and area closures. No wood or charcoal campfires (check current fire restrictions before you go). Vehicles must remain on roads and associated pullouts. Do not clear vegetation. Portable gas-powered stoves, lanterns and fire rings with a fuel-shutoff valve allowed with a California Campfire Permit and five feet clearance from vegetation. Camp at least 200 feet from springs, water, meadows, trails and roads. Camp at least a quarter-mile from designated campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads. Camp at least a quarter-mile from private property and state highways. Pack out all trash. Leave no trace!
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. East Flats
San Bernardino National Forest, California8 Reviews•32 Photos•257 Saves- Pets
- Dispersed
- WiFi
- Alcohol
10. BLM Desert Site
California City, California1 Review•6 Photos•5 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Piñon Hills
37 Reviews of 17 Piñon Hills Campgrounds
- E
Erin V.
Guide
BLM Desert Site
BLM desert site
35.08627305276245,-117.54092669125416 Great space. Easy to find. Away from highway enough. Very windy. Great sunset and sunrise.
Ciara W.Guide
East Flats
Wildlife but super dusty!
Starlink internet here was great and we stayed 2 days to work here. Saw multiple deer walking by our site.
Easy to drag in dust and very annoying. We easily found a spot for our van.
- SSamay C.
TravelerEast Flats
Great secluded location
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. A few with big RV’s. Closest camper is about 30 yards away. Could barely hear their generator running. Planned on staying a few nights but after the first night I was told there was a big archery event and that the whole campground was reserved so I had to pack up and leave.
Leslie R.
Legend
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.
- DDee M.Traveler
Mill Creek Dispersed Camping
Over a dozen sites
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. The road here. I went a to the second fork after the Bluff lake fork. There’s a private campground near the Bluff Lake entrance which made noises i can hear from my site which was before Bluffs lake fork. There are over a dozen sites along the main road. If you can pull in, it’s a site. Some better than others and spaced out so you may not see your neighbors from your site. 2x4 accessible as long as it’s not muddy or after snow. I saw a Prius on the trail.
Connor M.GuideMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Plenty of Spots
Overall great campground, there are definitely some permanent residents but there is more than enough spots to have some privacy.
Laura M.Legend
Ord Mountain Dispersed
Actual location 34.684300, -116.960600
I did the best I could with finding the exact location on the map using The Dyrt's current capabilities to add a new location. This site is located at 34.684300,-116.960600, across the 247 road from Sawtooth Canyon Campground / New Jack City rock climbing area. Hopefully someone can go in at some point and fix the location to be more precise.
We checked this place out but didn’t stay. We liked the beautiful wide open surroundings, the good cell reception, and the easy access from the main road, but it seemed like this is a place better suited for bigger groups, especially those who will be riding ATVs or dirt bikes around. So, if you’re looking for a big open space to hang out with a big group where you can be loud and not disturb anyone, this would be a good place for it. We also heard gun shots nearby so further down the road is probably a good shooting area.
Obviously no amenities so please pack in/ pack out. It was surprisingly not too trashed so that was nice. We made it down the dirt road fine in our 26 ft class c. Proceed at your own comfort level, but it seems like a road that would be ok for any rig (maybe not a class A?) if you go slow and watch for dips and bumps.
- CChandra B.Guide
East Flats
Quiet & Fresh Air
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…
Dickie Simmons S.TravelerMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Convenient free camping just outside of town
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. Smaller rigs, medium clearance and lite off-road capabilities recommended. Good cellular reception in my particular location.
Francisco F.TravelerMill Creek Dispersed Camping
Beautiful Spot For 4x4, But NOT For RVs
My husband and I were looking for good boondocking spots yesterday and we decided to check out this spot, after finding it on The Dyrt and a few other sites. It's definitely a beautiful place, and most of the road to the site is paved, but 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 that we didn't even want to try in our 4x4, since the road is very thin and our SUV (a 2009 Nissan Pathfinder) is kind of thick. I'm sure it's probably nothing for people who are used to using their 4x4 for more than regular driving in the snow, etc., but it was too dodgy for us. There is no way that even a Class C rig would be able to take that steep incline and immediately do that sharp turn. And since there's nowhere to turn around in that spot, you'd have to back your rig down the incline and then quite a ways down the pitted, gravel road to get out of it.
It's full of trees and seems fairly remote, but we had 5 cars pass us as we were backing away from the incline, so it's obviously a busy spot - you wouldn't be there alone, and this was on a Thursday.
Alexis O.TravelerEast Flats
great spacious area
loved this spot. easy to find & very lowkey, with ample spaces to choose from. no amenities & great cell service.
- RRaymond M.
ScoutEast Flats
Nice lake!
No amenities but still nice and the price is right!
