Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Riverside, CA is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Riverside is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Riverside camping trip.
"First come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails."
"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"
"The tallest mountain in Southern California. This camp is very minimal; it sits just under 11,501 ft."
"It is a free campground, first come first serve."
"Very nice to find a campsite this private on a weekend in southern California elevation is high enough that temperatures were very enjoyable"
LegendBecause the National forest allows dispersed camping, as long as your off the roads and trails, the camping spots are unlimited. We like coming here if we want to be guaranteed a spot, no early arrivals or reservations needed. Dogs are allowed, and the trails in the area are dog-friendly.
GuideGreat 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.
GuideFirst come first served dispersed camping just outside Big Bear. Near bike trails. Was not crowded mid week, but spots were filling up closer to the weekend. There are a lot of flat spots to choose from.
ScoutSpecs 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.
LegendCamping 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.
TravelerMy 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.
TravelerThis campsite is located at the junctionof the Deer Springs Trail and the PCT, and is breathtaking. Only 3 or 4 sites available so make reservations in advance or stop by the office in Idyllwild if you’re feeling lucky . I stayed there in October and snagged the last site. The sites are dispersed and marked with small signs. There is an outhouse towards the top of the site. You must hike in but it is absolutely worth it.
TravelerVery 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)
GuideVivian Creek is one of the campsites on the way to Gorgonio Peak. We camped at the Peak. It is a long hike mostly due to the altitude. The last few miles seem like they take forever. We ended up getting to the peak camp around 10pm. It was pretty cold and dark by then. There are plenty of rock barrier campsites to protect us from the wind. Amazing view of the sunrise in the AM. Definitely worth heading up to the peak for a great view of the sunset/sunrise if you get the chance. Not many people camp up there. When we were there only 1 other individual was camping at the peak.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Riverside, California, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a more rugged and secluded outdoor experience. With a variety of locations offering unique landscapes and activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Riverside, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Riverside, CA is East Flats with a 4.6-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Riverside, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 16 dispersed camping locations near Riverside, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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