Best Dispersed Camping near Quail Valley, CA
Several free dispersed camping options exist in the San Bernardino National Forest near Quail Valley, California. East Flats offers drive-in and walk-in access with level spots that can accommodate larger vehicles including 40-foot trailers. The roads have some rough sections with rocks and drainage ditches, but remain navigable for most vehicles. South Ridge Yellow Post Sites provides more secluded camping with fire rings and picnic tables at designated spots. A camper noted, "Yellow Post #2 is a secluded tent site tucked deep in the forest. The access road is rough and rocky but doable in dry conditions with a careful 2WD."
For backpackers, the San Gorgonio Wilderness offers multiple primitive camping options along hiking trails. These include Vivian Creek Camp, High Creek Camp, and San Gorgonio Summit Camp at 11,500 feet. Most wilderness sites require permits, and no fires are allowed at most locations. High Creek serves as the last water source before the summit, requiring filtration. One visitor commented, "There are plenty of rock barrier campsites to protect us from the wind. Amazing view of the sunrise in the AM." Fire restrictions are common throughout the area, especially during summer months, and campers must pack out all trash as no facilities are provided at these remote sites.