Andrew S.Guide
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Not a campsite
This is literally just a roadside pull-off. Only really useful in a pinch. No space for a tent. Sleep in your vehicle.
- JJoe R.Guide
Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south) Dispersed
Easy in and out by mormon rocks
By Rim of the world scenic byway and mormon rocks. Easy in and out but next to train tracks. Quick stop friendly ;)
- JJoe R.Guide
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.
- MMichi S.Traveler
Bell Mountain Road
quite ok near highway
many Trucks at night. don't drive to the campground just search a space after road ends
- Joseph R.Scout
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.
- NNicole D.Scout
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Great view
Great view but on the weekend we had multiple cars doing donuts really close to our van. I felt uncomfortable with that. Next night we moved to the other look out and someone still did donuts behind us- it’s a smaller lookout. Loud music and people talking next to us until about 1 am there is a pull off before this that was very quiet near a trail and nobody bothered us. During the week it’s more quiet. Close to town so that is a plus. Would recommend to smaller vans or car sleepers. I did not feel unsafe except for the donuts that happened near us. If you have dogs I would recommend the trail pull off my dogs really enjoyed the hike
- JJaydon C.Scout
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Dark, fairly quiet, good view!
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. Wasn’t too noisy at all. Unfortunately I didn’t have any service (Visible/Verizon), so that was a little scary. Other than that, no complaints at all!
- SSeychelle R.Traveler
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Quiet forest
Forest setting, no one around when we went. Definitely need a 4x4 or all wheel drive vehicle on some of the roads. Was a great experience.
- VValerieScout
Angeles Crest Overlook to LA
Parking Lot w/ Incredible View
This is just a few parking lots that overlook the valley and gives a view of the city skyline in the distance. Several others were also sleeping in their vehicles along the road and in the parking lots, so you won’t be alone. There were two others in our lot that stayed the night too. The view is gorgeous in the morning sunrise!
That being said, 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. 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.
- eedward W.Guide
Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Site of gold discovery in the 1800s.
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. Once you leave the pavement the going gets slower along the trails. You definitely need a high clearance vehicle. There are campgrounds in the area and also yellow post campsites. There wasn’t many other vehicles around the times I’ve been out there. Nice scenery and peaceful.
Mister LinhTravelerHolcomb Valley Climbers Camp
Quite a few spots
Quite a crowd with the limited spots here. Some were quite close to one another.
Iris A.GuideAngeles Crest Overlook to LA
dispersed camping next to the road
It is not a real campground, just a the parking area of a view point. So the view was great. I parked at one end of the area but in the evening lots of couples and teenagers came and the parking area was well used. Some people stood silently admiring the view, while others played loud music. There were also tire tracks on the ground that suggested to me, some young people come here to test their driving skills. I spent the night and no-one took really notice of me.
There are no toilets, campfire sites or shade but good cell service.
Alyssia S.GuideBear Lake
Favorite place
Nice clean off grid best place so far Rick water slides
- SSawyer P.Traveler
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.
Cyndy & Selena R.GuideEast Flats
East Flats-very nice
Camping at East Flats was great in mid-June. There are a number of campers, but remote locations are easily found. If you bring pets, be aware they may upset Rattlesnakes.
Guide to Piñon Hills
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Piñon Hills, California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Scenic Trails for Dispersed Campers
- Explore the stunning landscapes at Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8, where you can enjoy hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views and serene surroundings.
- The Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp offers access to trails that are perfect for both hiking and rock climbing, making it a great choice for adventure seekers.
- For those looking for a peaceful retreat, Bear Lake provides a tranquil setting with nearby water slides, ideal for a refreshing dip after a day of exploration.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Piñon Hills, California
- Always arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Mill Creek Dispersed Camping, where numerous sites are available but can fill up quickly on weekends.
- Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Heaton Flats has no toilets or drinking water, so bring everything you need for a comfortable stay.
- Familiarize yourself with local regulations, as some areas may have restrictions on camping duration, like Angeles Crest Overlook to LA, which is more suited for quick stops than extended camping.
Adventure Activities While Free Camping Near Piñon Hills
- If you're into off-roading, the rugged terrain at Ord Mountain Dispersed is perfect for 4x4 enthusiasts looking to explore the backcountry.
- Enjoy a day of hiking and wildlife watching at Rim of the World Byway (near 15 fwy south), where the scenic views and diverse flora and fauna provide a memorable outdoor experience.
- For those interested in gold panning, the area around Holcomb Valley Climbers Camp is rich in history and offers opportunities to search for gold along Holcomb Creek.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Piñon Hills, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Piñon Hills, CA is Stockton Flats Yellow Post Sites 3-8 with a 3-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Piñon Hills, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 dispersed camping locations near Piñon Hills, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.