Best Dispersed Camping near Poway, CA

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Poway, CA has a lot to offer. Poway is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Poway, California (16)

    1. Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    35 Reviews
    Julian, CA
    35 miles
    Website

    "Pit toilet. Pack it out - no trash service. No water. If you go left as you come in you can camp along a rock wall filled with agave, cholla and other plants."

    "Got up in the morning and went all the way until the end of the road on maps (Apple or Google) on our 2WD, was doable. 4 bars T Mobile LTE where we were.

    Campsite itself was very nice."

    2. Pine Creek Road Camp

    6 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    32 miles

    "Pine Creek Road itself is paved, and the camping spots are packed dirt so it's easy to get around even in a FWD. "

    "It’s a little warm in the day in august this time of year so you can’t hike around or explore too much."

    3. Otay Mountain Camp

    2 Reviews
    Dulzura, CA
    29 miles

    "The route via maps from the north east is gated and locked."

    "Otay Mountain Rd and Otay Lakes Rd are the only two roads mentioned on the BLMs website. https://www.blm.gov/visit/otay-mountain-wilderness Good luck and happy trails."

    4. Kitchen Creek Road

    4 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    34 miles

    5. Galleta Meadows, Borrego Springs

    2 Reviews
    Borrego Springs, CA
    40 miles

    "On the outer southern edge of Borrego Springs is this private yet free camp area.

    A few dozen sites exist, each some five hundred feet or more apart."

    "The best feature of this free camping area is the awesome metal sculptures right near this campground. 

    Near the cute town of Borrego Springs, just a little off Borrego Springs road."

    6. Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

    5 Reviews
    Mount Laguna, CA
    48 miles
    Website

    "The park has campgrounds near borrego springs that are easily accessible. Visiting the mud caves you’ll need 4x4 or an AWD car with high clearance."

    ", caves were warmest the whole time

    Road & Address: there were some soft sand spots, didn’t require a lot of clearance and I didn’t put my Jeep Compass into AWD at all."

    7. Yaqui Wash

    1 Review
    Borrego Springs, CA
    37 miles

    "This whole area is essentially within one valley, so you have mountains on both sides. It is well vegetated and allows for fairly easy hikes up the soft slopes."

    9. Peg Leg Dispersed

    1 Review
    Borrego Springs, CA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (760) 767-4205

    "Anza Borrego Desert SP allows dispersed camping in certain areas of the park, and this is one of them.  I tried to find it on the website, but found no mention of allowed camping in the park.  "

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Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Poway, CA

55 Reviews of 16 Poway Campgrounds



Guide to Poway

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Poway, California, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the serenity of the wilderness while exploring the stunning landscapes of the region.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Poway, California

  • When heading to Otay Mountain Camp, be cautious about the roads you choose, as not all are legal for camping. Stick to Otay Mountain Rd and Otay Lakes Rd for safe access.
  • For a peaceful experience, consider Blair Valley Primitive Campground, where you can enjoy wide-open spaces and stunning views without the hassle of reservations or permits.
  • If you're looking for a spot that allows pets, Kitchen Creek Road is a great option, but be prepared for limited amenities and a more rugged experience.

Top activities while free camping near Poway

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the trails around Yaqui Wash, where you can find well-vegetated areas and easy access to soft slopes for a leisurely hike.
  • If you're into shooting sports, Pine Creek Road Camp is frequented by shooting enthusiasts, making it a unique spot for those looking to combine camping with target practice.
  • For a secluded getaway, Kwaaymii Point offers a quiet environment perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature away from the crowds.

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

  • The breathtaking views at Blair Valley Primitive Campground make it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
  • If you're seeking a more adventurous experience, Grapevine Canyon Road provides access to rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, perfect for off-road enthusiasts.
  • For those who enjoy star-gazing, the clear skies at Yaqui Pass Camp offer an excellent opportunity to witness the beauty of the night sky away from city lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Poway, CA is Blair Valley Primitive Campground — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 35 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 16 dispersed camping locations near Poway, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.